CURRENT TRENDS AND CHALLENGES IN TEACHER’S PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AT HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This article covers the current issues of teacher training in higher education institutions. It considers the professional development of pedagogical staff as an important factor in improving the quality of education in the current period. It discusses current modern trends in the professional development system, including the introduction of digital technologies, approaches based on the module and credit system, international cooperation and exchange of experience. The use of digital technologies in HE was placed at the core of the Danish political agenda in 2007, with an initial focus on digitalization of administrative structures and examinations (Tømte, Fossland, Aamodt & Degn, 2019). As advanced technology and digital solutions become more widespread, it became more urgent to invest in getting young people interested, educated and professionally attracted to the so-called STEM areas – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. In 2018, the Danish government set a Technology Pact with over 80 educational institutions and business companies, where the following aspects are mentioned: digital empowerment, digital design and design processes, computational thinking, technological ability to act, Informatics as a subject, and disciplinary technology comprehension. At the same time, it analyzes the main problems encountered in this process - the lack of methodological manuals, the low level of digital literacy of teachers, the lack of systematic monitoring, and the lack of practical orientation of professional development courses. The results of the study put forward recommendations aimed at developing effective mechanisms for professional development in the higher education system.