DETERMINANTS OF COURSE CHOICE IN VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRES IN TAITA TAVETA COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Course choice is crucial for selecting a vocation, especially in any profession, and trainees may face challenges in selecting study programs. This study aimed to establish the determinants of course choice in Vocational Training Centres in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. A mixed-method research approach and a descriptive survey research design were adopted. The Holland Theory guided the study. The target population comprised 2,386 trainees and 29 principal managers and their sample size was 714 and 7 respectively. Stratified sampling and simple random sampling were used to obtain the samples. The data collection instruments included questionnaire, interview schedule and document analysis. A Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.80 was attained for pilot data. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS. The qualitative data was analyzed by presenting themes that emerged. Male trainees, 447 (63.1%), were more than female participants, 261 (36.9%). Most trainees (44.2%) were aged between 15-19 years. Most trainees (18.9%) pursued Artisan in Motor Vehicle Mechanics. In respect to male trainees, one hundred and twenty six twenty eight 126 (28.2%) pursued Artisan in Motor Vehicle Mechanics. A significant large proportion of female 91(34.9%) pursued Artisan in Fashion Design and Garment Making. A large proportion of the respondents 507(71.6%) agreed that their course selection was influenced by my gender. A large fraction of the respondents 407(57.50%) indicated that that they felt that industry experts prefer a certain gender in employment while the 34.0%. Majority of respondents (59.9%) also agreed that they would consider a job held traditionally by the opposite gender. Gender (F (1,706) = 5.060, p < 0.05) (b= 0.599, p< 0.05), Parents ‘expectations (F 0.05 (1,706) = 6.381, p< 0.05) (b= 0.599, p< 0.05), Trainees’ personality (F 0.05(1,706) = 12.870, p < 0.05) (b=.337, p<0.05), and Employment opportunities (F 0.05(1,706) = 0.110, p <0.05) (b= 0.599, p < 0.05), significantly predicted course choice. The study’s findings were stated and it was observed that there was an insignificant relationship between course choice and employment opportunities. The study suggests that VTCs should ensure gender equality in course selection, involve parents, family members, counsellors, and trainers in the process, guide trainees based on their personality, and choose courses that lead to employment. This will help trainees make informed decisions and ensure they choose courses that align with their career goals.