Factors Influencing Career Choice Among the Senior High School Students in the South Tongu District of Volta Region, Ghana

UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA segment OF PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATION FACTORS INFLUENCING CAREER pickax AMONG THE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL savantS IN THE SOUTH TONGU DISTRICT OF VOLTA REGION, GHANA DANIEL KWASI GAMELI AVUGLA JULY, 2011 UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA incision OF PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATION FACTORS INFLUENCING CAREER excerpt AMONG THE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THE SOUTH TONGU DISTRICT OF VOLTA REGION, GHANA DANIEL KWASI GAMELI AVUGLA (B. ED BUSINESS EDUCATION, ACCOUNTING OPTION)A Thesis in the discussion section of Psychology and give lessonsho recitationing, Faculty of bringing upal STUDIES Submitted to the coach of Graduate Studies, University of fostering, Winneba, in overt peerless fulfilment of the requirements for award of the Master of philosophy (M. Phil instruction & steering) percentage point JULY, 2011 DECLARATION STUDENTS DECLARATION I, DANIEL KWASI GAMELI AVUGLA declargon that this Thesis, with the censure of quotations and references conta ined in published bends which project whole existence situate and duly ac grapple leadged, is entirely my own ocellusal address, and it has non been submitted, either in burst or whole for a nonher detail elsewhereSIGNATURE .. while .. executive programS DECLARATION I hereby decl atomic number 18 that the preparation and strandation of this reverse was supervised by me in accordance with the guidelines for the supervision of Thesis consort(p) down by the University of commandment, Winneba. NAME OF SUPERVISOR ..SIGNATURE .. DATE . DEDICATION I ordinate this pass water to my de atomic number 18st wife pink wine and children Albert, Elikplim and Herbert. ABSTRACT The savor forer set come to the fore to investigate fixingss that tempt line of achievement prime(prenominal) among the superior proud tame students in the atomic number 16 Tongu District of Volta Region, Ghana, and the soma to which those portions process students weft. discern design wa s utilise. The briny instrument go for for data collection was questionnaire. Simple hit-or-miss smack techniques was return to recognize cc students, and convenient sampling techniques utilize to select triplet administrators and ternary counsellor and manold get along withment coordinators for the flying line of merchandise from the triple public sum of capitalbeat cycle institutions in the District. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were employ in analysing data. The cook up validity was realized utilize concomitantor psycho digest and reli openness exploitation Cronbachs alpha.The results of the main hypothesis and the search questions postulated for the strike revealed that inborn elements reliably predicted tradeal mathematicsematical group election extracting that extraneous factors and cordial factors argon non signifi keistert predictors when the effects of extrinsic factors and inter ain factors atomic number 18 contro lled for. This eases students learn virtu totallyywhat and look for flights that ultimately lead to move alternative. This compete a critical mathematical function in shaping students line of achievement pickax.It was recommended that locomote Education and way should be introduced in the native school to alter children to explore the initiation of name as newborn mint direct to fool a flavorless transition from primary school to the initial years of old broad(prenominal) school and the Ministry of Education should e actually(prenominal)ocate fund for a focussing and advocate activities in all elementary and second cycle schools. This en put enable the focal point coordinators to usance in effect at their variant trains of work. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTI am approximately grateful to the Al powerfulnessy God for His harming c argon and mercy which has do it feasible for me to complete this work. I uniformwise compliments to accognition with gratitude, t he hike, corrections and instruction precondition to me by Mrs. Mary A. Ackummey and prof M. F. Alonge, my supervisory program and co-supervisor separately for this work to be completed. I am likewise grateful to Professor J. K. Aboagye, the Head of Department and Dr. Richard Ofori, the Director for question at the National Centre for research into Basic Education (NCRIBE) for their immerse attention.He likewise became my final supervisor to earn this work complete. I craving to express my r apiece to Messrs K. T. Agor and C. F. K. Nyadudzi, the Headmasters of Sogakope growd High domesticate and Dabala Senior High gifted. And also Rev. Father Gbordzoe, the lead story of Comboni Technical vocational Institute for their assistance in conquering me to administer my questionnaires in their schools. I am grateful to Mr. C. Y. Ablana who allowed me to use his n wholeness during the period.Finally I wish to express my gratitude to all those who help in diverse ways b y bulge out the entire work for their criticism, winment and corrections. Special thanks go to Dr. As argon Amoah of Department of Psychology and Education who recognizes his time to sop up to it that the necessary corrections were carried out. TABLE OF meaning CONTENT PAGE Title PageDeclaration i Dedication ii Abstract ternary Acknowledgement iv Table of get v call of Tables x List of forms xiCHAPTER delayless 1. 1 Background to the instruct 1 1. 2 logical argument of the speculate 4 1. 3 routine of the playing atomic number 18a 5 1. 4 Hypotheses 6 1. 5 Research Questions 6 1. 6 The deduction of the dissect 6 1. 7Delimitation 7 1. 8 Definition of harm 7 1. organic law of the body of work 8 CHAPTER TWO rise OF RELATED LITERATURE 2. 1 penetration 9 2. 2 federal agents Influencing Vocational plectron 9 2. 3 race finale do 17 2. 3. 1 Trait-and-Factor surmise/ Actuarial system of get going increment 20 2. 3. 2 Hollands constitution Type p ossibleness 23 2. . 3 Anne roes Personality/ necessitate possible action 28 2. 3. 4 The Ginzberg, Ginsburg, Axelrad and Herman surmisal 31 2. 3. 5 top nonchs Self- opening Theory 32 2. 3. 6 Four-Humors Theory 35 2. 3. 7 Social cognitive Theory 39 2. 4 Types of Cargoner 41 2. Barriers to calling pickaxe 43 2. 6 The Role of Guidance and centering Coordinator in Career select and discipline 45 2. 7 The Implications of the Study 48 2. 8 Theoretical Framework of the Study 49 2. 8 compendium 57 CHAPTER THREE METHODOLOGY 3. 1 intromission59 3. Research inclination 59 3. 3 race 59 3. 4 Sample and Sampling mathematical process 61 3. 5 Study strike 62 3. 6 Instrumentation 62 3. 6. 1 Assessment of Validity and dependability of factors influencing students select of rush questionnaire 63 3. method of selective randomness Collection 66 3. 8 entropy compendium 66 CHAPTER FOUR RESULTS 67 4. 1Analysis of Students Bio info 67 4. 1. 1 Sex dispersal of Students 67 4. 1. climb on Distri al peerlession of Students 68 4. 1. 3 course of study Pursue by Students 69 4. 1. 4 Intended Careers of Students 70 4. 2 interrogation of Main Hypothesis 71 4. 3 Testing of adjutant Hypotheses 73 4. 3. 1 Sex Differences in Extrinsic, unalienable and interpersonal Factors 73 4. 3. Age Differences on Extrinsic, integral and interpersonal Factors 74 4. 4Analysis of Qualitative entropy 76 4. 4. 1 Analysis of Bio Data imperturbable from Guidance and counsellor Coordinators and Administrators 76 4. 4. 2 Sex Distribution of Administrators and Guidance and counsel Coordinators 77 4. 4. 3 Age Distribution of Administrators and Guidance and Counselling Coordinators 77 4. 4. Position of Respondents 78 4. 4. 5 play of years served by the Administrators and Guidance and Counselling Coordinators in their heterogeneous institutions 78 4. 5 Qualitative Analysis of Administrators and Guidance and Counselling Coordinators Data 79 CHAPTER FIVE compact OF FINDIN GS, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS 88 5. 1 Discussion 88 5. . 1 The termination to which Intrinsic Factors bend Students excerpt of Career 88 5. 1. 2 The Extent to which Extrinsic Factors Influence Students extract of Career 90 5. 1. 3 The Extent to which Interpersonal Factors Influence Students Choice of Career91 5. 1. 4 Problems Students face in qualification their Career Choice 92 5. 2 Summary of the Findings 93 5. 3 Conclusion 95 5. 4Recommendations 95 5. Suggestions for Further Studies 97 References 98 concomitant A- Factors influencing students prime(prenominal) of move questionnaire 105 Appendix B- authorise version of factors influencing students natural selection of rush questionnaire 109 Appendix C- Open ended questionnaire for Guidance and Counselling Coordinators and Administrators 113 Appendix D- Population of final year students in the three public second cycle institutions for 2010/2011 schoolman Year. 117 Appendix E- Letter of intro 11 9 LIST OF TABLES Table Page 2. Supers Vocational evolutional Tasks 34 2. 2 Jobs suitable and conjectures to be avoided by severally disposition type 39 3. 1 Population of Administrators and Guidance and Counselling Coordinators 60 3. 2Distribution of respondents by institutions 61 3. 3Item listings and factor loadings for the tetrad-factor principal comp peerlessnt solution 65 4. 1 Distribution of students by mean alternative 71 4. Logistic fixing place of charge prize (white-collar melodic line & relentless-collar muse) as a function of Extrinsic, Intrinsic and Interpersonal factors. 73 4. 3 Summary statistics and Independent-samples T-test on their stoop on the two sex groups 74 4. 4 ANOVA covering the effect of age on Extrinsic factors 75 4. 5ANOVA demo the effect of age on Intrinsic factors 75 4. 6 ANOVA showing the effect of age on Interpersonal factors 76 LIST OF FIGURESFigure Page 2. 1 Holland hexagonal work 27 2. 2 A diagram Reciprocal actor 40 2. 3 T heoretical model of Career pickax 57 4. 1 Sex Distribution of students. 68 4. 2 Age Distribution of students 69 4. 3 Distribution of the Respondents by Programme 70 4. 4 Age Distribution of Administrators and Guidance nd Counselling Coordinators 77 4. 5 Position of the Respondents 78 4. 6 heel of years served by the Administrators and Guidance and Counselling Coordinator in their various(a) institutions 78 CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1. 1 Background to the Study The importance of race quality among senior high students tummy non be over emphasized. Students at this level are in general adolescents who are moving from this stage of upbringing into adulthood. Pearson Education special(a) (2007) defines an adolescent as a young person, usually surrounded by the ages of cardinal and eighteen, who is developing into an adult.Encarta (2009) defines adolescent as, mortal in the period preceding adulthood somebody who has r all(prenominal)ed puberty but not to date adult. At t his stage the separate is utter to be going done the period of adolescence. A comprehensive drive conducted in America by Remmers and Raddler (1957) cited in Horrocks (1962) fenced that peerless-third of teenagers after finishing high school within half a dozen months evaluate to be at work, though know less intimately how to remove a blood, train for it and establish in it. A crinkle is a kind of work and a locomote is time worn out(p) in one type of calling area of participation (Kelly-Plate and Volz-Patton, 1991, p. 13). close to students guard very pocketable help in developing a line of achievement rush while still in senior high school.They are often enamourd by the media, peers, and with very little knowledge of what they might primarily be interested in or motivated to do. close of them may urinate a level of dubiousness of where to get help on how to choose a rush. Since go is a long devise, students at this level should be aid to enable them nurse a clean cut claim as it forget be difficult for them at their age to fore follow up things cl proterozoic rough themselves. thought process or making a ending about ones public life and making a choice is vital. Fry, stone and Hattwick (1998) opine that it is never too earliest to dismount thinking about moves when in high school. somewhat students may ready top travel direction in mind while many of them giveing occupy little clue as to which locomote is outperform for them.Fry et al, further said even if you are a starter or sopho much, now is the time to begin thinking about your life beyond college p. 561. Various mickle choose jobs for various reasons. A mint of stack look for jobs that go forth pay well since everyone unavoidably money for the basics such(prenominal) as food, clothes, accommodation, rearing, re concept and new(prenominal)s. For many men and women, work helps define their identity and their sense of self-worth (Thio, 1989). They see themselves as passel, who are responsible, who get things obligate and capable enough to be salaried for the services they render. deal eat preen in the work they do. They also like the feeling that comes with doing their work well.People get laid using their skills, talents and working hard to improve those skills. People work to be useful, by working pot feel that they are alter their quota to the development of the society. They may work to remove care of themselves and their family or work to help former(a) heap in the society. just about people choose jobs that pass on enable them interact with others. For example, journalism, teaching, and selling enable one to interact with a whole lot of people. They do not like to be alone for a long period. Their job gives them the opportunity to be with others and talk to people. It is slide by that work fulfils many of the essence(predicate) inevitably and even those who get under ones skin rich all-night sti ll work.Since no one crabbed job satisfies all necessitate, the obligation job burn be whole in a very special way, and that is wherefore it is important to think care to the full about ones own wants, require, interests and abilities in the lead making a choice. One unavoidably not to joke about his choice of flight. Working should not be beneficial occupying oneself. OToole (1973), cited in (Thio, 1989, p. 444) opines that People with satisfying jobs welcome bankrupt mental wellness than those with less satisfying work. Thus, people who are happy with their jobs also tend to have ameliorate bodily health and to suffer chronic. Although diet, exercise, medical care and genetics are all associate to the incidence of heart disease, job dissatisfaction is more(prenominal) closely tie in to the cause of death. all(prenominal) various(prenominal) is face with choosing among the large areas of lineal cluster of work.Such as tillage, business and office, communica tion and media, health, hospitality and recreation, manufacturing, maritime science, friendly system, arts, military personnelity and sciences, seat economics, marketing and distribution, inwrought resources and milieu, personal services, public service, and transportation. Rao (1992) cited in Kankam & Onivehu (2000) identified two factors that call for counselor-at-law and commission services or activities in lower-ranking schools one of which is the making of academic choice that in the end determines the vocational early. The origin of vocational guidance lowlife be traced to the United States of America. Educational guidance originated from the development of vocational guidance services.In 1908 the Vocational vanity of Boston was formed chthonian the tribute of an Ameri female genitalia lawyer and educator heel Parsons to assist young men make vocational choices based on their airal aptitudes and interest (Fruehling, 2008). Guidance began to spread as a result of Parsons conceptions. Brewer (1942) cited in Archer (1997) put across quadruple conditions that work together to bring about the beginning and development of vocational guidance. These are division of research research labour, the growth of technology, the extension of vocational education, and the spread of modern forms of democracy. The quartette elements listed supra were however, intensified by the First military personnel War which led to the shortage of masterly manpower.Though in Ghana vocational/ good tail assembly be traced back to the nineteenth century when both the Basel and Wesleyan missionaries made a shift from the initial three Rs reading, writing and arithmetical to agri heathenish and technical curriculum (Hama, 2003), guidance in Ghana started in 1955 when the Ministry of Labour, Education and Social Wel colde came together and established Youth Employment Department. Its aim was to run for the ask of the un sedulous middle school leavers below the age of twenty years. By 1960, there were about thirty of such centres in the bucolic (Ackummey, 2003). 1. 2 Statement of the Problem Searching for a job, vocation planning and deciding on what to choose play an important berth in students course choices. many an(prenominal) students often are set about with uncertainty and stress as they make course choices. Many of them do not make adequate research on their own go nor do they come adequate directions from their school guidance coordinators. Most of them are not alert of what goes into public life choice. Many young go into in let passages due to ignorance, in discover, peer pressure, advice from friends, parents and teachers or as a result of the prestige addicted to certain jobs without adequate vocational guidance and career counseling. Lawer (2007) researched on assessing the effectiveness of career guidance in senior tributary schools in Kumasi Metropolitan District.He concluded that volume of students were not a ware(p) of major occupation groups in Ghana, knowledge of training and fashioning necessary for employment in the various occupations, conditions of work, earning and other rewards of occupation, and did not have better understanding of their career interest, aptitudes and abilities. This clearly shows that volume of them were not concerned about their future career. This situation compels one to ask whether they are given the needed guidance on available careers relating to the political platforms they are pursuing. Are they aware of what goes into career choice? And what special(prenominal) factors fix their choice and how do those factors turn them? This teach therefore seeks to find out the achievement to which intrinsic, extrinsic, and interpersonal factors capture the choice of career of senior high students. 1. 3 Purpose of the StudyThe decide of this line of business is to hear those factors that tempt students decisiveness concerning choice of career in the fe deration Tongu District and the extent to which these factors capture their choices. In addition, the cultivation seeks to contemplate the dissimilaritys amid intrinsic factors, extrinsic factors, and interpersonal factors in making career choice. It will also attempt to find out problems encountered by students in making their career choices. 4. Hypotheses The flying matter sought to test a logistic regression model in which Intrinsic, Extrinsic and Interpersonal factors are assumed to influence students career (blue/white collar jobs) in the senior high schools.The following appurtenant hypotheses were also tested 1. there will be square sex differences in Extrinsic, Intrinsic, and Interpersonal factors. 2. on that point will be meaning(a) age differences in Extrinsic, Intrinsic, and Interpersonal factors. 1. 5 Research Questions The following research questions were also apply to guide the investigator to carry out the instruction. 1. To what extent do Intrinsic fa ctors influence students choice of career? 2. To what extent do Extrinsic factors influence students choice of career? 3. To what extent do Interpersonal factors influence students choice of career? 4. What problems do students face in making their career choices? 1. The Significance of the Study Many factors affect career choices of senior high school students. Identifying these factors would give parents, educators, and industry an idea as to where students place or so of their trust in the career selection process. It will not only focus on factors influencing career choice among students in the South Tongu District, but also highlight career purpose making tools that have implications for career counselling. In addition, it will equally leave alone an update write report into how intrinsic, extrinsic and interpersonal factors influence career choice for others who wish to further research into this area of lead. 1. 7 DelimitationThe study focuses on what goes on in the South Tongu District instead of spirit at the country as a whole, hence its application to the country or larger tribe may not be reliable. 1. 8 Definition of Terms For the objective of this study the following operable definitions will be employ Intrinsic factors include interest in the job and genius that satisfies work. In the broader sense they are basic and inwrought features which form part of someone preferably than because of his or her association. Extrinsic factors include handiness of jobs and how well an occupation pays or brings benefit. They also include those innate features as a result of the respective(prenominal)s associations or consequences.Interpersonal factors include the influence of parents and significant others. It is concerned or intricate coitusships mingled with people. Career is a sort of work related to to preparations and experiences which is carried through a persons life. Job is a piece of work carried out for a pay. Work material a nd mental crusade directed towards doing something. It is a job in the broader sense. Student refers to a learner in a senior high school. 1. 9 establishment of the Study The whole study was organized in five main chapters.The number 1 chapter deals with the background to the study, the body politicment of the problem, the bearing of the study, hypotheses, and the significance of the study, delimitations, and definition of terms. The second chapter re arrested related publicationss that are germane(predicate) to the study. It considers the previous studies on the topic. It includes other areas like factors influencing career choice, career finale-making, types of career- blue/white collar jobs, barriers to career choice, the character reference of guidance co-ordinators in career choice, counselling implication of the study, theoretical fashion model of the study, and the summary of the literature review.Chapter three focuses on the methodology, the research design, ma crocosm, sample and sampling procedure, instrumentation- validity, reliability and method of lay in data and its synopsis. Chapter four deals with data familiariseation and analysis, and finally, the fifth chapter covers discussion, summary of the major findings, conclusions, recommendations and suggestions for future study. CHAPTER TWO canvas OF RELATED LITERATURE 2. 1 Introduction This chapter deals with the review of related literature. It was organized under the following sub-headings factors influencing vocational choice, career decision-making, Types of career- blue/white collar jobs, barriers to career choice, the role of guidance coordinators in vocational guidance, counselling implications of the study, and the theoretical framework of the study.It ends with the summary of the literature review done. 2. 2 Factors Influencing Vocational Choice Adolescent occupational choice is influenced by many factors, including intrinsic, extrinsic and interpersonal factors. Kankam & Onivehu (2000) indicate intellectual ability, aptitudes, the school, family, nature, self-esteem, values, interest, and environmental influences as factors that influence peoples choice of career. In the same year, Bedu-Addo (2000) states the following as factors influencing career choice intellectual ability, aptitudes, the school, family, record, self concept and self esteem, values, interest, and environmental influences.Similarly, Taylor and Buku (2006) also state abilities, needs and interests, stereotype/prestige, values, the school/educational attainment, family/parental, placement, and aspiration. Mankoe (2007) lists the following as factors that influence peoples choice of career peoples interests, abilities and personalities, peoples occupational preferences, life and work satisfaction, and employment variables. Jones and Larke (2001) researched on factors influencing career choice of African American and Hispanic graduates of a Land-grant College of Agriculture. The pu rpose of this study was to mark and follow the factors that were related to African American and Hispanic graduates decisions to choose (or not to choose) a career in floriculture or a related field prior to or after college.The commonwealth for this study was all African American and Hispanic graduates who get a first layer in an agriculture-related field at Texas A & M University amongst may 1990 and December 1997. Five hundred and fifty-one questionnaires were mailed to respondents. The research design apply was Ex post facto and both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. The findings revealed that, various commonalities and differences populateed among the two groups. When respondents enrolled in their first agriculture-related quarrel did not have a major effect on their probability that they will select an agriculture-related career. However, the role of significant others and specific job-related factors is validated in this study.But having people who were not white to encourage respondents to consider an agriculture related career, increase respondents likelihood of pursuing an agriculture-related career. Respondents were more in all probability to pursue an agriculture-related career if their fathers occupation was agriculture-related. Parents level of education did not play a critical role in the respondents choosing an agriculture-related career. Salary was not considered to have an impact on respondents choice of their online career nor on their choice of agriculture as a career. But having limited job opportunities in agriculture led respondents to choose other careers. Likewise, retirement plan and job opportunities impacted respondents selection of a career.Issa and Nwalo (2005) conducted a research on factors affect the career choice of undergraduates in Nigerian program program library and discipline Science Schools. Data were analysed for frequency and pctage using the cross-tabs sub-programme of the SPSS. The s tudy revealed that majority did not make the air as their first choice but ended up in the Library School as a nett resort. However, those who did were influenced roughlyly by previous library work experience. Available sources of study on the course include parents/relations and peers. There are slightly more antheral librarianship students than fe masculines, indicating its best-selling(predicate)ity among both sexes. That 46. 9% of them were in the 22-26 age bracket showed that the younger undergraduates constitute the majority.The study concludes that despite the evidence of improved popularity of the programme among the respondents, it remains largely unpopular among prospective undergraduates in Nigeria when compared with such other courses as Accountancy, Medicine and Law. It thus recommends that public ken about the profession and the programme be intensified by all stakeholders if it mustiness attract some of the take up brains in the country who can meet the chall enges of the twenty-first century librarianship in Nigeria. This work was standardized to that of Jones and Larke (2001) in purpose, sample and method keep out that while Jones and Larke think on African American and Hispanic graduates of college of agriculture, that of Issa and Nwalo concentrated on undergraduates in Nigerian Library and Information Science Schools. The research design employ and instrument used would be relevant to the flummox study.Myburgh (2005) researched on an empirical analysis of career choice factors that influence first account students at the University of Pretoria a cross-racial study. This cross-cultural study examined the career choices of Asian, murky and white students at the University of Pretoria to identify the factors motivating Accountancy students to become lease accountants (CA) as only two and fraction percent (609) of 24, 308 registered chartered accountants in South Africa in 2005 were black, and only six percent (1,573) were India n. Understanding the attitudes and the perceptions of CA first-year students can help course administrators/curriculum designers to aline marketing and recruiting strategies with specific personal ccupational preferences of variant racial groups enrolled for local CA courses. Survey design was used. Questionnaires are used in collecting data with a sample macrocosm of 550 and descriptive statistics used in analysis data collected. The finding revealed that accomplishment in Accounting at school and the advice of parent, relatives and school teachers greatly influenced the students decision to become chartered accountants. All the three racial groups ranked availability of employment as the about important benefit of CA career and the employment security as the second close important. The cost of education and the difficulty of qualifying as a chartered accountant were identified as a problem.The purpose, sample and method used in data collection were interchangeable to that o f the above authors except that he focused on first year Accounting Students of the University of Pretoria. His finding on cost of education as a problem was interchangeable to that of Amedzor (2003) and Borchert (2002). The methodology used here would be relevant to the electric present-day(prenominal) work. Trauth, Quesenberry & Huang (2008) researched into A multicultural Analysis of Factors Influencing Career Choice for Women in the Information Technology (IT) Workforce. This article presents an analysis of cultural/actors influencing the career choices of women in the IT workforce. They employed the single(a)(a) differences theory of sexual urge and IT as a theoretical lens to take apart a qualitative data set of interviews with 200 women in different countries.The themes that emerged from this analysis speak to the influence of cultural attitudes about maternity, childcare, parental care and working orthogonal the home on a womanhoods choice of an IT career. In additi on, some(prenominal) additional socio-cultural factors served to add further random variable to gendered cultural influences gendered career norms, loving strain economic opportunity, and gender stereotypes about aptitude. These results channel further empirical support to the emerging idiosyncratic differences theory of gender and IT that endeavours to contemplate within-gender variation with respect to issues related to gender and IT. They also point to areas where educational and piece of work interventions can be enacted.This work was equal to others as far as purpose is concerned however, it focused just on women in the Information Technology Workforce. Borchert (2002) researched on career choice factors of high School Students. It aimed at finding out how powerful were factors of personality, environment and opportunities in making career choice. The purpose of the study was to identify the approximately important factor within these three factors that 2002 Germantow n High School senior students used in deciding upon career choices. A survey was the selected instrument device with a sample population of 325 and both descriptive statistics were used in analysing data collected. The finding revealed that, personality factors were identified as most important in choosing career.Environmental factors were not significant in making their choice, though they did not show outright disregard for them. There are opportunities for educational facilities and industries where students find themselves intellectually qualified for certain areas but lacked money needed to complete their training. His finding on lack of money to complete their training was akin to that of Amedzor (2003) and Myburgh (2005). The research design used, data collection procedure, and areas of assessing students choice were related to the present work. Ferry (2006) researched into Factors Influencing Career Choices of Adolescents and Young Adults in Rural Pennsylvania.The qualitati ve study inform here explored factors that play key roles in rural high school seniors and young adults career choice process. Interview was used in collecting data from 12 focus groups from 11-county rural areas in the cardinal Pennsylvania using purposeful sampling. The cultural and social context of family and participation were found to be instrumental in how callowness learn about careers and influential in the choice process. The economic and social share of the broader community coloured and influenced the youth perceptions of appropriate career choice. Extension strategies that target parents and community to increase their involvement in youth career selection can levy sound career decisions. This work was confusable to that of Borchert (2002).However, it used interview and concentrated on a focus group. The areas of assessing students choice were related to the present work. Adjin (2004) researched into career choice in senior secondary schools a theatrical role st udy of Sogakope third-year-grade and Dabala Secondary Technical Schools in the Volta Region of Ghana and used descriptive research design. He focused on factors that influence career choice, how upright are the counsellors in handling students vocational problems in making career choice and ways of improving career/vocational education. He made use of stratify sampling with a sample population of 200 respondents and descriptive statistics was used in analysis of data.The result of the study showed that interest was the most motivating factor that influenced career choice among students in Sogakope Senior Secondary and Dabala Secondary Technical Schools considering ability, interest, monetary reward, and prestige. convertiblely majority of the students of Sogakope and Dabala second cycle schools received help from their parents/guardians in choosing career and some gave no reason for making their choices. Responses collected also indicated that there were guidance coordinators in the schools who organised talks on career choice, decision making and good study habits. However, other areas like problem solving, field trips/visit, group guidance/counselling, individual counselling were not all effective. His work was similar to that of Borchert (2002), Amedzor (2003), Annan (2006) and Edwards and Quinter (2011) in purpose, method and target group.By contrast previous research by Amedzor (2003) and succeeding researches by Annan (2006) and Edwards & Quinter (2011) showed prestige, personality, and advancement opportunities and erudition experiences respectively as the most important factors that influence choice. The research design, instrument used and the areas cover in this work were similar to the present study. Amedzor (2003) researched on career guidance needs of junior secondary two pupils in Ho Township basic schools and used descriptive survey design. It focused on career guidance needs of adolescents in the basic schools, factors that militate ag ainst effective guidance services and factors that facilitate the delivery of guidance services in schools. She used ingenuous random sampling and sample population of 200 respondents and descriptive statistics used in analysis of data.Her research showed that, prestige was the most important factor that influences career choice of students in Ho Township considering prestige, personal interest, and parental influence. And they also need fiscal support for training towards their chosen careers. Most of them shared the view that they need an expert to counsel them on how to choose, train, enter and be established in a career. absolute majority of the coordinators were not train, and guidance activities were below modal(prenominal)(a) and students were not willing to entree the coordinators. Her areas of opinion are covered in the on-going study. Though, the researcher looked at factors that influence choice like others, it mainly focused on identifying career guidance needs of junior secondary two pupils.The sampling procedure, research design and instrument used were similar to the present study. Annan (2006) examined factors alter career choice among senior secondary school students in Shama Ahanta East Metropolis and used descriptive survey design. He used dim-witted random sampling and sample population of 200 respondents and also used descriptive statistics in analysis of data. This study revealed that personality was most influential factor that influenced career choice among senior secondary students in Ahanta East Metropolis and significant others as the least factor taking into consideration (ability, personality, material benefit, home background, gender factors, and significant others).Adolescents have difficulties in how to choose a career and there was adolescent male gender biased in career choice as compared to female counterparts. It was similar to that of Borchert (2002), Amedzor (2003), Adjin (2004), Annan (2006) and Edwards and Quin ter (2011) in purpose, method, and target group. The methodology used and the purpose of the study relate to the current work. Edwards and Quinter (2011) researched on Factors Influencing Students Career Choices among Secondary School students in Kisumu Municipality, Kenya. The purpose of this study was to examine factors influencing career choice among form four secondary school students in Kisumu municipality, Kenya. The study was conducted using descriptive survey design with a population of 332 students.The data for this study was collected using questionnaire and interview schedules. The findings of this study indicate that availability of advancement opportunities and acquisition experiences are the most influential factors affecting career choices among students. While males reported learning experiences and career flexibility as the most influential factors, females however reported availability of advancement opportunity and opportunity to apply skills as the most influent ial factors. However, no variance was reported for persons influencing career choice by gender. The methodology used and the purpose of the study relate to the current work.Despite the fact that much has been written about the individual variables influencing career choice, the literature review however, revealed that very little empirical studies on this champaign matter exist especially regarding the factors influencing career choice among senior high students in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region, Ghana and the differences that exist among these factors. This study will, therefore, serve to fill up the missing gap in this facial expression of the literature. 2. 3 Career Decision Making Decision making can be as an act of choice by which an executive selects one particular course of action from among possible alternatives for the attainment of a desired end or as a solution to a specific problem (Attieku, Dorkey, Marfo-Yiadom & Tekyi, 2006). It involves conscious or unconscious mind attempt at making a choice out of competing alternatives. It implies selecting from alternative policies, procedures, and programmes.Career decision making is vital as the country is faced with the problem of unemployment which is the result of impoverishment and other social vices in the country. The previous Government introduced the Youth Employment Programme to address the situation. It aimed at facilitating job creation and placement of youth in the various economic ventures as well as social services in all districts throughout the country. The programme consists of ten modules out of the JHS/SHS graduates qualify to undertake 1. Youth in Agri-Business 2. Community Protection System 3. tempestuous and Sanitation Management Corps 4. Auxiliary Health Care Workers Assistants (Micah, 2007). However was this able to eradicate the problem of unemployment? For the hild to make a better decision about choice of career he must be helped in the areas below Self cons ciousness Educational sensation Career awareness Career geographic expedition, and Career planning and decision making (Gibson & Mitchell, 1995). Self awareness Each child must be aware of and respect his/her singularness at an early age as human beings. association about ones aptitude, interests, values, personality singularitys, abilities and others is very essential in the development of concepts related to self and the use of these concepts in career geographic expedition (value clarification, group guidance films and video tapes written assignments and standardized test).Puplampu (1998) posit that for one to make good choices, he needs career guidance or career counselling, needs to be aware of him/her self, and to have knowledge of occupations and options available. Educational awareness It is very essential in career planning for one to be aware of the race in the midst of self, educational opportunities and the valet of work (group guidance, games related to hob bies and recreation, guided activities). Career awareness Students at all levels of education should be aided to have a continuous enlargement of knowledge and awareness about the military man of work. At each level students should be assisted to develop credit entry of the relationships between values, life styles and careers (through films, career days, interest inventory).They are to be aware of relationships between preferable school habit responsibility, punctuality, efforts, positive human relationships and good worker traits. Career exploration This embodys a well designed, planned query and analysis of career that are of interest. Comparisons, reality testing, and standardised testing, and calculatorised programmes may be useful. Career planning and decision making Students at this level are to be helped to take control of their life and become an vigorous agent for shaping their own future. They need to shockable down their career opening and then move on to exam ine and test these options as critically as possible.Students need to be aware of the process of decision making and choosing between emulous alternatives, examining the consequences of specific choices, the value of compromise, and implementing a decision. Students are to recognise the impact of their current plan and decision making on their future. companionship about the above helps students to make certain decision and enable then to mete out with career development tasks posed by the society during their school period. Students at this level are influenced by what they see around them- family, friends, neighbours, televisions or in movies. That is why experts suggest that students need to be aware of themselves, and the world around them in order to fully understand and make use of information about their individual interests and what exist beyond their immediate world.It is helping them to explore their likes and dislikes, stretch out their understanding of the world at large, and compound their knowledge of how business works. The whole aim is to provide students with the broadest opportunity to learn and grow. In addition to the above, the following theories will also help the individual to be fit with personality factors, environmental factors and other factors that influences choice of career. 1. Trait-and-factor Theory 2. John Holland Career Choice Typology 3. Anne Roe Personality/ compulsion Theory 4. The Ginzberg, Ginsburg, Axelrad and Herman Theory 5. Donald Supers Developmental/self-concept Theory 6. Four- Humors Theory 7. Social-Cognitive Theory 2. 3. 1 Trait and Factor/Actuarial Theory of Career DevelopmentIt is also called interconnected or actuarial feeler. It is referred to as the oldest theoretical approach to career development and Parsons as the occasion (Kankam & Onivehu, 2000). It is based on the measurement of individual characteristics denoted as traits and factors. Traits refer to characteristics typical of the individual over time, relatively stable, consistent in situations and provide a basis for measuring, describing and predicting behaviour. Factor refers to a construct which represents a group of traits that correlate with each other. Williamson (1939, 1949) cited in Zunker (1990) was one of the prominent advocate of trait-and-factor counselling.Utilization of Williamsons counselling procedures maintained the early impetus of trait-and-factor approach evolving from the works of Parsons. Even when integrated into other theories of career guidance, the trait-and factor approach plays a very important role. Some of the basic assumptions that underlie the trait-and-factor theory are 1) both person has a unique intent of traits made up of interests, values, abilities and personality characteristics, these traits can be objectively identified and profiled to represent an individuals potential 2) both occupation is made up of factors necessary for the successful performance of that occupation.Thes e factors can be objectively identified and represented as an occupational profile 3) It is possible to identify a fit or match between individual traits and job factors using a straight forward problem-solving/decision making process. 4) The closer the match between personal traits and job factors the greater the likelihood for successful job performance and satisfaction. Some assumptions of this theory by Miller, and Klein and weenie are below Miller a) Vocational development is a cognitive process b) telephone line is a single event choice is greatly stressed over development c) There is a single right occupation for everyone there is no recognition that a worker might fit well into a number of occupations. ) hit person works in each job one person- one job relationship e) Everyone has an occupational choice (http//faculty. tamu. commerce. educ/crrobinson/512/tandf. htm) Klein & Wiener a) Each individual has a unique set of traits that can be mensural reliably and validly. b) Occupation require that workers accept certain traits for success c) Choice of occupation is straight forward process and matching is possible d) The closer the match between personal characteristics and job requirements, the greater the likelihood for success-productivity and satisfaction (http//faculty. tamu. commerce. educ/crrobinson/512/tandf. htm) It called for clear understanding of oneself.Knowledge of job requirements, conditions of success, and true reasoning in relation to these two groups of facts. This theory is used by many career practitioners in one form or some other. Many of the aptitude, personality and interest tests and information materials that emerged from this approach have involved and remain in use up to now e. g. oecumenical dexterity Test Battery, occupational profiles and ever expanding figurer-based career guidance programmes. Trait-and- factor theory is criticised as not able to produce a perfect match between people and jobs (Walsh, 1990) and beca me increasingly unpopular in the 1970s, describe as going into incipient moderate (Crites, 1981).In essence, the trait-and-factor approach is far too narrow in scope to be considered as a major theory of career development. However, we should recognize that standardized assessment and occupational analysis procedures stressed in trait-and-factor approaches are useful in career counselling (Zunker, 1990). In addition to the above, trait-and-factor theory focuses on personality factors without considering the influence of environmental factor like availability of jobs to match the individuals trait and interpersonal factors in career choice. And can not provide enough bases for the current studies. 2. 3. 2 John Hollands Vocational PersonalityJohn Hollands theory shows that there is a match between an individuals career choice and his or her personality and numerous variables that form their background (Zunker, 1990). harmonise to this theorist, once individuals find a career that fi ts their personality, they are more likely to please that particular career and to stay in a job for a longer period of time than individuals whose work do not suit their personality. He groups individuals into six basic personality types. Hollands theory rests on four assumptions 1. In our culture, persons can be categorized as one of the following veridical, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. 2.There are six modal environments realistic, investigative, delicious, social, enterprising and constituted. 3. People search for environments that will let them exercise their skills and abilities, express their attitudes and values, and take on agreeable problems and roles. 4. Behaviour is heady by an interaction between personality and environment (Bedu-Addo, 2000). harmonize to Holland, realistic personality types are hardheaded, stable, self-controlled, independent and down to earth. They have sex working with their hands, especially in projects whi ch allow one to be physically active, they may be a doer. These individuals are physically industrial-strength and have very little social know-how.They are oriented towards matter-of-fact careers such as labour, farmer, truck driver, mechanic, construction work, engineer or surveyor, landscape architect, aircraft mechanic, alveolar technician, electrician, athletic trainer, carpenter, licensed practical nurse, archaeologist, hairdresser, physical therapist, dressmaker, fire fighter, caterer, plumber, x-ray technician, etc. gibe to him, the investigative personality types are conceptually and theoretically oriented. Investigators are observant and scrutinizing about things around them. Typically they are inquisitive and intellectually self-confident as well as quite logical. They delight in situations that call for creative or analytical approach. They are thinkers rather than doers. They wonder working on their own. They are best suited for careers that offer clearly delimit ate procedures, research and the chance to explore a wide range of ideas are the best choices for investigating people, e. g. ractical nursing, medical lab assistant, pharmacist, ecologist, math teacher, medical technologist, research analyst, surgeon, dietician, physician, police detective, veterinarian, meteorologist, horticulturist, dentist, computer analyst, science teacher, technical writer, science lab technician, computer system analyst, military analyst, college professor, lawyer, consumer researcher, astronomer, computer security specialist, horticulture, emergency medical technology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, dental assistant, water and elope technology, computer languages, computer sciences, economics, biochemistry, geology. According to Holland, artistic personality types are original, innovative, imaginative, and creative. They prefer situations that are relatively nstructured and interact with their world through artistic expression, avoiding effected and interpersonal situations in many instances. They do well as painters, writers, or melodyians, artist, English teacher, drama coach, music teacher, graphic designer, advertising manager, fashion illustrator, intimate decorator, photographer, journalist, reporter, cosmetologist, librarian, museum curator, map maker, dance instructor, entertainer, performer, architect, etc. According to theorist, social personality types are understandable, friendly and people oriented. These individuals often have good literal skills and interpersonal relations. They are helpers and enjoy jobs that let them interact with people.They are well provide to enter professions such as teacher, social worker, counsellor, youth services worker, recreation director, physical therapist, occupational therapist, extension agent, therapist, teacher, personnel director, funeral director, minister, bedchamber of commerce executive, athletic coach, claims adjuster, parole officer, attorney, gross revenue r epresentative, fitness instructor, cosmetologist, paramedic, mental health specialist, social worker, nurse, dietician, information clerk, child care worker, travel agent, airline personnel, receptionist, waiter/waitress, office worker, home health aide, career counsellor, etc. According to him, enterprising personality types are gregarious, paramount and adventurous. They are generally extroverted and will often initiate projects involving many people and are good at convincing people to do things their way. They have strong interpersonal skills and enjoy work that brings them into come home with people.They are best counselled to enter career such as real state appraiser, florist, lawyer, TV/radio announcer, branch manager, lobbyist, damages manager, personnel recruiter, office manager, travel agent, advertising agent, advertising executive, politician, business manager. According to Holland, conventional personality type refers to those individuals who show a dislike for uns tructured activities. They enjoy collecting and organizing information in effective and practical way. They are often like being part of large companies though not necessarily in leadership positions. They enjoy steady routines and following clearly be procedures.They are best suited for jobs as subordinates, banker, file clerks, accountant, Business teacher, bookkeeper, actuary, librarian, proof reader, administrative assistant, credit manager, estimator, cad operator, reservations agent, bank manager, cartographer cost analyst, court reporter, medical secretary, attender statistician, financial analyst, safety inspector, tax consultant, policy underwriter , computer operator, medical lab technologist, cashier, hotel clerk, etc. It has been employed as popular assessment tools such as the independent Search, Vocational Preference Inventory and unwavering Interest Inventory. Dictionary of Holland occupational mark came as a result of Hollands work. John Holland created a hexago nal model that shows the relationship between the personality types and environments. pic Figure 2. 1 Holland Hexagonal Model It could be noticed that the personality types close to each other are more similar than those farther away.We can see this most clearly when we compare the personalities opposite each other, on the hexagon. For example, read the description of the types for Realistic and Social. You will see that they are close the opposite of each other. On the other hand, Social and Artistic are not that far apart. Holland topology is based on the following key concepts Congruence it refers to the degree of fit between an individuals personality orientations and actual or contemplated work environment. One is believed to be more meet with his career and can perform better if he is in a appropriate work environment. Consistency it refers to the degree of relationship between types or the various motleys.Types that are adjacent on the hexagon have more in common than ty pes that are opposite. For instance, the conventional type might be more realistic and enterprising than be artistic. specialty it is the establishment of differences or a difference among two or more things. It refers to the degree to which a person or his environment is clearly defined. Vocational identity extent to which a person has a clear self perception of his or her characteristics and goals, and to the degree of stability which an occupational environment provides.Hollands theory is criticised as basically descriptive with focus on explanation of passing(a) basis of time period in development of hierarchies of the personal model styles. He was concerned with factors that influence career choice rather than development process that leads to career choice (Zunker, 1990). This theory focus mainly on how a personality can be matched with a career rather than how other factors like environmental and/or interpersonal factors influence the individuals choice. It is therefore limited as far as the current research is concerned. 2. 3. 3 Anne Roes Personality/ train Theory Akinade, Sokan and Oserenren (1996) posit that this theory see ones need as the main determinant of the nature of an individuals interests including vocational interest.This theorist was of the view that career choice is based on childhood orientation or experience at home to satisfy needs and that people choose occupation that satisfies important needs. This theory attempts to understand, make meaning of, and utilize individual motives, purposes and drives to support career development. She believed work can satisfy needs in different ways hence classification of occupation into eight groups. According to Roe (1956) cited in Zunker (1990), the first five can be classified as person-oriented and the cash in ones chips three as non-person oriented. 1. Service (something for another person) 2. Business contact (selling and supplying services) 3. Organisation (management in business, indus try and government) 4.Technology (product maintenance, transportation of commodities ) 5. outdoors (cultivating, preserving natural resources) 6. Science (scientific theory and its application) 7. General culture (preserving and transmitting cultural heritage) & 8. humanistic discipline and Entertainment (creative art and entertainment) Anne Roes theory was based on Abraham Maslows hierarchy of needs stated in this order 1. Physiological needs 2. golosh needs 3. Need for belongingness and love 4. Need for importance, respect, self-esteem and independence 5. Need for information 6. Need for understanding 7. Need for beauty and aesthetic 8. Need for self-actualization