ENHANCING THE RESEARCH SKILLS IN TEACHING ENGLISH THROUGH PROJECT FEST

Developing strong research skills is crucial for first-year students of non-linguistics departments as they embark on their academic journey. Project Fest is an invaluable activity designed to enhance students' research skills by providing a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience. The purpose of the article is to study the research skills of students in teaching English through an organized and conducted project festival. It exposes students to various research methodologies, fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and improves literature review and data analysis skills. Through presentations and feedback sessions during Project Fest, students refine their communication abilities and learn the importance of iterative improvement. This study investigates the impact of Project Fest on developing research skills among first-year students in non-linguistics departments at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan, during the 2023/2024 academic year. With 120 students and 50 projects participating, Project Fest offered a platform for students to engage in hands-on research, fostering critical thinking, analytical abilities, and communication skills. The study employed qualitative methods, including open-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, to explore students’ experiences and perceptions. Findings revealed that Project Fest significantly enhanced research competencies, built academic confidence, and encouraged intellectual curiosity. The event promoted collaboration, constructive feedback, and practical presentation skills, addressing the limited opportunities for first-year students to engage in research within their curriculum. By creating an interactive learning environment, Project Fest supports the transition to higher education, fosters a culture of research excellence, and equips students with essential skills for academic and professional success.