An examination of university students' perceptions of their secondary career guidance programs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of university undergraduate General Psychology students regarding the effectiveness and content of their high school career guidance programs. Data was collected through a voluntary survey given to students enrolled in a General Psychology class during the spring semester of 2004. The participants were given an explanation of the study and its purpose. The university is located in a small upper Midwest community. The survey was developed by the researcher based on the Wisconsin Developmental Guidance Model and the American School Counselor Association standards. Both models provided the framework from which a career development or career guidance program should find basis. The participants were asked to evaluate how well the school guidance program prepared them for a career or other post-secondary options directly from high school. Qualitative data was gathered by asking participants for advice in the preparation for a better transition to college. Data was also gathered regarding interventions and services guidance counselors provided that helped students make good career decisions