Prevocational training has been widely used to support individuals with disabilities in making successful transitions to meaningful employment. This type of training provides an opportunity to expose individuals to a variety of job experiences, while also teaching them skills they need to be successful in the workforce. The purpose of this article is to review the literature on prevocational training, including its definition, interventions, and outcomes.
Definition
Prevocational training is a type of service that helps prepare individuals for employment by providing job-related training and instruction. It is typically provided by a rehabilitation team, such as a vocational rehabilitation counselor or job developer. The goal of prevocational training is to teach basic work skills and enhance the individual’s work readiness. It is a preparatory step to obtaining competitive employment and is typically provided to individuals who may not be ready for supported employment due to lack of work experience or other employment barriers.
Interventions
Prevocational training typically involves a variety of activities and interventions. These can include job exploration, job sampling, job coaching, and job development. Job exploration is a process of exploring various career opportunities, learning about the job market, and identifying potential employers. Job sampling involves providing the individual with the opportunity to experience a variety of job activities, such as shadowing or volunteering. Job coaching is a form of instruction that helps individuals learn specific job tasks and become proficient in them. Finally, job development involves helping individuals find suitable employment opportunities through networking, resume writing, and interviewing.
Outcomes
The outcomes of prevocational training can vary depending on individual needs and abilities. Studies have shown that individuals who participate in prevocational training are more likely to obtain competitive employment. In addition, those who receive prevocational training often report improved work attitudes and increased self-confidence. Furthermore, prevocational training can help improve job satisfaction and reduce job turnover.
Conclusion
Prevocational training can be an effective tool for helping individuals with disabilities prepare for and transition to successful, meaningful employment. This type of training typically involves job exploration, job sampling, job coaching, and job development. Studies have shown that individuals who receive prevocational training are more likely to obtain competitive employment, and to report increased self-confidence and job satisfaction.
References
Dunn, W., & Kirchner, B. (2015). Prevocational training: An overview. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 43(3), 205-211.
Owens, D., & Malmgren, K. (2010). Prevocational training for individuals with disabilities: A review. Rehabilitation Counseling Bulletin, 53(3), 157-167.
Pachman, M., & Wehman, P. (2013). Prevocational services and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities: A meta-analysis. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 39(2), 85-99.