Farmingdale, N.Y.− March 6, 2015 – As talk about being “college and career ready” continues to dominate many education debates, several collaborating organizations announced today that they are forming new research consortia to ensure a strong national discussion among parents, educators, counselors and students on career pathways. Three research consortia will work collaboratively to explore students’ aspirations toward a range of careers in specific areas and some of the influences on those aspirations.
The National Association of Biology Teachers, SkillsUSA, and the Educational Research Center of America (ERCA) will examine students’ aspirations toward a range of health/science careers.
“Science teachers, and especially biology teachers, are often the first to introduce students to the possibility of a health/science career,” said Jaclyn Reeves-Peppin, executive director, National Association of Biology Teachers. “By conducting this research with our consortium partners, we can learn more about how students view the health and science related opportunities that exist today, and those we envision for tomorrow. This data can only help teachers, parents and counselors better support students as they pursue their educational and career aspirations in these fields.”
SkillsUSA, the Manufacturing Institute, and the ERCA will focus on career paths that grow out of Career and Technical Education (CTE).
“SkillsUSA is pleased to join the Manufacturing Institute and ERCA in this research consortium and in recommending this survey to CTE students and educators,” said Tim Lawrence, executive director, SkillsUSA. “It will enable us to better align our services with student needs and prepare them for careers ahead.”
Destination Imagination, the National Girls Collaborative, the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity and ERCA will delve into students’ aspirations toward a range of STEM careers.
“Future research is needed to examine the individual components of the perseverance construct (brain optimization, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and self-determination), and their relationship to creativity and 21st century skill development,” said Dr. Chuck Cadle, CEO of Destination Imagination. “We are excited to be a participant in this research consortium to measure students’ career and educational aspirations and their perceptions about creativity and STEM careers. This data will be invaluable in framing a national discussion.”
Feedback from students through surveys will also be compared and contrasted with trends and opportunities in each of the career areas. The participating organizations have agreed to a multi-year engagement that will help use the data to better prepare students for their careers ahead.
“As the economy evolves, students, parents, guidance counselors, and educators continue to look for the best opportunities for today’s learners,” ERCA Executive Director Ed Doody said. “With this new research initiative, we expect to better inform all involved in the process about career paths, focusing on both what is needed today and what is needed tomorrow. And there are no better partners to lead such an effort than our collaborators.”
