Selection on the Road to a Career: The Influence of Spatial Abilities

• In Event: Career and Technical Education Research to Improve Teaching and Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship among cognitive ability and personality trait variables measured on community college students (n = 303) enrolled in technological and non-technological programs. Results indicated only a single relationship exists, supported by the low Rc2 values and lack of statistical significance for the remaining two canonical functions. Openness to experience and vocabularyT1 provided substantive contributions to the canonical function and are key predictors. The dramatic difference in spatial ability for technological versus non-technological students should be focal points in the development of student support programs directed towards student success.

Authors

• Amanda Kay Moske, University of North Texas

• Darrell M. Hull, University of North Texas

• Rebecca J Glover, University of North Texas