Project-based learning approach to the formation of digital competencies of students of universities in Russia and India

Abstract

Modern challenges in society require universities to move from a traditional to a competency-based technology integrated learning environment. Students must master a variety of newer complex competencies such as: learn to independently search for information, analyze it, and apply it to solve various real time problems through their content knowledge. One of the possible tools for developing these newer competencies is ICT integrated project-based learning (PBL). The present study conducts an ICT integrated practicum to the internationally paired undergraduate students of Indian and Russian universities. The practicum included a collaborative work towards a common theme. Findings of the study reveals that the outputs generated by ICT integrated PBL provided confidence to the participants to use technology tools in a global learning environment to solve real time problems. Study suggested requirements for project organization, technology tools, and a design to implement such projects. Further, it reveals how virtual teams work on a project in an online environment. Study recommends future researchers to focus on more such empirical studies and its efficacy.