The Impact of Information Interventions on Manufacturing Career Intentions in Chinese Vocational Students

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Abstract

This study examines how information interventions influence career choice intentions and salary expectations among manufacturing majors in Chinese vocational education. Utilizing a randomized controlled trial with 2,346 students from 60 higher vocational schools across 12 provinces, we administered two information treatments: one highlighting average wage data and another emphasizing wage growth with age. Results show both interventions significantly increased willingness to enter manufacturing, with the second intervention being more effective in enhancing career prospects perception, particularly among high-video-use students. The findings provide empirical evidence that targeted information can mitigate employment mismatches and improve vocational education outcomes. Implications support policy interventions to strengthen industry alignment in vocational training, such as disseminating career development data to students.

Author

• Yunbo Liu, Beijing Normal University