Skip to content
DSML.KZ
Publications

Article · Education Sciences · October 1, 2026

Developing the Methodological Competence of Future IT Engineers in the Republic of Kazakhstan Through Problem-Oriented Learning

N. Zh. Sabitova, Valeriy Lakhno, Аru Ukenova, L. U. Taimuratova, Володимир Валерійович Матієвський

Valerii Lakhno
Open via DOI

Abstract

Kazakhstan’s transition toward Industry 4.0 and 5.0 increases demand for IT professionals capable of solving complex engineering problems. This study theoretically substantiated and empirically evaluated a didactic model for developing future IT engineers’ methodological competence through systemic problem-oriented learning. A quasi-experimental study involved 150 undergraduates from four Kazakhstani universities. In an integrated Smart Campus environment, students addressed authentic, industry-informed problems through an approach combining Challenge-Based Learning with the Four-Component Instructional Design model. Tasks included designing critical information infrastructure with provision for post-quantum cryptography and developing an intelligent energy-management system using fuzzy logic and the NSGA-III and MOEA/D algorithms. Performance on two engineering cases was independently evaluated using a 0–100 analytical rubric; scores were examined using the Shapiro–Wilk test, independent-samples Student’s t-tests, and Cohen’s d. The experimental group outperformed the control group in Case 1 (79.36 vs. 70.33; p = 0.003; d = 0.50) and Case 2 (80.61 vs. 71.12; p = 0.002; d = 0.53). Analysis of 45 reflective essays and 12 interviews indicated changes in methodological decision making, attitudes toward uncertainty, and perceived professional relevance. The findings support integrating authentic challenges with structured complex-learning design, while the Quadruple Helix provides an institutional framework connecting universities, industry, government, and society.

Problem and Project Based LearningBiomedical and Engineering EducationEngineering Education and Curriculum Developmentmethodological competenceproblem-oriented learningchallenge-based learning

More by Valerii Lakhno