EDUCATIONAL ASPIRATIONS AND SOCIAL MOBILITY: A SURVEY OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS' FUTURE GOALS

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between educational aspirations and perceived social mobility among secondary school students. The study aims to (1) examine the educational aspirations of secondary school students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, (2) investigate the relationship between students’ educational aspirations and their perceptions of social mobility, and (3) identify demographic factors influencing students’ future educational goals. Educational aspirations are shaped by various sociological factors such as socioeconomic status, family background, and cultural expectations. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from a stratified random sample of 300 secondary school students. A structured questionnaire assessed students' future educational goals and their views on education as a path to upward mobility. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicated that students with higher socioeconomic backgrounds demonstrated significantly greater educational aspirations (M = 4.3, SD = 0.6) and a stronger belief in the role of education in improving social status (r = 0.48, p < .01) compared to students from lower-income backgrounds (M = 3.7, SD = 0.9). Parental education also had a significant effect (F = 6.21, p < .01). The study underscores the need for educational policies that support equitable opportunities for aspiration development across diverse student populations.

Keywords: educational aspirations, social mobility, secondary education, socioeconomic status, student goals