An investigation into the factors determining career choice among senior secondary students in selected private schools in Gaborone.

Abstract

This is a qualitative study undertaken through a case study design. The study was carried out to investigate determinants of career choice among private senior secondary school students in Gaborone, Botswana. Data was collected from form 5 students, guidance & counselling teachers and principals at four (4) private senior secondary schools in Gaborone using a focus group interview, individual interviews and a qualitative-questionnaire. The study was inspired by the quest to understand the various factors that influence career choice among students and career services provided for students in schools for the reason that Nations and the world generally look up to education as the solution to problems encountered. The educational approach to solving these problems depends on the career choices young people make. With perspective to this study, one can argue that there are important/key things students consider when making a career decision and the success in such career depends on how much information is available to enable young students to make wise career choice, planning and development. Thus, there is need to identify and understand these factors in order for education stakeholders have an idea of what students consider most important in the process of career selection. The Systems Theory Framework (STF) was used as a guide to understand the origins of career choice and counseling and the various dilemma students face in making wise career choices. The findings of the study revealed several factors that influence career choice among students in private schools. These include family, opportunities, personality, subject combination, gender, personal experience, passion for the profession and high earnings and benefits. The findings also reveal the absence of a robust career guidance program and practices in most of the schools. In schools with career guidance program, these were found wanting. 7 Students show their awareness on subject combination and requirements for entry into higher institution in their responses. However, majority of the participants did not have enough career information as expected of students at their final stage of secondary education. The study concludes that due to the dynamic nature of career choice and planning process, career decision of students are influenced by various factors and that as such students need career guidance and information in order to make informed and wise decisions. Thus, in light of findings from this study I recommend that systematic guidance program which will adequately address the career needs of learners be developed and provided in schools. Also tertiary institutions, industries, employers and organizations should be encouraged to provide educational and career information to students.