Algorithmic thinking as the meaningful component of cognitive competencies of the future engineer

Abstract

The given paper contains the explanation of the importance of algorithmic thinking development and introduces the idea of special formation of the operational components of this thinking in order to improve the mastering of the educational actions in the sphere of mathematics. The research describes certain specific features of studying higher mathematics at Technical Universities. The aim of the research is to determine experimentally and substantiate the impact of the development of algorithmic thinking components on the level of mathematical knowledge and skills formation. On the base of Vinnytsia National Technical University in 2017, 2018, 2019 the experiment was carried out, it consisted of two stages: exploratory stage and formative stage. We responded 275 students. Main conclusions: the problem of algorithmic thinking formation of schoolchildren and students is generally recognized in the world; only a small number of students are able to apply the operational components of algorithmic thinking comprehensively in a holistic process of solving various problems, manage their mental activity consciously and think logically; if students develop techniques of mental actions, which are the main components of algorithmic thinking (the ability to generalize, classify, draw analogies, establish patterns and reason logically), it contributes to better learning of higher mathematics.