Schools bank on tests to help students with their careers

Choosing the right career is no longer dictated by peer pressure,as schools are encouraging students to take various tests to determine the best option for them.

Choosing the right career is no longer dictated by peer pressure,as schools are encouraging students to take various tests to determine the best option for them. With a battery of tests being conducted by counsellors specialisng in the field,schools are pacing up with the changing education scenario.

One of the most popular tests is the Differential Aptitude Test (DAT),which schools hold primarily for students of Class IX and X. The main idea is to help students understand their acumen and help them choose the right stream in Class XI. The tests are held under the supervision of licenced practitioners and are a regular feature in many schools.

We start involving students in such activities from Class IX as it is the foundation year for them. The DAT has received good response from students as well as parents since it helps them have a clear picture of what the child is capable of, said Poonam Sharma,principal of Ryan International School. Other tests,including personality and IQ tests,are also conducted by counsellors in schools.

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For junior classes,there are specially-designed tests to identify any learning disability while seniors have DAT for careers. All these are handled by a qualified counsellor, said P K Singh,principal of Vivek High. Career cells are also involving parents to inform them about the DAT and other tests.

Specialists have also found a way in career and guidance cells with schools emphasising on professional acumen as well as exposure of counsellors.

Schools like Delhi Public School,St Stephens,Carmel Convent,Vivek High,and St Johns are regularly sending their counsellors for various refresher courses across the country. Professionals are also invited from other institutes to deliver lectures on the latest trends in counselling and other areas. Schools feel seminars and workshops help broaden a counsellors area of study and add to his/her knowledge.

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