Needs analysis for the major autonomous selection system: Focusing on the perceptions of University A members

Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore practical operation plans for the major autonomous selection system that are suitable for university settings, based on the results of analysis of university members' perceptions and needs regarding the operation of the major autonomous selection system. Methods To achieve the purpose of the study, an online survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire targeting members of University A. The collected data were subjected to ‘Importance-Practice Analysis(IPA)’, ‘Borich needs Analysis’, and ‘The Locus for Focus Model Analysis’, and the results were synthesized to analyze the perception of University A members' major selection system. Results First, in the IPA analysis, 2 items (career course contents that helps career exploration and major decision-making, an administrative management organization) were classified as ‘Concentrate here’ area, with high importance but low performance. The priority order according to Borich's needs includes ‘career course contents’, ‘administrative management organization’, ‘communication support with seniors, juniors, and classmates’. The Locus for Focus model analysis revealed that the HH area consisted of 4 items, including ‘career course contents’, ‘career counseling’, ‘administrative management organization’, ‘communication support with seniors, juniors, and classmates’. Conclusions Based on the results of this study, in order to successfully operate a major autonomous selection system at University A, first, educational content that can foster students' autonomy to explore their own career paths, and second, provide students with opportunities to explore various majors. It is suggested that educational content that covers the basics of majors that can be done, and an administrative support system that can take full charge of managing students who entered the program through the self-selecting major system should be established.