This research project identified a significant need for career guidance and counselling among Québec adults who do not have a diploma, i.e. those who have neither a secondary school diploma (DES) nor a vocational training diploma (DEP).
The results indicate that 60% of these adults, whether employed or unemployed, have considered returning to school at some time in the last five years, that 50% would like to receive career counselling, but that only 15% know where to turn for guidance and answers to their questions. Adults without a diploma who did obtain guidance and counselling services were generally satisfied with the services received.
The study presents 13 courses of action intended for governments and academic and career guidance services stakeholders.
However, some sub-groups do not have access to the full range of adult guidance and counselling services, which include work training information services, self-assessment resources, career guidance services, assistance in achieving educational goals, official recognition of experience and skills, and assistance in finding and keeping employment. The study presents 13 courses of action intended for governments and academic and career guidance services stakeholders.
These actions aim to increase recognition of the role of guidance counselling in lifelong learning and its integration in public policy and services; remove limits to access to counselling services for adults without a diploma, in particular those who are employed; and create services clearly and directly aimed at adults without a diploma that provide the academic and career guidance they need to help them achieve their educational goals.
Main researcher
Rachel Bélisle, Université de Sherbrooke
Deposit of the research report: February 2015