Analysis of the Results of the Experiment on Practical Training of Border Guard Cadets in a Higher Education Institution

Abstract

The article deals with the results of an experiment on the organisation and implementation of practical training of border guard cadets at the Bohdan Khmelnytskyi National Academy of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. The aim of the research was to provide a theoretical rationale for the feasibility of conducting practical training within a higher education institution and to analyse the effectiveness of the implemented measures. The authors used a range of methods, including theoretical (analysis of literature and regulatory framework), empirical (observation, questionnaires, expert assessments), pedagogical experiment and statistical analysis. Practical training was carried out under four educational and professional programmes: ‘State Border Security’, ‘Psychology’, ‘Organisation of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine Engineering and Technical Units Activities’ and ‘Telecommunications and Radio Engineering’. The experience of implementing the practice in the internal units of the Academy allowed the cadets to consolidate their knowledge, develop professional skills and leadership qualities. A survey of cadets confirmed a positive perception of the initiative, which suggests that such events should be continued in the future. The participants of the experiment noted the quality of the organisation, the convenience of the training formats and the significance of the practice for their professional growth. The obtained results became the basis for the formation of practical recommendations for improving the training of future border guard officers in higher military education institutions. The authors propose to continue the experiment, improve methodological approaches to the content of the practice, and involve additional units. The conclusions confirm the importance of the practical component in the formation of professional readiness of future border guard officers.