Predicting change over time in career planning and career exploration for high school students

Abstract

This study assessed 166 high school students in Grade 8 and again in Grade 10. Four models were tested: (a) whether the T1 predictor variables (career knowledge, indecision, decision-making selfefficacy, self-esteem, demographics) predicted the outcome variable (career planning/exploration) at T1; (b) whether the T1 predictor variables predicted the outcome variable at T2; (c) whether the T1 predictor variables predicted change in the outcome variable from T1−T2; and (d) whether changes in the predictor variables from T1−T2 predicted change in the outcome variable from T1−T2. Strong associations ( R 2=34%) were identified for the T1 analysis (confidence, ability and paid work experience were positively associated with career planning/exploration). T1 variables were less useful predictors of career planning/exploration at T2 ( R 2=9%; having more confidence at T1 was associated with more career planning/exploration at T2) and change in career planning/exploration from T1−T2 ( R 2=11%; less confidence and no work experience were associated with change in career planning/exploration from T1−T2). When testing effect of changes in predictor variables predicting changes in outcome variable ( R 2=22%), three important predictors, indecision, work experience and confidence, were identified. Overall, results indicated important roles for self-efficacy and early work experiences in current and future career planning/exploration of high school students.