FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENTS’ CAREER CHOICES AT HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL LEVEL

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing students' career choices in Gilgit's higher secondary schools, employing Krumboltz's social learning theory of career decision making. Using a quantitative approach, the research aimed to identify the impact of predetermined factors, including Gender, media, academic reasons, Family influence, Peer influence, Teacher influence, and Personal interest. While uncertainty surrounds the influence of gender, media, and academic reasons on career choices, the study reveals significant impacts of family, peer, and teacher influence. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study on factors influencing students' career choices at the higher secondary school level in district Gilgit, Gilgit-Baltistan utilized a quantitative strategy involving mean, percentage, and multiple regression analyses for predetermined and additional factors, alongside qualitative insights from closed-ended questions and in-depth interviews, with a sample of 330 students from 24 institutions; the research instrument, a modified career choice questionnaire, incorporated a 5-point Likert scale and an open-ended question, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted dynamics shaping students' career decisions. The findings underscore the importance of collaborative efforts among parents, teachers, and students to enhance academic performance and foster a supportive family environment, shaping students' career trajectories.