Online courses as a tool for developing language and digital competence in higher education students

The article explores the use of online courses as an effective pedagogical strategy for the integrated development of language and digital competence among students in higher education institutions.In the context of digital transformation and the growing importance of information literacy, the acquisition of Ukrainian academic language proficiency and digital communication skills is identified as a key prerequisite for academic success and professional realisation.The authors emphasise the relevance of combining these competencies within a single educational trajectory, implemented through online learning platforms that provide flexibility, accessibility, and personalised learning paths.Particular attention is paid to the methodological principles of content design, which include multimedia integration, interactive learning scenarios, the use of LMS systems, gamification elements, and formative assessment tools.The research is grounded in the experience of the National Aerospace University "Kharkiv Aviation Institute", where online courses such as "Ukrainian Language for Professional Purposes", "Academic Writing and Scientific Communication in Ukrainian", and "Digital Literacy for Educational and Scientific Environments" have been successfully embedded in both bachelor's and master's programmes.These courses support not only the development of communicative competence but also academic integrity, autonomy, and critical thinking.The paper highlights the importance of teacher support, inclusive design, and the ethical use of digital resources as factors of quality assurance in online learning.The model is proposed as scalable and applicable to other higher education institutions seeking to modernise their language and digital training through innovative pedagogical approaches.