Work Ethic Measurement of Vocational Students in Georgia

Abstract

In this study, we used a two-phase mixed methods research design in which qualitative methods were followed by a quantitative method to investigate work ethics as defined by the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education. Though work ethic instruments exist in the literature, none were suitable to serve as an evaluation instrument for the work ethic component of the curriculum taught in the technical institutes in the state of Georgia. Following an extensive content analysis of pertinent documents, two focus groups and a needs assessment, a Likert survey was developed and administered to 307 persons. Participants clearly recognised and supported commonly accepted work ethic values, with females reporting stronger work ethics than males. Age and maturity of respondents were related to work ethics. Implications of our findings are discussed.