Professional Development of Future Primary School Teachers: Enhancement of Scientific Research Activities

Abstract

The article outlines the theoretical essence of the “students’ research activity” concept, detailing its content and fundamental methodological principles for application in a higher education institution. Innovative approaches to engaging students in research projects are introduced. The author substantiates the distinctive features and forms of cultivating future primary school teachers’ professional skills through research activities (students’ work as part of national or international grants; scientific societies, workshops, seminars (webinars), leading scientific schools; participation in scientific conferences – online or offline, research competitions, Olympiads, exhibitions, forums; participation in student scientific mobility programs, non-formal education). The importance of involving future professionals in research in the community of a city or region is emphasized, as well as stimulating them with scholarship funds and programs. The findings of the study of the state of this problem in the practice of professional training of students of the Faculty of Pedagogy are presented, including, the outcomes from the survey aimed at identifying the dynamics of the level of interest of future educators in research engagement during their 4 years of study at the university. The emphasis is placed on the importance of individualizing students' research work, increasing their motivation, intellectual culture, critical thinking, and creativity, as well as actively engaging them in national and international scientific events, and focusing on interdisciplinarity in scientific project work.