Dissertation on
The Impact of Factors Influencing the Career Choice in the
International Business Field: A Study Based on Sri Lankan
Undergraduates
By
M T L Wickramarathna
Registration No: 2019/MS/9110
Index No: 9060
The dissertation is submitted to the Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka, in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the Degree of Bachelor of
Business Administration (International Business Special)
Department of International Business
Faculty of Management and Finance University of Colombo
Colombo 03
Sri Lanka
30th September 2023
Table of Contents
Abstract .......................................................................................................................................... iv
1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Chapter Introduction ............................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Background of the study ....................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Problem Statement ................................................................................................................ 3
1.4 Research Problem .................................................................................................................. 5
1.5 Research Questions ............................................................................................................... 5
1.6 Research Objectives .............................................................................................................. 5
1.7 Significance of the Study ...................................................................................................... 5
1.7.1 Theoretical Significance ................................................................................................. 5
1.7.2 Practical Significance ..................................................................................................... 6
1.8 Scope of the study ................................................................................................................. 7
1.9 Limitations of the study......................................................................................................... 7
2. Literature Review........................................................................................................................ 8
2.1. Social Learning Theory ........................................................................................................ 8
2.2 Social Learning Theory of Career Decision-Making ............................................................ 8
2.2.1 Genetic Factors ............................................................................................................... 9
2.2.2 Environmental Factors .................................................................................................... 9
2.2.3. Learning Experience .................................................................................................... 11
2.2.4. Performance Skills ....................................................................................................... 11
2.3 Similar Studies .................................................................................................................... 12
2.4. Variables of the Study ........................................................................................................ 14
2.4.1 Dependent Variable ...................................................................................................... 14
2.4.2 Independent Variables .................................................................................................. 15
2.5 Conceptual Framework ....................................................................................................... 19
................................................................................................................................................... 19
2.6 Hypothesis Development .................................................................................................... 20
3. Methodology ............................................................................................................................. 22
3.1 Research Design .................................................................................................................. 22
3.2 Sample ................................................................................................................................. 22
3.3 Instrument............................................................................................................................ 23
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3.4. Data Collection ................................................................................................................... 23
3.5 Measurement ....................................................................................................................... 23
3.6 Date analysis technique ....................................................................................................... 24
3.7 Table 2-Operationalization................................................................................................. 25
4. Data Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 28
4.1 Demographic Profile of the Respondents............................................................................ 28
4.2 Reliability Analysis on Dependent and Independent Variables .......................................... 29
4.3 Descriptive Statistics ........................................................................................................... 30
4.4 Inferential Statistic: Pearson Correlation ............................................................................ 32
4.5 Regression Model- Effect on Independent Factors on Career Choice in International
Business Filed ........................................................................................................................... 33
5. Discussion and Conclusion ....................................................................................................... 37
5.1 Summery of the Research ................................................................................................... 37
5.2 The relationship between independent and dependent variables ........................................ 37
5.2.1 Relationship between cognitive factors and career choice in international business
field. ....................................................................................................................................... 37
5.2.2 Relationship between Contextual factors and career choice in International Business
Field ....................................................................................................................................... 39
5.2.3 Relationship between Migration Intention and Career Choice in International Business
Field ....................................................................................................................................... 40
5.3 Study Contribution .............................................................................................................. 41
5.4 Recommendations for future study ..................................................................................... 41
5.5 Conclusion........................................................................................................................... 42
References ..................................................................................................................................... 43
Annexures ..................................................................................................................................... 49
Annexure 1 - Research questionnaire........................................................................................ 49
Annexure 2 - The box plot of the data set without extreme outliers ......................................... 50
Annexure 3 – Scatter Plot of the Data Set ................................................................................. 51
Annexure 4 – Normal Q-Q Plot ................................................................................................ 51
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List of Tables
Table 1 - Relationship between independent variable and dependent variables
Table 2 - Operationalization
Table 3 - Demographic profile of the respondents
Table 4 - Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient
Table 5 - Descriptive Statistics
Table 6 - Normality test
Table 7 - Pearson Correlation & Significance test
Table 8 - Model Summery
Table 9 - ANOVA
Table 10 - Coefficient
Table 11- Test of Normality
Table 12 – Hypothesis Summery
List of Figures
Figure 1 – Conceptual Framework
iii
Abstract
International business means any business which is operating beyond their local boundaries. In
today’s context international business field is a rapidly developing area. Globalization can be
identified as the main reason behind this. With that there are so many sub factors are influencing
the development of international business. Some of them are technology, economics, politics,
foreign exchange markets, environmental pressure, trade agreements between countries and
educational factors. As the result of above things, the boundaries have become very less and the
path has been opened for any individual to move towards international level. Therefore, there is a
considerable increment of students who choose international business field as their future career.
Some students have a clear idea about the field but at the same time others have not. That
unawareness can be negatively affected for their decisions about the career choice.
In the previous studies scholars have identified many reasons that persuade a student to choose
their career field. from that there are some specific factors which influence the international
business field. Even though the factors are more similar among the students, the level of affection
for those factors is different in various regions. The reasons for this difference are culture, attitudes,
values, economies, and labor market conditions are not similar among countries. An important
factor for one person can be a less important factor for another one. Because of that, there is a
contextual difference is there. This Inquiry aims to identify the impact of factors affecting the
choice of international business field as the future career based on Sri Lankan Context.
For this research there are three main factors are tested. Those are cognitive factors, contextual
factors and migration intention. In Sri Lankan context this type of study has not been done
regarding the international business field. The relevant Information were collected through one
hundred and forty-three undergraduate students who are already reading for an international
business degree and the questionnaires were adopted from existing literature. A survey was
conducted to collect the data. The research philosophy is positivistic in line with the deductive
approach. The hypothesis of the study is built up through social learning theory of career decision
making. To analyzing part of the data the SPSS 22.0 data analytical tool was used
iv
1. Introduction
1.1 Chapter Introduction
This chapter provides an overall introduction to the research area. The chapter begins with
background to the study which explains about the general view of the research. After that this
chapter followed by research problem, research questions and objectives. Subsequently, this
chapter explains why the current study is significant, the scope of the study and the limitations of
the study.
1.2 Background of the study
In today’s world higher education institutes and universities plays an important role in the society.
Other than the traditional functions like teaching and doing researches now they have
responsibility to country’s economic and social development. Universities can contribute to
achieve those objectives by producing qualified and skillful people. A student’s academic
environment gives him or her to potential for growth and innovation. Therefore, it is really
important to selecting suitable paths by identifying their own strengths and weaknesses.
Ultimately, they are people who contributes to the economic and social development through their
professions. (Heiko Haase, 2011)
Choosing the right career is a turning point in a person’s life. Specially, among undergraduates
who are hoping to select their specialization area, this problem really matters. Because a successful
career choice affects that student’s personal, social and professional life in many different ways.
With a suitable career a person can build their identity, brand themselves and make them unique
from others. On the other hand, it affects their daily routines whole life like the money availability,
time that they spend with their loved ones, mental health, and physical well-being, the balance of
their personal life and career life, and many more. Obviously for choosing a particular area as
someone’s career that person should have a passion for that area. Otherwise, it is really difficult to
move upward in the career ladder. The wrong career choice will lead to boredom with life, work
routines and also it leads to frustration as well as dissatisfaction with the career and the personal
life.
As it has been mentioned in above there are lot of factors that influence the field of specialization
directly and indirectly. Therefore, with the current competitive environment, students face a lot of
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problems when they are going to choose their career or specialization area. In today’s context,
undergraduates should plan their careers to develop their life paths in an effective way. A good
decision about the career choice is not only beneficial for that particular person but also for their
parents, family members, society, and the government in a broader way. When taking that decision
country’s social, economic, and political situation also should be considered.
With the impact of globalization, the world could overcome a lot of problems that arise because
of the geographical distance between the countries. As a result of that international business among
countries has developed significantly and factor mobility has increased. Since the environment is
rapidly changing day by day more skillful people are needed in internationally operating
businesses. In order to face the current competitiveness every international business demand for
talented business managers and leaders because global business have identified the importance of
recruiting talented workers who have the potential to work excellently. There is a growing
awareness that talent is an asset to many international businesses according to Allen et al 2010.
Multinational companies highly demand performers. Hence there are many chances are available
for talented people in the global business market. International business degree programs have
been designed to prepare students to meet the demand coming from internationally operating
businesses. When students choose their career and take advices about that from someone it should
be in line with the practical experience, countries and current world requirements, availability, and
the marketability of the career.
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1.3 Problem Statement
In this dynamic world, it is very hard to understand the link between the multidimensional
conceptualization of careers in the 21st century and career decisions. There should be a proper link
between the education system and careers in the work of the world. In the word career choice, it
has the meaning of employment opportunities which requires a knowledgeable economy. Hence
it is very important to identify factors that influencing the career choice of a particular career.
Every Student faces the difficulties when they transform their lives from the world of education to
world of work no matter their family status and with the help of governmental and nongovernmental organizations ( Austin, 2009; Ozbilgin et al., 2004). Many students have to face to
lot of difficulties when they are going to express any choice of career. (Babbie, 2001). Some
students choose courses to study which are not matching with their attitudes and foundation of
their academics. (Christine, 2003) Moreover, some students later understand they have enrolled in
a path which they really do not have an interest. On the other hand, if the mechanism of choosing
a career was a wrong one that particular person will be ended up with fatigue in work, discomfort,
regret or will have to different risks in life that make the work life a horrible one ( Abdullah, 2007).
There are few reasons why people struggle in career choice.

Inability to understand a perfectly match career with their abilities, Lack of interest in
various areas of fields that are not clear to them or do not have understanding clearly.

Choosing a career without based on their interest, ability. talent and the personality type.
Which means career selection may not match with the personal trait. Choosing a particular
career can be too ambitious or too low when compared with the person’s abilities.

Lack of information and knowledge about the job market, job opportunities based on
student’s age and development.
According to Najmuddin (2005) one of the biggest problems towards the career choice is, in the
school time period students do not have a chance to choose the subjects that they want apart from
that they have learned the subjects the school has already set for them to learn. Therefore, students
lose their interest at the very early stage. After ending the school time period or in the university
students select the educational programs and courses that suitable for their education level or
results. The problem in this situation is students are selected or they choose a path for themselves
3
which they really do not have a passion to learn. As a person if someone wants to successful in the
life, they should have a clear understanding about what they want in life and then should work
hard to achieve them because some chances in the life do not come twice.
Moreover, the decision of career choice is affected by various factors such as personality type of
that particular person, interested areas, self-concept, influence from the globalization, things
related with socialization , different role models a person value in their lives, the level of social
support, availability of resources like information regarding a particular industry, financial status
that they have and willing to achieve in the future and cultural identity (Kochung & Migunde,
2011). Even though the factors can be common to the most of people the level of affection of those
factors differs one person to another based on their values, believes, attitudes, religion, culture and
the country. According to Hofstede, national culture affects many individual-level outcomes such
as perception and behavior. By proving that Chui et al 2002 and Gibson 1999 have also mentioned
from capital structure to group performance national culture affects.
Previously researchers have been conducted about the factors affecting career choice in the
international business field but the valid point of criticism is the perception of competencies is
different between countries (Suutary, 2002). The problem is most studies have been conducted
based on the Western region but East Asia is becoming an important destination for international
business students. (Organization for economic cooperation and Development, 2013). Therefore,
when it comes to the Sri Lankan context the level of impact of the factors can be different from
other countries. Because the culture, attitudes, values, economic conditions, nature of the labor
markets and lot of other factors affect to this decision. Hence by doing this research it will be
helpful to identify how things affect in Sri Lankan context and also the findings will be beneficial
for the students who are willing to make their career choice in the future to make a good decision
by considering the international business field as well. Therefore, this research is about impact
of factors affecting to career choice in International Business Field by considering cognitive,
contextual factors and migration intention of the students.
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1.4 Research Problem
The impact of factors influencing the career choice in international business field : A study based
on Sri Lankan Context.
1.5 Research Questions
● What is the relationship between cognitive factors and career choice in international
business field in Sri Lanka?
● What is the relationship between contextual factors and career choice in international
business field in Sri Lanka?
● What is the relationship between migration intention and career choice in International
Business field?
1.6 Research Objectives
● Identify the relationship between cognitive factors and career choice in international
business field in Sri Lanka
● Identify the relationship between contextual factors and career choice in international
business field in Sri Lanka
● Identify the relationship between migration intention and career choice in International
business field in Sri Lanka?
1.7 Significance of the Study
1.7.1 Theoretical Significance
The knowledge gains through this study is expected to contribute to the existing knowledge
regarding the students’ career decision making and factors affecting them. The study will provide
valued data that are related to the various factors. Therefore, it will be helpful for future researchers
who expected to do the researches related to this area.
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1.7.2 Practical Significance
-
Industry
Majority of prior researches about the international business field and factors influencing the career
choice have been conducted based on western region. Hence it is difficult to match those results
with Sri Lankan context. Even though there are some researchers related to East Asia those are
directly not relevant to the International business field but some other management areas. In Sri
Lanka, international business degree programs are not much available as same as other
management degree programs. From government universities only the University of Colombo
offer the bachelor of business administration in international business degree program. Other than
that, there are some private universities offer this course. But in the world demand for the
international business managers are increasing and international business field is also developing
rapidly.
The reality is any county is not self- sufficient today. It does not matter whether it is a wealthier
nation like America or developing county like Sri Lanka. Every county has to depend on other
countries to satisfied their needs and wants. The economic truth is all the countries are facing
scarcity but people have unlimited needs and wants. To satisfy these unlimited needs and wants
international business plays a significant role in the economy. When countries engaging with
international business there are both positive and negative effects. When it comes to Sri Lanka the
situation of international business is not in a really good position. The lack of talented international
business managers of the county can also be a reason for this situation. By doing this study it is
expected to contribute to the industry by improving the future international business managers and
also this can be used as an implication in the recruitment strategy. Therefore, this will be benefited
to the development of international business field of the country.
-
Students
In Sri Lanka some students are reluctant to choose international business degree programs because
of the unavailability of the information. Which means students do not have proper understanding
about the field, job opportunities, demand for the international business managers in the world,
skills that should be developed, income level that they can earn and potential to growth in the
career life. This can be a reason for not choosing the international business field as their future
career. Hence by doing this research, it is expected to expand the awareness among students
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regarding the international business field, why they should choose international business as their
career, and especially how the situation of Sri Lanka affects to the career choice decision in the
international business field and mainly how given factors have been affected to the career choice
in International Business field. This research results will increase the awareness among students
and it will helpful for identifying what are most relevant factors for an international business
student when they make their career choice.
-
Universities or Institutions
This study is about factors affecting to the career choice in International Business Field. Therefore,
the results can be used as a guideline or reference in some authorities like ministry of higher
education when they make their decisions. Also, this will be helpful for career counselling to help
students to plan their career.
1.8 Scope of the study
The main aim of doing this study is to identify the impact of three factors to the students' career
choice in International Business field and among them identify the most relevant factors which are
considered by International business students when they make their career choice. This research is
about Sri Lankan context and the respondents are undergraduates who have already selected their
specialization area relevant to the International Business field. This analysis is based on social
learning theory of career decision making.
1.9 Limitations of the study
Even though this study is about Sri Lankan undergraduates the sample size is not covering the
choices of all the International Business undergraduates in Sri Lanka. The respondents may not
cover all the provinces of Sri Lanka. Students who belong to different cities, different families,
and different ethnic groups can have different impact towards those factors. Because within
families also have different kind of values, attitudes and norms which are really affect to the
individuals' decision making in a collectivistic country like Sri Lanka. All those families and
individuals do not represent by this study.
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2. Literature Review
A business become internationalize when the products, services, capital, ideas, technology and
people cross the boarders. According to Hofstede international business means handling both
national and organizational culture differences at the same time. A national culture broadly defines
by values, believes, norms and behavior patterns of a national group. By accepting that idea Chui
et all 2002 indicates the national culture affect major business activities from capital structure to
group performance while Organizational Anthropology and international management University
of Limburg at Maastricht agues not common values but common practices keep multinationals
together. By analyzing those contradictory ideas it's able to understand the thinking pattern of the
people is different one from another. This difference may cause various reasons. In this study, the
social learning theory of career decision-making has been used to define those differences. It’s a
spin-off theory based on social learning theory.
2.1. Social Learning Theory
The general idea of the social learning theory is a person shapes or patterns his way of thinking,
feelings or actions after some other person who is considered as a model. It associates with sex
role behavior, parents', neighborhoods' and peers' expectations from a person, the affection coming
from prestigious role models. From the society a person gets an idea and information how he or
she should behave. It handles their behavior and really affect the thinking patterns. As an example,
from the moment of a baby is given birth he or she is named based on their sex identity and the
society is giving blue or pink treatment depending on that. Also, their masculinity or femininity
affects the hair style, way of dressing, talking and so on. When the children become adults
automatically, they used to continue that pattern. (Goslin D. A , 1969)
2.2 Social Learning Theory of Career Decision Making
According to Krumbolts et al 1976 social learning theory of career decision making is basically
about how to obtain educational, occupational preferences and skills. Also, the theory discusses
about how to select courses, occupations and working fields. This theory has identified main four
factors that influence the above decisions namely genetic factors, environmental conditions,
learning experience and performance skills. These factors combine in different ways and generate
different decisions among individuals. Number of those options and the nature of them shape by
8
the internal and external influences. When many options are available a person may feel incapable
of deciding. On the other hand, options can be very limited and an individual can feel he or she
has no choice.
2.2.1 Genetic Factors
Genetic factors mean there are certain inherited qualities that a particular person is born with and
those qualities limit his or her educational preferences, occupational choices and skills. Under the
genetic factors the things like race, gender and the physical appearance are considered.
2.2.2 Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions mean career decision making process is influenced by factors that are
outside and unable to control by one individual. These events can be planned or unplanned. On the
other hand, it can happen due to human actions like social differences, cultural values and believes,
political influences and economic situation or natural factors like natural resources or natural
disasters. Based on these factors also skills of a person, plans about career and career preferences
can be varied. They are the kind of factors which are very specific to a particular country, area or
an ethnic group. Those kinds of factors have been explained below.
Number and nature of job opportunities- Because of the government policies and historical factors
some job opportunities that are available in one country may not available in another. As an
example, a person who lives in California can be an abalone fisherman but a person lives in
Arizona cannot do that. In Western countries there are chances to be department store Santa Clause
but not in Pakistan.
Training opportunities- Different cultures provide different social institutions for their training
opportunities. In United States they provide training opportunities through public schools,
proprietary schools, armed forces, apprenticeship programs and corresponding courses but
availability and the accessibility are different from one state to another.
Social policies and procedures- Because of the rules, regulations, laws and judicial decisions
policies and procedures for selecting trainees and workers can be changed. There for the things
like requirements for an aptitude test, requirements for an entering a job have an influenced-on
career choice. Even though the requirements are functional or non- functional still it has an impact
on a person’s career. As an example, a high school diploma or degree can be a requirement for a
9
particular position but it may not necessary for successful performance to people who have much
experiences.
Rate of return for various occupations- The ratio between the ability of gaining financial and nonfinancial rewards to the cost of preparing for a particular occupation is different from one career
to another. The rewards, risk and the cost of a given career varies between different cultures also
different groups between the same cultures as well. Because of the actions related to the
government and institutions the risk, rewards and the cost can change. Based on the trends relating
to different career options future career planning is getting affected.
Labor laws and trade unions- Joining or not joining for labor union gives or do not give number
of job opportunities and benefits. It can be also considered for a particular career option.
Physical events- Disasters like floods, earthquakes, droughts can destroy the economy,
infrastructure of a county or an area of that county. There for it negatively affects or completely
destroy some careers of the individuals who live in that area.
Availability and the demand for natural resources- The job opportunities available to a person who
lives in lands of oil were discovered can be somewhat related to those activities. That kind of
occupational activities are very specific to that area due to natural resources.
Technological development- With invention of the new technologies the new job opportunities
have risen which were not available few years back. Hence developed countries provide wide
range of career options than developing countries.
Family training experience and resources- A person belongs to a family and that family has certain
values, religious practices, believes and expectations. Those things are communicated to person
since his or her childhood. Even though in the same ethnic group one family to another family
have certain level of differences about above things. Families are different by their teachings to
children and the resources that they have to provide them. Those kinds of differences also impact
individuals to make changes in educational and occupational preferences, skills and selections.
Educational system- Quality of the education system, the type and the personality of the lectures
and teachers, administrative policies have a big influence towards the students’ career choice and
the skills that they learn.
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Neighborhood and community influences- Community is different based on people who are
working in different occupational sectors, Peers who have different values and the extent of various
cultural events are available.
2.2.3. Learning Experience
The third main factor of the social learning theory of career decision making is learning experience.
Learning experience means a person’s past learning experience. It’s all about the stimuli and
reinforcement. Mainly there are two categories.
-
Instrumental learning experience- This has three main components namely antecedents,
covert and overt behavioral responses and consequences. Under the antecedent part like
cultural settings and the social history of the particular group are coming. Also, an
individual sees stimulus characteristic of a particular task or a problem in that. Under the
behavioral responses cognitive and emotional responses and overt actions are considered.
Consequences means actions which is produced by direct effects and the feeling that person
experiences that consequences.
-
Associative learning experience- This is about a person’s past respond patterns. A learning
experience happen as result to reaction to an external stimulus through past responses.
2.2.4. Performance Skills
The final factor is the performance skills. This includes performance standards and values, work
habits, perceptual and cognitive processes like selecting, coding, evaluating and reflecting. These
set of skills affect outcome of every task or problem. Social learning theory of career decision
making explains why people chooses different careers.
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2.3 Similar Studies
According to Boyatzis with the globalization the demand for the international managers and
leaders have increased and also researches about skills needed for effective and efficient managers
has grown. Since the 1970’s the competencies of international business managers and leaders have
been researched. As a result of that there is a high demand for the international business managers
and the international business education programs has designed to meet the demand of
internationally operating businesses. With the effect of globalization factor mobility has increased
and new technologies has found. Because of those things also the demand for international
business managers are rapidly changing and more sophisticated skills are needed. (Basri & Box,
2008). According to Bandura et al including the educational attainment every individual
undertaking process are influenced by number of factors. In chura’s view international experience
is really important for a successful business career.
Greenhaus et al 2010 indicates career can be defined as the patterns of work- experiences that span
the course of a person’s life. At the same time when planning the career students should consider
social, economic and political conditions. (Vickneswaran A, Balasurendran N) According to
Bandura et al 2001 every individual decision is affected by number of factors including the context
that those people live, social interaction, personal choices and educational level. Kochung and
Migunde 2011 adds more to that idea and says things like globalization and resource availability
also affect the career choice decision making process.
The influence coming from the role models on the career decisions of university students are
highlighted by perrone et al 2001. That study indicates the supportiveness of the role model and
quality of the relationship between that particular person and the role model considerably affects
the student’s career choice. In the same study it has found most of students choose similar gender
role models while owie 2003 argues intrinsic interests and high wishes in the field are more
important factors when taking the career decisions. On the other hand, several studies have found
influence of the parents is significant in the career choice of children. In Okeke’s study he has
found 60% of children willing to take their father’s occupation and 23% prefer to take mother’s
occupation. According to the present situation this might not be a valid factor. Because most of
parents have given freedom to their children to choose a career path as their wish. Margaret A
Shaffer et al 2012 says both external influences such as county and family related things and
12
intrinsic motivations like personal characteristics affect a person’s career choice. Some other
researches show monetary incentives like financial rewards as an important factor.
When it comes to Bandura 1977 the theory of social learning defines all above factors under two
major categories. Those are cognitive factors and contextual factors. Cognitive factors are about
personal factors like need of autonomy, independence, social recognition and status, learning and
gaining experience for personal development and earning high income. Cultural, social, political
and the economic nature of the county, family and peer pressure and role models are coming under
contextual factors which concerns about environmental related things.
Lautenshlager and Haase 2010 have investigated nearly 1600 German undergraduate students'
career path decisions and factors influencing for that. Based on the results they have identified two
major motivations. Because of the position 59% of students choose their career and 58.9% choose
to gain experience. There are some other reasons with less frequency. 40.6% for promotion aspect,
40.3% for self- realization, only 27.3% choose their career with expectation of earning high income
and for social recognition purpose there is only 12.3%.
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2.4. Variables of the Study
2.4.1 Dependent Variable
Career Choice in International Business Field.
In this research career choice of international business field is the independent variable. Choice
means the selecting one thing among two or more things.(Webster’s Dictionary, 1998). Hence the
career choice means choosing one occupation over another. According to Daniel (2015) Career
choice is a kind of employment that is choose by someone based on their individual, Monetary and
scholarly objectives in the life. A person’s background, culture, traits and so many other factors
affect their initial choice of career.
According to Shaffer (2002) many social forces affects to human development. The behavior,
experiences and characteristics of a particular person is shred among other people through
communication and different people in the society can interpret and evaluate according to the way
that they want. Hence the scholars are expecting deep explanation to formulate the initial career
choice of youth, teenagers and young adults. Making a career decision can be a kind of difficult
one but that problem can be solved better valuation and investigation of the opportunities available.
That means career should be a result of a good choice. According to Afidatul Asma(2015) &
Zunker (2006) decision of career choice can be influenced by following factors. Those are
Personality type, gender, Efficient planning, self- knowledge, Efficacy, Interest, reputation gain
by the career, Socioeconomic status, freedom of choice and personality type. As indicated by Price
(2009) not only above factors but also recruitment component and retention strategies are also
significant factors when making career decisions. Sometimes emotional barriers or personality
sources can be negatively affected in making a career decision. (Gatiet al.,2010) Factors affecting
the career choice either can be external or internal if not both.(Hewitt, 2010). According to Kaygin
and Gulluce (2013) there some situational and organizational factors that affect the career choice.
A job is an important thing in a person’s life because it helps to shape their whole life.
Moreover, Career choice is choosing a course of business action or particular occupation that they
are expert in their life which offers them advancement and honor as a result of their selection.
Career choice in International Business Field means choosing International Business field as the
career among other career options available to a particular person because of the different
objectives that the particular person has in his or her life. As indicated by Hewitt (2010) most of
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the time career choice is supported by the family, some other people select their career based on
the educational qualifications that they have and others pick a career that gives higher salaries
while some select it according to their passion.
2.4.2 Independent Variables
When it comes to the career choices, different motives affect to those decisions according to prior
researches. To make those decisions people always get information from the society. For
understanding the reasons behind those decisions some theories are really helpful. The theory of
social learning (Bandura, 1977) has been recognized as one of the most promising approach for
identifying the reasons behind the career choice decisions. (Heiko Haase, 2011). In the Heiko
Haase’s and Arndt Lautenschlaager’s Career Choice Motivations of University Students research
they have classified all above motives in to two main categories. Those are cognitive factors and
contextual or environmental factors. It is a kind of easy way to analyze all the factors in the theory.
Otherwise factor analyzing task would be a very complicated thing. Hence this research is based
on Heiko Haase’s and Arndt Lautenschlaager’s cognitive and contextual factors.
Other than those two factors the way of migration intention affect to the career choice has been
tested to add more value. Because of the current situation of the country more people are willing
to migrate. Hence in here it has been tested whether students choose international business career
because of their intention to migrate. Which means other than cognitive factors and contextual
factors how migration intention affect to the career choice in International Business field is going
to test in this research
2.4.2.1 Cognitive Factors
Most of the researches which conduct about cognitive factors has centered on “what motivates
People” into employment (Heiko Haase, Arndt Lautenschlager, 2011). Under cognitive factors
there three main sub factors. Those factors have been explained below.
-Social Recognition and status
Career motives are attached with prestige and status (Heiko Haase, Arndt Lautenschlager, 2011).
When people have desire for prestige and status, they intention to go to large companies. Because
they trust large companies can provide better career opportunities rather than small ones.
15
-
Passion, Learning, gaining experience and Personal Development
Basically, the passion means a person’s willingness of different aspects when satisfying their needs
and wants. The passion towards the career choice can be related with the interest toward the
subject, business or work (Otta & Williams, 2012). According to Ekennia (2011) a person cannot
continue their career without any interest of that field. Some people follow their passion
irrespective of how much they can earn while some others choose the career for remuneration
(Greenhaus et al., 2010). Cutler et al 2006 indicates intellectual content and quality of life affect
the career decisions. According to Maharaj 2008 a person chooses a particular career because of
job experience, prestige, lifestyle preferences, personality type and the commitment. Edward and
Quinter 2012 point out personal interest as the most influencing factor for career choice.
-
Financial Success and High Income
High income is interlinked with the intention to become employed in better career options.(Alberts
et al, 2003) Watson 2004 has found when the educational fees are high, receiving sponsorship or
bursary can significantly influence the career choice.
2.4.2.2. Contextual Factors
Contextual factors are the environmental related factors which affect to the career choice (Heiko
Haase, Arndt Lautenschlager, 2011). Under this factor also there are three sub factors. Those are
Cultural factors, Pressure from family and others and Economic condition. However, the cultural
factor has been omitted from the study due to the similarity of the national culture in Sri Lanka.
-
Pressure from Family and Others
According to Elkin (1960) Family is the primary unit between the socialization process and
children. Scabini & Manzi (2001) also have agreed with the Elkin (1960) and mentioned primary
relational context of the children’s life is the family and children are socialized by their parents
and other relatives for the very first time in their lives. Every parent like to see their children in a
successful career. Seeing their children in an unsuccessful career is a problem for the parents also
and they will try their best to solve it. Therefore, parents are influencing the career decisions of
their children to have a bright future for them (Daniel, 2015). Maina (2003) indicates that even
though parents think like that sometimes it will negatively affect for their children’s life because
parents are trying to live their dreams through their children. As a result of that children have
sacrifice their willingness or passion by choosing a profession that their parents want them to
16
follow. There are some parents who wants to keep the tread in the family in a particular career
path. In that kind of situation, they pressure their children to choose the same profession that they
have choose for themselves. As an example, if the family has medical-oriented career tradition ,
children will also stay in the medical field. That factor will discourage the children to think in a
critical way by considering non- traditional career paths and go with their born talents. Excessive
involvement of parents in their children’s career choice will make children to start a particular
career to please their parents rather than their own willingness (Okamopelola, 2014). As the result
of that children will lose their self-confidence.
Influence of the parents has been affected in the career choice of children (Roe 1987,Adiqwe 1981,
Okeke 1996, Gesinde 1986) Because the study is about undergraduates who have not still step in
to the practical life the parental influence will be high. A person’s thinking pattern is highly
influenced by environment that he or she has been brought up and with which type of people.
(Young, 1999 & Sarwar 2013). A healthy involvement of parents is good for children to choose
best career among many career options. Family themes, limitations, myths, connection between
family members and emotional bonds are mainly influencing within the family. According to
Bojuwoye and Mbanjwa 2006 career development is highly related with family variables like
parental high expectations about their children. Salami 2006 has found involvement of the family
as the most important factor. Here the family involvement means encouragement of the parents,
their responsiveness and financial support given by them. Issa and Nwalo 2008 argue young people
go to unstable careers due to peer pressure. Role models also influence the career decisions of
university students (Perrone et al, 2001). According to Sarwar 2013 this includes people who meet
in day today life and eventually become important to an individual’s life. As examples peers,
media, teachers, people having liaison capability in the society or any role model that a particular
person is interested about.
-
Economic Condition
This means the individuals carefully think about the economy before they make decisions or
judgments related their life. Economic conditions or characteristics can decide economy of a
particular country. Career Planning should consider the social, economic and political condition
(Kochung & Migunde, 2011). Borchert 2002 and Heiko Haase, Arndt Lautenschlager, 2011 has
identified economic developments is the one of major activity in every county. To achieve that
17
goal human resources must be allocated successfully in an effective way. Because of that
understanding the career choice is really important.
2.4.2.3 Migration Intention
Migration is also known as the brain drain. This can be result of lack of job satisfaction in
developing countries, Intention to have a better salary, better recognition and a better way of life.
( Sheikh et al, 2012 ). Print and electronic media play an important role of the migration intention
of a person. Not only the better life of the foreign destination facilitates affect to the migration
intention but also dissatisfaction with the current situation or the setup of the living country.
18
2.5 Conceptual Framework
Figure 1
Cognitive Factors



Social recognition and status
Personal development, passion,
learning and gaining experience
Financial success and high
income
Career Choice in
International Business
Field
Contextual Factors


Pressure from family and others
Economic Condition
Migration Intention
19
2.6 Hypothesis Development
Cognitive Factors

H1: There is a significant relationship between Cognitive factors and career choice in the
international business field.
o Social recognition and status
Because when people consider about status, they are willing to work in large scale
companies. Most of the companies related with international business are multinational
companies and those are well reputed firms and also another reason is they provide better
career options.
o
Personal development, passion, learning and gaining experience
According to Ilgen et al., 2003 there are successful professionals who choose particular
career because of the strong interest they have. Also, the abilities and skills of a person
which is produced and learned affect their career choice. (Bandura et al, 2001) International
business is a field which can gain lot of knowledge and experience. A person in the
international business has lot of job opportunities around the world. Hence this factor can
be affected to the career choice in IB.
o Financial success and high income
Compensation packages, fringe benefits and financial rewards are some of incentives that
can motivate career choices.
Contextual Factors

H2: There is a significant relationship between Contextual factors and career choice in
the international business field.
o Pressure from family and others
In the family it is manly consider about the influence of the father, mother and
siblings. As undergraduates most of students are still not independent yet hence their family
members always have significant influence in their lives. (Sarwar & Azmat,2013). Parents
20
wish their children to have a secured future with decent compensation. To achieve that
parents, think their children should graduate from a recognized university. Because that
parents, enthusiast children to get well educated, go to a prestigious college or university
and complete the high education to get into a successful career (Napompech, 2011). Ferry
(2006) have been studied about how parents help their children to career decision making.
In that study he has found usually parents give additional support to children when they
choose something related to parent’s occupational field. According to Clutter 2010 more
than the teachers, faculty and career counsellors, parents influence their children’s career.
Sri Lanka as a South Asian county values collectivism. Therefore, the perception of family
members, peers and other close people can affect career choice compared with the affection
of family and peers for the people in western countries.
o Economic Condition
Migration Intention
•
H3: There is a significant relationship between migration intention and career choice in
international business field.
21
3. Methodology
Methodology is the most significant part of the study. This chapter provides an overview regarding
the research philosophy, research approach, research strategy, data collection strategy and
information analysis. In addition, explanations on nature of the sample and instruments used are
discussed. Statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 22.0 was used to analyze the data
set.
3.1 Research Design
The research method used to explain the impact of factors affecting the career choice in
international business field is quantitative. According to Babbie (2001) a survey can be defined as
“the administration of questionnaires to a sample of respondents selected from a population”
Hence the survey method has been used for this research. Using survey method is suitable for this
study because it gives an opportunity to get respondents’ attitudes as a snapshot view with respect
to social phenomenon (Sekaran, 2003). Moreover, according to Neuman (2007) a survey can be
used as a common research design in social science studies. The research belongs to positivistic
philosophy and deductive approach. According to the literature review scholars who have done
the similar kind of studies have used the same approach. The particular design was selected
because it is convenient to capture the data from selected population. ( Shumba A. & Naong M,
2012)
3.2 Sample
Selecting a suitable sample is a significant part of the study because it affects the quality and
generalizability of the results (Gay & Diehl,1992). The population of this study comprised of
undergraduates who have chosen their specialization area as International Business. The reason
for choosing undergraduates are likeness of the student attribute and they are the future of the
country. Even though students select international business as their specialization area they may
have intention to choose a different career path. Therefore, students were requested to fill the
questionnaire if they only wish to stay in international business field and continue their career. The
Sample / The selected population belongs to both the governmental and private universities in Sri
Lanka. Those students cover seven provinces in Sri Lanka except the northern province and eastern
province. The sample size is 143 students. Among them 70.9% is from western province. 8.5%
students belong to Sabaragamuwa province. 7.1%, 5.7%, 4.3%,2.8% and 1.4% students are
representing north western, southern, central, uva and north central provinces respectively.
22
3.3 Instrument
A structured questionnaire was used to determine the influence of factors affecting to the career
choice in International Business field. The career factor questionnaire used in this study was
adopted from four research articles. Those are Jin et all 2022’s what attracts young talents ?
Understanding migration intention of university students to first – tier cities in China , Mohammed
A.A’ s Factors affecting career choice among undergraduate students in Universities Indonesia
(2016) , Explaining influence on career choice in comparative perspective by Ozbilgin et all 2004
and Ramos et all’s academic motivation of pre grade students in the choice of International
Business Career (2020).
3.4. Data Collection
In this study it does not represent all the students who do International Business and all the
universities which provides international business degree in Sri Lanka due to the lack of resources
and time period. To collect the data online survey questioner was used. In the previous researches
which are similar to this study also have been used the survey questioners to collect data.(Jin et al
2022; University Utara Malaysia, 2016; Haase & Lautenschlager, 2011;Ozbilgin, Kusku &
Erdogmus , 2004). In this study google forms have been used to collect the data. The form
comprises with eight sections. The first section is to measure the career choice in international
business field. there are other six sections which are to measure social recognition and status,
Passion, learning, gaining experience, personal development, Financial status and high income,
Pressure from family and others, Economic condition and Migration intention. The last section is
to collect demographical data of the population. The main reasons for choosing google forms are
young population has access to internet, it gives facilities to collect data more efficiently, it is
convenient to record the data and also it solves the problem of geographical distance.
3.5 Measurement
Likert scale questions were given as statements to score the level of agreement. The scale is from
1 to 5. 1 is strongly agree and 5 is strongly disagree. 2,3 and 4 represent agree, moderate and
disagree respectively. There are six questions to measure dependent variable and independent
variables consist thirty- seven questions. Last three questions for demographic factors.
23
3.6 Date analysis technique
For the purpose of analyzing the data SPSS for Windows version 22.0 was used. According to
Sekaran 2003, it helps to determine the nature and strength of the relationship between dependent
and independent variables. As a part of this descriptive analysis, reliability analysis, Pearson
correlation, and multiple regression method tests were done.
-
Descriptive Analysis
The descriptive analysis shows the fundamental characteristics of gathered data. This can simplify
vast volumes of data in a logical way. Collected data through survey questionnaires were translated
into mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage. Then the researcher is able to analyze
the findings to get a systematic understanding of the attributes provided by the respondents.
-
Reliability Analysis
The reliability was measured by the test of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The coefficient should
between two scores going from 0 to1. According to Sekaran, 2003 the range of 0.60 and 0.70 and
above can be considered as highly reliable.
-
Inferential Statistic: Pearson Correlation
To test the correlation among variables Pearson correlation was used. Pearson correlation gives
the direction of the relationship. Which means whether it is a positive relationship or negative
relationship. (Sekaran, 2003) Correlation coefficient denoted as "r".
Table 1
Relationship between independent variable and dependent variables
R
Frequency
Above 0.70
Very Strong relationship
0.50 to 0.69
Strong relationship
0.30 to 0.49
Moderate relationship
0.10 to 0.29
Low relationship
0.01 to 0.09
Very low relationship
Source: Davies, 2009
24
3.7 Table 2-Operationalization
Research
variable
Way of Measuring
Career choice in
international
business field






Social
recognition and
status




Passion,
Learning,
Gaining
experience
Personal
development







Financial
success and high
income


Source
Free choice of career decision in IB
Field
whether they have definitely made a
career choice in IB
Level of affection towards IB
find information about current job
openings related to IB
Level of awareness about the demand
for workforce in IB
Choose IB as the career path even
though there are other jobs are available
Mohammed A.A, 2016
Career should give more opportunities to
develop
Should have recognition for
achievements
Many ways to move up the rank
Career should require certain skills to
achieve success
Ozbilgin et all 2004
Level of significance to become a leader Mohammed A.A, 2016
in the profession
Need to be challenged in the career to
feel satisfied
The Career provides opportunities to
learn new things
Consider self- deciding on occupational
choice as an important factor
Concern about further study possibilities
when choosing the career
Choose a job that offers opportunities for
further training
Level of getting a chance for future
advancement within the profession
Financial security is an important factor
to choose that particular career
Need of financial security is the reason
for career choice
25
Mohammed A.A, 2016





Pressure from
family and
others






Economic
Condition



Satisfy with the works that provides pay
raises that keep abreast with the cost of
living
The hope of getting a high salary
The amount of financial rewards
Consider the salary as an important
factor
Need of getting good starting salary
Consider parent’s opinion when
selecting the career
Parents listen to the opinion about
children’s career plan
Parents has greatest influence in the
career choice
Friends and family members inspired to
choose the career
Family business opportunities influence
the career choice
Family show the path of being success in
choosing a career
Mohammed A.A, 2016
Choosing the career in IB is a good
investment for the future because of the
wide labor market
I selected career in IB because I want to
show myself that I can lead in the global
economy
Need of economic security as a reason
for the career choice
Mohammed A.A, 2016
Vicente et all 2020
26
Migration
Intention










Expectation to develop in abroad after
graduation
need to develop in abroad after
graduation
Intended to develop in abroad after
graduation
Currently planning developing in abroad,
Most people who are important to me
think that I should develop my-self in
abroad after graduation
Most people whose opinions I value
would approve of me developing in
abroad after graduation
Most of the students in the university like
me will develop themselves in abroad
after graduation
Whether or not I develop myself in
abroad after graduation is completely up
to me
For me to develop myself in abroad after
graduation is easy
Level of confident to develop in abroad
after graduation
27
Jin et all, 2022
4. Data Analysis
This chapter provides the results of analysis of the data collected from undergraduates who have
choose their specialization area as International Business. To analyze the data, Statistical package
of social sciences version 22.0 software was used. In the initial stage of this chapter the
demographic characteristics of the sample has been discussed. After that the chapter presents the
results of descriptive analysis. The regression analysis will be done in the latter part.
4.1 Demographic Profile of the Respondents
The number of responses received is 143. Out of that 73.4% is female students and 26.6% is male
students. those 143 students cover seven provinces in Sri Lanka except Northern province and
Eastern Province. The results have shown in table 3
Table 3
Demographic profile of the respondents(n=143)
Demographics
Categories
%
Gender
Male
26.6
Female
73.4
Western
70.6
Southern
5.6
Central
4.9
North Western
7
North Central
1.4
Uva
2.8
Sabaragamuwa
8.4
Province
Source: Data Collected Google Forms
Table 3 shows that female undergraduates students have higher response rate compared with
male students. There is no higher difference in the age limit. Because all are between age 21-25.
28
4.2 Reliability Analysis on Dependent and Independent Variables
Reliability analysis shows whether the collected data is reliable to process the analysis. Which
means it shows the internal consistency of collected data. The reliability of dependent and
independent variables was measured by using Cronbach’s Alpha. Table 4 shows value of
Cronbach’s Alpha for dependent variable and three independent variables. Because of the sub
variables have been divided in to two main categories namely cognitive factors and contextual
factors the Cronbach’s Alpha of those two categories and the remaining independent variable
(Migration Intention) has shown in below table.
Table 4
Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient
Variable
Cronbach’s Alpha
N of items
Career Choice in IB Field
0.625
6
Cognitive Factors
0.916
18
Contextual Factors
0.721
9
Migration Intention
0.854
10
Source- Survey data
According to the reliability analysis the dependent variable’s that means career choice in IB field’s
Cronbach’s alpha value is 0.625. Because it is greater than 0.5 it is acceptable. The highest
Cronbach’s alpha value belongs to cognitive factors and it is 0.916 which is falling under excellent
category. The Cronbach’s alpha value of contextual factors and the migration intention is 0.721
and 0.854 respectively. 0.854 is in a good level and 0.721 is in an acceptable level. Because of all
four variables’ Cronbach’s alpha is greater than 0.5, all are acceptable and the collected data is
reliable.
29
4.3 Descriptive Statistics
Descriptive statistics are used to examine the nature of variables and normality of the data set.
Mainly there are six measures are significant under descriptive statistics.

Mean

Standard Deviation

Skewness

Kurtosis

Standard Error of Skewness

Standard Error of Kurtosis
The descriptive statistics of the variables has shown in table 5
Table 5
Descriptive Statistics
Career Choice
Cognitive
Contextual
N - Valid
143
143
143
143
Mean
2.0944
1.9165
2.5814
2.3147
Std. Deviation
0.48875
0.47958
0.51052
0.58610
Skewness
0 .478
0.581
-0.308
0.643
Std. error of
Skewness
0.203
0.203
0.203
0.203
Migration
Intention
Source- Survey data
According to the descriptive statistics all the mean values are around Likert scale 1 and 2. (
Strongly agree -1 , Strongly disagree – 5 ) That means there are agree level responses by
undergraduates whose specialization area is International Business. Highest standard deviation for
migration intention and it is 0.586. Hence, responses given to migration intention comparatively
more deviated. Minimum standard deviation is 0.479 belongs to cognitive factors. It shows that
responses given to cognitive factors are less deviated.
30
 Normality Test
Skewness, Kurtosis, Standard error of Skewness and Standard error of Kurtosis are used to
measure the normality of data set. To prove that the data set is normal there are four methods can
be used. If at least one of them are satisfied the data set is normal.
1. Value of the Skewness
-0.5 - +0.5 = Data set is normal
-1 - +1 = Approximately normal
2. Absolute value of Skewness is less than three times of standard error of Skewness
3. Absolute value of Kurtosis is less than three times of standard error of Kurtosis.
4. The box plot of the data set without extreme outliers.
In this research according to two methods the data set is normal. The results of the Skewness can
be found in table 6
1. Value of the Skewness
Table 6
Normality test
Skewness
Career Choice
Cognitive
Contextual
Migration
Intention
0 .478
0.581
-0.308
0.643
Source-Survey data
All the coefficient of Skewness is between -1 and +1. Therefore, variables are approximately
normally distributed. As a result of that parametric techniques can be applied.
2. The box plot of the data set without extreme outliers.
The box plot of the data set shows it does not include extreme outliers. Therefore, data set is
normally distributed. Parametric techniques can be applied. (Annexure 2)
31
4.4 Inferential Statistic: Pearson Correlation
Pearson Correlation analysis has been used to measure the relationship between two or more
variables. By testing the Pearson correlation, the nature of the relationship can be identified. That
relationship will be a negative or positive. (Sekaran, 2003) Pearson correlation measures the
nature, direction and significance of the relationships between variables. Below table depicts the
relationship between dependent variable and independent variables. There are three relationships
are analyzed. The results of Pearson Correlation and Significant test are given in Table 7.
Table 7
Pearson Correlation & Significance test N=143
Cognitive
Contextual
Migration
Intention
Pearson Correlation
0.645
0.301
0.361
Significance
0.000
0.000
0.000
Career Choice in IB
Source- Survey data
According to the SPSS correlation analysis , probability of the relationship between career choice
in International business field and cognitive factors is 0.000. This is highly significant. Coefficient
of correlation is 0.645. It indicates there is a highly significant strong positive relationship.
Therefore, hypothesis one is accepted
P value of the relationship between career choice in International Business field and contextual
factors is 0.000. Coefficient of correlation is 0.301. Results say that they are also moderate and a
positive relationship between them. According to the results hypothesis two is accepted.
The nature of the relationship between career choice in International business field and Migration
Intention is also highly significant. The P value between them is 0.000 and Coefficient of
Correlation is 0.361. That indicates highly significant moderate relationship between variables.
Hence, hypothesis three is accepted.
32
Among all three factors Cognitive factors has the highly significant strong positive relationship
than other two factors. Even though other two factors are highly significant they have moderate
relationship with the career choice in International Business Field.
4.5 Regression Model- Effect on Independent Factors on Career Choice in
International Business Filed
Impact of one or more variables on another variable can be tested by regression model. According
that following table is given impact of cognitive factors, contextual factors and migration intention
on international business. The results of the model summery can be found in table 8.
Table 8
Model Summery
Model
R
R Square
Adjusted
R square
1
0.669
0.447
0.435
Std, Error
of the
Estimate
0.36722
Durbin Watson
1.966
a-Predictor(Constant),Migration Intention, Contextual, Cognitive
b- Dependent Variable: Career Choice
Source-Survey data
According to the model summery coefficient of determination is 0.447. It means 44.7% of career
choice in international business field can be explained by the regression model. Because of the
value is more than 20% model can be used.
According to adjusted R square 43.5% of career choice in International business field has been
explained by model. As there is not a huge gap between R square and the adjusted R square no
unnecessary independent variables in the regression model. Multiple correlation is 0.669. This
says that all the independent variables are jointly correlated with career choice in international
business field.
Durbin-Watson test statistic is 1.966. This is between 1.5 and 2.5. This says that residuals are
independent. Therefore, model is more valid.
33
ANOVA results can be found in table number 9.
Table 9
ANOVA
Model
Sum of
Squares
df
Mean Square
Regression
15.176
3
5.059
Residual
18.744
139
0.135
Total
33.920
142
F
Sig.
0.000b
37.512
a- Dependent Variable: Career Choice
b- Predictor(Constant),Migration Intention, Contextual, Cognitive
Source-Survey data
In the regression ANOVA probability of F test statistics 0.000. It denotes this is highly significant
and indicates that model is jointly significant. All the independent variables jointly influence on
career choice in international business field. The results of coefficients can be found in table
number 10.
Table 10
Coefficients
Standard
Coefficients
Beta
(Constant)
Unstandardized
Coefficients
B
Std. Error
.417
.197
Cognitive
.588
.075
Contextual
.164
MI
.055
Model
t
Sig.
2.119
.036
.577
7.877
.000
.741
1.349
.062
.171
2.654
.009
.955
1.048
.060
.066
.913
.363
.768
1.301
Source- Survey data
34
Collinearity
Statistics
Tolerance
VIF
According to individual coefficient P value of the cognitive factors is 0.000. The value is highly
significant. Individual beta value is 0.588. It indicates that cognitive factors have the highly
significant positive effect on career choice in international business field.
P value of contextual factors is 0.009. That means this is also significant. Individual beta value of
the contextual factors is 0.164. Therefore, it has highly significant positive effect on career choice
in international business.
The final independent variable is Migration Intention. P value of the migration intention is 0.363.
This is insignificant. It indicates that migration intention does not have individual effect on career
choice in international business field.
According to the standardize coefficient of beta most influencing factor is cognitive factors which
is a combination of three sub factors. Those are Social recognition and status, passion, learning,
gaining experience and personal development and financial success. Contextual factors are the
second influencing factor. it is a combination of two sub factors, Pressure from family and others
and economic condition respectively.
All the VIF (Variance Inflation Factors) values are less than ten. Independent variables are not
perfectly correlated. Hence multi collinearity problems are not in the regression model. Model is
more valid.
According to the scatter plot standardize residuals have been presented against standardize
predicted values. They are randomly distributed without having a systematic pattern. Therefore,
residuals do not have funnel shape behavior. Variance of residual is constant. This indicates that
liner model does not change in to non-liner. Regression model does not have heteroscedasticity
problem. (Annexure 3)
35
Following table shows the results of the test of normality.
Table 11
Test of Normality
Kolmogorov- Smirnov
Standardized
Residual
Statistic
.041
df
143
Sig.
.200
Shapiro-Wilk
Statistic
df
Sig.
.989
143
.315
Source-Survey data
According to the normality test P value of the Kolmogorov- Smirnov test is 0.2. Therefore, it is
insignificant. It indicates that residuals are normally distributed with 0 mean. Results are valid.
Based on Shapiro- Wilk test same decision can be taken.
According to normal Q-Q plot majority of the residuals are distributed close to the linear line.
Hence, the residuals are normally distributed with zero mean. Results are more valid. (Annexure4)
Table 12
Hypothesis Summery
Hypothesis
P value
Acceptability
There is a significant relationship
between cognitive factors and career
choice in International Business Field
.000
Acceptable
There is a significant relationship
between contextual factors and career
choice in international business field
.000
Acceptable
There is a significant relationship
between Migration Intention and
career choice in International
Business field
.000
Acceptable
Source- Survey data
36
5. Discussion and Conclusion
This chapter represents results and findings related to the chapter four and conclusion of the
research. Moreover, recommendations are given for future studies. In the first few chapters the
summery of the research is discussed. After that the discussion is about the relationship between
dependent and independent variables according to the results received from SPSS version 22.0. In
latter part of the discussion the recommendations and conclusion are presented.
5.1 Summery of the Research
The research was conducted with the aim of identifying the Influence of the factors affecting to
the career choice in International Business Field in Sri Lanka. Mainly there are three factors were
discussed under that. Namely they are Cognitive factors, Contextual factors and Migration
Intention. Those are the independent variables of the study. The main objective is to identify the
most important factors for choosing International business degree programs and careers related
with international business. On the other hand, the aim of conducting this research was increase
the awareness among students who have already choose the international business field as their
career path and give guidance to the students who are about made their career decisions in the
future. By referring this research results students will be able to prepare for facing future
challengers and will also helpful for those who failure to identify above factors when they make
their career decisions. Therefore, the influence of factors affecting the career choice in
International Business field in Sri Lanka has been conducted in a way to select better career option
by considering the cognitive factors, contextual factors and migration intention.
5.2 The relationship between independent and dependent variables
As presented in the literature review chapter, the relationship between dependent and independent
variables are discussed below.
5.2.1 Relationship between cognitive factors and career choice in international business
field.
In this study according to the SPSS 22.0 statistical analysis cognitive factors plays the most
significant role in the career choice in international business field. Under the cognitive factors the
impact of the three sub variables were discussed.
37
Those are,

Social recognition and status

Passion, learning, gaining experience and personal development

Financial success and high income
The first objective was accomplished by carrying out the tests for hypothesis one with the aim of
identifying the relationship between the cognitive factors and career choice in international
business field. To identify the relationship, hypothesis one was tested with Pearson correlation
analysis and later on regression analysis.
The results show the p value of cognitive factors are 0.000 and coefficient of correlation is 0.645.
It indicates between cognitive factors and career choice in international business field has highly
significant strong positive relationship. When considering about the individual coefficient, P value
of the cognitive factors is again 0.000 which is below 0.05, indicates that cognitive factors are
highly significant when making the career choice in International Business. The individual beta
value is 0.588. According to that cognitive factors has highly significant positive effect on career
choice in international business field.
Various studies which have focused on cognitive factors and career choice have identified the
positive relationship between the variables. Heiko Haase & Arndt Lautenschlager (2011) showed
a positive relationship between cognitive factors and career choice. Meanwhile Austin (2009) and
Leuwerke (2000) have also indicated there is a positive relationship between personal interest or
passion and career choice. Owie (2003) stated intrinsic interest and high wishes in the field has a
positive relationship with the student’s career choice. According to a research done by university
of Jaffna, Sri Lanka has found positive relationship between the personal factors and more
influencing in the career choice of second year undergraduates of faculty of management studies
and commerce. Monetary incentives such as financial rewards and compensation packages have
positively influenced on career choice. (Boies & Rothstein, 2002; Chew & Zhu, 2002)
38
5.2.2 Relationship between Contextual factors and career choice in International Business
Field
Under the contextual factors the influence of two sub factors were discussed. Those have been
mentioned below.

Pressure from family and others

Economic Condition
The positive relationship between contextual factors and career choice have been reviled in many
studies. The right guidance of parents in their children’s everyday life let children to make a correct
choice in their career among many career options available. Even though the level of influence
varies, Family members will always involve and help to choose most suitable career which is fit
with the person’s abilities and preferences. According to Maina (2013) parents influence their
children’s career in a positive way either by reinforcing or punishing children’s behavior to
discourage or encourage certain choices. Vickneswaran & Balasundaram (2013) indicate that
there is positive relationship between career choice and family and more people are influenced by
careers that their parents of family members preference. According to Perrone et al (2001) role
models have positive influence in career choice. Also, the study reviled that role models
supportiveness and the quality of the relationship affect the career choice in a positive way. Among
contextual factors parental or family influence can be considered as the most important factor.
Moreover, there is a significant influence is coming from the economic situation. The good
condition in the labor market and the stability of employment give positive energy to people for
choosing a particular career. ( Heiko Haase & Arndt Lautenschlager ,2011)
The P value and coefficient of the correlation between contextual factors and career choice of
international business field is 0.000 and 0.301 respectively. According to the statistical analysis
there is a moderate and positive relationship between contextual factors and career choice in
international business field. When it comes to the individual coefficient of P value contextual
factors have 0.009. This value is below than 0.05. According to the management field contextual
factors are highly significant when making a decision about career choice in international business
field. The individual beta value is 0.164. It indicates a highly significant positive effect.
39
5.2.3 Relationship between Migration Intention and Career Choice in International
Business Field
This factor was tested with career choice in International Business Field to add more value to the
study. The P value between migration intention and career choice in international business field is
0.000. Which means the migration intention is a highly significant factor when considering about
the career choice in international business field. The coefficient of correlation is 0.361. According
to the results there is a highly significant moderate relationship between migration intention and
career choice in international business field. The individual coefficient of P value is 0.363. It
indicates that migration intention is insignificant as an individual factor when comparing the
impact of all three factors. The reason can be still the population of the study is unemployed and
highly depend from there family. They do not have their own money to decide whether they go
abroad. On the other hand, Sri Lanka is a collectivist country and there is a deep bond family
members, relations and friend and closed ones. That might affect their intention of migration
intention. According to the analysis students do not choose international business as their career
just because they want to go to abroad. There are other reasons also affect the migration intention.
The possible reasons can be economic condition of the country, political instability, Situation of
the public facilities and some other reasons can be there.
However according to Jin et al better job opportunities has a positive relationship with the
migration intention. In their study they have specially mentioned developing in a first-tier city as
an important factor. But in this study, it has only taken developing in the abroad as a reason for a
career choice. Therefore, it may have a different impact rather than developing in the first- tier city
or developed
country after graduation. In above study the researcher has also mentioned.
Developing in abroad after graduation can be affected from support from the family, friends,
teachers and class mates. There is a high probability in the sample population of my study can be
affected from those factors when they are going to make a career decision based on the migration
intention. Because Jin et al have done their study based on university students in China. China is
also a collectivist nation compared with European countries. That can be a reason for the
insignificance of the migration intention as an individual factor when the study is based on Sri
Lankan university students as well.
40
5.3 Study Contribution
This study contributes to identify the significant factors which influence the career choice in
International Business field in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the results of the study show that most
influencing factors for undergraduate students in Sri Lanka are cognitive factors. Those are social
recognition and high status, passion, learning, gaining experience, personal development,
Financial success and high income. Second influencing factor for the career choice is contextual
factors. Under contextual factors pressure from family and others, Economic condition were tested.
The final factor is migration intention. All three factors have highly significant relationship with
the career choice in international business field. It supports to develop the existing knowledge
based on social learning theory of career decision making.
Moreover, this research has done with the reliable instruments. Therefore, the study can be used
for the purpose of future research in the domain of management studies and international business.
Even though there are researches have been done in related with other management functions like
HR, Marketing, Accounting and Finance, they have not specially focus on international business.
Therefore, this will add more value to existing knowledge regarding career choice in International
business field based on Sri Lanka.
5.4 Recommendations for future study
This study is about factors influencing career choice in international business field and this is a
study based on Sri Lankan Undergraduates. Even though it is based on Sri Lankan undergraduates
it does not cover large population. Moreover, the population only covers seven provinces in Sri
Lanka and majority are from western province. As a result of that for further studies, the number
of respondents can be increased and they can cover all the provinces in Sri Lanka and increase the
population from every province.
On the other hand, the research can be conducted about the people who are already working in the
international business-related areas and find what are the factors affecting to them to continue or
discontinue their career in International business. In this study the individual effect of the migration
intention is insignificant. Further studies can be done regarding that factor and identify clear
reasons for that. Also, how the migration intention of the people who have already in the
international business field affected to their career can be tested through a new study. Moreover,
in future researches it can be tested how functions like international human resource management
41
global marketing, International finance have affected to the development of the international
business field and career choice.
5.5 Conclusion
This study assessed the impact of the factors influencing the career choice in international business
field. This is based on Sri Lankan undergraduates. Even though there are many studies have been
conducted in global context, most of them are based on European countries. Hence those results
are unable to link directly with Sri Lanka. There are main three factors were selected to test the
influence on career choice in international business field. There are cognitive factors, contextual
factors and migration intention. Analysis was done by using SPSS version 22.0. The sample size
is 143 students. They represent seven provinces in Sri Lanka. Significance of the relationship with
all three factors are 0.000 and correlation of all three factors are positive. Which means there is a
highly significant positive relationship between all three factors and career choice in international
business field. Therefore, all research hypothesis can be accepted.
42
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Annexures
Annexure 1 - Research questionnaire
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I believe I have free choice in making career decision in International business field
I have definitely made a career choice in International business field
When I make a career decision in International business, I know which occupation I love
I find Information about Current job openings related to the international business field
I may choose this career in International business due to unavailability of any other
attractive job
6. I know about the demand for workforce in my field in your opinion, the career you choose
gives more opportunities to develop
7. In your opinion, the career you choose has recognition for achievement
8. In your opinion, the career you choose requires many ways to move up the rank
9. In your opinion, the career you choose requires certain skills to achieve success
10. To become a leader in my profession is important for me
11. I need to be challenged in my career to feel satisfied
12. This career provides opportunities to learn new things
13. I consider self-deciding on occupational choice as important
14. I concern about further study possibilities in my career
15. I choose a job that offers opportunities for further training
16. I can get a chance of future advancement within my profession
17. The wish for financial security is important factor that influence my career choice
18. The need for financial security is my reason for career choice
19. I am satisfied with works that provide pay raises that keep me abreast with the cost of living
20. I hope I will be paid a high salary
21. The amount of financial rewards influences me to choose a career
22. Salary considerations are important for making career decisions
23. I need good starting salary
24. I need good opportunities for career advancement
25. I think choosing the career in international business field is a good investment for the future
because of the wide labor market available
26. I selected career in international business because I want to show my-self that I can lead in
the global economy
27. I choose this career because I need the economic security
28. I consider my parents’ opinion when selecting my career
29. My parents listened to my opinion about career plans
30. My parents have the greatest Influence in my career choice
31. The example of my friends, family inspired me to choose a career
32. My family business opportunities influence my career choice
33.My family showed me how to be successful in choosing a career
34. I expect to develop myself in abroad after graduation
35. I want to develop myself in abroad after graduation
36. I intend to develop myself in abroad after graduation
49
37. Now I am planning, developing myself in abroad after graduation
38. Most people who are important to me think that I should develop in abroad after graduation
39. Most people whose opinions I value would approve of me developing in abroad after
graduation
40. Most of the students in the university like me will develop themselves in abroad after
graduation
41. Whether or not I develop myself in abroad after graduation is completely up to me
42. For me, to develop myself in abroad after graduation is easy
43. I am confident that if I want to, I could develop myself in abroad after graduation
44. Name
45. Province
46. Gender
Annexure 2 - The box plot of the data set without extreme outliers
Adapted from survey data analysis
50
Annexure 3 – Scatter Plot of the Data Set
Adapted from survey data analysis
Annexure 4 – Normal Q-Q Plot
Adapted from survey data analysis
51