Actual problems of social inclusion of students in institutions of higher professional education, the graduates of orphanages

Abstract

Introduction. At the present stage of the dynamic development of society, the problem of socialization and adaptation of children, primarily orphans, remains unchanged. The skills acquired within the walls of orphanages do not always allow move effectively in obtaining a higher professional education. In this regard, it becomes relevant to study the problems of social inclusion of orphans. Research aim: study of topical problems of social inclusion and ways to overcome them among students, the graduates of orphanages. Materials and methods: Based on the analysis of theoretical data, an empirical study was conducted, in which graduates of orphanages (students and graduates of various Russian universities, as well as future applicants) took part. The study used the focus group method. At the second stage, an express survey was conducted in the form of an online survey of graduates of orphanages in order to find out their attitude towards entering a higher educational institution. Results. The study found that orphanage graduates are highly motivated to get a higher education and a good job after graduation, despite certain problems of social inclusion. This contradicts the generally accepted opinion that orphans are not ready to receive a higher professional education. In addition, problems of a domestic and psychological nature are not considered by respondents as serious obstacles to achieving the goal. Rather, they are willing to try new things and take risks. The above requires a rethinking of approaches to working with orphans, both in orphanages and in universities. Scientific novelty of the study is in specifying the reasons why graduates of orphanages do not want to enter higher educational institutions. First of all, it is the need for additional efforts that complicate life, selfdoubt and the lack of a positive experience of entering an institution of higher professional education among acquaintances. Among the ideal conditions for the formation of a professional career are the presence of a foster family, more significant adult support and information. Practical significance is in the possibility of using the data obtained to focus on motivating and informing orphans, providing support and more active search for foster families for them. Conclusion. This study allows taking a closer look at the problems of graduates of orphanages who entered universities and suggests focusing on supporting the independence of students and passing on a positive experience of studying at a university to their peers.