Do They Feel Ready? Self-Efficacy of Career and Technical Education High School Students

• In Event: The Consortium of State and Regional Educational Research Associations Distinguished Paper Session 1

Abstract

Louisiana Educational Research Association - This non-experimental, quantitative study used a correlational research design to determine if a significant, positive relationship existed between students’ completion of a series of CTE courses and earning industry-recognized credentials and sense of self-efficacy toward employment pursuits. This research was framed within Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT). Data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics using the Pearson’s r for correlational results. A positive correlation was found in students’ course-taking with IRCs and the self-efficacy variables of perseverance and performance. An unanticipated finding from the self-efficacy scale found all students exhibited high mean scores across the individual questions. Findings were supported by the literature on the self-efficacy domain of mastery experience in relation to school environment and contextual teaching and learning experiences.

Authors

• Jayda Gwen Spillers, Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College

• Myra Lovett, University of Louisiana at Monroe