CHARACTERISCTICS OF PROFESSIONAL GROWTH OF FUTURE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS IN USA

Abstract

The article describes the process of professional growth of future early childhood educators in USA. The concept of “professional development”, “early childhood educator”, “teacher’s self-efficacy” in the context of the professional growth of preschool teachers is revealed. The importance of the process of professional growth of future educators is formulated as a significant factor in improving the educational process in preschool education institutions.In this article, we clarified the main goals of the professional growth of future early childhood educators, directions of work of preschool education institutions with the aim of improving the educational process. It has been investigated that the process of self-efficacy of a teacher includes the involvement of pupils in the educational process, knowing as classroom management, pupils’ engagement, and instructional practices. The importance of teaching future early childhood educators how to work with digital technologies in the aim of professional growth is characterized. Prepared the information of formal and informal activities, that early childhood educators can use in order to improve their professional skills. The study of scientists, who worked on the issue of professional growth of future early childhood educators was analyzed and summarized.The need for continuous education of future preschool teachers with the aim of modernization of educational process and improving its results is summarized in this article. Professional growth contributes to the progressive mastery of theoretical and practical knowledge, abilities, and skills of an future educator. As well, it has a strong impact on development of the preschool teacherʼs creative abilities, his/her critical thinking, and expanding professional horizons.
 Keywords: professional growth; professional preparation; early childhood educator; institution of higher education; preschools; educational process; preschoolers; digital technologies; continuing education.