Please click on any of the letters above to find the corresponding theory.
I have, as far as possible, classified theories using the different icons below. Classification is not always clearly possible or easy and some theories fall in between, or straddle, two or more categories. The categorisation I made is therefore slightly tenuous. It should fit in with the requirements for the Level 6 Qualification in Career Guidance, however.
Differentialism
Theories focusing on the needs or specific sociocultural groups
Learning theories
Developmentalism
Theories linked to uplanned events management
Motivational theories
Structuralism
Constructivism
Transition theories and theories of change
Opportunity Structure
Theories derived from psychology/psychotherapy/counselling
Vocational behaviour theories
Social Learning
Theories of deicsion making and avoidance
Community Interaction
Coaching Theories
This symbol indicates theories that would be of particular interest for those studying for the Level 6 Qualification in Career Guidance. Please be aware that these are not the only theories that apply and it would in my view be important to familiarise yourself with other theories as well. In addition to this, there is a specific question (Lo. 6.6.1 and 6.6.2) which focuses on new theories. I think it would also be important to focus on those theories that are specifically important or relevant to your specific work context (eg. working with children or specifically with adults).
As mentioned before, it is not my intention to offer an exhaustive explanation and analysis of each and every Theory. It’s relatively easy to find that information on the many websites and in the many resources out there. It’s my intention to offer something in addition to this, a useful summary that supports different learning styles and an exploration of the tools we can use with clients, linked to the different theories. I would also like to offer a succinct critique with each Theory to get you started. Especially if you are completing your Level 6 Qualification in Career Guidance and Development, it’s imperative that you form your own critique and make up your own mind about each of the different theories you encounter. In addition, some tips for your research - Click/Tap for further information
Normally, none of us have access to a full academic library. The best most of us can hope for is a search on the web and the few books we have. Making your time on the web count is important and I hope the following will help with that:
If you are exploring a ‘new to you’ Theory, I would suggest starting with a picture search in google or similar. This wil normally bring up a visual representation of the Theory you are exploring. But… be careful you have the right one! This will hopefully give you a quick and easy way into a new Theory.
Wikipedia, however imprecise it is by reputation, is a good starting point to get to know more about theorists. Also don’t forget the references at the bottom of every Wikipedia page, which can offer an excellent reading list for further exploration.
By adding the word ‘scholar’ or ‘academic’ behind your search term, you may have access to one of the many extracts of research texts that are available online. Another possible source of references, information and research could be book previews on websites like Amazon and co.
I have also added some useful links to websites about career Theory in the ‘useful links’ section of this part of the website.