Leverage Online Tools to Support All Paths and Complement In-Person Advising

Given shortages of school counselors and staff trained in college and career advising, learners and families would benefit from access to technology-enabled tools to provide more information about potential postsecondary paths, including nonlinear paths and options for reengagement and transparency about potential outcomes. Online platforms and tools could assist learners and families in understanding college and career options, and these tools should be seen as a complement to efforts to increase the capacity of in-person advising.

Some states have created websites and portals that detail various career pathways and connect educational opportunities that align with the state’s high-demand occupations. One example is Delaware Pathways.1 This online tool allows learners to explore the various career pathways offered at middle and high schools and draw connections to relevant career-connected learning and postsecondary education options.2

Some portals walk learners through a series of guides based on their grade level to inform them of steps they can take to better prepare for postsecondary education and to help them explore various career fields. One of these portals, My Texas Future, also hosts the ApplyTexas college application and the state’s direct admission program.3 This one-stop shop allows middle and high school students as well as adult learners to explore education and career options and easily take the next step to apply to any public university and many community and private colleges.

These sites are most beneficial when they detail the education and training needed and average wages and benefits in the career field. States can also provide online guidance regarding postsecondary educational options and service-year programs. Online advising can be made available for learners to use alongside in-person advising to further inform their postsecondary choices, with priority given to tools that maintain data privacy and offer age-appropriate content for minors.