A cognitive information processing approach.

Abstract

T his chapter describes the nature and use of cognitive information processing (CIP) theory, originally known as the cognitive information processing approach to career problem solving and decision making and now known simply as CIP theory. The theory's core principle is that problem-solving and decision-making skills are essential in making career choices. CIP theory represents an application of general information processing theory to career choice (Peterson et al., 1991;Sampson, 2008;Sampson et al., 2004). CIP theory assumes that information processing is key to learning and that learning is crucial in promoting the understanding of self and options necessary to make informed and careful choices about occupations, education, training, employment, and leisure. Core elements of information processing theory that are included in CIP-based career interventions include: (a) how persons use schemata (knowledge structures) to organize, add to, and revise knowledge they have about themselves and their options; (b) the rational and intuitive processes persons apply to use what they know to arrive at a decision; and (c) the metacognitive processes persons use to manage problem solving.

Meeting Ugandan university students’ career needs using cognitive information processing model

“…CIP theory (Sampson et al, 2020(Sampson et al, , 2017(Sampson et al, , 2004) is a comprehensive career theory that identifies four key components for effective career decision-making and problem-solving, a career decision-making readiness model, and a differentiated service delivery model. Four key components required for making an effective career decision include self-knowledge (e.g., knowledge of values, interests, skills, culture and mental health), options knowledge (OK) (e.g., specific information and organization of career and training options), decision-making skills (e.g., the process one uses when making important decisions), and metacognitive skills (e.g., a person's thought process on managing the career decision, which is negatively influenced by negative or dysfunctional career thoughts).…”

“…If a person chooses to press on toward making a career decision while these elements are in effect, results could be poor evaluation of and commitment to an option made on an invalid assessment of one's interests and skills. To best assist individuals and to make the most of limited resources, Sampson et al (2004) propose a differentiated career service delivery model, where individuals with high readiness are provided the resources they need and support if and when needed. Those with moderate readiness are offered a brief, staff-assisted model, in which they meet with a career practitioner to determine their needs, are directed to resources to meet one or more needs, and return for help or brief check-ins throughout the process.…”

“…The foundational component of CIP Theory is knowledge. According to Sampson et al (2004), selfknowledge and OK are the information base for successful career decision-making. The university's students explored both self-knowledge and OK, although, with limitations and difficulty.…”

“…OK is the second aspect of the knowledge domain (Sampson et al., 2004). OK is the acquisition of knowledge related to occupation, educational training, and leisure.…”

“…OK is the acquisition of knowledge related to occupation, educational training, and leisure. OK may be developed through researching, volunteering, and mentorship (Sampson et al., 2004). Nsubuga and Kronholz (2017) noted that Ugandans’ MoES and Career Guidance Handbook is the only standardized information provided to students to enhance OK.…”