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Maximizing competence through professional development: increasing disability knowledge among One-Stop Career Center
Allison Cohen Hall1, Jaimie Ciulla Timmons, Heike Boeltzig
1Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA 02125, USA. Alison.cohen@umb.edu
Work (Reading, Mass.)
|June 22, 2006
Summary
Training One-Stop Career Center staff on disability issues improves services for customers with disabilities. Innovative strategies like formal curricula and specialist support enhance staff knowledge and practical skills.
Area of Science:
- Workforce Development
- Human Resources
- Disability Services
Background:
- The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 mandates One-Stop Career Centers serve diverse customers.
- Effective service delivery requires robust human resources and professional development.
- Staff often face knowledge and attitude challenges regarding disability issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present innovative staff training strategies for One-Stop Career Centers serving customers with disabilities.
- To address identified gaps in staff knowledge and attitudes concerning disability.
Main Methods:
- Case study research conducted in multiple One-Stop Career Centers nationwide.
- Development and implementation of localized training practices.
- Focus on practical skill acquisition and knowledge application.
Main Results:
- Staff demonstrated deficits in knowledge and attitudes regarding disability issues.
- Developed strategies included a disability-focused curriculum, specialist consultation, and student internships.
- These practices provided practical skills and opportunities to apply learning.
Conclusions:
- Innovative training strategies are crucial for enhancing One-Stop Career Center staff capacity.
- Formalized training, expert consultation, and experiential learning improve service delivery for customers with disabilities.
- Local leaders can foster creativity to optimize staff learning and customer outcomes.