This module introduces the ideas that underpin career development work. It draws on psychology and sociology, but assumes no prior knowledge of these disciplines. Career theories will be compared and contrasted. The relationship between theory and practice will be explored. Every opportunity will be taken to relate theory to the work of career development practitioners. You will explore how theory can help in understanding service users, and in devising approaches to guidance and counselling. Units will include: matching theory - developmental theory - structural theory - learning theory - organisational career theory - contemporary theory - and the theory-practice relationship. The module will take place over weeks 2-11 in trimester 1.