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

Abstract

Abstract: This research addressed the professional competencies of Early Childhood Education teachers and their relationship with teaching vocation and ethical training, based on the need to understand how these dimensions are interconnected in professional practice. The objective was to analyze this relationship by assessing the competency profile of ten participating teachers. A mixed-methods study with a non-experimental, cross-sectional design and a descriptive-correlational and propositional scope was conducted using the 360° Teacher Questionnaire: Competencies, vocation, and ethics in Early Childhood Education. The results showed a favorable profile across the competencies assessed, with strengths in the socio-emotional, communication, and vocation/personal development dimensions, while digital skills represented the main area requiring further strengthening. In addition, a high positive correlation was found between vocation/personal development and ethical training, without implying causality. It was concluded that these dimensions are related within the studied sample and that the diagnostic findings supported the design of the Magic Apron: Heart Explorers proposal, aimed at integrating physical, socio-emotional, and digital resources to support pedagogical mediation.