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Determination of informed choice and pathways leading to selection of the Environmental Studies major
Abstract
The reasons why students select the Environmental Studies (ES) major at the University of Nebraska were investigated. A survey was used to determine factors of influence and career awareness as measures for making an informed choice in selection of a major. In addition, pathways of selection of the ES major were determined. Thirty-five students with ES majors and 14 faculty advisors completed the survey. Seven students participated in interviews. Student interviews were conducted to determine the “life-world” of the students during the decision making process leading to the selection of major. Interest in environmental issues, the challenge of solving environmental problems and a desire to make a difference in the environment were factors identified as positively influencing selection of this major. Environmental career attributes which influenced choice of major were variety of tasks and use of science skills. Faculty advisor perception of careers and advisor understanding of why students select the ES major were explored. Faculty advisors recommended selection of the ES major to students who demonstrated a clear interest in natural resources. Faculty advisors and students selected career categories appropriate to the ES curriculum indicating an awareness of career and job requirements. Informed choice was defined as evidence of student self-knowledge of interests, abilities and aptitudes and evidence of awareness of career opportunities in environmentally related areas. Students expressed self- knowledge of factors influential in major selection and career awareness. Therefore, the students did make informed decisions for selection of the ES major. Interview themes suggested three pathways for the selection of the ES major: (1) Direct Choice, (2) Focused Choice, and (3) Delayed Choice. Direct Choice occurs Men a student with ES interest selects the major and enrolls as a new student. Focused Choice occurs when students have life or school experiences that narrow their interests and career goals, leading to selection of the ES major at new student enrollment or when current students change to the ES major. Delayed Choice occurs when current students have negative school experiences and desire to change their academic major to ES.
Subject Area
Science education|Environmental science|Academic guidance counseling
Recommended Citation
Dierberger, Betsy S, "Determination of informed choice and pathways leading to selection of the Environmental Studies major" (1998). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9912685.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9912685