An analysis of the design and use of information and communication technology in career guidance from 1990 to 2009

Abstract

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) in career guidance is an important element in the provision of career resources and services offered face-to-face or at a distance (Harris-Bowlsbey & Sampson, 2005; Offer & Chiru, 2005; Offer, Sampson, & Watts, 2001; Sampson, 2008; Vuorinen, 2006). The professional literature on the design and use of ICT in career guidance is at least a partial reflection of the applications available in schools, agencies, and originations, as well as applications available on a self-help basis. Given the widespread use of ICT in career guidance, it is important to periodically evaluate the current state-of the-art as indicated in the professional literature. By conducting a content analysis of the literature on ICT and career guidance it will be possible to examine the nature of applications available, how the applications are used, issues with the technology, the extent to which the effectiveness of the technology has been evaluated. Implications for the future design and use of ICT in career guidance can then be drawn from the analysis.