Journal of Vocational and Technical Education PERCEPTIONS OF
SELECTED URBAN BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS TOWARD WORK AND
CAREER-RELATED ISSUES Myra N. Womble Karen H. Jones Department
of Occupational Studies The University of Georgia Many urban
school districts are disadvantaged in terms of resources and
facilities, and may serve students who are at-risk economically,
socially, and academically. Demographics trends suggest that in
the next 20 years employers will depend on a workforce drawn
from urban communities (Lytle, 1992). This suggests a need to
understand and provide for educational, work, and career-related
needs of urban youth. Perceptions of urban secondary students
enrolled in business education courses toward work and career-
related issues were examined. Findings suggest students are
positive about work and career-related issues and may form
perceptions toward work and career-related issues based on three
factors, school awareness and work expectations, work awareness
and supports, and career choic