Abstract of Y. Ivzori lecture


CAREER EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRANSITION
PROGRAM: PREPARATION FOR A WORKING LIFE FOR
STUDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

Y. Ivzori, S. Reiter, D. Sachs
Haifa University, Israel

Purpose: To evaluate the contribution of a transitional program from
school to work of students with intellectual disability (ID) and to
establish evidence regarding the effectiveness of the program when
compared to other programs acceptable today. The program was
designed based on Kielhofner’s model of Human Occupation (2004),
and on the Cycle of Internalized Learning (Reiter, 2008). Method:
Qualitative method was used to compare the performance of the
research and control groups on the following measures: knowledge
about work, acquisition of employability concepts, developing worker
identity, and strengthening performance capacity. In addition, a focus
group interview was performed to incorporate a qualitative
understanding to the topic. Population: 77 students with ID, from six
special education schools in the north of Israel, participated in the
study in research (n =48) and in control groups (n =29). Assessment
tools: Occupational Self-Assessment questionnaire (Baron et al,
2002). Occupational Knowledge and Interest test (Reiter, 1997).
Employee card assessing performance capacities, concepts
questionnaire for employability, satisfaction questionnaire of the
program. (The three last tools were developed for the study). Results:
In the research group there were significant differences between the
beginning and the end of the program on: knowledge about work,
concepts of employability, worker identity and vocational capabilities.
Significant differences were found between the research and control
groups at the completion of the transitional program. Discussion: Will
focus on theoretical and practical implications of the program and
emphasize the importance of incorporating work and worker identity
constructs to transitional programs for people with ID.



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