The article is devoted to the analysis of universal learning activities as a key component of the formation of cognitive orientation of students. Educational standards are considered in the context of the state mandatory standard as the basis for the development of a student's personality, independence and readiness for lifelong learning. The purpose of the article is to reveal the essence and structure of universal learning activities, including regulatory, communicative, cognitive and personal components. Special attention is paid to cognitive DMS, such as logical operations, analysis, synthesis, comparison, generalization, and the ability to set and solve learning tasks. It is emphasized that the formation of a management system contributes to the development of cognitive activity, critical thinking and motivation to learn. The pedagogical conditions and methodological approaches that ensure the effective development of universal learning activities in the educational process are also considered. In conclusion, it is concluded that educational management systems are an integral part of the educational process, contributing to the formation of conscious cognitive activity of students. Special emphasis is placed on cognitive DMS, as they are directly related to the development of interest in knowledge, the ability to think, analyze, plan and draw conclusions. It is emphasized that the systematic formation of the management system contributes to the increase of educational motivation, the development of independence, reflection and responsibility for the results of their own activities. The pedagogical conditions, forms and methods of organizing the educational process aimed at the development of educational management are also considered: project activities, problem-based learning, meta-subject approaches.