Computer-Based Career Information Systems Essay -- Technology Internet

Computer-Based Career Information Systems The adage "information is power" can certainly be applied to the marriage of career information with computers. In an era that is characterized by a rapidly changing employment and occupational outlook, the ability to access computerized career information has been empowering to both youth and adults (Bloch 1989; Tice and Gill 1991). Defined as "all that people need to know to make choices and take action . . . in relation to their paid or unpaid occupational activities and in relation to their preparation for these activities" (Bloch 1989, p. 120), career information includes knowledge about occupational areas and specific jobs; information about career preparation and where to obtain suitable education and training; facts about employment, including work environments and appropriate job behavior; job-search skills; and self-knowledge such as individual interests, values, and needs. Computers are an ideal medium for delivering career information because they can present current info rmation objectively in an interactive format that is appealing to many clients (Harris-Bowlsbey 1992). Two classes of computerized systems that provide information for career planning are computer-based career guidance systems (CCGS) and computer-based career information systems (CCIS) (Harris-Bowlsbey 1992; Mariani 1995-96). Although CCIS and CCGS share some common features, they differ in two important ways: CCIS provide local labor market information, whereas CCGS teach career development concepts online (Harris-Bowlsbey 1992). Guidance counselors frequently use CCIS in conjunction with clients, but youth and adults frequently access CCIS independently to obtain career information. This Digest focus... ...t: Concepts and Practices. 2nd ed., edited by H. D. Lea and Z. B. Leibowitz. Alexandria, VA: National Career Development Association, 1992. Mariani, M. "Computers and Career Guidance: Ride the Rising Tide." Occupational Outlook Quarterly 39, no. 4 (Winter 1995-1996): 16-27. National Occupational Information Coordinating Committee. "Career Information Delivery Systems." <http://www.profiles.iastate.edu/ided/ncdc/cidstogo.htm> May 1996. Phelan, T. D. "Using Technology to Provide Self-Directed Learning Options for Power Utility Employees." New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education no. 64 (Winter 1994): 55-61. Tice, K. E., and Gill, S. J. "Education Information Centers: An Evaluation." Journal of Career Development 18, no. 1 (Fall 1991): 37-50. "Web Sites Link Job-Hunters with Career Possibilities." Columbus Dispatch, May 24, 1996, p. 3F.