DEVELOPMENT OF CULTURAL COMPETENCE OF STUDENTS IN THE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT OF A HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive theoretical and practical analysis of the development of cultural competence among higher education students within the educational environment of a university. The article examines the development of cultural competence among higher education students and analyzes the role of the university educational environment in this process. Cultural competence is interpreted as an integrative personal quality that includes cultural awareness, the ability to interpret cultural phenomena, intercultural communication skills, tolerance and readiness for dialogue in multicultural contexts. The study highlights its importance for the personal and professional formation of future specialists in conditions of globalization and social change. The article outlines pedagogical conditions and educational strategies that support the development of cultural competence, such as integrating cultural content into curricula, applying interactive and student-centered methods, project work, reflective activities and creative tasks. The significance of foreign language learning for enhancing intercultural understanding is emphasized. Particular attention is paid to extracurricular activities that promote experiential learning and the internalization of cultural values. Examples from Vinnytsia Mykhailo Kotsiubynskyi State Pedagogical University illustrate how academic lectures, conferences, creative projects, cultural events and volunteer initiatives contribute to students’ cognitive, emotional and communicative growth. The findings indicate that a culturally rich university environment–open, diverse and supportive of creative expression–plays a decisive role in shaping cultural competence, helping students form a holistic worldview, develop cultural identity and become socially responsible professionals capable of effective interaction in a globalized world.