Work values of Generation Y preservice teachers in Malaysia

This research was to study the work values of Generation Y preservice teachers in Malaysia. Research in western countries proposed that young generations are more individualistic and prefer intrinsic work values such as work autonomy, work identity, challenging jobs, and self-expression. There is few research on work values of Gen Y in Malaysia, and there is a need to confirm whether the above contention is applicable in Malaysian, and whether demographic data influences the work values embraced. A sample of 118 preservice teachers was drawn from one of the teacher education institutions in Malaysia. Data was gathered by using, Super's (1970) Work Value Inventory. Factor analysis confirmed the three factor model proposed by Super. Descriptive analysis revealed that Generation Y preservice teachers preferred extrinsic over intrinsic work values. Inferential statistics proved that there were no significant differences between work values chosen by male and female Gen Y preservice teachers. However, ethnicity influenced the choice of certain work dimensions. Theoretical and practical implications of the survey findings were discussed, limitations of the study were specified, and directions for future research were suggested. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd.