Some aspects of patriotic education of future teachers

Бюллетень науки и практики / Bulletin of Science and Practice

UDC 378.3                                         

In the Kyrgyz Republic today, an important task is to educate young people and future teachers in the spirit of patriotism. Patriotic education is a multifaceted process aimed at fostering respect and responsibility towards their country among the younger generation. It is a pedagogical activity directed at preserving and developing the national consciousness of citizens, cultural heritage, and social values [1].

To draw attention to this issue at the state level, Kyrgyz Republic Decree No. 698, dated December 9, 2014, recognized patriotic education of young people as an important factor in ensuring national and personal security [2].

This document emphasizes the state importance of patriotic education of young people and serves as a foundation for numerous scientific studies.

Patriotism, in its basic sense, is love for one's country, a desire to support its independence, unity, and prosperity. The foundation of patriotism is deep knowledge and respect for the history of one's people, its culture, language, and traditions [3].

Its role and significance are particularly evident during critical moments in history when citizen efforts, unity, and solidarity are required for development. The concept of patriotism is explained as a condition for the formation of national and civic identity. The connection between patriotism and state identity is confirmed by history, which shows that patriotism contributes to the integration of different ethnic and cultural groups within the country. Educating love for Kyrgyzstan and interest in its ancient history today is one of the main tasks of education. Patriotism is an important and integral part of the national idea, culture, and science.

The formation of a united civic nation — the Kyrgyz nation — which unites representatives of various ethnic groups living in Kyrgyzstan, should be based on love for one's country, pride in it, and a sense of patriotism. The formation of patriotic feelings among citizens involves numerous integrative components: heroes whom the entire nation is proud of, common spiritual values, cultural heritage, holidays, historical victories, and much more. Issues of patriotism have contributed to the emergence of the category of civic and national identity, which lies at the foundation of forming a civic nation for the sustainable development of the state. Sociologists define national identity as an individual’s awareness of belonging to a certain nation, ethnic group, or cultural group, as well as the assimilation of its values, language, and traditions [4].

Forming national identity is one of the main tasks of patriotic education, which can be considered part of an individual’s social identity. As a citizen, a person has guaranteed rights to education, participation in civil society, choice, and other rights. At the same time, citizenship is linked to patriotism and love for one's people and land. These concepts bring about a sense of responsibility for the fate of the country and its people, giving a person strength and will. Civic identity is one of the driving forces behind the education of young people [5].

Properly forming these feelings and behavior norms among young people contributes to raising the level of patriotic education, as well as political, legal, spiritual, moral, labor, economic, and environmental education. Educating young people with a patriotic mindset is a process linked to a person’s conscience and duty to society and the nation.

If we turn to the research of well-known scholars, the great philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau saw education as the solid foundation of society and noted that it directly affects the development of both the individual and the state [6].

Educator V.A. Sukhomlinsky emphasized that patriotism is a spiritual, aesthetic, moral, and emotional culture, as well as consciousness combined with stable ideas [7].

Teachers play an important role in the formation and development of love for one's country and patriotism. Therefore, future teachers in their work must be familiar with the following principles:

• -    Love for the homeland and native language: The homeland and native language are the spiritual foundations of the nation. Teachers, conveying to the youth the richness and uniqueness of the Kyrgyz language, contribute to strengthening national identity.

• -    Respect for history and cultural heritage: Pride in the historical achievements of the Kyrgyz people and their cultural values is an integral part of patriotism. Education about historical figures, events, and cultural monuments enriches the spiritual world of young people.

• -    Social responsibility and civic duty: To be a patriot means striving to do useful deeds for the state and society. Fulfilling civic duties, observing laws, and participating in public events are practical manifestations of patriotism.

Adhering to these principles in pedagogical activities leads each teacher to significant achievements. Patriotism is regarded as one of the key concepts in every person’s life, and all activities of educational institutions are evaluated based on their ability to cultivate a patriotic person. Therefore, in modern pedagogy, new teaching technologies are being updated in accordance with the requirements of the time. Modern technologies and innovative methods provide great opportunities for patriotic education. These include:

• -    Interactive lessons and seminars: Using multimedia materials, group work, and discussions strengthens young people's interest and helps them learn the topic more deeply.

• -    Virtual museums and historical excursions: Using digital platforms, virtual tours to historical places can be organized, which is especially relevant for students from rural areas.

• -    Patriotic projects and campaigns: Involving young people in socially useful activities, such as environmental campaigns and projects to preserve historical monuments, strengthens patriotic feelings.

• -    Social media and online platforms: Spreading the content of patriotic education through social media allows for reaching the majority of young people.

Various state and public events are also held to foster patriotism in young people and cultivate love for their homeland. Examples include:

• -    The "Kyrgyz Citizen" Concept (2021-2026): The concept is aimed at developing civic identity and strengthening interethnic harmony (Kyrgyz Citizen, 2020).

• -    Respect for state symbols: Schools and universities hold ceremonial events, such as performing the national anthem and raising the flag.

• -    Commemorating historical dates: Young people participate in celebrations such as Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War, Independence Day, and others.

• -    Patriotic clubs and organizations: Clubs established by youth initiatives are active participants in patriotic education [8].

The development and fostering of patriotic feelings is extremely important for the future of Kyrgyzstan. Scholars have conducted several scientific studies in this area. Educating future teachers in the spirit of patriotism contributes to transmitting national values to the younger generation, strengthening social unity, and ensuring the stability of the state. Planning comprehensive activities at the state level and using modern methods can increase the effectiveness of patriotic education.