New literature search focuses on career development’s impact on equity-deserving groups during pandemic

CERIC has released a new literature search examining the Value of Career Development for Equity-Deserving Groups Most Affected by the COVID19 Pandemic. This collection brings together a wide range of academic and practitioner sources that explore how the pandemic intensified career barriers for communities that have historically faced systemic inequities — and how career development can play a role in supporting recovery. 

The search spans over 100 English and French sources, offering insights relevant to racialized and Indigenous individuals, women, youth, newcomers, people with disabilities and others. Drawing from Canadian and international research, it emphasizes the need for inclusive, culturally responsive approaches to career development. 

Key themes addressed in the literature include: 

• The disproportionate labour market impacts of the pandemic on marginalized populations 

• Barriers to employment and education for youth, especially those from low income or racialized backgrounds 

• Gendered effects of caregiving and remote work on women’s career trajectories 

• Career shocks and mental health concerns arising from COVID19 disruptions 

• Strategies for building equity through inclusive employer practices and policy interventions 

These literature searches are often used to inform the development of CERIC funded projects or as a resource for evidence based practice. 

This is the latest addition to CERIC’s collection of 61 literature searches that support career professionals, educators and researchers with curated, evidence based knowledge. Other recent searches explore topics such as Artificial Intelligence and Career Development, Introverts and Career Development, Volunteerism and Career Development, and Career Development Theory and Career Management Models.

All literature searches are available to browse or download for free at ceric.ca/literature-searches.