THE EFFECTS OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT CORE COURSE ON UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT’S CAREER GOAL BASED ON SOCIAL COGNITIVE CAREER THEORY IN A CHENGDU COLLEGE
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Abstract
This study investigated the impact of a hospitality management core course on students’ career goal-setting using Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) and the Recognize-Design-Reflect (RDR) model. A mixed-methods approach combined surveys from 302 students with interviews and classroom observations. Quantitative results indicated improvements in self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and goal clarity, with factor analysis identifying three key influences: skills training, decision-making support, and industry value perception. Paired t-tests and correlation analysis confirmed stronger links between self-efficacy and goal-setting. However, qualitative findings revealed that increased confidence did not always translate into industry commitment, as some students reconsidered their fit after deeper exposure to industry realities. The study underscores the dual function of career education: strengthening readiness while encouraging reassessment. It recommends integrating mentorship and adaptability training in curricula and improving industry transparency to support retention. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs to explore the stability of career intentions and compare educational strategies.
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