Case Study 1

1. Case Study 1

2. Simulated Case Study 1 Asynchronouscomputer-mediated support for students accessing a university careers and guidance service Case Study 1 presents Tom, a full-time undergraduate student who is unsure regarding his choice of course. He has been at university for a month and feels that the course syllabus doesn’t really reflect what he had understood about the course content when applying to the university. He didn’t have the opportunity to participate in an open day visit and confirmed his acceptance of the offer to enrol on the course with only limited research into its suitability for his needs. Whilst searching on the university website he notices that the Careers Guidance Service offers online consultations to students. He decides to send an email requesting support to assist in considering alternative options of study both within the current university and external course options at universities within the UK.

3. Points to consider: What would be the initial points of focus when responding to this enquiry in relation to: • What are the immediate factors concerning his ability to transfer to an alternative course, either within the university or externally? • What are the financial and further reaching implications for Tom if he transfers? • How might you convey empathy to Tom, whilst also encouraging him to engage with the service and seek a positive resolution? • What additional online counselling and guidance skills will you as the respondent need to adopt to in order to assist in effectively engaging Tom in a positive discussion regarding his future at the university or alternative options? • Notice any personal and professional thoughts and responses you may have upon first reading the simulated client email; how might these thoughts influence your response to the client?

4. Tom’s email to the Careers and Guidance Service at his University When you have read the email below from Tom, construct a reply based upon the points mentioned above and any additional considerations you may have. Notice what skills you adopt to ensure an effective and positive computer-mediated dialogue with the client. Hi, I’m not sure if you’re able to offer any advice to me regarding my course, but I’m feeling that I might have made the wrong decision in coming to this university. I didn’t have the chance to come along to an open day event, so missed the opportunity to find out more about my course. I’m studying BSc Psychology, but I thought it would be very different in structure and content. I’m concerned that if I don’t make decision to stay, or leave the university for another course elsewhere within the next week or so, that I might lose my chance to transfer to another course. I’m not sure if there’s anything else which is available here that might be a better alternative for study. I’m also concerned about the issues of my fees and accommodation etc. I’m living on the outskirts of the city, so getting in to discuss this at your office might be a problem. Do you offer advice via email? I’d really appreciate your prompt reply as I’m concerned that I need to make a decision quickly. There’s also the issue of my parents funding my place at university, so I don’t want to let them down. Tom