Dissertation
Role of career learning experiences in career decision making self efficacy (CDMSE) and goal setting among underprepared community college students: a phenomenological study
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Mar 2022
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001149
Abstract
There is a dearth of career intervention literature pertaining to underprepared community college students. This student population lacks sufficient college coursework preparation and also often lacks career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE), confidence in completing career decision-related tasks. Underprepared students with low CDMSE are typically indecisive, lack clear career goals, and thus struggle to persist in college. This phenomenological qualitative study explored the role of career learning experiences in shaping CDMSE and career goals of eight underprepared students participating in a voluntary career preparation program. Although not a longitudinal study, it captured the participants' lived experience that spanned across many semesters. The study described the participants' efficacy development prior to entering the program, during the seminar, and after seminar. The social cognitive career theory (SCCT) conceptual model was used as the framework to depict how the participants' academic and career interests developed and how their choices transpired and converted to action. The competencies associated with CDMSE development-self appraisal, gathering information, goal selection, goal planning, and problem solving-and the skills associated with these competencies were examined. Efficacy across all five areas were reflected in the narrative, but at varying levels. The behaviors germane to gathering occupational information, goal planning, and goal selection were most prevalent throughout the lived experiences relative to problem solving and self-appraisal. The results derived from the participants' narratives described how varied efficacy-focused activities, modality of delivery, and components of efficacious career intervention furthered skill development. The study also posited academic attitudes and beliefs of the participants, career decidedness, and internal locus of control were contributors to CDMSE development. Moreover, this study also suggested enhanced vocational identity was derived from career learning experiences and that change mindset seemed to be the conduit for heightened self-concept. Mentoring, coaching, and abundant support resources were integral to mitigating perceived barriers, and augmenting goal setting and goal commitment among program participants. The study described the interplay among these various factors in shaping the lived experience of the participants. The lived experience was depicted as efficacy rich and outcome based, varied, iterative, supportive, and transformative. This qualitative study brings to light the intricacies and many challenges that come with supporting CDMSE development and goals among underprepared community college students. Implications for practice and research are offered.
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Details
- Title
- Role of career learning experiences in career decision making self efficacy (CDMSE) and goal setting among underprepared community college students
- Creators
- Zenobia Moorman Garrison
- Contributors
- José L. Chávez (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- xiv, 193 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991018098404204721