In early 2020, WPBS initiated a comprehensive update of its GPS for Success initiative, culminating in the launch of a new website – featuring an innovative, gamified experience designed to better engage 11–15-year-olds in career exploration. Developed in collaboration with video game developers up360/FedCap VR and website design company Long Story Short, the team created “Vocation Vista,” a dynamic virtual journey that captivates and educates young learners.
The newly redesigned website, launched in early September 2024, is a comprehensive free resource hub for students, including:
- • An aptitude assessment tool
- • Information on post-secondary education and training options in New York State
- • Resources for resume writing and interview preparation
- • Vocation Vista, a video game that allows students to navigate a virtual town square, interact with a character avatar, and gain insights into various careers.
“The revamped GPS for Success site aims to ignite early interest in diverse career paths, empowering students to thoughtfully map out their futures,” said Justin Keegan, Manager of Education and Lifelong Learning Services at WPBS. “By familiarizing students and educators with the new site and its resources, we hope to foster a proactive approach to career development.”
For more information about GPS for Success and to access the new resources, visit www.mygpsforsuccess.com.
To promote awareness and increase usage of this valuable resource, WPBS will conduct in-person sessions at schools across St. Lawrence, Jefferson, and Lewis counties throughout the 2024/25 school year.
These full-day sessions will include demonstrations of the new website and a complementary virtual reality experience. Students will wear MetaQuest VR goggles to immerse themselves in a virtual workplace, allowing them to engage with tools and tasks related to various occupations.
The initiative aligns with New York State Learning Standards, emphasizing Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) as a fundamental educational component. The Virtual Reality experience provides students with hands-on opportunities for real-life role-playing, immediate performance feedback, and practical skill development in a dynamic learning environment.
Participating students will receive brochures to share with their families, extending the career exploration conversation into their homes. Schools interested in hosting these engaging Virtual Reality events are encouraged to contact Justin Keegan at 315-782-3142 ext. 320 or via email at jkeegan@wpbstv.org or complete the form below.
