Factors associated with employment intentions of agriculture school students in South Korea

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aims to explore the employment intentions of agriculture high school students in South Korea and to examine the factors associated with their employment intentions. Methodology: A survey was carried out among 1,750 students from six agriculture high schools. Data were analyzed using frequency analysis and binary logistic regression analysis. Results: This study reveals that students are more likely to have employment intentions if (1) they perceive their employability positively, (2) they have lower educational aspirations, (3) their parents are unemployed, and (4) they positively perceive career education in schools. Practical Implications: This study highlights the importance of career education in strengthening students’ skills and employability. It also provides insights into the support students receive from schools to enhance their future employment prospects. Theoretical Implications: This study has implications pertaining to the necessity of a modified version of the social cognitive career theory (SCCT) model, which incorporates additional factors that reflect the social contexts of Korea or other countries. Originality: This study is one of the few studies examining factors associated with the employment intentions of agriculture high school students. Its findings could be a helpful resource to promote the employment of students and to address workforce challenges the agricultural industry faces.