The profile of the creative-innovative university professor in teacher training (TTT) and their training needs in Chilean universities

Abstract

Initial teacher education has become a significant area of focus for those responsible for curriculum updates at both the school and university levels. The primary concern is the development of skills and competencies essential for effective future teaching practice and, consequently, for the broader education of students. Within this context, creative and innovative competency is a crucial skill, vital for problem-solving, fostering innovation, and cultivating other higher-order thinking abilities. To ensure that the preparation of future educators aligns with contemporary demands, it is imperative that their own instructors—the teacher trainers—also embrace and integrate these evolving skills into their daily routines and pedagogical practices. This research aims to define the profile of a creative and innovative professor. The study utilizes instruments developed from literature on the characteristics of creative individuals, approaching this profile from the perspectives of both ideality and reality. Data has been gathered through surveys of university faculty and interviews with educational professionals. Furthermore, a needs assessment, included as a section within the survey, has informed the design of a continuous professional development proposal for university educators. This proposal is founded on the hypothesis that creative thinking can be retrained at any stage of life, in this instance, through ongoing professional development.