The Use of ICT in School Guidance: Attitudes and Practices of Guidance Counselors in Metro Manila, the Philippines

A survey was conducted among a sample of school guidance counselors in Metro Manila, the Philippines, to determine their level
of awareness, attitudes, and extent of practice of ICT in the conduct of their work. The respondents showed a higher level
of awareness of communication technologies than of information technologies. They spent an average of 1.2 h per day using
a computer in the workplace. Most used ICT for writing letters and reports, calling parents, and keeping records. Appraisal
and counseling were conducted frequently but these were done mainly using paper-based and face-to-face methods respectively.
Their primary sources of guidance-related information were print-based, but a few also cited the Internet. The respondents
had a positive attitude to the use of ICT in guidance. They reported confidence and productivity in using ICT in their work,
while also reporting a need for further training. They also believed that ICT proficiency should be a required skill for professional
counselors. However, costs, confidentiality, and security were important issues that the respondents identified as needing
to be addressed.