Modern approaches continuous professional development of teachers in postgraduate pedagogical education

The study aimed to form a theoretical recommendations of the latest pedagogical approaches for the professional development of teachers in the system of postgraduate teacher education. The methodology includes criteria for analysing the system of postgraduate teacher education and testing the educational programmes for the professional development of managerial, pedagogical and support staff (n = 300) of the Kirovohrad Regional In-Service Teacher Training Institute named after Vasyl Sukhomlynskyi, which are focused on the development of general and professional competences of teachers. The research also included a comparative analysis with international practices, specifically drawing insights from the Finnish ‘Koulutuskeskus Salpaus’ program. Modern postgraduate education in Ukraine is an important element of the system of continuous professional development of teachers, which contributes to the professional development of teachers, improving their professional skills and knowledge. Postgraduate education programmes aim not only to update knowledge in the field of pedagogy but also to train teachers to work in constant changes in society, technology and education. However, the results of the study indicate that the postgraduate education system needs to be improved through the introduction of the latest pedagogical approaches that are constantly updated. The newest pedagogical approaches to postgraduate education aim to transfer knowledge and to develop teachers’ critical thinking skills, innovative teaching methods and adaptation to change. Among these approaches are interactive teaching methods, the use of modern information and communication technologies, individualisation of the educational process, and the creation of conditions for teachers’ self-education and self-development. It is also necessary to develop competencies in management and communication skills, which allows teachers to work effectively in a team and with students. Improvements to this system are necessary to ensure that highly qualified teachers are trained to meet the current challenges of the educational process.