USE OF ACTIVE METHODS TRAINING IN THE PREPARATION OF COMPETITIVE SPECIALISTS IN PRESCHOOL EDUCATION

The article deals with the problem of improving the efficiency of the process of training future specialists in preschool education in the context of modern labour market requirements and European educational standards. The relevance of the issue is stipulated by the need to form not only theoretical knowledge, but also a wide range of practical skills and abilities, as well as personal qualities that ensure their competitiveness and readiness for successful professional activity in the context of the development of the preschool education system. The paper traces the importance of professional training of preschool education specialists and the possibility of using active learning methods in this process. The essence of the concept of ‘active teaching methods’, their classification and peculiarities of application in the training of future specialists in preschool education are revealed. It is emphasised that, unlike traditional, passive forms of teaching, active methods stimulate the cognitive activity of students, contribute to the development of their independent thinking, creativity, communication competencies, teamwork and the ability to make informed decisions in professional situations. It is proved that the effective use of active teaching methods in the training of preschool education specialists requires teachers not only a deep understanding of their essence and methods of application, but also the possession of appropriate pedagogical technologies, the ability to create problem situations, organise discussions, stimulate students’ cognitive activity and provide a favourable educational environment that promotes their self-realisation and professional growth. The necessity of using comprehensive forms of control that would allow to assess not only the level of mastering theoretical knowledge, but also the formation of practical skills, the ability to creatively apply knowledge in professional activities, as well as the level of development of personal qualities important for successful work with preschool children is substantiated. The conclusions summarise the main aspects of using active learning methods as an effective means of training competitive preschool education specialists. It is emphasised that the systematic and scientifically grounded implementation of these methods in the educational process of educational institutions that train pedagogical staff for the system of preschool education is an important factor in improving the quality of professional training of graduates, ensuring their readiness for successful professional activity and promoting the innovative development of the field of preschool education in Ukraine.