My name is Jennifer Alken and I have recently completed my degree in Applied Psychology (BSc) in Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT). In the last four years, I've learned about psychological theories and how to apply them to the real world. I've also developed and enhanced a variety of other abilities, including writing, presenting, and teamwork. Throughout my degree gained experience working with individuals with additional needs. I intend to continue getting experience and eventually pursue a master's degree in this sector.
The current study, aimed to explore the relationship between skill development and career satisfaction among psychology students. It investigated distinctions in communication, collaboration, analytic inquiry, and professional development skills among first-year and third-year undergraduates and postgraduate psychology students (Year 1, Year 3, and Postgraduates). Additionally, the study will explore perceptions of skill importance for career satisfaction among undergraduates and compare these with postgraduates' views. Finally, it will analyse the correlation between these skills and career satisfaction among postgraduates.
The study consisted of (N=85) participants .Purposive sampling was employed to voluntarily recruit IADT psychology postgraduate students (N=25), IADT year 1 psychology students(N=40) and IADT Year 3 psychology students(N=20).
This study aims to address outdated research in this area and gaps in understanding skill development and career satisfaction among psychology students. It will investigate distinctions in communication, collaboration, analytic inquiry, and professional development skills among first-year and third-year undergraduates and postgraduate psychology students (Year 1, Year 3, and Postgraduates). Additionally, the study will explore perceptions of skill importance for career satisfaction among undergraduates and compare these with postgraduates' views. Finally, it will analyse the correlation between these skills and career satisfaction among postgraduates. By filling these gaps, the study aims to inform curriculum development and enhance training programs in workplaces to promote upskilling in these areas and enhance students' employability and overall well-being.
From a practical standpoint, the study aims to underscore the necessity of updating psychology education curricula to match evolving job market demands.In parallel, how workplaces can contribute to employees' career satisfaction and overall success.
The study delved into the relationship between academic year groups (Year 1, Year 3, and Postgraduates) and skill domains (communication, analytic, collaboration, and professional development skills), examining reported skill levels, perceptions of valuable skills, and their correlation with career satisfaction among psychology students. Significant differences were found between postgraduates and undergraduates in reported skill levels, with a moderate negative correlation noted between professional development skills and career satisfaction. No significant relationships were found between other skill domains and career satisfaction. Interestingly, undergraduates' perceptions of valuable skills showed consistency across years, with communication skills ranking highest. Open-ended responses highlighted the need for more emphasis on career preparation and practical experiences. While some hypotheses were supported, others were not, challenging conventional models of skill development. Strengths of the study include its relevance to evolving job market demands, methodological rigor, and inclusivity across academic levels. However, limitations such as a small sample size and reliance on self-reported data suggest caution in generalizing the findings. Suggestions for future research include larger and more diverse samples and consideration of objective measures of skill acquisition. Theoretical implications underscore the need to update psychology education curricula, while practical implications highlight the importance of tailored interventions in both academic and workplace settings to enhance career satisfaction and overall success among psychology students.
Exploring Skill Development and Career Satisfaction in Psychology Students Across Academic Progression.