Self-Directed Search Form R: An Assessment and Reflection The Self-Directed Search (SDS) Form R provided a comprehensive introduction for an individual to survey what profession to pursue. As a student, I was afforded the opportunity to simulate the function as both test administrator and client of this instrument. There were three important lessons I have taken away from this exercise: first, progression through the administration process remained tedious, but was needed in order to aid in the client’s comprehension of the tool. Secondly, the client’s utilization of the instrument helped the administrator to counsel the client effectively. Finally, the instrument itself is only as useful as the client is honest, and the results are always
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However, I found it necessary to explain each set of instructions, what each letter meant that could make up the client’s three letter summary code, and how to use the booklet for career choices. The assessment book starts with the occupational day dreams which necessitated instructions to the client on how to locate the code of their “dream career” within the OF. This task was relatively straightforward once the client realized the book was divided in two parts; one with careers listed under codes the other with careers listed alphabetically. Subsequently, I read and explained what each letter meant that made up the summary codes: R-Realistic occupations, I-Investigative occupations, A-Artistic occupations, S-Social occupations, E-Enterprising Occupations, and C-Conventional occupations. I then explained the use of O*Net codes so she could find out more information about each career choice on the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). I then followed by explaining each set of instructions for each section of the SDS assessment including the Activities section, Competencies section, Occupations section, and the Self-estimates section. I then explained how to organize and score her answers when she completed her …show more content…
It suggested I would like an occupation as a faculty member at a university, or as a psychologist, or a lawyer. I appreciate why the instrument would lead me to these occupations but I am quite clear that I would want to be a licensed mental health counselor (SAE) or a psychologist (SIA) in an area other than what the instrument recommended. These occupations that I prefer have an “A” in its code meaning that I need an artistic ability which I have. The instrument lists many different types of art such as graphic design, music, writing, painting, and lyricist which do not have anything to do with my preferred occupations and that I did not check because that type of art is not for me. There is a definite discrepancy in this area at
However, I found it necessary to explain each set of instructions, what each letter meant that could make up the client’s three letter summary code, and how to use the booklet for career choices. The assessment book starts with the occupational day dreams which necessitated instructions to the client on how to locate the code of their “dream career” within the OF. This task was relatively straightforward once the client realized the book was divided in two parts; one with careers listed under codes the other with careers listed alphabetically. Subsequently, I read and explained what each letter meant that made up the summary codes: R-Realistic occupations, I-Investigative occupations, A-Artistic occupations, S-Social occupations, E-Enterprising Occupations, and C-Conventional occupations. I then explained the use of O*Net codes so she could find out more information about each career choice on the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). I then followed by explaining each set of instructions for each section of the SDS assessment including the Activities section, Competencies section, Occupations section, and the Self-estimates section. I then explained how to organize and score her answers when she completed her …show more content…
It suggested I would like an occupation as a faculty member at a university, or as a psychologist, or a lawyer. I appreciate why the instrument would lead me to these occupations but I am quite clear that I would want to be a licensed mental health counselor (SAE) or a psychologist (SIA) in an area other than what the instrument recommended. These occupations that I prefer have an “A” in its code meaning that I need an artistic ability which I have. The instrument lists many different types of art such as graphic design, music, writing, painting, and lyricist which do not have anything to do with my preferred occupations and that I did not check because that type of art is not for me. There is a definite discrepancy in this area at