Career Planning and Development

Career planning and development refers to the process of attempting to find a successful match [Page 55]between the learner and the world of work. Through the career planning and development process, learners attempt to gain a clear understanding of self, research occupational choices, establish career and professional goals, and design and implement an academic plan for achieving these career goals. To gain a clear understanding of self, learners clarify their own career or professional interests, preferences, and values; realistically appraise their academic and career-related abilities, skills, and aptitudes; gather information about occupations and the working world; sometimes gain some exposure to occupational fields they are exploring through volunteer work, internships, and field placements; and develop an academic and career plan for achieving the goals they ...