PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF FUTURE PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS’ CREATIVITY AS A KEY FACTOR IN THE MODERNIZATION OF EDUCATIONAL CONTENT

Abstract

The article explores the specifics of professional training for future primary school teachers in developing students’ creativity as a key factor in modernizing the educational content. Given the relevance of fostering creative thinking in primary education students, the study outlines methods and approaches to preparing future educators capable of creating a supportive learning environment for the development of students’ creative abilities.The key aspects of creativity development in early school age are analyzed, including critical thinking formation, problem-solving skills development, integration of creativity into the learning process, and stimulation of creative potential both in educational and extracurricular settings.The study examines the impact of motivational components, the implementation of interactive teaching methods, project-based learning, role-playing games, web quests, and didactic portfolios on enhancing students' creative abilities.Considering the needs of modern society, the key components of professional training for future primary school teachers are identified, including motivation and learning content, the integration of innovative technologies, and the development of creative competence.The significance of a practice-oriented approach in teacher preparation is substantiated, emphasizing the creation of methodological materials and the development of original tasks aimed at fostering young learners’ creative thinking. The article presents examples of tasks designed by students majoring in Primary Education (Specialty 013) and tested during their teaching practice in general secondary education institutions. The structure of these exercises, their didactic value, and their effectiveness in stimulating the creative potential of young learners are described.It is argued that the effective preparation of future primary school teachers for developing students’ creativity is not only a crucial step in improving education quality but also a necessary condition for its modernization in the context of contemporary socio- cultural challenges. Future research prospects focus on developing innovative teaching methodologies that will foster students' creative thinking through STEM-based approaches.