Career Perceptions and Visions of Boys and Girls in Secondary Schools in Zimbabwe: Some Implications for Teachers and Parents

Abstract

The study investigated the career perceptions and visions of boys and girls in secondary schools. Subjects (N=120) were students enrolled in Forms 1 to 6 who were drawn from secondary schools in Manicaland and Masvingo educational regions. An open-ended questionnaire was used to generate data. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation (r) was used to analyse the data. Results showed that both boys and girls had similar perceptions about male and female jobs. It was also indicated that relatives were the chief influences in career choice among boys and girls. Male students had higher educational aspirations than females. The study recommended the education of relatives especially parents on careers so as to avoid negative influences on career choice. A vigorous offering of guidance and counseling in secondary schools was also recommended.