Practical Ideas: Deeper Understanding

Let students draw themselves in their desired future job. By visualize themselves as already having the job, the goal becomes sharper, and chances of reaching it increases.

The act of drawing might help clarify misconceptions students might have about a desired career which does not correspond to reality. Their art might give you an idea of your students' feelings and perceptions so that you can help them.

Some discussion about job requirements might be useful. Stress that "want to" is important, but not the only factor when selecting a career.

For health related careers, inquire about common illnesses in their communities (like high cholesterol, triglicerides, diabetes). Ask them to do research, and add useful web resources to the list for their career choice. (Example: Those wanting to be doctors may add resources using the form at Resources for doctors.)

An interesting exchange between students wanting to be electricians might be to map different electricity standards used around the world (110 or 220 volts, 50 or 60 hertz). What do these terms mean? Let them answer the question "Would you be able to plug it here?" Power plugs have at least a dozen different standards which might make it impossible to plug a device even when using the same voltage.

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