Application of generative artificial intelligence in forming professionally oriented digital competence of future lawyers in college

Abstract

The article substantiates the theoretical and practical aspects of integrating generative artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) into the educational process of professional pre-higher education institutions to shape the professionally oriented digital competence of future professional junior bachelors of law, alongside analyzing the associated socio-legal and pedagogical risks. Based on the synergy of systemic, competence-based, and activity-based approaches, as well as methods of pedagogical modeling and case studies (specifically evaluating US and Chinese judicial precedents), the study proves the necessity of transitioning from a knowledge-based to an activity-based learning model. The paper reveals the potential of generative AI as a tool for optimizing students' routine processes (searching regulatory frameworks, analyzing big data) and simulating professional scenarios. Particular attention is paid to the foreign language preparation of future lawyers (ESP); AI is identified as an adaptive contextual tutor that deconstructs Anglo-American legal concepts and transforms passive lexical acquisition into active communication skills through role-play simulations and instant feedback. The author proposes a dualistic modular framework of AI competence, consisting of invariant (universal prompt engineering, academic autonomy) and variable (specialized legal software) modules. Key risks are identified and systematized: neural network "hallucinations," AI plagiarism, the devaluation of fundamental education, and clip-based thinking. The student's role is defined as a critical supervisor of digital assistants, which requires advanced data verification skills through official legislative registries. Finally, the study justifies recommendations for the institutional regulation of AI boundaries and the transformation of State Final Examination (SFE) formats through the introduction of oral examinations and practice-oriented case studies. The research materials can be used to update the educational programs of the "Law" specialty (081) and professional development programs for teachers of professional pre-higher education institutions.