An investigation into the factors influencing career choice and development of previously disadvantaged MBA students in a business school in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Date
2011
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Abstract
This research paper aimed to investigate the factors influencing career choice and
development among previously disadvantaged individuals, specifically focusing on
MBA students. The core aim was to analyse and better understand the factors that
have played a key role in shaping the careers of people of colour within the South
African context, taking into consideration the political, social and economic climate
and its impact on previously disadvantaged individuals from a career perspective.
The research group comprised of both male and female South Africans of colour,
namely Indian or African or Coloured. These participants ranged in terms of age from
thirty to forty one years old. Participants were sourced from a business school in Kwa
Zulu - Natal and were all in the process of completing their MBA (Master of Business
Administration) degrees. Participants were interviewed using semi- structured, in
depth interviews that ran for approximately forty five minutes each. Each interview
was recorded. This information was then transcribed and analysed using Inductive
Thematic Analysis. This approach to data interpretation ensured that the rich wealth
of information was analysed effectively by the researcher and more importantly, made
sense of. Seven key themes emerged from the data.
Themes such as the impact of circumstance, parental and family life, culture and
society, and context and the environment emerged and were discussed further. Other
key themes emerging from the data included identity and self awareness, interests
versus goals, and drive and self belief.
Factors Influencing Career Choice 8
Findings indicated that the careers of previously disadvantaged individuals were
impacted by unique circumstances experienced by these individuals. The political,
social and economic climate had a profound role to play in shaping the paths taken by
these individuals and also significantly impacted their development within
organisations thereafter.
Findings indicated mixed reactions to the pro transformation policies and unveiled
thought provoking feedback from participants on their experiences and opinions with
regards to the above.
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2011.
Keywords
Vocational guidance--KwaZulu-Natal., Career development--KwaZulu-Natal., Master of business administration degree--KwaZulu-Natal., Theses--Industrial psychology.