UDC 378.011.3-051:373.3:[001+004 FACILITATOR AS AN IMPORTANT ROLE POSITION OF THE FUTURE PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER IN THE PROCESS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF STEM EDUCATION

DOI : https://doi.org/10.51706/2707-3076-2024-11-9

Abstract

Abstract. The scientific article analyzes the scientific and pedagogical literature and highlights the role of the facilitator as an important position of the future primary school teacher in the process of implementing STEM-education.

Based on a thorough analysis of scientific and pedagogical sources, the essence of the concepts "STEM teacher", "facilitator", "facilitation" and "pedagogical facilitation" was clarified. It is highlighted that a STEM teacher is a new generation pedagogue who not only imparts knowledge, but also creates conditions for the development of students' critical thinking, creativity and innovative approach to solving problems. When implementing STEM-education, such a teacher acts as a "leader" of an integrated approach to learning, successfully combining the study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

This paper presents the key aspects that define the role of the facilitator in the professional activities of primary school teachers in the process of implementing STEM-education. It has been determined that a STEM primary school teacher should be a qualified, creative and energetic specialist, interested in developing scientific thinking and technological literacy of their students. Being a teacher-facilitator in STEM-education in primary school requires flexibility, creativity and constant openness to new approaches.

The article proves the necessity of forming the position of a facilitator in future teachers at the level of their professional training in pedagogical institutions of higher education. It is emphasised that in this context it is important to ensure a qualitative balance between theoretical and practical training of future teachers.

Based on the analysis of information sources and available experience, the article provides advice to a future teacher-facilitator who will implement STEM-education in primary school: create a stimulating STEM-educational environment; engage students in practical activities; take into account the individual characteristics and interests of each student; engage students in teamwork in groups; focus on the development of critical thinking in children; encourage students to experiment and solve real problems etc.