METHODOLOGICAL PROBLEMS OF PRACTICAL PSYCHOLOGYAND THE ISSUES OF ENSURING THE QUALITY OF WORKOF AN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Abstract

Aim. To analyze the issues of the methodological foundations of practical psychology and the problems of the quality of the educational psychologist’s work is given. Attention is drawn to the fact that it is impossible to solve the problems of the quality of work of a psychologist without solving the fundamental problems of practical psychology itself: determining the specifics of its subject, methods, and criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of the process and the result. Methodology. A comparative analysis of the practical psychology definitions and goals is done, as well as of the Practical Psychology Service tasks in the educational system of the Russian Federation. Possible consequences and risks of the present state of affairs are analyzed. The resource that can help overcome the difficulties is also highlighted. The inextricable interconnection of the issues of the methodology of the subject area, the training of a specialist and his subsequent certification is emphasized. Results. It is concluded that the solution to the issues highlighted is dictated by the fact that the standards of professional activity come into force and the possible problems are exacerbated due to the need for expert activity in resolving personnel issues. Research implications. Suggestions are made about the need to highlight expert activity as a type of work of a practical psychologist, conduct an obligatory independent social and professional examination of the normative foundations of the work of a practical psychologist, and create a certified “Bank of methodological training and professional activities of a practical psychologist” which is going to be highly important for the psychologists of the educational organizations.

Keywords

• practical psychology
• methodology of professional activity of a practical psychologist
• quality of training of practical psychologists
• examination
• expert activity