This year, the certification exam for kindergarten teachers is planned to be held. However, no official information has yet been shared regarding the exam procedure and the content of the questions. This creates anxiety and uncertainty among some teachers.
So, how might this uncertainty affect teachers' preparation level and psychological state, and what steps should be taken regarding the current situation?
Pərvanə Məmmədova, Deputy Chairman of the Public Council under the Ministry of Science and Education, stated to AzEdu.az regarding the topic that the fact that the rules and content of questions for the certification exam for kindergarten teachers have not yet been disclosed may cause a certain degree of concern:
“This situation can create uncertainty and psychological tension, especially for teachers who have been working in the system for many years. Such a situation can negatively affect teachers' self-confidence, motivation, and preparation process.
However, I believe that teachers should view this process not as a source of fear and stress, but as an opportunity for professional development and to update their knowledge and skills. In fact, the most appropriate way to prepare for the certification exam is for the teacher to constantly pay attention to their daily teaching activities, methodological knowledge, pedagogical skills, and the quality of their work with children. That is, if a teacher works on themselves every day, structures their lessons based on modern approaches, and continues their professional development, this exam should not become an additional source of stress for them.
At the same time, significant responsibility falls on the relevant institutions at this stage. Providing timely, transparent, and detailed information regarding the purpose of the certification process, evaluation criteria, exam format, and content of questions can significantly contribute to alleviating the anxiety among teachers. Furthermore, sharing sample questions, methodological recommendations, and preparation materials would enable teachers to prepare for the process with greater confidence and in a systematic manner.
Consequently, the certification exam should be presented and accepted not as a tool of fear for teachers, but as a mechanism serving to enhance educational quality, strengthen professional standards, and increase teacher prestige. This approach will positively impact teachers' psychological state and contribute to the overall development of the preschool education system”.
