WORKADAY LIFE

Evening Post, Volume CXXV, Issue 37, 14 February 1938, Page 10

WORKADAY LIFE

VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE

VISIT OF MR. H.J.WELCH

(By Telegraph—Press Association.)

AUCKLAND, February 13. The application of a comprehensive scheme of . vocational guidance, the^ use of a scientific system of investigation into working conditions in various'types of industry in order to reduce the fatigue of employees ■ and the pursuit of important research and education were phases of the activities of the National Institute of Industrial Psychology as outlined by one of its two founders,. Mr. H. J. Welch, London,, when' he arrived in Auckland by the Rangitiki on Saturday.

"At the institute's head office about 1500 young people are examined and advised every year and many others receive the same advantage at various schools and colleges, either with or without the assistance of our organisation," Mr. Welch stated. "The ultimate ideal is to have a careers master in every school who will keep continuous records of each student, and finally advice will be given by a specially-trained psychologist who examines the files, and, if possible, the student as well." Another important phase of the work was given to employers and labour movements as to the suitability of machines, light and air conditions, and all factors that tended to remove causes of unnecessary fatigue and ill health.* It was not aimed to press the employee to work beyond his strength, nor in any way to endanger his health. The investigations sought to reduce the number of movements and to design machinery, tools, and equipment most suited to specific needs. • __ .