The impact of a transitional training program for young adults with learning disabilities

Area of Science:

• Special Education
• Transition Services
• Learning Disabilities Research

Background:

• Lesley College's Threshold Program is a unique campus-based transition program for young adults with learning disabilities.
• The program targets individuals functioning in the low-average intellectual range, offering intensive 2-3 year training.
• Few comparable programs exist, making Threshold a significant case study.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term success of Threshold Program graduates in independent living and competitive employment.
• To identify factors contributing to employment stability and independent living.
• To understand the perceived impact of the Threshold program on graduates' lives.

Main Methods:

• A study surveyed 45 graduates (classes of 1984-1987) from the Threshold Program.
• Data collection involved written questionnaires and personal/telephone interviews.
• Small-group interviews were conducted with a subset of eight participants.

Main Results:

• 61% of respondents were employed in their training fields; 52% held jobs for over 1 year.
• 75% of graduates lived independently, with 84% maintaining their own apartment for over a year.
• Key challenges included roommate compatibility and money management, though graduates felt highly independent due to the program.

Conclusions:

• The Threshold Program effectively prepares young adults with learning disabilities for independent living and competitive employment.
• Graduates perceive the program as crucial to their post-secondary success.
• Further research could explore specific skill development and long-term support needs.