Educational Institutions Of Ukraine Research Articles

АУДИТ ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ ВІЙСЬКОВОЇ ОСВІТИ ЯК МЕХАНІЗМ ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ СТАНДАРТІВ ОСВІТИ І ПІДГОТОВКИ НАТО В УКРАЇНІ

Background. The search for allies for security assurance is the key to Ukraine's existence as an independent state. Creating basis for Ukraine integration into the Euro-Atlantic security environment through the implementation of NATO education and training quality standards is one of the urgent tasks for our military education system. The purpose of this study is to substantiate the audit of professional military education as a mechanism for the implementation of NATO quality standards in Ukraine. Methods. Analysis and generalization of scholarly publications on regarding issues, alongside normative and legal documents of Ukraine and NATO, are conducted. Empirical data on the outcomes of implementing NATO's educational quality standards within educational and training facilities have been obtained from both the Education and Training Opportunities Catalogue (ETOC) and the official websites of these institutions. To scrutinize the data, descriptive statistical methods have been applied. Proposals for regulating the procedure of professional military education audit in Ukraine in alignment with NATO's quality standards have been formulated utilizing the dialectical, formal-logical and systemic-structural methods. Results. It has established that the real prerequisites for the implementation of NATO education and training quality standards in Ukraine were created in 2022 by allocating professional military education as a part of military education system. The procedure for NATO courses certification and the structure of ETOC data on NATO-accredited educational institutions have been disclosed, thanks to which an acceptable model of the internal quality assurance system for military higher educational institutions in Ukraine has been determined, which has two components: the quality of academic education that complies with national legislation based on ESG; the quality of professional military education that meets NATO quality standards. It is proposed to conduct retraining and advanced training of military specialists in Ukraine in the form of professional military education courses Recommendations have been developed to regulate the procedure for conducting audit of professional military education in Ukraine on the basis of NATO quality standards. Conclusions. The purpose of implementing quality assurance standards for education and training in NATO is to ensure the compatibility of various educational institutions affiliated with Alliance. Conducting an audit of professional military education in Ukraine on the basis of NATO quality standards will contribute to the introduction of NATO-certified courses by Ukrainian military educational institutions and the development of NATO-compatible professional military education in Ukraine.

The experience of using artificial intelligence tools by students of higher medical education during the study of "Molecular Biology"

The relevance of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the educational process of higher education institutions in Ukraine creates new opportunities to ensure an effective learning experience. Specifically, the application of AI can serve as a means to enhance motivation and self-development for individuals pursuing education. However, it is important to note that the role of teachers and tutors must remain crucial, as the functioning of AI technologies cannot fully replace communication and interpersonal interaction. These aspects play a significant role in fostering critical thinking among applicants for higher education. The article conducted an analysis of the experience with the use of AI tools among students in higher medical education institutions during the study of the "Molecular Biology" discipline. The study of the experience of using AI tools among applicants for higher education in the medical field during the "Molecular Biology" course revealed that 70.3% of respondents utilize AI for learning. The participants' experience with AI was associated with audio visualization. However, the research results demonstrate that ChatGPT is the most prevalent AI tool among applicants for higher education in the medical field. The study identified several ways in which ChatGPT is utilized by students: searching for personally-oriented information during scientific work in higher education; checking and editing written assignments; developing schedules and class timings; seeking personalized recommendations for educational resources, and more. It is noted that uncontrolled use of AI by applicants for higher education in their academic activities may lead to certain educational risks. Specifically, the utilization of information provided by ChatGPT may violate principles of academic integrity; the "automatic" use of generated AI texts contradicts academic integrity principles as well; and education learners might risk losing critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze and compare acquired knowledge. In order to mitigate the mentioned educational risks, it is crucial to implement effective control strategies regarding the use of AI in the educational process. Additionally, applicants for higher education in the medical field should be taught to critically analyze information obtained through AI means. Avoiding these risks is also possible through the improvement of academic programs, diversification of multi-level individual assignments that require critical thinking skills, and fostering discussions on problematic and complex issues during classroom sessions.

Сутність та моделі змішаного навчання в Україні

This research is dedicated to studying the essence, content, and models of blended learning actively used in the Ukrainian educational space. During the literature analysis on this topic, the authors of the article found out that higher education institutions in Ukraine, due to aggressive environmental factors (COVID-19 pandemic, full-scale military invasion), have been forced to implement various models and technologies of blended learning. Currently, both students and instructors find this form of education suitable because it combines classroom, distance, and online learning methodologies by actively integrating interactive technologies into the educational process. Blended learning methodologies ensure a harmonious combination of classroom and distance learning, which ensures effectiveness and guarantees the safety of higher education seekers during wartime. It has been established that through active utilization of interactive technologies, blended learning allows students to independently model their educational process, positively influencing the development of creative abilities and critical thinking. Based on an in-depth analysis of all blended learning methodologies and global experience, this article characterizes the following blended learning methodologies actively implemented in Ukrainian higher education institutions (Face-to-Face Model, Rotation Model, Flex Model, Online Lab, Self-Blend Model, Online Driver Model). The significance and necessity of developing methodological, theoretical, and methodological issues in the realm of blended learning implementation as an innovative educational model that combines and complements the advantages of interactive and traditional education have been determined.

EDUCATION IN THE FIELD OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Every year, the problem of globalisation of environmental challenges is becoming more and more noticeable, with climate change taking priority place among them. The lack of a sufficient number of climate-related disciplines in Ukrainian educational institutions limits the number of environmental experts who will be able to effectively implement climate change adaptation measures and implement the world's best practices in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through decarbonisation of energy, implementation of energy-saving equipment and transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. It has been determined that in recent decades the number of scientific publications focused on the development of educational processes in the context of climate change has increased rapidly. It has been found that the main directions of implementing climate education in educational institutions are to provide quality school education to rethink the priorities of an environmentally friendly lifestyle and to form highly qualified specialists at universities who will be able to implement climate change adaptation projects in various sectors of the economy after obtaining a quality and holistic education at universities.

IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE MODERNIZATION OF THE MODERN EDUCATION SYSTEM

The use of immersive technologies opens up many prospects for improving the quality of the educational process. According to scientific studies, immersive technologies improve students' spatial understanding and memorization, allowing them to experience learning from the first person, to see everything that is happening around them. Such technologies provide visual learning and contribute to students' overall understanding of more complex subjects, theories and languages. Some researchers single out several unique possibilities of virtual and augmented reality, namely immersion in a simulated environment, multimodal interaction, concretization of imagination. In general, according to most researchers, these technologies ensure the presence of users due to the high accuracy of the representation of three-dimensional virtual objects and the ability to simulate operations and procedures of abstract concepts. Currently, the Ukrainian education system is taking only the first steps in the direction of using immersive technologies. A fairly small number of Ukrainian educators have started using them in the educational process. Accordingly, the problems and prospects of introducing virtual and augmented reality technology into the educational process of Ukrainian educational institutions have not been sufficiently researched. This publication analyzes the impact of immersive technologies on the modernization of the modern education system. The essence of immersive technologies and their impact on the transformation of learning processes is revealed. Identified types of immersive technologies. The main problems of introducing immersive technologies into the educational environment of Ukrainian educational institutions are analyzed. The results of a sociological study, the purpose of which was to study the public opinion of teachers regarding the assessment of the impact of immersive technologies on the educational environment, identify problems and features of the introduction of these technologies into the modern education system, are presented. According to the results of a sociological study, the most common foreign and domestic AR and VR applications, which are used by teachers in general secondary education institutions and contribute to the effectiveness of learning processes, have been determined. The main trends of the further implementation of immersive learning in the modern education system of Ukraine are considered.

Pedagogical disciplines as a component of the content of training future music teachers: experience of higher education institutions in Ukraine and China

Pedagogical disciplines as a component of the content of training future music teachers: experience of higher education institutions in Ukraine and China

DISTANCE AND BLENDED LEARNING AS EFFECTIVE FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING TECHNOLOGIES UNDER MARTIAL LAW

The article is devoted to the analysis of distance and blended learning technologies in foreign language teaching under martial law. The essence of the concepts "distance learning" and "blended learning" is revealed. The modes of work in distance learning (synchronous and asynchronous) and the models of conducting classes in blended learning (rotation model, flex model, self-blend model and enriched virtual model) are described. It is emphasized that distance and blended learning, as new technologies, cannot be used constantly. It is advisable to introduce a flexible schedule of using distance and blended learning, taking into account the current situation in Ukraine. In addition, the article analyses the issue of optimizing interaction between teachers and students after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and introducing martial law, which is currently the main reason for the necessity of using distance or blended learning in all educational institutions of Ukraine. It is shown that the opportunities of distance and blended learning enable the student and the teacher to receive and share information, control students’ educational activities, establish contacts with colleagues, as well as additionally solve complex questions and problems that may arise in the learning process. The authors reveal the difficulties that arise in the educational process under martial law, analyze and justify the expediency and effectiveness of using different models of distance and blended learning in teaching foreign languages, taking into account the above-mentioned difficulties. It is proved that the most optimal models of blended learning for teaching foreign languages under martial law are the rotation model (a subtype "flipped classroom"), the flex model, and the self-blend model.

Organisational and legal framework for state control over the exercise of administrative jurisdiction by educational institutions in Ukraine

The article notes that quality education is the foundation for intellectual, cultural, spiritual, social and economic development of the State and its components. It has been noted that the fundamental direction of education is the multi-vector evolution of a person as an individual and the highest value of society, development of his/her talents, mental and physical abilities, education of high moral qualities, formation of citizens capable of making a conscious social choice, enrichment on this basis of the intellectual, creative, cultural potential of the people, improvement of their educational level, and provision of the State with qualified specialists.
 The essence of the definition of “education” lies in understanding it as a purposeful process of acquiring and honing knowledge and skills, values, beliefs and habits through various forms of cognitive activity, as well as education and training in the circles of interests of a person and society, which is confirmed by the statement that a citizen has mastered the educational levels determined by the state.
 The article establishes that the State is one of the main subjects of the control function in society. This follows from the fact that the State has the capabilities and is endowed with real powers to influence society, and in the course of such influence it relies on the results of control. The author emphasises that the State is the central subject of implementation of the control function in society, since it has all the necessary levers of influence on it, using an extensive system of relevant authorised public administration bodies. The main purpose of these bodies is to ensure legality and discipline, which is directly related to their jurisdictional activities.
 It is emphasised that the legislator has developed a hierarchical pyramid of relevant governing bodies of public authority in Ukraine to implement the State control over the exercise of administrative jurisdiction by educational institutions. This system of public authority includes several levels: from the parliamentary-presidential, governmental-central and regional levels to the regional and district levels.

РЕТРОДОСВІД БЛАГОДІЙНОЇ ТА МЕЦЕНАТСЬКОЇ ПІДТРИМКИ СТАНОВЛЕННЯ ЗАКЛАДІВ ВИЩОЇ ОСВІТИ УКРАЇНИ

The actualization of research on the problem of charitable and philanthropic support for the formation of higher education institutions of Ukraine is due to the fact that constructive retro-experience has prospects for use for the post-war recovery and development of modern institutions of higher education in Ukraine. The purpose of the study is to analyze the experience of charitable and philanthropic support for the establishment of higher education institutions in Ukraine at the beginning of the 19th century. Research methods. Achieving the goal of the article made it possible to use the methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison, concretization and generalization. The article specifies the main approaches to interpreting the concepts of «charity», «charitable activity», «patronage», «patronage activity». Based on the analysis of dissertations and scientific publications, it was established that the establishment of higher education institutions in Ukraine at the beginning of the 19th century took place with significant charitable and philanthropic support from broad sections of the population: nobles, craftsmen, former Cossacks, and peasants. It manifested itself in the provision of funds for the opening of higher education institutions, the transfer of material assets and land allotments, etc., which significantly supplemented budget funding. The value of the experience of charitable and philanthropic support for the formation and development of the system of higher education in Ukraine in the first half of the 19th century is indicated, since philanthropists were the initiators and sponsors of the opening of most universities, higher women's courses, lyceums and schools (gymnasiums) of higher sciences, and philanthropic support for the opening and development of universities and institutions of higher professional education in Ukraine in the 19th century became a common phenomenon.

Les particularités de l’enseignement du français langue étrangère aux étudiants en thérapie physique et en ergothérapie en Ukraine

The article analyses the peculiarities of teaching French as a foreign language for students of physical and occupational therapy faculties in higher educational institutions in Ukraine. One of the most important aspects in the training of such specialists is the knowledge of foreign languages. It gives opportunities to communicate freely with foreign colleagues, to do internships abroad, to read professional scientific literature, to participate in international conferences. The study of French as a foreign language during bachelor and master programs should be holistic, comprehensive and dynamic, with clear requirements, based on the useof modern educational literature and Internet resources. Language practice is one of the most important components in the training of a qualified specialist. French as a Foreign Language program for physical therapists and occupational therapists should be logically structured, balanced, aimed at preparing for Professional French Diploma in Health Care, and contain a set of interdisciplinary knowledge on health care system in France.

Formation of Value Orientations of Learners in Professional Education

The article reveals the process of formation of value orientations of education seekers in vocational education institutions. The peculiarities of the formation of value orientations are also highlighted. It has been proven that education seekers need the formation of value orientations, as this is the key to the formation of emotional and value attitudes towards the surrounding world. Research by scientists characterized the formation of value orientations as a generalization of the experience of other theories and concepts of the educational process, the integration of everything innovative in pedagogical theory and practice.
 The most rational ways of the process of formation of value orientations of education seekers in vocational education institutions are characterized, as well as methodological principles. The importance of the development of the process of formation of value orientations of education seekers in vocational education institutions in Ukraine based on the development of their components is emphasized. It has been proven that the formation of value orientations of education seekers in vocational education institutions should be based on the formation of their system.
 It is noted that the process of forming the value orientations of education seekers in vocational education institutions should be carried out according to the principle of collective learning, which will allow the realization of the requirement of compliance of the mental and personal development of the education seeker with the parameters of the norm, on the one hand, and recognition of the indisputable fact of the uniqueness and inimitability of the path of development of each personality - on the other.
 It is noted that in Ukraine it is necessary to create such a process of formation of value orientations of education seekers in vocational education institutions, which would ensure the task of forming in teenagers unconscious driving forces of prosocial behavior and internal «brakes» restraining negative behavior.
 The concept of an educational program for the formation of value orientations of learners in vocational (vocational-technical) education has been presented. It is expected that the process of shaping the value orientations of education recipients in vocational education institutions through the implementation of a new program in this field will contribute to the healthy development of individuals, enhance their success not only in the learning process but also in any important activities for them, and serve as a preventive measure against antisocial behavior

THE FORMATION OF FUTURE DOCTORS’ MANAGERIAL COMPETENCE: EXPERIENCE IN LEADING INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER MEDICAL EDUCATION IN UKRAINE

The article deals with the problem of future doctor’s managerial competence formation. The aim of the article is as follows: to analyze the educational programs of future doctor’s training in the leading medical higher education institutions in Ukraine in the context of their managerial competence formation. The article highlights the results of scientific literature analysis. The author substantiates the criteria for selection of institutions of higher medical education of Ukraine, the experience of which is studied. The article presents the results of the analysis of educational programs for future doctors’ training and determines its common features as well as compliance with the Standard of higher education for the second (master’s) level of higher education in speciality 222 Medicine. It is proved that most institutions of higher medical education offer optional courses, which form separate components of the managerial competence of a future doctor in such professional domains as “cooperation”, “services”, and “the development of profession”. The issues of forming managerial competence for the implementation of one’s own professional activity and professional development of doctors, promoting the development of professional community, improving services, introducing changes, etc., remain outside the attention of educational programs’ developers. The conclusion is made that there are gaps both in educational programs and in the knowledge of medical students regarding the need to master managerial knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as their application in professional activities. Such conclusions provide grounds for the development of scientific and methodical recommendations for solving this issue.

Digital Competencies in Ukrainian Education of the Future: Teaching and Assessment

The acquirement of digital competencies in the times of global digitalisation of society is an urgent task for the educational system. Being a part of the globalised world Ukraine needs to further improve the learning process based on digital technologies. The aim of the study was to determine the state of digital competencies in Ukrainian education by analysing the learning and assessing the skills of students. Quantitative and qualitative analysis were used in this paper. 120 students from different educational institutions of Ukraine were involved in the study, representing different professional fields. The students were selected based on pre-developed criteria: a student of a higher education institution, a combination of participants from different specialities and different educational levels, and experience in using digital technologies. A random sample was used in the study. Subsequently, it was stratified based on education levels and age groups in order to ensure proportional representation. The results indicated a high level of awareness of the importance of developing digital competencies for professional growth among modern students. The results showed that modern digitalisation processes have become a factor in the introduction and development of innovative teaching methods. For this reason, it is important to introduce methods of individualised learning using adaptive technologies, the use of virtual and augmented reality to improve learning. Such tools as a PC, laptop, smartphone, interactive whiteboards that have become commonplace for Ukrainian students. The conclusions noted that more than half of the respondents stated that their educational institutions created necessary conditions for digital competencies development. Forty-two percent considered that such conditions were not sufficient, which may be due to insufficient funding, lack of developed technical infrastructure. The implications influence the development of curricula in Ukrainian education, prompting the integration of digital competencies as a core component.

Formation of sustainable development competencies in Ukrainian English for specific purposes students

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the formation of sustainable development competencies (SDCs) in future primary school teachers during English for specific purposes classes, and to assess the correlation between English proficiency and the development of SDCs, including Collaboration, Strategic thinking, Critical thinking, Modelling sustainable behaviour, Systems thinking and Future thinking.Design/methodology/approachThe research experiment involved the application of content and language integrated learning and facilitation methods in three higher education institutions in Ukraine. The students’ level of English language proficiency was assessed based on the results of the online Cambridge English Language Assessment test, while the level of SDC formation was measured using research methods adapted to the Ukrainian context.FindingsThe experiment revealed positive changes in the levels of SDCs and English language proficiency through integrated learning and the application of facilitation methods.Originality/valueThe study established a correlation between the level of English language proficiency and the formation of competencies, such as Collaboration, Strategic thinking, Critical thinking, Modelling sustainable behaviour, Systems thinking and Future thinking, all of which are vital for sustainable development.

Current problems of arranging shelters in educational institutions in Ukraine

This study covered the issue of creating safe conditions for all participants of the educational process in educational institutions in conditions of potential danger. The topic has become particularly relevant since 2022 as a result of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. The arrangement of simple shelters (fortifications) in existing school buildings is decided by state authorities, legislative structures, regional institutions, and school administrations. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively examine the problem of creating a safe learning environment, identify indicative research areas, establish legislative guidelines, and preventively assess the real needs of protective structures to ensure the educational process at school. The study used the initial analysis of legal provisions, general scientific methods, systematisation and generalisation of special information, empirical methods, the method of expert assessments, factor analysis (for consideration of architectural solutions), and an interdisciplinary review of the provisions of the educational process security. The stages of solving the problem of designing and building shelters in educational institutions of Ukraine were outlined. The main factors in the formation of architectural solutions for shelters and the safety of the educational process were identified as follows: legislative; organisational; architectural and planning; engineering and technical; pedagogical; and daily. The scientific and pedagogical principles were addressed, the study highlighted the modern trends and innovative models of school education that influence the architectural organisation of school buildings. Planning solutions should provide for variant ergonomic organisation of the educational process, open educational, communication, and recreational spaces. It was emphasised that the educational environment of a school should consider security requirements. The study examined the case of a newly built school with a shelter for pupils and teachers that has adequate conditions for learning. The practical value of the study lies in the possibility of applying certain aspects and conclusions in the real design of educational institutions based on a comprehensive consideration of security requirements

Transformation of higher education in Ukraine: Impact of the war and objectives for post‐war recovery

AbstractProcesses of globalisation, sustainable development, the Covid‐19 pandemic, and other current circumstances influence the development of higher education. Higher education institutions in Ukraine also face challenges related to the military aggression by the Russian Federation since 2014, martial law since February 2022 and efforts to prepare for a post‐war recovery. The article outlines key areas that merit closer attention including an analysis of changes occurring in higher education in Ukraine before and during the war; the network of higher education institutions in Ukraine; admissions processes; trends in higher education quality assurance and enhancement; and international aid for the support and development of higher education in Ukraine. The analysis outlines changes that have taken place in higher education in Ukraine as a result of the destruction of infrastructure and a decrease in institutional capability of universities in eastern Ukraine and Crimea, as well as massive migration. We identify main innovations and specific features of the admissions process in 2022 compared to admissions processes in 2021. The government of Ukraine, following martial law, introduced restrictions that affected international academic mobility, which is carried out online, or to the extent possible as blended learning. Finally, we outline tasks for post‐war higher education recovery and development and underline the key role of universities in the post‐war recovery of Ukraine.

Mind maps to boost the learning of English as L2 at higher education institutions in Ukraine

Mind mapping is a powerful tool for teaching English as a foreign language, particularly in the context of learning and mastering English as a second language (L2). Visualizing the content contributes to a more effective memorization and error-free reproduction, even after some time. In the Ukrainian pedagogy, the didactic potential of “cognitive graphics” and specific means of its implementation calls for deeper studies and systemic representation as the concept itself is a multi-disciplinary phenomenon on the intersection of neuro-/psycholinguistics, psychology, theory of language communication, cognitivism, and web-design. That is why the aim of this work is to ascertain the essence of mind mapping as powerful means of teaching and learning English, to show its relations with ICT in designing an effective set of academic tasks and stimulating the student’s digital competence. The innovative character benefits the perception, and thus, the interiorization of the course content, increases the academic performance of students and their confidence in their abilities providing internal motivation for further work. As a result, the student’s selfassessment receives additional clarity, communication in L2 gets extra motivation, critical analysis skills and soft skills develop better creating a sturdy foundation set of skills for a highly professional graduate from a Ukrainian university.

Challenges in the Development of Modern University Complexes with Research Departments

This article delves into the pressing matters surrounding higher education reform in Ukraine, focusing on the pivotal transition of universities into modernized university complexes featuring vibrant research departments. The overarching objective of this research is to discern the fundamental principles and opportunities in the establishment and growth of such complexes, drawing insights from global practices. Against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving Ukrainian society, the article underscores the paramount importance of reforming higher education, especially in the aftermath of aggressive acts against the nation. It underscores the essential tasks at hand in reconstructing the material infrastructure of educational institutions to meet contemporary needs. The article offers a comprehensive array of recommendations for architectural planning and the expansion of university complexes, encompassing the creation of dedicated research hubs, state-of-the-art laboratories, and technologically advanced innovation parks. These endeavors are envisaged not only to enrich the practical training of students, but also to augment the overall competitiveness of educational establishments on the national and international stage. Within the research framework, due consideration is given to the physical aesthetics of university buildings, paving the way for a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. The potential for collaboration with governmental bodies is examined, thus fostering a conducive environment for knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary cooperation. Furthermore, the article advocates for the development of cohesive functional linkages within university complexes to facilitate the seamless flow of ideas and resources. One of the pivotal concepts advocated in this research is the integration of "open laboratories." These innovative spaces are envisioned to serve as dynamic hubs of scientific exploration, catalyzing breakthroughs in various disciplines. The introduction of open laboratories promises to infuse a newfound vigor into the realm of scientific research within the academic sphere. The research not only contemplates the domestic educational landscape but also embarks on a global exploration of best practices. Drawing insights from international experience, this article endeavors to adapt and tailor these lessons to the unique context of Ukrainian higher education. The outcomes of this research endeavor are anticipated to form the bedrock for future studies, serving as a catalyst for the development of innovative architectural solutions within the realm of higher education in Ukraine. By embracing the principles and recommendations put forth in this article, educational institutions in Ukraine can aspire to not only keep pace with global advancements, but also to carve a distinctive niche in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education.

ANALYSIS OF DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN EXPERIENCE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF FUTURE PHYSICAL SPECIALISTS CULTURE AND SPORTS IN PROFESSIONAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

The article provides a comparative analysis of professional training of sports personnel, organizational conditions of their training and employment opportunities of graduates of sports educational institutions of Ukraine and Slovakia. It is revealed that the concept of «profession» is a type of occupation, work activity that requires a certain training; the main means of subsistence. Accordingly, vocational education provides a certain qualification, knowledge in a certain field of science and allows to work in a profession. It has been established that in Ukraine the training of junior bachelors of physical education and sports can be carried out on the basis of basic secondary education.Students are obliged to complete the educational program of specialized secondary education, corresponding to the field of knowledge and specialty, which is integrated with the educational and professional program of profile junior bachelor. In the professional training of Slovak institutions sports specializations are presented, which allow students to improve their motor and physical abilities, continue to build a sports career. Differences manifest themselves in the more professional orientation of educational programs of Ukrainian educational institutions, which allows graduates to obtain a diploma of thestate standard and to carry out full-fledged professional activity in positions: coach (by sport), instructor-methodologist in physical culture and health and sports and mass work, instructor in therapeutic physical culture, etc. The aim of the training in Slovak educational institutions is to improve physical and intellectual development and improve sports performance. The aim of the training is to improve the physical and intellectual development of the pupils; and to meet the requirements of secondary education; students complete secondary school and at the same time receive training to continue their studies in specialized higher education institutions. Only the most highly deserving representatives of the sports environment can qualify coach of the II category. We consider Ukrainian educational-professional programs more perspective and productive in training specialists of physical culture and sports.

POSITIVE EXPERIENCE OF PROJECT-BASED DEVELOPMENT OF SOFT SKILLS OF FUTURE SPECIALISTS: INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

The relevance of the study is due to the need to develop the soft skills of future professionals through project-based activities in higher education institutions in the international dimension.
 Objective: To describe and substantiate the positive practices of developing soft skills of future specialists through project-based activities in higher education institutions in the People's Republic of China in order to utilise the positive experience of this country in reforming Ukrainian education.
 Methods: Theoretical analysis of scientific sources, websites of educational institutions, educational and professional programmes of higher education institutions to determine the key features of the development of soft skills of future specialists through project-based activities in higher education institutions of the People's Republic of China.
 Findings: The concepts of soft skills and project-based activities were formulated and clarified, the inhibiting factors of development were identified, and the issue of soft skills development in future specialists in current research on higher education in the People's Republic of China was analysed. The paper describes measures to improve the level of development of soft skills of future specialists in the People's Republic of China and formulates proposals for solving the issue of developing soft skills of future specialists through project-based activities in higher education institutions of Ukraine.
 Conclusions: It was found that the development of soft skills of future specialists through project-based activities is more effective. It was established that the organisation of collective scientific projects and the holding of contests and competitions using practice-oriented tasks for students are effective means of improving the level of soft skills of future specialists in higher education institutions. Reforming curricula and funding and establishing cooperation with industry by the Ministry of Education and Science; professional development of teachers in universities, organisation of additional extracurricular activities using projects; formulating clear goals for project-based learning by teachers, establishing effective cooperation with students, and organising feedback and assessment can be useful in improving the level of soft skills of future specialists in higher education institutions in Ukraine.