Performance of job-related skill training for young people with disabilities

Abstract

This study was based on the belief that young people with learning disabilities have difficulties acquiring sufficient employment because of lack of certain job-related social skills, including attendance. Deficits in social skills inherent to employment situations contribute to problems of job stability and interfere with the individual’s ability to adequately function on the job. Thus, for adolescents with disabilities who are transitioning from school to work, social skills training is of paramount importance to insure success in gainful employment. This study addresses the need for improving punctuality and prompt attendance by the employee at work. The study investigated the initial and long-term impact of jobrelated social skills instruction for a young adult with learning disabilities. Moreover, the purpose of this single subject design study was to examine a postsecondary student’s acquisition of improved punctuality and attendance necessary to maintain employment in his present position. It was hypothesised that positive interaction in the workplace includes the job-related social skills of attending work on a daily basis. The effects of training procedures for this job skill was evaluated with a 21-year-old male with learning disabilities in reading, writing and oral expression. © 2000 Journal of Vocational Education and Trainin. All rights reserved.