Using the Social Cognitive Model to Explain Vocational Interest in Information Technology

This study extended the social cognitive career theory model of vocational interest (Lent, Brown, & Hackett, 1994, 1996) to the information technology domain. Participants were 278 undergraduate students who were asked to identify their sources of computer self-efficacy, computer self-efficacy beliefs, outcome expectations, and information technology interests. Consistent with theory, all the social cognitive variables were strongly related to information technology interest. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that mastery experiences and affective states significantly predicted interest in information technology. Computer selfefficacy and outcome expectations significantly impacted information technology interest. Implications for practice and further research are considered.