Majoring in fashion: a theoretical framework for understanding the decision-making process

Abstract

Choosing a college major can be a complex decision and one that has the potential to determine an individual's professional future. The purpose of this study was to develop a theoretical framework for mapping the decision-making process. Grounded in findings from a previously published study of interviews with students majoring in fashion and the existing literature on the process of major selection, an interpretation of factors influencing students' decision-making was developed. Findings provided the foundation for a theoretical framework that permits an in-depth understanding of the decision process that currently does not exist within the literature. Further empirical use and development of the framework would provide assessment of its applicability across a variety of college majors and within countries other than the USA.

Virtual Guest Speakers in Textile and Apparel Courses: Student Experiences and Expectations

“…In the textile and apparel field, it is not uncommon to find courses with learning objectives aimed at familiarizing students with many facets of this continuously changing industry, as well as options for careers within it. Thus, the use of industry speakers, whether face-to-face or virtual, in these types of courses may help fulfill what Hodges and Karpova (2010) described as "the ongoing need for curriculum and program development to keep pace with industry dynamics" (p. 74). Further, it may be argued that this pedagogical practice is in alignment with at least two of the International Textile and Apparel Association's (ITAA) critical meta-goals for the four-year baccalaureate degree, as students can increase their knowledge of the apparel industry and its processes, as well as their professional development in relation to careers (ITAA, 2008).…”

How Human Ecology Students Choose A Major

“…Research has indicated that students choose majors in disciplines such as agriculture and fashion based on a variety of interpersonal (family, friends, teachers, or faculty), personal (demographic and psychological traits), and environmental (variables specific to the university or future career) factors (Hodges & Karpova, ; Stair, Danjean, Blackburn, & Bunch, ). Additional research specific to FCS students may support faculty and administrators in our discipline to develop new or more nuanced ways to recruit and retain students.…”

The Millennial graduate student: implications for educators in the fashion discipline

“…Hodges and Karpova (2010) noted that fashion programs must continually refocus their curriculum to meet industry changes. As such, an issue to address is the fundamental purpose of the master's degree and the format of the 'culminating experience.'…”