Preparation of preschool education specialists for innovative activities in preschool organisations

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to get the opinions of preschool teachers in order to prepare preschool teachers for innovative activities in preschool organisations. In this study, the in-depth interview technique, one of the qualitative research techniques, was used. The study group of the research consists of 33 volunteers working as preschool teachers in various educational institutions in the city of Shymkent, Kazakhstan. Research data were collected through a form consisting of semi-structured interview questions prepared by the researchers. As a result, it is seen that the majority of teachers define innovation as a compulsory need, renewal of oneself and an indicator of development. The majority of preschool teachers participating in the research describe themselves as moderately innovative. In parallel with this, teachers stated that they take part in innovative activities in preschool organisations. Teachers’ suggestions for the development of innovative approaches are to be open to new ideas, to follow and try new methods and practices, to use technology in the educational environment, to gain creative thinking skills and to try new ways of problem-solving. In addition, teachers stated that institutions and the ministry should aim to develop teachers’ innovative attitudes through various practices. These results reveal that institutions, the ministry and the state have duties in order to develop teachers’ innovative attitudes and to enable them to take a more active role in innovative activities in preschool organisations.