Directions of activities and motivations of volunteers – a review of current research and the results of own research

Abstract

Purpose of research. The aim of the research was to recognize the level of social involvement of students of pedagogy, the areas of their activity and the factors motivating them to undertake these activities.

Methodology. The research was conducted among 80 students of the Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology at the University of Silesia. In order to carry out the research, the diagnostic survey method using the survey technique was used. The survey tool was a questionnaire.

Results. The research shows that slightly over 27% of students undertake pro-social activities. Respondents most often declare their activity in organizations for children, the sick and disabled, and the motivation for the majority is the willingness to help others and the opportunity to gain interesting experiences.

Conclusions. On the basis of the research, it can be concluded that the activity of students is relatively small. However, among the respondents taking action for the benefit of others, the areas of their activity coincides with the field of study (pedagogy). Satisfying is the fact that their activity results from the desire to help others, the desire to gain experience, and not from the desire to stand out from others. It is, therefore, worthwhile to promote all the possibilities of volunteering among students, so that in the future their activity will grow.