METHODOLOGY OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH: KEY STAGES AND TOOLS FOR MODERN RESEARCHERS IN THE FIELD OF PRESCHOOL EDUCATION

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze and identify effective methods and pedagogical practices in the field of preschool education that contribute to the comprehensive development of preschool-age children, particularly in terms of cognitive, emotional, and social development. The methodology of our research is based on the following scientific approaches: systemic approach – preschool education is considered as a complex system that integrates educational, psychological, and social aspects of child development; comprehensive approach – the use of various methods for a thorough analysis of preschool education features; interdisciplinary approach – the combination of pedagogy, psychology, and sociology to gain a deeper understanding of the processes of teaching and educating preschool children; phraseological approach – a focus on improving pedagogical practices through scientifically grounded tools for teaching and upbringing. The scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the study lies in: the systematization and analysis of modern methodological approaches to scientific research in preschool education, particularly experimental methods, observation, testing, surveys, and content analysis; justifying the need to adapt traditional research methods to contemporary challenges in preschool education, such as digitalization, inclusion, interdisciplinary approaches, and the development of children’s critical thinking; expanding the theoretical foundations of preschool education research methodology through the integration of interdisciplinary approaches (combining pedagogy, psychology, and sociology) and determining their impact on the quality of scientific results; substantiating the effectiveness of a combined use of methods for assessing the cognitive, emotional, and social development of preschoolers and the influence of educational practices on these aspects. Thus, this research has both theoretical and practical significance, as it contributes to improving the quality of scientific research in preschool education and enhancing pedagogical practices. Conclusions. The study analyzed the methodology of scientific research in the field of preschool education, identifying effective methods and tools that contribute to the cognitive, emotional, and social development of preschool-age children.