Transformation of higher education students’ motives and values in a pandemic (based on materials from foreign studies)

Abstract

This study provides an overview of the results of psychological research aimed at studying the value orientations and motivation of students of foreign universities who are starting or continuing their studies during the period of restrictive measures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and changes in their values and motivation. Students of medical and related specialties who took part in the research were actively recruited (through volunteering and clinical practice) to work in the difficult conditions of the pandemic. Many students participating in the study noted that they noticed a significant decrease in their motivation due to the forced isolation and the need to stay at home. Regular online meetings and e-mail communication with the teacher were seen by students as insufficient feedback; they did not always have the opportunity to discuss complex topics during classes with teachers or classmates.

Keywords

• motivation
• values
• motives
• students
• pandemic
• distance learning
• volunteer students