An investigation of junior high and senior high school students perception of the terms "career" and "occupation"

A Comprehensive Career Needs Survey was designed to assess the career needs of junior high and senior high school students. The survey consisted of questions regarding students, teachers, parents, counselors and administrators evaluation of career education and support needs in Southern Alberta. Due to the recent research that suggests that adolescent perceptions of their needs, often differ from teacher or parent perceptions, it was important to examine how adolescents perceive "career" and "occupation" and how this perception evolves overtime and through developmental stages. Quantitative results show that the themes of "occupation" and "career" do not differ significantly across grade level, nor are there any prevalent themes within grade levels. However, the results of the qualitative research suggest that the way in which individuals think about these themes does evolve throughout developmental stages. Based on this research, it is suggested the Career Education begin earlier, be more integrated and comprehensive. In addition, increased adolescent involvement in future needs assessments is also recommended. Implications for teachers and counselors will be discussed.

Authors

• Pyne, Deena Patricia
• University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education

• Junior high school students -- Alberta -- Attitudes
• Vocational guidance -- Alberta
• Vocational education -- Alberta
• High school students -- Alberta -- Attitudes
• Dissertations, Academic

Identifier

hdl:10133/138

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:opus.uleth.ca:10133/138