Manuals on Methods and Procedures

Here are tools presented we used in the testing phase. The presentation also contains a list according to the following features: user-friendliness, possible costs, or licenses, learning effects, general application possibilities, user tutorials (if possible, from the creator/operator) and an assessment by the project group.

The methods and procedures are presented here according to the learning environments and the various possible applications.

Martin, Austria

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Massimo, Vicenza

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Peter, Berlin

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Susanne, Berlin

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Vanessa, Austria

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Birgit, Austria

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Elisa, Italy

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Giacomo, Vicenza

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Karin, Germany

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Questions can be asked here and will be forwarded to all users with the request for answers.

 Recommendations for the 5 learning environments

1. Career Orientation at School: Preparation for Education and Career

In this classic learning environment, young people receive an initial overview of various occupational fields and career paths within the school. Teachers and career guidance teachers are the main ones responsible for preparing students for the world of work through targeted teaching units, projects and information events. Guest lectures by professionals and excursions to companies complement the program to ensure practical insights.

Recommendations:

• Targeted use of digital tools: Teachers should choose digital tools that enable interactive exploration of different professional fields while contributing to the development of students’ digital skills.
• Involvement of external experts: Digital platforms can be used to organize guest lectures by professionals and thus bring practical insights directly into the classroom.
• Promoting self-reflection: Tools that enable students to reflect on their strengths and interests are essential to support them in their individual career orientation.

2. Extracurricular career orientation: Building bridges for young people

This learning environment offers young people the opportunity to acquire more in-depth knowledge and skills in specialised courses or activities offered outside of school by educational organisations, associations or local employment agencies. There are special offers for young people with special challenges. Here, they are supported by experienced educational and career counsellors who respond individually to the interests and abilities of the young people and help them to find their professional direction and make decisions.

Recommendations:

• Individual support: Educational organizations should use digital tools that allow for individualized care and support to address the specific needs of each young person.
• Networking and resource sharing: Platforms that promote exchanges between young people and facilitate access to information materials can support orientation and decision-making.

3. Pure practice: professional experience directly in the company

In companies, young people are given the opportunity to gain direct professional experience through internships or training programmes. You will learn about specific work processes and requirements and will be able to get a realistic picture of everyday working life. Trainers and employees of the company are responsible for the support and guidance, who act as mentors to the young people and offer them valuable insights into professional practice.

Recommendations:

• Digital portfolios: Businesses can help young people create digital portfolios of their work and learning experiences that will serve as a valuable resource for their future careers.
• Virtual company tours: The use of virtual reality tools can allow young people to virtually explore different occupational fields and work environments and thus gain a realistic impression of different career paths.
• To learn skills and develop professionally.

4. Personal advice: Tailor-made paths in education and work

In individual or small group-oriented counselling phases, educational and career counsellors offer personal support in various organisations such as counselling centres or employment agencies. This includes assistance in the preparation of application documents, preparation for job interviews and the development of individual career plans. The counsellors use their expertise to respond to the personal needs and situations of the young people and to support them in a targeted manner.

Recommendations:

• Use of interactive counselling tools: Counsellors should use digital tools that include interactive elements such as career planners or skills tests to support young people in their decision-making process.
• Digitally supported career planning: Using online career planning platforms can help you set individual goals, track progress, and make adjustments.

5. Across Borders: European Perspectives in Career Guidance

Cross-border “European” learning environments give young people the opportunity to look beyond the national framework and explore international career opportunities. Through programmes such as Erasmus+ or other European exchange programmes, they are supported by coordinators and international career counsellors. These offer insights into the European labour market, promote the development of intercultural competences and support the planning of stays or internships abroad in order to improve career opportunities in an international environment.

 Recommendations:

• Promoting intercultural competence: Digital tools that provide insights into the international labour market and promote intercultural learning are essential to show young people the diversity of career opportunities in Europe.
• Use of international networks: Platforms that enable exchange with peers and professionals from other countries can promote networking and broaden perspectives on international career opportunities.