STUDY OF YOUTH

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23129, 30 August 1938, Page 14

STUDY OF YOUTH

VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE COURSE FOR OFFICERS IMPORTANT ADVANCE MADE [BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION'] CHRISICHURCH, Monday A development of considerable im. portance to New Zealand education was the first vocational guidance course for those actively engaged in the work throughout the country, which was concluded at Canterbury University College last week. This course was the direct outcome of the establishment last year of a permanent vocational guidance organisation throughout the Dominion.

The Education and Labour Departments and the Canterbury College authorities co-operated in providing facilities for the course, which was under the direction of Dr. C. E. Beeby assistant-Director of Education. Those attending the course came from as far afifeld as Auckland and Dunedin and represented vocational guidance officers and secretaries of youth centres, the careers advisers of both public and prj. vate secondary schools, and the psychologically trained workers of the University. Interchange of Views The interchange of views resulting from the association of these different workers was of great value, and it can be Bafely said that understanding of the work in New Zealand by those engaged in it, in whatever sphere, has widened and the lines of future de« velopment have been clarified. Topics dealt %vith included the sociological implications of guidance, the psychology of adolescence, tho nature and measurement of aptitudes, educational guidance, the use and construction of school records, the economic aspects of guidance apprenticeship, the work of careers advisers, the medical aspect of guidance, behaviour problems, the study of character, traits and interests, and rural occupations. Formation of Association

The tutors in charge of the various topics were Dr. Beeby, J)r. H. E.. Field Mr. K. Winterbourn, .Mrs. Crowther', Dr. J. L. G Sutherland (Canterbury College). Dr. Crowther (Victoria Collego). -Mr. G M. Keys, Mr. N. S. Woods (Christchurch Youth Centre), Mr. A. Kirk (Wellington Youth Centre), Mr. X. G. Gribble (Auckland Youth Centre) and Dr. H. E. W. Robertson (Christchurch). One immediate outcome of considerable importance was the creation of a Xew Zealand Vocational Guidance Association. This association will study developments, make practical suggestions for the development of the work, act as a clearing house for information. and serve as a professional organisation of the movement.

Mr. Keys was elected president. Miss Robinson vice-president, Mr. Winterbourn secretary, and Messrs. Kirk and Gribble members of the executive.