STORYTELLING AS AN INNOVATIVE METHOD IN MODERN EDUCATION

The present requires the use of new innovative methods and technologies in the education of higher education students, participants of professional development courses in higher education institutions (hereinafter – HEIs), which allow them to develop professional competence, readiness for activity in professional environments, and to navigate certain challenges in life smoothly. The aim of the article is to analyse the features, types, and forms of storytelling, as well as to determine the advantages and opportunities of using it as an educational methodology. The research methodology is based on contemporary tenets of pedagogical science and psychology, reflecting the interconnection of methodological approaches concerning the study of the process of forming critical thinking, emotional engagement, and motivation of higher education students, participants of professional development courses at HEIs towards personal and professional development throughout life. The authors of the article highlighted the results of both theoretical research regarding the possibilities of using storytelling as an innovative teaching method, and substantiated the effectiveness of applying this method in the educational process to create a harmonious and barrier-free communication atmosphere within the system of “teacher – higher education student (participant)”, enhancing and maintaining attention levels, developing emotional intelligence, and overall educational culture. Conclusions. Storytelling as a learning format in higher education institutions holds immense practical value. Its application enables the enhancement of material comprehension, the development of logical and critical thinking, and contributes to the systematisation of interdisciplinary knowledge. Key words: emotional intelligence, innovative method, logical and critical thinking, technologies in the education, storytelling.