Abstract:

Contemporary change and the vision of higher education in knowledge economy are based on the innovative training in the conditions of university IT environment. The University of Library Studies and Information Technologies – ULSIT - introduces different, qualitatively new approaches when training young people and thus imposes a new educational paradigm - FROM ACCREDITED QUALIFICATION TO CERTIFIED SKILLS. At the basis of this policy, conducted by the University, and of particular importance are not only what accredited specialties the students will graduate in, but what lasting skills they will acquire during their education that will enable them to enter directly into practice.

This paper presents a piloted, innovative model of practical training of students in a real working environment. The study is based on the method case study. The results from the implementation of the project "Students’ practices" at ULSIT are analyzed and presented. The project has been implemented in partnership between the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Bulgaria and universities and is funded by the Operational Programme "Education and Science for Smart Growth", with money from the European investment and structural funds. Special emphasis in the presented model are the opportunities and results of the project, as an experience based educational project, providing real working environment aimed at management and application of knowledge, acquired at the university.

Through the results of carrying out practical activities the meaning of training and the function of modern universities in the contemporary information environment are revealed to the fullest. The presented model also provides a unique opportunity for feedback in real time, from employers to the academic institution to supplement and update the academic preparation of students. The application of this model shows that the possibilities for deployment of theoretical knowledge are a powerful incentive for motivation of students on the one hand, as well as their mentors from training organizations and their academic supervisors from the university on the other. The interrelationship student - university professor - representative of the labour market has been examined, specific for the presented type of practical training. The information system for application, recruitment, approval, implementation, monitoring, reporting and verification of the activities shows the advantages of managing the activities in an entirely electronic environment.

The main results of the implemented project are concentrated in the achieved higher level of qualification of future specialists and the enhanced relationship between higher education and the labour market.

Keywords:

Educational incentives, learning by doing, working environment, training, innovative model.