The Main Directions of Professional Education Development in the Context of Digitalization

Based on an international analysis, the article examines the key issues of the digital transformation of vocational education. Parallels are drawn in the context of the Russian Federation, aimed at meeting modern labor market requirements. The need to update the content of educational programs through the integration of digital competencies such as programming, working with big data and cybersecurity has been identified. It is shown that modern online platforms, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR) technologies contribute to the personalization of educational trajectories and the creation of new learning formats such as virtual laboratories and smart classrooms. Strengthening the practical component of educational programs through interaction with employers is another important area of development. Joint programs, internships, and project-based training can narrow the gap between theory and practice. At the same time, it is noted that insufficient digital literacy of up to 40% of vocational education teachers slows down the introduction of innovative methods. Specific measures have been proposed to realize the potential of digitalization: the development of interdepartmental working groups to update the regulatory framework, the modernization of the technological infrastructure of educational institutions, the creation of regional digital hubs, professional development of teaching staff and the intensification of partnership with business.