Issues in the Viability of Information and Communication Technology Based Guidance and Counselling Services

Abstract

The paper introduces what technology and information technology is with a synthesis of its contextual meaning in respect to the present usage. An application of ICT in the field of career information and guidance is also seen with respect to the phases of mainframes, microcomputer and the web. A classification of ICT based guidance resources has been discussed; self and opportunity awareness, decision learning, and transition learning. Hindrances in adopting an e-practitioner standard professional profile has been given like no clear distinction between the practitioners using ICT/providing services through ICT from those who do not, no consistent initial training in ICT of the practitioners; therefore it would be difficult to establish a profile of the e-practitioner etc. Highlight of obstacles preventing the guidance practitioners from gaining e-Guidance skills has been given as lack of accredited programs that focus on specialized ICT training in guidance, lack of other organized ways of developing the ICT skills (knowledge transfer between the practitioners) etc. The expected hindrances preventing practitioners adopting ICT and Identified barriers preventing the institutions to provide training focused on gaining the ICT skills were also highlighted. Conclusions and recommendations has also been given like recognition of prior learning for the guidance personnel with ICT expertise and incentives for them to train their peers and stay in the system and acquire new positions.