Formation of research competence in senior preschool children through STREAM-education: content-methodical context

Abstract

The article provides a psychological and pedagogical analysis of the concepts of "research competence", "search activity", "experimental research activity", "research activity", "research skills", "research abilities", "research behavior". The essence of the concept of "research competence" is considered as "...the ability of a child to use his/her own sensory system in the process of logical, mathematical and research activity". The features of the formation of research competence in children of senior preschool age are outlined. The concept of STREAM-education as a new technology is defined, its directions ("Natural", "Technological", "Literacy", "Engineering", "Art", "Logic") are characterized. The diagnostic tools for studying the level of research competence of senior preschool children are selected. The algorithm of the methodology for the formation of research competence in senior preschool children by means of STREAM education, which defines five consonant phases, is highlighted: preparatory – definition of the topic (educational situation, integrated lesson, project, etc.); taking into account the age category of children; formulation of the goal; determination of the duration; design – selection of programmatic and methodological resources; forecasting the expected results that children will receive during cognitive and research activities; preparation, equipment and materials for experimental, research research activities, tools for other activities; establishing active forms of interaction with children and their families; motivational – creating intrigue (interest of children in the topic of surprise / problem-searching question or discussion); technological – conducting interaction with children based on STREAM education: Experiments in the educational areas of Natural Science, Technology, Literacy, Engineering, Art, Logic; final (reflective) – taking into account problematic issues related to the child's impressions and examples of experiments in each area to form research competence in senior preschool children using STREAM education.