The positive force of vocational education: transition outcomes for youth with learning disabilities

Successful transitions to postsecondary settings are associated with such adult outcomes as continuing education, independent living, and employment. The purpose of this article is to present research that supports the use of vocational education programs to improve the adult outcomes of students with learning disabilities as they transition to employment. The literature review focuses on four major topics: (a) data from follow-up and follow-along studies illustrating the relationship between vocational-technical education and adult outcomes; (b) recent program trends in vocational education; (c) current practices in vocational education regarding placement and access, instructional and setting demands, and teacher attitudes and preparation; and (d) speculations about the effects of school reform and pending legislation.