Effective education and career guidance policies and practices to strengthen career decision-making abilities in Singapore students

Abstract

This paper traces how Education and Career Guidance (ECG) strategies have been conceptualised and implemented within Singapore schools in response to the fast-changing demands of the future economy. From the big picture outlining Singapore’s policy towards ECG, the review delves into vocational psychology research to understand what challenges students face in making career decisions. It argues for the widening of focus on career theory and practice in Singapore from one currently emphasising students’ decision-making ability to students’ ability to adapt or cope with the demands of the ever-changing world of work. A selected list of implementations of ECG practices and resources in other countries is provided to inspire design of possible interventions, and explore what else our school system can do to promote students’ career awareness, career development skills and school success.