Theories are very much used and reflected upon in the Career Development Centre. Their approach to guidance based on the principal of ‘DOTS’. Although more ‘SODiT’ starting with self-awareness!
The team also considering online assessment for their student’s, are considering the benefits of the assessment and what theories apply in understanding the basis of analysis and profiles generated.
Constructivism, both social and personal constructs being captured and learning theories and styles. How the individual perceives experience and interacts with others is also a facet of the assignment – thus reflecting on social cognitive and possibly the sociological concept of community interaction theories or structures. There is also a logical principal and a measurement of how perceptive individuals are, how we see and relate to the world around us..........I can see some benefit in using the information as a basis for discussion, however still feel good interview technique could generate this also!
Narrative is also used but through talking mats! Helping the individual tell their story through visual prompts, organising pictures to give meaning and importance to individual motive.
Hello world!
17 years ago
I am very intrigued to read abou the 'talking mats'! What are they, and how exactly are they used?!
ReplyDelete(It sounds like the kind of thing that children would enjoy - so good to know it's being used with students!!)
Talking mats - actually reminded me of 'Fuzzy Felts' from when I was young.
ReplyDeleteSimilar as their is a large mat, many pictures which are labeled with words, the range being interest, values, skills, qualities, these are structured on the mat to generate discussion.
'DOTS' analysis facilitating individuals self awareness, transitional skills and abilities, individuals values to aid decision making and facilitating transition for opportunities.
Talking mats helps students realise potential, stimulate ideas and raise self esteem through organisation of pictures on the mat, mapping out the life span and future desires!
It was initially developed for people with learning difficulties, speech impediments, and for those who had difficulties communicating and expressing themselves. I beleive it was developed at Stirling University 1989 and it has been developed further to help people with all disabilities and also adapted for careers counselling, a great tool, to assist all students - stress can bring anxiety and hinder conmmunication and thought processes, hence the use of talking mats!