Facebook as an instrument to enhance the career construction journeys of adolescent learners

Abstract

Globally, the effects of Facebook^® as a social media instrument are far-reaching for all, but more so for the 21st-century adolescent. Although most adolescents spend time on Facebook, this form of social media is inadequately used to enhance their teaching, learning and counselling experiences. Schools increasingly use Facebook for social engagement, or as a form of communication to parents and learners, thereby treating it as a notice board rather than an instrument for enhancing learning and development. While Facebook is used in the health and business sectors, few studies have explored the use of Facebook as an instrument for career development. Using a qualitative multiple case study design, this article explores the use of Facebook as an instrument that can enhance the career construction journeys of adolescent learners. Findings suggest that Facebook can contribute to career construction journeys. This study identified themes that are consistent with other career assessment instruments, such as the Career Interest Profile (CIP) and the Jung Personality Questionnaire (JPQ). The information found in Facebook profiles and statuses can be used as supplementary tools to identify alternative career narratives.

Keywords: adolescents; career construction; career counselling; Facebook; social media