THE DIDACTIC POTENTIAL OF USING LEGO TECHNOLOGY AS A MEANS OF FORMING GENERAL COMPETENCES OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

Abstract

The article provides a thorough analysis of the issue of forming general competencies in older preschool children, specifically examining the determinants of personal, linguistic, logical-mathematical, natural-environmental, artistic-creative, and other competencies. It is emphasized that the modern preschool education institution, where play is recognized as the leading activity, is an innovative environment for the child's comprehensive development and self-realization. LEGO technology is considered as a unique didactic tool for the all-round development of children, which unlocks their potential and is an important instrument for forming general competencies. The scientific approaches of domestic and foreign scholars regarding the development of general competencies in preschool children are analyzed. The authors highlight the integrative nature of LEGO technologies, which extends beyond traditional construction. It has been established that the use of LEGO sets contributes to the enrichment of emotional and sensory experience, the formation of sensory culture, the development of basic mental processes (perception, memory, attention, thinking, speech), communication skills, creative imagination, logical thinking, and physical development. The study identifies key pedagogical conditions that promote the effectiveness of using LEGO technology in developing general competencies, including enhancing educators' competence and enriching the educational environment. Various techniques for working with LEGO sets are described, namely construction based on a sample, model, theme, condition, and personal design. Numerous examples of didactic games utilizing LEGO technologies are presented, designed to foster general competencies and encompass various aspects of cognitive activity and social interaction. It is summarized that LEGO technology makes the learning process engaging and effective, promoting the activation of cognitive activity and the comprehensive development of the preschool child's personality.