Competencias profesionales en la Educación Inicial y su vínculo con la vocación y la formación ética

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines professional competencies in early childhood education and their relationship with teaching vocation and ethical training. Its objective was to analyze the relationship between professional competencies, teaching vocation, and ethical training among early childhood educators within the framework of Ecuador s prioritized curriculum, in order to provide a foundation for the design of an innovative pedagogical proposal relevant to the classroom. The study employed a mixed-method approach with a correlational scope and non-experimental cross-sectional using the Cuestionario Maestros 360°: Competencias, Vocación y Ética en Educación Inicial as an instrument, which was administered to 10 teachers who volunteered to participate. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between teaching vocation and ethical training. Likewise, the dimensions of digital skills and logical-mathematical skills received the lowest scores compared to the other skill assessed. Therefore, based on these findings and considering the importance of social-emotional skills for children s holistic development, an innovative pedagogical proposal entitled Mandil Mágico Descubro y Aprendo was designed. This proposal integrates physical and digital resources, incorporating play-based, hands-on, and technological activities to promote meaningful learning in early childhood education.