An examination of University of Wisconsin-Stout students' perceptions of their secondary career guidance programs

File(s)
Date
2002Author
Reich, Lia Y.
Publisher
University of Wisconsin--Stout
Department
Guidance and Counseling
Advisor(s)
Gillett, Amy
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of University of Wisconsin Stout undergraduate freshmen and sophomores regarding the content and effectiveness of their high school career development programs and services. Data was collected through a survey given to all freshmen and sophomore students enrolled in General Psychology for the Spring 2002 semester. The participants were informed verbally of the nature and purpose of the study. Participation was voluntary and the participants were informed of this through the use of a written consent form. Participants were also given the opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns with the researcher. The survey was developed by the researcher using information from the National Career Development Guidelines and the American School Counselor Associations Standards. These models provide a framework for schools to meet the career development needs of students. The survey examined whether the participant’s school program provided help in gaining competency in areas specified by the aforementioned models. The survey also asked participants to evaluate their preparedness in these same areas of competency. The survey also asked for suggestions and comments regarding how their school could have best prepared them for career planning. Data analysis was used only for those identifying themselves as graduating from high school since 1992. The rationale behind this was to minimize the effects of memory distortion due to the amount of time since the target events occurred. Data analysis looked at the percentages for each item response set. Data analysis also looked at possible relationships between different response sets. The content of the suggestions and comments section was analyzed for themes and summarized in the findings. This study hoped to examine whether schools are providing services and whether students are acquiring competencies as recommended by the national standards. The research also solicited suggestions and comments regarding program effectiveness from the subjects. The research also hoped to ascertain whether schools are effective in what they do address. Evaluating the state of secondary career guidance services is necessary to ensure that schools can improve their services to meet the needs of their students. Based on the research findings, the researcher hoped to develop recommendations to increase the effectiveness of secondary career guidance programs. This research also hoped to increase overall awareness of the important influence of career guidance to meeting the needs of students. It is hoped that this increased awareness of the need for career guidance will result in improved services for students. More effective career guidance programs would mean increased preparedness and success in transition from high school. Ultimately, developing skills and planning for transition into adulthood can increase the likelihood of success and satisfaction throughout ones career life span.
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/40603Type
Thesis
Description
Plan B