Cognitive component of future bachelors in transport technologies’ readiness for professional activity: results of an ascertaining study

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study on the cognitive component of future bachelors in Transport Technologies’ readiness for professional activity. The relevance of the study is associated with the digital transformation of the transport sector, the growing role of intelligent transport systems, and increasing requirements for professional training. The aim of the article is to identify the specific features of the cognitive component of future bachelors in Transport Technologies’ readiness for professional activity based on the results of the ascertaining stage of a pedagogical experiment. The study combined theoretical and empirical methods, including the analysis of scholarly sources and regulatory documents, questionnaire survey, and descriptive statistical analysis. The participants were 315 students enrolled in Specialty 275 «Transport Technologies». The cognitive component is defined as a set of professional knowledge, concepts, and intellectual skills that ensure understanding of future professional activity, awareness of the regulatory framework of the transport sector, and the ability to apply acquired knowledge to solve professional tasks. The findings revealed a sufficient level of cognitive readiness among most respondents. Students demonstrated a positive assessment of their professional knowledge, understanding of the fundamental principles of transport systems, and orientation toward future professional activity. At the same time, the results indicate the need for further development of the ability to apply knowledge in non-standard professional situations. The study confirms the expediency of strengthening the practice-oriented component of professional training through professional case studies, simulation-based learning, and digital educational technologies.