Determining Science Education Students’ Career Aspirations and Future Career Perspectives: A Narrative Inquiry

Abstract

Despite achieving similar college degrees, students venture into different paths post-graduation. Having a career plan with career aspirations and future career perspectives is essential for an individual to have a more straightforward career path. This qualitative narrative inquiry research determined science education students’ career aspirations and future career perspectives. Nineteen college science education students in a state university in Zambales, Philippines, were asked about their written narratives describing their career aspirations and future career perspectives. Data from the participants were subjected to thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework. Findings showed that science education students’ career aspirations were (a) to teach and inspire students, (b) to pursue advanced studies, (c) to take licensure examinations, (d) to work abroad, and (e) to shift career. Meanwhile, the science education students’ perspectives toward their career after 10 years were (a) to become successful in the teaching field, (b) inspiring and teaching the students, (c) contented in the chosen profession, and (d) willing to embark on another journey. Based on the findings, researchers recommended the creation of career guidance and career management programs among graduating students to provide more apparent career aspirations and career perspectives among them as they become future professionals.

Keywords

• stem career
• science teaching
• career path
• philippines
• qualitative research
• science prospective teachers