SCIENTIFIC AND PEDAGOGICAL BASES FOR DEVELOPING INDEPENDENT THINKING IN PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

This article analyzes the scientific and pedagogical foundations of developing independent thinking in primary school students. Independent thinking is defined as a student's ability to independently search for, systematize, and apply knowledge, and represents one of the priority directions of modern education. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of problem-based learning, project-based approaches, digital technologies, and dialogic teaching methods. Experimental data confirm that purposeful development of independent thinking skills in students aged 7–10 positively affects their cognitive development, academic motivation, and creative abilities. The article also presents practical recommendations and program components for educational implementation.