IMPACT OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PEDAGOGIES USING PROJECT-BASED LEARNING, WORK SIMULATION ON DEVELOPMENT OF CAREER ADAPTABILITY AND DECISION-MAKING IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

The research employed a quasi-experimental longitudinal research design to investigate how project-based learning (PBL) and work simulation have a long-term effect on developing career adaptability and decision-making among Ghanaian high school students. The intervention started in 2022 at the Armed Forces Senior High School in Kumasi, and a follow-up questionnaire was given to 60 of the same students 3 years later. The results of the PLS-SEM analysis showed that PBL had a strong, positive, and statistically significant effect on both career adaptability (β = 0.522, p = 0.000) and decision-making (β = 0.500, p = 0.000). Work simulation also had a positive and significant effect on decision-making (β = 0.266, p = 0.000), although its effect on career adaptability was not statistically significant. The findings confirmed the value of experiential learning as a powerful tool for the development of critical career skills over time. Based on the findings, it is recommended to stakeholders in education in Ghana to incorporate PBL and WS into the Ghanaian school curriculum.