Complex Portfolio as one of the Means of the Future Primary School Teachers Training of the New Ukrainian School

Abstract

The article deals with the problem of improving of the future primary school teachers training by means of a complex subject portfolio in a particular course of study in the context of education system reforming in Ukraine. The aim of this study is to track and prove the value of the subject portfolio in the “Methods of Teaching Subjects of Language and Literary Education” course. The article substantiates and validates the hypothesis that a complex portfolio with the proposed structure and developed assignments is an effective tool for the future primary school teachers training. Analyzing the results of the questionnaires, observing the process of students' fulfilling of problem-solving and creative assignments (mind maps, reflective essays, pedagogical diaries, their own media products and audio books for schoolchildren, lesson plans and visual aids design) confirmed that a complex portfolio is an relevant means for development of critical thinking, intrinsic motivation, ensures the autonomy and self-sufficiency of each student, forms confidence in their abilities and readiness to work in New Ukrainian School. The study involved 180 students of the first (bachelor’s) degree in specialty 013 Primary Education on the Faculty of Primary Education and Philology in Khmelnytskyi Humanitarian- Pedagogical Academy (2017–2019 academic years). The quality dynamics of the students’ knowledge and skills before and after the implementation of the complex portfolio in “Methods of Teaching Subjects of Language and Literary Education” course allows to acknowledge the expediency of its implementing.