Initial training model for childhood education teachers: Competencies and beliefs for their training

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to discover the dimensions of a map conformed by the competences, beliefs and best practices considered relevant for the construction of an initial training model of Early Childhood teachers. To this end, based on a wide sample and on previous studies, an ad hoc questionnaire has been designed and applied, discussion groups have been carried out with experts in the initial training of teachers and with professionals with ample experience in education. The most valued competences have been communication, empathy and emotional, along with the beliefs of recognition of the value and potential of each human being. These competences and beliefs, supported by best practices, made with innovative methodologies, together with the relationships that university professors establish with their students, are of vital importance, and should be taken into account in future teacher training models of Early Childhood Education.