A Qualitative Inquiry of Career Exploration in Highly Implemented Career and Technical Education Programs of Study

Abstract

This qualitative study explores career counseling and guidance services as provided to students engaged in career and technical education programs at three sites in the United States. The sites, consisting of high schools and community colleges, were part of the National Research Center for Career and Technical Education's 5-year studies of programs of study and were identified as providing highly implemented programs of study. This article provides insights about the career services offered in these systems of programs of study, with special attention paid to the role of school counselors. We found that career development occurs in a variety of forms and is provided by counselors and career and technical education teachers. However, the most comprehensive services were provided in settings where school counseling programs were highly developed and supported.