Theoretical and methodological foundations of integrating visual design into project-oriented training of specialists in the field of “Computer Science”

Abstract

Abstract: The article substantiates the theoretical and methodological foundations for integrating visual design into project-based training of specialists in specialty F3 «Computer Science». The relevance stems from labor market demands for combining programming with UI/UX and information design skills, as well as gaps in the current Higher Education Standard (MON Order No. 962 dated 10.07.2019 and subsequent updates), where visual design is not systematically integrated into project activities. The methodology encompasses literature analysis on project-based learning (PBL) in IT education, comparison of international and domestic experiences in visual design integration, development of a structural-functional integration model, and criteria for assessing competency formation. A proposed model combines target, content, process, and result blocks, with project activity stages (from task analysis to reflection) and tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, Canva. The practical contribution lies in formalizing reproducible project tasks (dashboard interfaces, mobile apps), aligning technical artifacts (prototypes, wireframes) with pedagogical indicators (motivation, portfolio, self-assessment, share of students meeting deadlines). A comparative framework «traditional learning vs project-based with visual design» demonstrates advantages of the latter in result stability, soft skills development, and market readiness. Limitations relate to initial approbation; further work includes experimental model validation, assessment automation, and scaling to other IT disciplines.