Skills training for young adults with special educational needs for transition into employment

Abstract

The research reported here was conducted to investigate the perception that people with disabilities find it a challenge to seek employment (Hernandez et al., 2007). It is suggested that this situation could be due to a lack of specific employment-based training. Hence young adults with special educational needs (SEN) may require job-specific training before they seek employment (Flannery et al., 2007). This research investigated the importance of specific skills training for young adults with SEN and also looked at opinions about that training in the area of the retail sector for young adults above the age of 18 years with SEN, and subsequently their success in seeking employment. The research was conducted in Chennai in the state of Tamil Nadu. The views of vocational instructors, parents and professionals in the retail sector were analysed, and conclusions were drawn as to whether this sector is a viable proposition as a career option for young adults with SEN.

The Implementation of Industrial Training for Students with a Disability: The Role of Adaptability in Enhancing Their Workplace Well-Being

“…Employers are willing to help but do not know how to help young adults with special educational needs adapt to the working pattern of their organisation. The employers do not want special needs employees to be a liability, but rather productive members of the team (Sankardas & Rajanahally, 2015). The findings also proved that the lack of work experience in industry among special need students is a factor that contributes to difficulties in adapting to a new environment, weakness in communication skills (including communication with employers, colleagues and customers, as well as difficulty in understanding direction) and negative behaviour in completing the tasks (Aliza, 2014).…”

“…The combination of these activities taps into students' individual needs, choices and interests, including instruction, community experience, job development and various adult life goals after school years (Williams-Diehm, Lynch, 2007). In addition, according to Sankardas and Rajanahally (2015), the school-to-work transition can be made easier by proper career preparation. This helps young school leavers in attaining employment and enhancing career outcomes.…”