The Use of Digital Technologies in Primary Education through the Prism of Potential and Challenges

Abstract

Introduction: current trends in primary education dictate the need to integrate innovative tools and approaches. The aim of this article is to analyze their potential advantages and challenges.
Method: The study examines innovative pedagogical tools based on digital solutions: online platforms, interactive tools, gamification and storytelling, immersive virtual and mixed reality technologies. As part of the study, a pedagogical experiment was conducted involving elements of virtual reality technologies in primary school fire safety education using the FLAIM Systems VR program.
Results: The main advantages of innovative technologies were identified, including increased student interest and motivation, improved learning, variety of methods for presenting educational information, integration of different learning styles to form an individual approach in primary education, and the possibility of taking inclusion into account. The risks of active use of technologies in primary school were identified, including the likelihood of information overload for children, a decrease in their attention and concentration, risks of negative health effects, the development of excessive dependence on technologies, and a deterioration in social interaction between students.
Conclusions: It has been proven that visualization and interactive experience allow explaining complex abstract concepts to children in a practical and intuitive way, which facilitates the assimilation of material, increases the effectiveness of learning the necessary skills and abilities, actively involves the emotional and sensory sphere, and develops critical thinking.