Futures in Their Hands

Abstract

FUTURES is a computer-based careers information system designed primarily for independent use by individuals, although it is equally valuable in guidance sessions led by an adviser. The program, developed over the past four years at Auckland's UNITEC Institute of Technology, is used there, in schools, in private careers consultancies and has been trialled by The New Zealand Employment Service. Surveys of user reactions suggest that FUTURES has assisted large numbers of students and community members to gain a broad perspective on career opportunities, reflect on their own potential and make well informed career decisions. This is achieved by providing an intuitive, graphical interface to a program that supports the structured exploration of a comprehensive information database and promotes reflection on personal prospects. The objective was to develop a significantly different system from the many computer-based products already available in the education market. The novel design philosophy, based on autonomous enquiry and choice, is believed to be largely responsible for the program's success.