METHODS OF EDUCATION AS A MEANS OF FORMING SOCIAL ACTIVITY IN JUNIOR SCHOOLCHILDREN

Abstract

This article examines social activity as one of the most common forms of personal activity and a key factor in individual development. It emphasizes that the formation of social activity is based on a conscious and unconscious striving to change social conditions, shape personal qualities and value orientations, and make a conscious choice to participate in public life. The paper explores the understanding of activity in pedagogical and psychological sciences, particularly through the ideas of V. Romenets, R. Simko, and V. Sukhomlynsky, who highlight it as an inherent personal quality, a means of self-realization, and a measure of the dominance of internal over external determination. Special attention is given to junior school age as a critical period for forming the foundations of social activity, considering its age-specific characteristics: social orientation of development, voluntary behavior, imitation of adults, formation of moral concepts, and play activities. The authors underline the role of upbringing as a crucial factor in socialization and the establishment of social activity, realized through the assimilation of norms, interaction, the formation of an active stance, and an emotional-value attitude. The perspectives of N. Bibik and T. Andriychenko are presented regarding the creation of an educational environment and the use of natural science lessons for developing conscious activity and a responsible attitude towards the environment. The article also provides a classification and characteristics of methods of fostering social activity (verbal, practical, emotional-value) with concrete examples of their application, serving as an important tool for educators.Furthermore, the paper highlights extracurricular education as an ideal environment for cultivating these qualities.The author notes that the diversity of extracurricular clubs and sections (sports, arts, ecological, technical, tourist) creates unique opportunities for forming internal motivation, conscious choice, teamwork, responsibility, initiative, and leadership qualities. It is stressed that successful cultivation of social activity is achieved through the complex application of various methods, consideration of age-related peculiarities, and close cooperation among all participants in the educational process.