APPLICATION OF STEM EDUCATION ELEMENTS IN THE PROCESS OF FORMING MATHEMATICAL COMPETENCE OF PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

The article describes the features of introduction of STEM-education elements in the process of forming mathematical competence of primary school students. It is noted that the mathematical competence is the key one and implies the ability to develop and apply mathematical knowledge and methods to solve a wide range of problems in everyday life; modeling of processes and situations with the use of mathematical apparatus; awareness of the role of mathematical knowledge and skills in a human's personal and social life. Based on the analysis of normative documents, scientific works, the concept of «STEM-education» is given as a holistic system of natural and mathematical educational branches, the purpose of which is the development of the individual through the formation of competencies, a natural science picture of the world, worldviews and life values using a transdisciplinary approach to learning, based on the practical application of scientific, mathematical, technical and engineering knowledge to solve practical problems, and the further use of this knowledge and skills in professional activities.It is noted that STEM education in general secondary education institutions is introduced at three levels: initial, basic and profile, professional. At the initial level, its purpose is to develop students' interest in the study of the world; The basic level is aimed at developing the skills of scientific thinking and experimental activity, deepening of cross-curricular integration; Profile – focused on professional training and self-determination of students and is characterized by in-depth study of individual subjects in accordance with the chosen profile.It should be noted that the introduction of STEM education in the process of formation of mathematical competence of primary school students is carried out through binary lessons, which involve the use of knowledge in several subjects, contributing to a deeper understanding of the content of the educational material. Teaching methods that take place when forming mathematical competence are revealed: a project method, modeling, case method etc.