THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE STEAM APPROACH IN PRIMARY EDUCATION

This article analyzes the theoretical foundations of the STEAM approach in primary education in connection with artificial intelligence technologies. STEAM is a pedagogical approach based on the integrated teaching of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. In primary grades, the STEAM approach contributes to the development of pupils’ observation skills, logical thinking, creativity, ability to find solutions to problem situations, teamwork, and acquisition of knowledge through practical activity. Artificial intelligence, in turn, can serve as an auxiliary tool in individualizing tasks, developing project ideas, analyzing pupils’ activities, creating visual materials, and providing methodological recommendations to the teacher. However, AI should not replace pupils’ independent research and creative activity, but should guide and support them.