The purpose of this study is to derive practical strategies for enhancing the competencies of pre-service early childhood teachers. To this end, the researcher reviewed competencies appropriate for pre-service early childhood teachers through literatu...
The purpose of this study is to derive practical strategies for enhancing the competencies of pre-service early childhood teachers. To this end, the researcher reviewed competencies appropriate for pre-service early childhood teachers through literature review and analysis of previous studies. Subsequently, expert consultations and focus group conferences were conducted with university professors with expertise in curriculum and teaching methods as well as field experts in early childhood education to discuss the competencies required in educational settings and strategies to strengthen them.
As a result of the literature review and analysis of previous studies, three core competencies—professional knowledge competency, field implementation competency, and professional attitude and character competency—were identified as essential for pre-service early childhood teachers. Following expert consultation, the following three core competencies were finalized professional knowledge competency for understanding learners and their development, field implementation competency for curriculum organization and classroom management professional attitude and character competency for teacher professionalism, continuous professional development.
Furthermore, considering contemporary social and cultural changes, the study confirmed the necessity of integrating media literacy, computational thinking, and multicultural education into the curriculum. The findings of this research are expected to serve as foundational data for strengthening the competencies of pre-service early childhood teachers and improving related curricula.