PSYCHOLOGICAL PROGRAMME FOR DEVELOPING INTERNAL MOTIVATION FOR PROFESSIONAL SELF-IMPROVEMENT IN STUDENTS

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive psychological programme for developing internal motivation for professional self- improvement in students of higher education institutions, based on the integration of the provisions of self-determination theory, the concept of professional development, a person-centred approach, and modern models of youth career development. The theoretical foundations of the formation of internal motivation, its role in the professional development of students, and the key factors that ensure qualitative changes in educational and professional activities are considered.It is emphasised that internal motivation is a fundamental condition for sustained learning activity, responsible choice of professional trajectory, formation of subjectivity, reflexivity and the ability to self-regulate.The proposed programme consists of four complementary modules: motivational-reflective, value-meaningful, autonomous-activity-based, and resource-career-based. Each module contains structured practical exercises using self-reflection techniques, group discussions, symbol drama, career coaching, autonomy development techniques, and self-efficacy enhancement techniques. The content of the programme is aimed at forming conscious professional goals, increasing competence, developing a sense of autonomy in learning activities, distinguishing personal professional values, and integrating motivational and emotional-personal resources. The programme is designed for 18 hours of group work and can be implemented in the educational environment of higher education institutions as a form of psychological and pedagogical support for the professional development of students.The psychological prerequisites that determine the effectiveness of the programme are highlighted: support for the basic needs of autonomy, competence and interconnectedness, the formation of internal meanings of learning, the development of reflective mechanisms and self-management skills in a professional career. The theoretical and practical conclusions obtained emphasise the importance of the developed programme as a modern means of activating the internal motivation of students in the context of a highly volatile educational and professional environment.