WAYS OF EFFECTIVE USE OF THE DIGITAL LIBRARY ENVIRONMENT FOR PEDAGOGICAL PURPOSES: FORMATION OF INFORMATION CULTURE OF STUDENTS

Abstract

In the context of the digital transformation of education, the use of the digital library environment (DLE) is becoming an important factor in shaping students' information culture. This  study is aimed at studying the pedagogical conditions for the effective implementation of DLE in the educational process and assessing its impact on the development of information, library and research competencies of students. The object of the research is the information culture of students of pedagogical universities, and the subject is the pedagogical mechanisms and conditions for the use of digital library resources in educational activities. The theoretical foundation of the study was based on concepts of digital literacy, models of individual information culture, and contemporary approaches to the mediatization of education. The empirical part of the research was conducted at a pedagogical university and included a survey of second- to fourth-year students (n = 50), content analysis of open-ended responses, and statistical processing of the results. The findings indicate a consistent increase in the level of information culture as students progress from junior to senior years, and also reveal existing barriers, including limited digital competence, insufficient skills in information search and evaluation, and weak integration of the digital library environment (DLE) into academic disciplines. The practical significance of the study lies in the formulation of recommendations for improving the university’s digital library infrastructure, conducting training seminars, and incorporating digital literacy modules into educational programs. Specific pedagogical strategies are proposed to enhance students’ motivation to use the digital library environment, as well as to develop their critical thinking and information responsibility. Future research prospects include the development of integrated digital courses on library navigation and the adaptation of the digital library environment to interdisciplinary educational objectives.