SOCIALIZATION OF STUDENTS IN THE PROCESS OF VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES: THEORETICAL ASPECT

Abstract

The article reveals the peculiarities of student’s socialization in the process of volunteering. It was determined, that socialization is a complex and integral process of interaction between a person and the social environment; an important element of becoming a full-fledged personality in the modern world. It is noted, that one of the most effective means of socializing student youth is volunteering – the voluntary participation of people in various charitable, public or social initiatives without financial compensation. The following reasons for the participation of student in volunteer activities are named: prospects, recognition, communication, formation of professional competences. On the basis of the theoretical analysis of literary sources, the following socio-pedagogical functions of volunteer activity as a means of socialization of student youth were identified and characterized: identifying, integrating, personal-developing, valuable-meaningful, professional-labor, innovative-initiative, creative-transformative, humanistic, spiritual- moral; the function of social competence, civic education, self-awareness. The author emphasizes that volunteering, as an effective mechanism of socialization, provides student with a unique opportunity to interact with various social groups, expanding their horizons and understanding of the real problems of society. This process not only contributes to the enrichment of social experience, but also forms in students the value of interaction, responsibility to the public and the development of critical thinking regarding social challenges, allows not only to help others to self-realize, but also to master the skills of successful socialization. In this context, volunteering acts not only as a noble cause, but also as a powerful tool for the formation of civic consciousness and an active life position.