CURRENT ISSUES IN EDUCATING SPECIALISTS IN THE FIELD OF ESPORTS

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study on modern trends and challenges in training specialists in the field of esports, viewed as an emerging interdisciplinary area of professional education that integrates sports, pedagogy, psychology, information technology, and management. The study aims to analyze theoretical foundations, international experience, and practical approaches to developing educational programs for future esports professionals. It is found that in many countries, the institutionalization of esports is linked to its official recognition as a sport, the creation of national federations, and the inclusion of specialized programs in higher education. The study examines various models of professional training that combine coaching, analytics, health, and performance optimization, as well as multidisciplinary educational approaches that foster key competencies of esports specialists. Particular emphasis is placed on the Ukrainian experience, which shows a growing trend toward the creation of integrated educational programs designed to prepare highly qualified professionals capable of combining coaching, analytical, and organizational functions. Despite this progress, the research identifies ongoing challenges, such as the lack of standardized curricula, clearly defined professional qualifications, and comprehensive methodological support for esports coaching and management. The study highlights the need to develop a competence-based model of specialist training that reflects the cognitive, psychological, and social demands of the esports environment. The scientific novelty of the article lies in identifying strategic directions for advancing esports education as a mechanism for professionalizing the industry and integrating it into the global educational framework. The practical significance of the findings is demonstrated by their potential application in improving curriculum design, establishing qualification standards for esports coaches, managers, and analysts, and introducing digital tools into educational and training processes. The conclusions provide a foundation for further research focused on developing the theoretical and methodological framework for esports education and enhancing the competitiveness of national higher education within the rapidly evolving global context.