Innovations and traditions in Ukrainian language teaching at the educational establishments of Ukraine: cases, models of the future

Language proficiency is an important skill for the XXIst century. It means that formation of Ukrainian language competency is one of the major problems of educational institutions in Ukraine. The aim of the article is to analyze the main approaches, models and methods of Ukrainian language teaching and to highlight the most effective ones that can be used to train future professionals and make them ready to operate positively in dynamic society and information culture in future. To achieve the research objectives, we applied a number of theoretical methods including scientific literature review, synthesis of research results on the problems of Ukrainian language teaching and generalization of pedagogical theories and approaches. Also, we employed the empirical research methods: pedagogical observation and open survey to collect quantitative data on the problem. To process the results, we used the methods of mathematical analysis and statutory interpretation of students’ learning outcomes. The results show that there are four main models used for Ukrainian language teaching at the educational institutions. They vary depending on the approach. They include the model with the use of cognitive approach, the model with the use of competency-based approach, the model with the use of person-centered approach, and the model with the use of communicative approach. Also, the model with the use of combination of different approaches is proved to be common and effective among teachers and methodologists. In the article we found that two groups of teaching methods are applied: traditional and innovative. The survey of teachers, methodologists, and students showed that traditional and innovative methods are both effective and they can increase the level of Ukrainian language competency among students. But the efficiency of innovative methods is slightly higher. Therefore, we can state that the educational process requires a combination of different approaches to make the learning effective, interesting, and motivating. Also, teachers and methodologists are required to apply innovative methods more extensively as they help to enhance Ukrainian language competency among students and prepare them to language activities in every day and professional situations.