The article analyzes the problem of modern tendencies of the educator professional competence development and self-development, their social conditionality. The essence of the professional competence concept is interpreted from the standpoint of ensuring theoretical and practical components’ integration. Attention is focused on the teacher’s scientific-research work potential as a factor in increasing the level of his professionalism, theoretical competence development, as well as analytical skills, which determine a teacher's ability to operate effectively in permanently changing situations.