Career Maturity of Low-Income High-Ability Students

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Kim M., Bilgiç Erdem Ş.

American Educational Research Association (AERA), Colorado, United States Of America, 23 - 27 April 2025, (Full Text)

• Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
• Doi Number: 10.3102/2189852
• City: Colorado
• Country: United States Of America
• Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
• Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study examines the predictors of career maturity among low-income, high-ability students,

focusing on self-efficacy and academic identity. Evaluating the career maturity of students is

crucial for their career development and readiness for the workforce. The sample consisted of

149 students from the Camp Launch 2022 Program. Data were collected using the Academic

Identity Scale, Self-Efficacy-Academic Achievement, Self-Efficacy-Self-Regulating Learning

and the Career Maturity Inventory. Results indicated that academic achievement and academic

identity significantly predicted career maturity, while self-regulated learning did not for whole

sample. The findings highlight the importance of fostering academic identity to enhance career

readiness in high-ability high school students from low-income backgrounds, a factor that is not

significant for middle school students.