On the Role of Life Stories in Vocational Choice

We applied data mining techniques for investigating vocational choice and strength of motivation of teacher candidates in Hungary. To that end, life stories of students of teacher training program have been analyzed and coded. One aim of our research is to point out that data mining methods supported by data visualization are appropriate for multi-dimensional sociological and educational research. We assume that certain samples and predictive momentums in life stories are relevant for the interest towards a career in occupational personality. Also we assume that young persons knowledge of their own personal competencies influence their career choice. Our research methodology combines the application of mixed methods with narrativity in a sociological-psychological-educational field. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.