International Journal of
Information and Education Technology

Abstract

The selection of subjects at secondary level is the first and foremost step that might lead students to get desired higher education and achieve successful destination. The present study was conducted to explore potential factors affecting students’ subject selection at secondary school level in Pakistan. A sample consisting of 200 students, 50 teachers and 25 parents was selected randomly from Southern Punjab Pakistan. Both female and male respondents were addressed in the study. A questionnaire comprising of 36 items was developed to collect quantitative data from students and teachers while interview protocol was developed to collect qualitative data from parents. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied to analyze the data. The findings of the study reveal that various factors such as students’ potentiality, previous knowledge, parents’ profession and financial position affect their choice of subjects at secondary school level. In addition, students prefer to opt for easy and interesting subjects. Some recommendations were furnished for students for the appropriate selection of subjects. Furthermore, teachers and parents were also suggested to provide valuable guidelines to students in the selection of subjects which would fulfill the demands of 21st century.