EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES AS A TOOL FOR FORMING NATURAL SCIENCE CONCEPTS IN PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

The article addresses the urgent issue of forming natural science concepts in primary school students as the foundation of ecological culture and responsible attitudes toward the environment. Modern ecological challenges caused by industrialization and urbanization require a new approach to education and upbringing, which involves integrating traditional and innovative educational technologies. The authors emphasize that ecological education should become a key element of the modern educational system, since at the primary school age the combination of knowledge and emotional experience creates a solid basis for the development of ecological awareness. The study analyzes traditional teaching methods such as storytelling, conversation, working with textbooks and books, observation, excursions, and practical activities using natural objects and instruments. Their role in developing cognitive activity, thinking, imagination, and information-processing skills is highlighted. Special attention is given to innovative educational technologies, particularly the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) and the technology of developing critical thinking. These are considered effective tools for forming conscious and systematic natural science concepts, fostering creativity, communication skills, and analytical abilities. Examples of innovative methods are provided, including «Amazing Reading», «Question Ordering», «Create Your Passport», cluster diagrams, cinquain, «True and False Statements», and the «Cube» method. Their potential to create a comfortable educational environment that reduces psychological tension and motivates students to actively participate in learning is demonstrated. It is concluded that the combination of traditional and modern educational technologies ensures the systematic formation of natural science concepts in primary school students, promotes the development of ecological awareness, and fosters responsible attitudes toward nature.