“What Do I Want to Do When I Grow Up?” – A Look at the Impact of Career Curriculum in the Fifth Grade

Abstract

Current research suggests that early exposure to career-related curriculum may give students more academic buy-in resulting in higher graduation rates. The ASCA model suggests that career development should be a K-12 program providing students with the skills to “investigate the world of work in relation to knowledge of self” (ASCA, 2005). Though research regarding career interventions at the elementary level is sparse, the literature suggests that beginning to introduce career curriculum at such a developmentally fundamental time could have significant impact on student success and ultimately career choice. This study examines the impact career curriculum taught by the School Counselor has on the knowledge fifth grade students have regarding their post-secondary options. These findings are applied to the school setting in order to develop a more well-rounded comprehensive plan.