PROJECT-BASED LEARNING FOR MASTER’S STUDENTS IN TECHNICAL FIELDS: ANALYSIS OF MOTIVATION AND SOFT SKILLS DEFICITS
Author(s): Yussuf A.A.
Rubric: Methods and technologies of training and education
DOI: 10.21777/2500-2112-2026-2-60-67
Release: 2026-2 (55)
Pages: 60-67
Keywords: project work, project-based learning, soft skills, soft skills shortage, motivation, technical education
Annotation: This article examines the problem of soft skills deficits among master’s students in engineering disciplines in the context of project-based learning. The research focuses on the nature and causes of difficulties in implementing student projects. The empirical basis of the study is an analysis of survey results from master’s students in engi- neering disciplines at the Russian Technological University who completed a project work as part of the course “Agile Project Management”. The study confirms that the main barriers to project work are not technical but organizational ones, manifesting themselves in poor time management and a lack of soft skills. An insufficient level of proficiency in project management tools was revealed, despite students’ awareness of their potential practical value. An analysis of their motivational profile and career orientation revealed a latent interest in project management among most master’s students. Recommendations are offered for strengthening the practice of developing specific soft skills in management and assessing not only project results but also the quality of team processes. The importance of interaction with industrial partners and the development of interdisciplinary pro- jects is highlighted. The obtained research results can contribute to the improvement of educational programs for technical specialties aimed at developing and nurturing the soft competencies of modern engineers by increasing the effectiveness of project-based learning.
Bibliography: Yussuf A.A. PROJECT-BASED LEARNING FOR MASTER’S STUDENTS IN TECHNICAL FIELDS: ANALYSIS OF MOTIVATION AND SOFT SKILLS DEFICITS // Education Resources and Technologies. – 2026. – № 2 (55). – С. 60-67. doi: 10.21777/2500-2112-2026-2-60-67