Enhancing life skills development: Chinese adolescents’ perceptions |
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| Authors: | Mantak Yuen Raymond M C Chan Norman C Gysbers Patrick S Y Lau Queenie Lee Peter M K Shea |
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| Institution: | 1. Faculty of Education , The University of Hong Kong , Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China mtyuen@gmail.com;3. Hong Kong Baptist University, Education Studies , Waterloo Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China;4. University of Missouri‐Columbia, Educational, School and Counseling Psychology , Columbia, Missouri, USA;5. Chinese University of Hong Kong, Educational Psychology , Shatin, Hong Kong, China;6. Hong Kong Council of the Church of Christ in China , Educational Psychology Services , Morrison House, Argle Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China |
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| Abstract: | This study explored Chinese adolescents’ perceptions of their own life skills development and the importance they place on such skills. The study also investigated the within‐school and outside‐school influences that may help develop and enhance life skills development. Six focus groups involving 52 high school students were conducted, using a set of predetermined discussion topics. Results revealed students’ awareness of many salient life skills, including those related directly to academic development, ‘learning to learn’, personal and social growth, and future career planning. The students were also able to suggest practical strategies that schools might use to further enhance students’ life skills development. Contextual factors influencing the development of life skills appear to include not only experiences within the school curriculum and the guidance and counseling program, but also talent development opportunities, and family and peer relationships. The implications of the findings are discussed with particular reference to implementing comprehensive school guidance and counseling programs in Hong Kong. |
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| Keywords: | life skills comprehensive school guidance and counseling programs Chinese adolescents |
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