From Theory to Practice in Master’s Studies: Future Preschool Education Leaders Develop Their Management Decision-Making Skills

Preparing future leaders in preschool education involves not only acquiring theoretical knowledge but also developing the ability to address professional challenges, make well-informed decisions, and act responsibly in a variety of management situations.

This approach was implemented during a practical class within the educational components Management in the Preschool Education System and Internal Quality Assurance System in Preschool Education Institutions and Its Monitoring. The class was held for first-year master’s students specialising in A2 “Preschool Education” at the Faculty of Preschool, Special and Social Education of Berdiansk State Pedagogical University.

The class was organised around management case studies involving simulated situations closely resembling the real-life responsibilities of preschool education institution leaders. The master’s students analysed issues related to compliance with regulatory requirements, communication with parents, the organisation of methodological support, teachers’ professional development, and ensuring children’s food safety.

The participation of Natalia Hetamn, Director of Preschool Education Institution No. 80 in Kryvyi Rih, was particularly valuable. She shared her professional experience, offered practical recommendations, and helped the master’s students identify optimal courses of action and anticipate the possible consequences of management decisions. This interaction enabled the students to connect academic knowledge with the realities of professional practice.

While working on the case studies, the future leaders identified the causes of problems, justified their proposed solutions, and developed action algorithms and plans. This contributed to the development of critical thinking, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and the ability to make independent decisions.

Practical classes of this kind play an important role in the professional development of master’s students. They help students not only deepen their knowledge of management and quality assurance in preschool education but also prepare them to address real-world professional challenges. Furthermore, cooperation with experienced leaders of preschool education institutions strengthens the practical orientation of future professionals’ training.

Natalia Hryhorieva, PhD, Associate Professor
of the Department of Preschool Education,
Berdiansk State Pedagogical University