The Role of Physical Education in Preparing Students for Professional Life in Ukraine: Prospects and Challenges

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to theoretically analyse physical education's role in preparing higher education students for professional life in Ukraine. The study aimed to determine the prospects for developing physical education through modern educational trends. The research methodsincluded analysis and synthesis of scientific literature to systematise approaches to physical education and culture in higher education and determine their role in professional activity; a systematic approach to establishing the place of physical education in the overall system of training higher education students for professional life and its impact on the formation of competencies; prognostic method to determine promising areas of physical education development and possible ways to improve educational programmes.

Results of the study. Physical education is defined as improving the overall quality of life, reducing disease risk, preventing a sedentary lifestyle and improving professional activity. The authors pay special attention to motivation as a key factor in the effectiveness of physical education and the use of innovative and digital technologies in the educational process. The article identifies the prospects for the digitalisation of physical education, which make it possible to incorporate modern digital platforms and virtual technologies, use interactive simulators, develop personalised programmes to support physical activity and define their main areas of implementation. As a result, the authors consider the role of physical education in developing key competencies that will be formed in higher education students and are necessary for future professional activities (stress resistance, leadership skills, teamwork and self-regulation). Conclusions. As a result, the authors substantiate the advantages of introducing innovative digital technologies in physical education, among which are the personalisation of the educational process, increasing the motivational component, and the possibility of distance learning based on the operational control of the physical indicators of students. At the same time, the main challenges accompanying the digitalisation of physical education (creation of high-quality digital content, financial costs, and the need for retraining of teachers) are identified. It is concluded that a strategic approach to introducing digital technologies in physical education will contribute to developing key competencies that will ensure competitiveness in the labour market for future professionals.