CONCEPTUAL FOUNDATIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PEDAGOGICAL LEADERSHIP IN THE CONTEXT OF THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE HIGHER EDUCATION ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

In this study, the author analyses the theoretical and methodological foundations of the development of pedagogical leadership in the context of the transformation of the educational environment in higher education institutions, and explores the nature and significance of critical thinking as an integrative factor in effective leadership by teaching staff. Particular attention is paid to substantiating the productive synergy between pedagogical leadership and critical thinking, which ensures the intellectual dynamism of the educational process, improves its quality, strengthens motivation for learning, and fosters the inner integrity of all members of the academic community. The relevance of the study stems from the profound transformational processes in the higher education system, driven by digitalisation, globalisation, social crises and military challenges. In these conditions, pedagogical leadership emerges as a key factor in ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of higher education institutions, whilst critical thinking is a necessary condition for making informed managerial and pedagogical decisions, fostering academic freedom, and developing a democratic culture. The research methodology employed is based on systemic, competence-based and interdisciplinary approaches, which have enabled a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under study. It is noted that pedagogical leadership and critical thinking have a productive synergy that contributes to the creation of an open, cognitive- communicative educational environment focused on developing learners’ intellectual autonomy, reflectiveness and responsibility. The development of this interaction should be a systematic and purposeful process, involving the introduction of facilitative teaching models, problem-based learning, reflective practices, the development of media literacy and the creation of a collaborative academic environment. The study found that the development of pedagogical leadership contributes to improving the quality of educational services, fostering an innovative educational environment and ensuring the sustainable development of higher education institutions.