Information search as an indication of rationality in student choice of higher education

Abstract

This paper investigates the degree of information search that precedes the choice of a private third-level educational institution in Cyprus. Information search is used as an indication of rationality in order to provide a test for the economic approach to the explanation of human behaviour. A survey was conducted among 120 college students in the academic year 1998/99. The findings indicate that information search among students contemplating the choice of a private college was less than expected under traditional economic theory. Logistic regression analysis was used in order to identify characteristics associated with the propensity to engage in information search: low socioeconomic status students and students who perceived the decision as important were found to be more likely to engage in information search. The paper points to the need for taking into account the influence of both economic and non-economic variables in the attempt to explain human behaviour. © 2004 Taylor & Francis Ltd.