PEDAGOGICAL ELITE – UKRAINE'S NATIONAL POTENTIAL

Abstract

This article offers a theoretical and practical analysis of the pedagogical elite, an important part of Ukrainian society. The authors aim to highlight issues related to the pedagogical elite through the lens of conflicting perspectives. Specifically, they address the ambiguous attitude towards the very concept of "elite"; the lack of research into the psychological and pedagogical traits of the elite; the absence of clear criteria for identifying the elite; and the growing importance of various types of elites in stabilizing, integrating, and developing the social system. It is emphasized that the pedagogical elite is the most professionally competent, authoritative, proactive, and creative segment of the pedagogical community. The article reveals the importance of the pedagogical elite in shaping future citizens and highlights the close connection between the concept of the pedagogical elite and the main directions of civic education. It presents the historical background for the emergence and development of the term "elite." The social mobility of elite members is also noted. The authors point out that the pedagogical elite acts as the national potential of the state. It shows that forming elite awareness involves developing a clear civic stance – a conscious attitude of an individual towards society and the state. The authors use the concepts of "elite," "pedagogical elite," "national elite," "scientific elite," and "elite education" as the theoretical foundation of the study, providing a basis for scientific approaches. The article identifies and describes various scientific approaches to interpreting elite consciousness as a key indicator of the formation of a pedagogical elite (psychological, philosophical, axiological). It also establishes criteria for assessing the level of development of pedagogical consciousness, including cognitive, value, and personal aspects.