PEDAGOGICAL-PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF IMPROVING THE “4K” COMPETENCE IN PRIMARY EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

The article examines the urgent need to modernize primary education in Uzbekistan in the context of forming 21st-century competencies, with special emphasis on the “4K” model (Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication, Collaboration). The author substantiates the necessity of shifting from a traditional knowledge-transfer paradigm to a competence-oriented approach based on constructivism, Vygotsky’s zone of proximal development, Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, Gardner’s multiple intelligences, and Bloom’s revised taxonomy. Particular attention is paid to the role of primary school teachers as key figures in laying the intellectual, spiritual-moral and socio-emotional foundations of the “Third Renaissance generation” in accordance with the strategic guidelines set by President Sh.M. Mirziyoyev (Address to the Oliy Majlis, 29 December 2020). The article highlights the critical shortcomings of the existing school psychological service, especially the lack of objective diagnostics of children’s psychological and intellectual readiness for school, and proposes the introduction of scientifically grounded longitudinal monitoring and individualized educational trajectories. Practical recommendations are given for the systematic development of “4K” competencies through activating strategies, interdisciplinary projects, problem-based and reflective learning, and the creation of a supportive developmental environment.