Thursday 10 April 2025
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented disruption to university students, forcing many to adapt to online learning and remote professional experiences. But how did this shift impact their career confidence and identity? A recent study set out to answer just that.
Researchers surveyed over 1,300 information technology (IT) students from an Australian university between 2018 and 2021, examining their self-awareness, career commitment, and goal-directed behavior during this period. The results paint a fascinating picture of how these students navigated the challenges of online learning and remote work experiences.
One key finding is that IT students maintained their career confidence throughout the pandemic, with no significant decline in their sense of self-efficacy or professional expectations. In fact, by 2021, students reported higher levels of career commitment, feeling more confident in their ability to pursue a career in IT. This is particularly notable given the reduced opportunities for on-site professional experiences and work placements during this time.
The study also highlights the importance of self-awareness in shaping students’ career identity. Those who were better able to identify their personal weaknesses and areas for improvement reported higher levels of career confidence. This suggests that students who are more aware of their strengths and limitations may be better equipped to navigate the challenges of online learning and remote professional experiences.
Another significant finding is that IT students maintained a strong sense of purpose and direction, with few changes in their career aspirations or goals over the study period. This stability in their career identity may have helped them cope with the uncertainty and disruption caused by the pandemic.
The study’s findings have important implications for universities and policymakers seeking to support the employability and career development of students during times of crisis. By providing resources and opportunities that foster self-awareness, career commitment, and goal-directed behavior, institutions can help students build resilience and confidence in their ability to pursue a successful career.
In addition, these results underscore the importance of online learning and remote work experiences in shaping students’ career identity and employability. As universities continue to adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic, it is clear that digital skills and remote work experience will play an increasingly important role in preparing students for the workforce.
Overall, this study provides valuable insights into how IT students navigated the challenges of online learning and remote professional experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. By understanding these findings, we can better support the employability and career development of students, helping them build a strong foundation for success in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.
Cite this article: “Covid-19s Impact on IT Students Career Confidence and Identity”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Career Confidence, Online Learning, Remote Work, Covid-19 Pandemic, It Students, Self-Awareness, Career Commitment, Goal-Directed Behavior, Employability, Digital Skills
Reference: Sophie McKenzie, “IT Students Career Confidence and Career Identity During COVID-19” (2025).
