COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH A COMPETENCY-BASED APPROACH IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT IN SEVERAL COUNTRIES AND ITS DIRECTION FOR VIETNAM

This article analyzes the cognitive development domain through a competency-based approach in early childhood education curricula across several countries worldwide and proposes orientations for Vietnam. The study uses a qualitative research method through literature review, analysis, and document comparison. The results indicate that early childhood education curricula worldwide adopt a child-centered, human rights-based approach, promoting cognitive development in an integrated manner across mathematics, science, technology, and the environment, and emphasizing play, experiential learning, and effective problem-solving. Learning outcomes are defined in terms of competencies, highlighting children’s ability to apply knowledge and cognitive skills in practice. Based on these findings, the study proposes orientations for cognitive development toward integration, strengthening play and experiential activities, fostering problem-solving competencies, and creating appropriate educational environments, thereby contributing to improving Vietnam’s early childhood education curriculum toward modernization and international integration.