Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1986

Thesis Director

Harry Merigis

Abstract

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this field study was to develop an Individualized Career Plan program for use at Effingham High School. An Individualized Career Plan is based on a process that relates a student's formal learning experiences to his/her career goals. The Individualized Career Plan is a tool for students and staff to use to coordinate school career developmental experiences. The Individualized Career Plan is used as a roadmap for the future to help students make effective career decisions.

Procedure

A review of the literature and research included information from field test sites around the state and from area high schools. The Illinois State Board of Education, Division of Adult, Vocational, and Technical Education developed an Individualized Career Plan Implementation Manual to help schools in implementing the program. Several different formats of the Individualized Career Plan have been prepared and used successfully in the field test sites. Sample Individualized Career Plan formats were collected and examined from the field test sites. Materials collected were further reviewed and sampled by small groups of students at Effingham High School.

Since the Individualized Career Plan is a vehicle for coordinating career-related activities, most of the resources already existed in the school setting. A readiness instrument was used to assess the status of career development activities in Effingham High School. The Individualized Career Plan for Effingham High School was targeted to improve communication and coordination of activities within the school. The Individualized Career Plan makes efficient and effective use of the school's resources.

Results

The Individualized Career Plan developed in this field study is a flexible document designed to increase student awareness of the importance of career planning and preparation as an integral part of their educational program. The Individualized Career Plan helps guide each student in the development of short and long range plans for education, of relevant activities, experiences, and services. The information gained through Individualized Career Plan development will not only help students select their careers but will help maintain their direction as they progress through school.

Download

Share

COinS