STEM Technologies in the Education of Tourism Students

Abstract

The article examines the features of implementing STEM technologies (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) in the educational process of tourism students. It is noted that under the conditions of economic digitalization and globalization, the tourism sector requires the training of a new generation of specialists possessing interdisciplinary knowledge and digital competencies. The application of the STEM approach contributes to the development of students’ analytical thinking, big data management skills, proficiency in geoinformation systems, and the use of virtual and augmented reality technologies in tourism activities. Particular attention is paid to the integration of STEM education into the curricula of Kazakhstan universities, which will enhance the quality of professional training and the competitiveness of graduates in the international labor market. The article also identifies challenges and prospects related to the implementation of STEM technologies, including insufficient technical resources and the need for teacher professional development. It is concluded that the synthesis of the STEM approach with classical teaching methods enables the preparation of competitive «hybrid managers» capable of driving innovative development in the tourism industry.