The doctorate has traditionally been perceived as preparation for an academic career (teaching and research). However, the evidence suggests that this assumption no longer holds true since internationally more than half of all PhD graduates leave the higher education sector. Though there has been considerable research examining the ways in which…

To enhance understanding of factors that might improve STEM career participation, we assessed students' self-perceptions of competency and interest in science/math, engagement in STEM activities outside of school, and knowledge of STEM career requirements. We show that the primary positive influencer directing students to a STEM career is high…

This paper examines the role of influencers in Canadian high school student decisions to pursue Information and Communications Technology (ICT) careers and education. With growing rates of retirements of ICT workers expected over the next 10-15 years, industry representatives are concerned that the shortfall in replacement workers will have a…

Although there is considerable literature discussing influence of environmental concern in the general population, and some literature specific to certain populations, to date there has not been a study that investigates the influences on environmental concern and career path for environmental scientists. With complex environmental issues becoming…

In a survey of grade 11 students in Alberta (n=1,047), 35% preferred university career paths, 18.5% community college, 21.9% technical institutes/apprenticeship. Many contemplated career choices for more than two years. They had limited knowledge of the work force but were developing positive work habits. Parents and peers were important career…

Describes a study which examined the factors that affected the career paths of directors of large Canadian libraries. The discussion covers the influences of experiences in libraries, chance, and personal concerns on career decisions. The achievements of the directors are described and two directorship styles are identified. (7 references)…

Medical schools' academic factors (full-time teaching and research components) have more influence on students' career choice than clinical factors (residency programs), but the internship year and first few years of practice are also important determinants. This raises questions about the desired objectives of a medical school. (Author/GDC)

A Canadian university surveyed 300 mature students (33% responded) and interviewed 12. Responses indicated that 62% changed their academic program. Institutional influences on academic decision making were more significant than personal influences, with no differences between full- and part-time students. Students wanted preliminary information…

A study explored the agreement in occupational fields between adolescents' career aspirations and career expectations and the influence of gender, grade, and locus of control on this agreement. The reasons for occupational choice were also examined. Subjects were 500 randomly selected 8th through 12th grade students attending a secondary school in…

Attempts to explain sex-related wage differentials generally rely on the human capital and segmentation labor market theories. The human capital theory explains individuals' position in the labor market primarily in terms of factors determining their productivity, whereas segmentation theory focuses on differences among jobs as determinants of the…