A Qualitative Analysis of Factors Influencing the Professional Motivation of Future Social Pedagogues in Kazakhstan
Oralbek Y. Niyazbekovna Z.F. Atmaca T.
2025Routledge
Leadership and Policy in Schools
2025
Social pedagogy in Kazakhstan is an emerging profession positioned between education and social care, yet it remains undervalued and institutionally fragile. This study explores factors shaping the professional motivation of future social pedagogues, drawing on Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Expectancy-Value Theory (EVT). Using a qualitative phenomenological design, semi-structured interviews with 15 undergraduates at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University were thematically analyzed. Three themes emerged: (1) initial motivations and values such as empathy, justice, and resilience; (2) social influence and recognition, including family, mentors, and societal undervaluation; and (3) future expectations and readiness, reflecting aspirations for inclusive education and NGO work but tempered by concerns about burnout and financial insecurity. Findings show that while intrinsic values and prosocial commitments strongly drive motivation, long-term sustainability is threatened by limited recognition and structural instability. The study highlights the need for clearer career pathways, enhanced practice-based training, and policies that elevate the profession’s public status.
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L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Astana, Kazakhstan
Faculty of Education, Düzce University, Düzce, Turkey
L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University
Faculty of Education
10 лет помогаем публиковать статьи Международный издатель
Книга Публикация научной статьи Волощук 2026 Book Publication of a scientific article 2026