Analysis of current trends in vocational choices of students at Oak Creek High School

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the current educational trends of junior and senior high school students that impact enrollment in technology education courses at Oak Creek High School. The objectives of the study were to identify the educational trends of high school students who are interested in pursuing technical careers, to explore any perceptions junior and senior high school students have concerning making choices in technical careers. Furthermore, this study endeavored to research the impact of student enrollment in technology education courses in order to determine trends in educational opportunities for the future. This study was conducted through the use of a 25-question survey administered to 107, junior and senior students enrolled in technology education courses at Oak Creek High School. These students represent a diverse ability group of varied interest and backgrounds. The junior and senior high school students surveyed were enrolled in a variety of vocational and technology education courses ranging from: automotive to welding course offerings at the secondary level. The results of this research study reflect that a vast majority of the students surveyed agreed that new and emerging technologies are creating the need for future educational training and development in skills for highly specialized and technical careers in the near future. This study further reflected that current technology education courses were extremely beneficial and that students are given insights and exposure to current and future jobs in emerging technical carriers. Additionally, nearly all students enjoy the "hands-on" experience and opportunities that are available through technology education courses.