SWOT ANALYSIS AS A STRATEGIC TOOL FOR PROFESSIONAL DECISION-MAKING IN THE TRAINING OF FUTURE FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHERS

Abstract

The research aims to investigate how SWOT analysis functions as a strategic tool for the development of future foreign language teachers. Given the increasing importance of strategic decision-making in modern teacher education, especially in the context of teaching foreign languages, the study focuses on the development of reflective thinking and strategic approaches in future educators. SWOT analysis functions as an evaluation method that examines both internal organizational strengths and weaknesses alongside external opportunities and threats. The research considers the perspectives of SWOT analysis implementation in the "Methods of Teaching Foreign Languages" course to determine its effectiveness in developing reflective practice and strategic thinking, and professional growth of trainee teachers. The research delivers a complete evaluation of SWOT analysis effects on teacher self-awareness development alongside its benefits for decision-making confidence and teaching approach effectiveness. The research demonstrates that SWOT analysis can enable educators modify their teaching methods according to current educational environment changes. SWOT analysis implementation in foreign language teacher education programs leads to improved reflective practice and strategic thinking abilities among teachers. Through this tool, future teachers develop stronger decision-making abilities while gaining better capacity to adjust to educational setting changes. The research provides teacher training dimensions of SWOT application, as well as ways and strategies that show how SWOT analysis implementation can enhance teacher education quality while supporting ongoing professional development.