Professional Development for Managers and  Teachers in Early Childhood Education Institutions:  Current Situation, Demands, and Solutions

Nguyen Thi Bich Thao; Ta Thi Kim Nhung; Nguyen Thi Trang

Nguyen Thi Trang*	trangnt@vnies.edu.vn	The Vietnam National Institute of Educational Sciences (Vietnam)
Nguyen Thi Bich Thao	ntbthao@moet.gov.vn	Office of the Ministry Ministry of Education and Training (Vietnam)
Ta Thi Kim Nhung	ttknhung@hueuni.edu.vn	Faculty of Early Childhood Education University of Education of Hue University (Viet Nam)

Summary:

This paper presents the research results on the current situation, demands, and solutions for the professional development of managers and teachers at Vietnam’s early childhood education institutions. The study was based on a survey of 7349 managers and teachers across 63 provinces and cities, employing a combination of qualitative methods (focused in-depth interviews, workshops, and group discussions) and quantitative methods (questionnaire survey). The findings indicated that most managers and teachers value the comprehensiveness and relevance of the issued regulations and guidelines; however, specific challenges have remained in their practical implementation. The research also showed that professional development has enhanced the knowledge and skills to meet job requirements. The most effective forms of training are concentrated sessions combined with distance learning, especially in the stage of digital transformation. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning the organization of training programs, timing, contents, and instructional materials. The article also highlights the need for early childhood managers and teachers to enhance their knowledge and practical skills in order to meet pedagogical and professional requirements in the context of educational reform; therefore, some solutions are recommended to improve the effectiveness of professional development, meeting the demands for enhancing professional competence and early childhood education reform.

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Keywords:

early childhood education

professional development

manager

teacher.

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Journal:

Volume. 21 - issue 4 / 2025

VIETNAM JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL SCIENCES

Professional Development for Managers and Teachers in Early Childhood Education Institutions: Current Situation, Demands, and Solutions