Ag. Watts et C. Jackson, Networking a computer-aided guidance system within higher education institutions: practice and potential, BR J GUID C, 28(1), 2000, pp. 55-73
A number of higher education institutions have networked PROSPECT (HE) to m
ake it available throughout the institution. The impact of such networking
was evaluated, based on visits to six of these institutions and on logged s
tatistical data. The rationale for networking, and implementation strategie
s adopted, are discussed. The quantitative data provided less evidence of t
he reduced quality of usage than had been anticipated. Qualitative data sug
gested that networking provided easier access in terms of both location and
time: this removed the need to ration usage of the system, thus making it
easier to consider opportunities for structured usage, and to justify acces
s to nan-core groups. There was no evidence of any reduction in the use of
the careers services. Examples are presented of PROSPECT (HE) being linked
with a variety of other careers activities. Overall, the evidence suggests
that the benefits of networking outweigh the risks.