WHY DO HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS CHOOSE TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAM?

Ashfaque Ahmad; Muhammad Sarwar; Shafqat Hussain; Khuda Bakhsh

Ashfaque Ahmad Centre for Economics of Education, University of Sargodha
Muhammad Sarwar Centre for Economics of Education, University of Sargodha
Shafqat Hussain Department of Education, Government College University, Faisalabad
Khuda Bakhsh Department of Education, Government College University, Faisalabad

Keywords: Teacher education, Employability, Cost-benefit analysis, Satisfaction, Young

Abstract

Considering teaching as a vocation we set off to investigate the factors affecting students’ choice of teacher education program as a field of study at higher education level and cost-benefit analysis in this choice. Rational choice theory helps understand whys and wherefores in such a choice of students at the time of enrollment. In labor market it is rational that people estimate anticipated costs and projected benefits of any deed before taking a decision and the go for the best available option in order to maximize likelihood of their benefits. There is a dearth of studies regarding youth’s choice of teacher education as a study program and present study fills the gap in literature. The researchers enquire through questionnaire 350 alumni of teacher education program at one conveniently selected university, about their socio-biographical background, study paths, transition from study to work, early career, link between study and employment, job satisfaction, cost and benefit and their views on teacher education program retrospectively. Results revealed that choice of teacher education is affected by perceived interest, likely employability and previous grades. We found that teacher education as a study program is believed by the professionals to offer a very decent foundation for personal development along with future career success.