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A team approach to prevocational services
M Mitchell1, J D Rourk, J Schwarz
1Division of Occupational Therapy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-7120.
Summary
This study reviews vocational rehabilitation laws and their effect on occupational therapy. It highlights a successful prevocational program for preparing students with disabilities for employment.
Area of Science:
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Occupational Therapy
- Special Education
Background:
- Legislative mandates have shaped vocational rehabilitation services.
- The intersection of special education and vocational agencies is crucial for student employment.
- Occupational therapy's role in vocational rehabilitation has evolved.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a chronology of legislative mandates impacting vocational rehabilitation.
- To discuss the influence of these mandates on occupational therapy practice.
- To describe the collaborative relationships between special educators and vocational agencies.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of legislative mandates.
- Analysis of the impact on occupational therapy.
- Case study description of a prevocational program.
Main Results:
- Legislative changes have guided the development of vocational rehabilitation services.
- Collaboration between educators and vocational agencies is essential.
- The Career Training Workshop demonstrated success in preparing students with disabilities for employment.
Conclusions:
- Understanding legislative history is key to effective vocational rehabilitation.
- Interagency collaboration enhances employment outcomes for students with disabilities.
- Prevocational programs can successfully bridge the gap to employment.