Researchers

• Dr. L.S. Post - researcher
• Dr. R. Keijzer - guest researcher
• Dr. E.H. Tigelaar - project leader

This research builds on existing knowledge with regard to guidance and support in study choice, study career and future orientation, with extra attention to the well-being of students and to their interests in relation to education and work, as experienced in the different contexts of their daily lives. Much is already known about students’ interest development in relation to education and work, but more benefit can be gained from such studies with a view to guidance in study choice and study career.

Social relevance

Both in VET (vocational education) and higher education, many students drop out early or experience study delay. Also, due to COVID-19-measures, many students have felt isolated from peers and were seeking for future perspective in education and work.

Scientific relevance

Research has shown that psychological capital (self-efficacy, optimism, hope and resilience) and social capital (social network and resources that can be mobilized through that network) are positively related to how students see themselves as future professionals and to how students use opportunities for realizing ambitions in relation to education and work. In order to strengthen the well-being of students when looking for perspective in education and work, it is also crucial to connect to students’ interests with regards to education and work. Whether or not students experience interest can form a weighty viewpoint for them to regain perspective in school and work.

Research method

With an environmental scan and interviews, characteristics of the current practices in higher education and VET with regards to study choice; career guidance and future orientation are described. By using a survey, we investigate students’ interests and learning experiences in the context of current practices with regards to study choice; career guidance and future orientation. With a digital logbook and additional interviews, students’ interests with regards to education and work are mapped out in more detail. A resonance group consisting of different stakeholders will formulate design principles for improving programs in VET and higher education on the basis of the findings so that more students can find perspective in school and work.

• higher education
• students
• vocational education