CURRENT TRENDS IN TEACHER TRAINING

Abstract

This article explores the evolution of teacher training methodologies and competencies in the digital era, with a focus on the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Traditional teaching models that positioned teachers as sole authorities have gradually shifted towards student-centered and communicative approaches, emphasizing psychological well-being, interpersonal skills, and socio-cultural awareness. Teacher competencies now encompass a blend of linguistic, pedagogical, interpersonal, cultural, organizational, and ICT skills. ICT tools, such as Microsoft Teams and Power BI, have revolutionized teacher-student communication and facilitated data analysis in applied linguistics. Language corpora, as textual databases, support self-directed learning and improve the teaching process by enabling teachers and students to work with authentic linguistic data. These advancements make teaching more dynamic, efficient, and engaging. The research highlights the importance of integrating ICT into teacher training programs to prepare educators for modern classroom demands. The findings suggest that developing ICT competencies and leveraging technological tools significantly enhance the effectiveness of teacher training and professional communication.