THE PEDAGOGICAL POTENTIAL OF COMPETITIVE ACTIVITY IN THE SELF-REALIZATION OF FOREIGN STUDENTS AT THE STAGE OF PRE-UNIVERSITY TRAINING: THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

The article is devoted to the theoretical analysis of the role of competitive activity as a tool for self-realization of foreign students at the stage of pre-university education. The relevance of the study is due to the growing number of international students in Russia (more than 350,000 in 2023, according to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation) and the need to develop pedagogical strategies that promote their integration into the educational space through the activation of personal and professional potential. The paper synthesizes key concepts of self-realization, including the theory of social interest. Adler and the activity-based approach of K.A. Abulkhanova-Slavskaya, as well as modern studies of motivation (E.N. Legochkina) and intercultural adaptation (D.N. Litvinova). The authors reveal the mechanisms of the impact of competitive formats on the formation of academic, social and creative identity of students, emphasizing their role in overcoming language barriers, reducing situational anxiety and developing professional self-determination. The theoretical significance of the work lies in the systematization of pedagogical principles for the integration of competitive activities, such as: a) a combination of competitiveness and cooperation to balance motivation and cooperation; b) orientation towards cultural pluralism through projects connecting the traditions of the countries of students and the host society (for example, intercultural festivals, hackathons, quests, etc.). The practical value of the research is expressed in the development of recommendations for the implementation of interactive methods. For example, the use of gamified formats (online marathons, etc.) to increase engagement, the introduction of tutor support in the preparation of competitive work. The article serves as a basis for further empirical research aimed at optimizing the educational trajectories of foreign students in the context of the globalization of higher education.