Feasibility of using counseling methods for identification of aptitude

The importance of the structure of aptitude as a determining element in choosing life paths in general and educational and professional careers in particular has always been acknowledged by the researchers of the field. Amongst miscellaneous majors sub-classified under the educative and behavioral sciences, it seems that despite having a prominent and influential position in different areas especially educational and professional ones, and also enjoying a high level of scientific richness and meaningful content in terms of theorizing and producing new knowledge, Counseling has not explicitly addressed the subject matter of aptitude at sufficient length. The present qualitative research has made an attempt to delve into identification of aptitude by using two qualitative methods, i.e. synthetic analysis and theme analysis. To accomplish this goal, the technical texts in counselling were referred to so as to collect and record their views about the ways in which aptitude can be identified. The obtained data was then analyzed by seven-level Colaizzi’s method and drawing a network of themes was made possible. By drawing a network of themes, 29 counseling methods and techniques which could be used in aptitude identification precess were specified. The results of this research, which is regarded as basic research and a prerequisite, can be used effectively to take the next step towards devising a model and a domestic method for identification of aptitude in Iran. Keywords: identification of aptitude, talent, counseling methods