PSYCHOMETRIC INTEGRATION IN DIGITAL VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE: DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A RULE-BASED EXPERT SYSTEM FOR ENGINEERING CAREER COUNSELING

Abstract

This study presents the development and psychometric validation of a rule-based expert system designed to enhance vocational guidance in engineering education. Integrating Holland’s RIASEC typology with aptitude and interest scales, the system employs rule-based reasoning to generate individualized career recommendations. A total of 120 participants completed the digital assessments, and results demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.89) and significant correlation with counselor evaluations (r = 0.74, p < 0.01). Predictive accuracy for career alignment reached 85–91% across engineering programs, while usability testing yielded a mean System Usability Scale score of 82, denoting excellent user experience. These findings confirm the system’s psychometric soundness and applied reliability, illustrating that digital platforms can uphold psychological measurement standards while expanding access to personalized guidance. The research contributes to advancing applied psychometrics and evidence-based decision-making in vocational counseling.