The Effects of the ASVAB career exploration program on high school students' career decision self-efficacy

Abstract

The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to better understand the effects the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Career Exploration Program has on 10th, 11th or 12th grade high school students' confidence in making career-related decisions following participation in the program. The Career Decision Self-Efficacy-Short Form (CDSE-SF), surveys, and focus group conversations were used to gather data. A pre- and post-test was a key part of this study's design and results of a paired sample t-test revealed that participation in the program had a statistically significant impact on the students' Career Decision Self-efficacy (CDSE). However, results of an independent t-test revealed that there was little difference in confidence levels between students that participated in the ASVAB CEP during this study and those that participated the previous school year. Schools are succeeding at providing students career-related information and career-related experiences; however, emphasis on planning students' futures, problem-solving, and creating goals may be necessary. Recommendations as a result of this study include ensuring all stakeholders are fully aware of career interventions offered in a high school and students receive their intervention results in a timely, professional manner. In addition, as part of a school's comprehensive school counseling program, school counselors could solicit motivated teachers to become certified School Career Development Advisors to assist with meeting students' career-related needs. Lastly, a range of career-related experiences for all students such as work-based learning, post-secondary enrollment options and a modern CTE program, could assist students with gaining the confidence required for making good career-related decisions.