Vocational Computer Systems And The Dictionary of Occupational Titles (A Critical Analysis)

Abstract

The Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT), supplements to the DOT, and other standardized vocational information have long been used to assist in job placement, vocational and educational planning, and litigation. Recent reliance on computerized information systems has both increased this use and provided rapid access to information results. However, the speed and clerical accuracy of current technology may mask invalid use of information system components. This article examines coding structures used with standardized occupational information to determine “transferable skills:” Proper transferable skills technology is essential to valid application of vocational information. It is intended that this article will spur information users to question and, where possible, determine the underlying systematic technology used for transferable skills analysis.