Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) as a Tool for Developing Professional Foreign Language Competence

This article introduces a technology for Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) based on immersion and subject-specific instruction in a university setting. This approach enhances students’ critical thinking, self-reflection, and creative skills. Developing critical thinking in foreign language classes serves as a crucial factor in unlocking students’ creative potential, thereby facilitating the acquisition of information for professional applications. By defining the concepts of integrated subject-language learning and critical thinking development technologies, the authors evaluated the effectiveness of the CLIL approach as a tool for teaching professionally oriented foreign language communication. Organizing the academic process in line with the principles of problem-based learning and a reflective approach enables the use of advanced teaching technologies that stimulate critical thinking. The methodology utilizes graphically organized professional glossaries, infographics, case studies, multiple-choice questions, and the justification of correct and incorrect responses. An experiment was conducted to assess the students’ levels of cognitive flexibility and critical thinking. The method proved highly effective for continuing professional education programs at the university level.