Life skills development and school connectedness among senior secondary students in Hong Kong: A brief report

Abstract

This paper reports results from a survey of 12,241 Hong Kong senior secondary school students from 84 secondary schools. The purpose of the study was to assess students' level of self-effrcacy in applying life skills across three domains comprising academic development, personal-social development, and career development. Students' level of self-efficacy in applying life skills was then analyzed in relation to their school connectedness. Findings indicated that the students perceive themselves to possess positive efficacy in applying life skills across the three domains. Students perceived themselves as effective in avoiding drugs, excessive smoking and drinking, being a responsible learner, understanding others, preparing for marriage and family responsibilities, becoming involved in relationships, and managing their leisure time. They rated themselves as slightly less confident in managing their learning time, study skills, peer learning, educational planning and leadership. School connectedness, including students' relations with teachers and other students, are associated significantly with students' self-efficacy in applying life skills in all areas.