The influence of community social capital on pre-service teachers’ career calling: the mediating role of career exploration and the moderating effect of agreeableness

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to explore the mechanism by which community social capital influences pre-service teachers’ career calling, while also examining the mediating role of career exploration and the moderating effect of agreeableness. Methods: Data were collected from 455 pre-service teachers at a local undergraduate normal college in Guangdong Province, and a structural equation model was employed for analysis. Results: The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between community social capital and career calling, with career exploration serving as a mediating variable between them. Additionally, agreeableness moderated the relationship between community social capital and career exploration. Discussion: These results provide valuable theoretical and practical support for colleges and universities in developing community service-learning education programs that enhance pre-service teachers’ career exploration, address their individualized requirements, and cultivate their career calling.