Project culture of higher education students in the context of a cultural approach

Abstract

In response to the challenges posed by digitalization and changes in the labor market, state educational policy emphasizes the development of universal competencies in graduates; however, employers note their insufficient level among young specialists. This article argues that a key factor for successful professional integration is the development of students’ project culture. Based on an analysis of scholarly works on project culture that utilize axiological and cultural approaches, the qualities pertaining to the concept of project culture are formulated. The authors view project culture not merely as a set of skills, but as a complex, integrative personal quality that synthesizes professional competencies and value-based, semantic orientations. The article proposes an original four-level model for forming project culture, comprising cognitive-motivational, creative-activity, conative-reflective, and cultural levels. Each level is characterized by three key aspects: value orientations, intellectual potential, and direction of activity. The model is based on a cultural approach that interprets education as a process of entering a cultural space where the individual assimilates and transmits norms and values. The proposed levels should not be understood as strictly linear and sequential; their structure is rather systemic and cyclical, reflecting the principle of integrating cognitive, motivational, activity-based, and cultural aspects of the personality in the process of developing project culture. Project culture does not emerge spontaneously but is formed through the individual’s own active actions and the support of others, especially teachers and colleagues. The proposed model allows for a systematic approach to developing qualities in students such as systemic and critical thinking, responsibility, leadership, and adaptability, which ultimately ensures their readiness for effective activity in a rapidly changing socio-technological environment.