Factors Influencing University Selection and Future Educational Trends: A Survey of Thai High School Students Applying to Study at KMUTT

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing Thai high school students' university selection decisions and their perceptions of future educational trends. A survey was conducted among 139 applicants of KMUTT to technology-related programs in the 2023 academic year. The main respondents were female students (57%) recent high school graduates (around 18 years old) from public schools (86%) from all over Thailand. Regarding academic background, 45.32% graduated from the Science-Math stream, followed by Arts-Mathematics (25.18%) and Language Arts (14.39%). The dominant student interest resided in science and technology fields integrated with art and design (43.17%). A significant portion (33.09%) expressed interest in Education or Industrial Education, Engineering (9.35%) and Business Management (5.04%). Architecture, Fine Arts, Communication Arts, Mass Communication, and Law drew interest from a smaller percentage of students. Perceptions of future educational trends were largely consistent. Most students anticipated a shift towards blended learning, a focus on analytical thinking skills, and the integration of AI and robotics in teaching. University selection factors were evaluated using a 5-point scale. "Better career opportunities" received the highest score (mean=4.61), followed by "support from family" (mean=4.56) and “meeting personal needs” (mean=4.42). Issues that still need to be addressed include providing sufficient information for University program admission and promoting student preparation for further study. This survey provided valuable insights for universities to design learning programs that cater to current high school students' evolving needs and aspirations. Additionally, analyzing applicants' information could help schools enhance their guidance for students.

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Author Information
Somsri Binraman, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Suchapa Netpradit, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Chanin Tungpantong, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand