How can qualitative assessments be used in the career counseling process to complement quantitative techniques?

Career-Outlook Information

People must consider many factors when preparing for a career or seeking employment. Among important considerations are the levels of education and experience required, job expectations, work hours, physical demands, and salary. To effectively support clients, career counselors must be familiar with the range of tools available to research this information. Of all the factors, salary level has become increasingly important as the cost of living continues to rise. Begin exploring online resources to determine the salary level for specific jobs or careers. You may find it helpful to Google “career-outlook information,” review the O’Net website, or review UoR’s Career Exploration & Planning website (where you can locate the O’Net website and Occupational Outlook Handbook). You may search any job or career of interest.

Share the information you found.

· What source did you use and why?

· Was it easily accessible?

· What were some of the strengths and weaknesses about the source?

· How would the information be helpful to an individual deciding on a career path?

· How could the source be improved for career development?

Qualitative Career Assessment

According to McMahon, Watson, and Patton (2015), incorporating various types of qualitative and quantitative assessments in the career-development process can provide a more holistic approach to career counseling. While narrative approaches have increased in recent years, many have questioned how to incorporate them in career counseling.

McMahon, Watson, and Patton (2015) discuss several qualitative, narrative techniques that can be utilized with clients to assist them with career development. After reviewing their article titled “The Systems Theory Framework of career development: Applications to career counselling and career assessment” and reviewing the information in Chapter 5, address the following questions:

· How can qualitative assessments be used in the career counseling process to complement quantitative techniques?

· Of the three qualitative, narrative assessments discussed (My System of Career Influences [MSCI], Career Systems Interview [CSI], and My Career Chapter [MCC]), which one do you feel is more useful in the career-development process? Why?

· What are some of the potential advantages and disadvantages of utilizing the various qualitative, narrative techniques?

· How can qualitative, narrative assessments be beneficial to diverse populations?