Factors Affecting the Career Choice of Ssc Students at Diffun National High School in the School Year 2017-2018: A Comparative Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Science and Mathematics have been known as two of the most difficult subjects. This paper primarily sought to compare the responses of students taking STEM strand with students taking Non-STEM strand along factors that make them stay or choose another career track.

METHODS

The researcher employed the descriptive-comparative type of research using a researcher-constructed questionnaire. The questionnaire was subjected to a pilot testing to some other students in the school. The result of the pilot test was reviewed and evaluated with Cronbach alpha of .732, which indicates respectable description on its level of internal consistency.

RESULTS

Four particulars were identified as factors affecting the career choice of students. This includes academic requirements and educational aspiration, advice, peer influence, and family influence. Students are affected to stay or to choose another career track due to their interest in a certain profession, career choice of friends, and consideration of their family's financial status. The students who choose to pursue another career had the presumption that STEM strand is complicated, teachers in the strand are not considerate, many students failed in the strand, and all students in the strand grapples in their requirements.

DISCUSSIONS

The results show that the advice of others is a great reason in the observance of career shifting. SSC students are expected to pursue a career along Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics after finishing Junior High School program. This is a great concern to be addressed by the school because the program exists as preparatory program for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.