EDUCATING ETHICAL MINDS:A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE 21st CENTURY

Abstract

The Purpose of the Study. The research aims to study how ethical education, fostering critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability, is crucial for educators to prepare students for a complex world driven by rapid technological development, emphasizing teachers' role in integrating ethical discussions about technology within the curriculum. The authors emphasise that ethics education that fosters critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability is critical for educators. The purpose of the study is to examine how ethics education can assist educators in preparing students for life in a complex world defined by rapid technological development. This is important because in the 21st century, the rapid development of technology is changing the human experience, requiring adaptability, resilience, empathy and critical thinking. The Research Methodology. It was  analysed the studies on ethical education, critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability, highlighting the importance of these attributes in teachers education and professional development. A scientific pedagogical survey was organised and conducted in the form of a written anonymous questionnaire of 100 4th year graduate students majoring in 014 Secondary Education (Language and Literature (English)), T.H. Shevchenko National University "Chernihiv Colehium", Chernihiv, Ukraine. It was provided the quantitative and qualitative analysis of its results, interpreting the insights of preservice teachers' experiences, challenges, and strategies in fostering ethical values and critical thinking skills amidst technological issues. The survey data were analysed to quantify and qualify educators' attitudes and perceptions regarding the integration of ethical insights in their education and development. The synthesized findings from the various data sources were  provided comprehensive insights into the current state of educating ethical minds within the holistic approach to teacher professional development in the 21st century.  The article aims to develop practical recommendations for educators, policymakers, and curriculum designers to enhance ethical education within the holistic educational system. The Scientific Novelty. In the 21st century, rapid tech growth reshapes human experiences, demanding adaptability, resilience, empathy, and critical thinking. This article supports holistic education, specifically focusing on ethics amidst tech challenges. It aims to go beyond traditional moral teaching, nurturing critical thinking and empathy as vital for ethical decision-making. The authors insist that educators hold a central role in addressing tech's ethical implications. The study encourages integrating tech ethics discussions into curricula to empower students for ethical discourse. Teacher - student communication serves as a moral compass for personal growth amid data overflow. The Conclusion. Holistic TPD fosters ethical citizens through teacher-led critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and tech-enabled experiences for a sustainable future.