Experimental evaluation of self-efficacy treatment on technical/scientific career outcomes

A technology education programme designed to provide mastery experiences described in self-efficacy theory and predicted to improve career decision-making was evaluated. Seventh- and eighth-grade students (N = 169) were stratified by grade level and randomly assigned either to a published technology education programme or to control curricula. Over a 7-week period, the experimental programme attempted to foster exploration and performance accomplishments in the students' choice of three (out of 21 possible) technical and scientific careers. Pre- and post-test instruments assessed technical/scientific self-efficacy and career interest. No treatment effects were found. However, an experimental demand measure showed greater valuing of the technology education programme. Implications and suggested improvements to the treatment are discussed.

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