Factors influencing students’ subject choice in year 8 within the Maltese education system

Abstract

In a neoliberal era, where the community is continuously distressed over social and economic issues (Braedley, Luxton 2010), the Maltese education system requires students in the second year of Secondary School to choose ‘Option’ subjects which automatically channel them into career-oriented mode. The important decision will eventually put them on a “path to a job” (Robert 2015, p. 5). Studies claim that between the ages of 11 and 12 individuals are too young and too inexperienced to make crucial choices (Sultana, Sammut 1997). Adolescence is that period during which an individual’s mind “is most susceptible to influence” (Hashim, Embong 2015, p. 1). This paper reflects on the main factors that influence students’ approach towards their choice of the ‘Option’ subjects in Year 8, with particular reference to the subject of Geography. This study employed the mixed method research approach, utilizing a triangulation made up of an extensive survey among students in three different schools; three interviews to Guidance Teachers and three interviews to Geography Teachers. Analysis of the findings showed that the main factors that determine the students’ choice include the career-orientation of the students and parental influence. Other factors also emerge, including the students’ own learning experience of the subject which is often determined by pedagogic choices of the teacher. This paper will discuss these influential factors, integrating Geography as an example.