Structural Validity of the Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale for Thai Vocational Students: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis for Career Guidance Development

Abstract

This study aims to develop a model for Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy (CDMSE), within the context of Thai society and to examine the alignment of its confirmatory components with empirical data. The study employed Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) with a sample of 508 vocational students from technical colleges in Thailand in 2024. The instrument used was an online questionnaire, Reviewed by experts in psychology. The analysis results indicate that the model demonstrates a high level of alignment with empirical data, as evidenced by the following fit indices: χ²=258.01, df=232, P-value=0.11589, RMSEA=0.015, all of which fall within acceptable ranges. This study has both theoretical and practical implications, confirming the suitability of the CDMSE model within the context of Thai vocational students. It Serves as a crucial foundation for developing an effective career guidance system that enhances vocational students’ confidence in making appropriate career choices, ultimately reducing unemployment and addressing the future shortage of skilled labor. It can be concluded that the Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale for Thai Vocational Students, this study plays a vital role in supporting the development of specialized programs to enhance vocational students' decision-making capabilities regarding career choices. It fosters a deeper understanding of career development within the context of the educational system and labor market demands. The findings from this study can be applied to the design of career guidance curricula, the formulation of education and labor policies, and national workforce planning.

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Author Information
Chanchai Yothasoot, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Surapon Boonlue, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Saranya Chuathong, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Sutiwat Supaluk, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand