The prospects for using art technologies in preschool education in Uzbekistan

Introduction. This article substantiates the integration of art technologies into the preschool education system of Uzbekistan and outlines the prospects for their use. Materials and Methods. This article presents a thematic study of current trends in the reform of preschool education in Uzbekistan and the use of art technologies within the framework of the Ilk Kadam (‘First Step’) State Curriculum. The empirical part of the research involved semi-structured focus group interviews with parents as key participants in the preschool education process. Following the interviews, a set of methods aimed at enhancing parental competence was implemented, including informational sessions and project-based activities employing art technology approaches. Results. The article demonstrates the potential of using art technologies in working with preschool children at the Art Center, in accordance with Uzbekistan’s preschool education curriculum, to foster their spiritual and aesthetic development. A comparative analysis was conducted of art technologies and art therapy as two distinct approaches that both engage with art, but pursue different goals and rely on different methods. The study revealed a generally positive parental attitude toward the use of art therapy in working with children. The findings also highlight the need to enhance parental competence in applying art technologies for the spiritual and aesthetic education of children. Conclusions. Uzbekistan is currently undertaking reforms of its preschool education system with support from international partners, including Russia. These efforts aim to create a unified educational space that reflects national and cultural specificities while improving the overall quality of preschool education. Artistic creativity is recognised as a valuable resource for the sustainable development of human potential in Uzbekistan. Harnessing this resource through the use of art technologies in preschool education — with active parental involvement — can make a meaningful contribution to enhancing educational quality.