A longitudinal sample from the Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002 was used to determine differences in work outcomes between (a) individuals with learning disabilities or emotional-behavior disorders and (b) individuals with or without disabilities. Twelve factors were arranged into individual, family, school-peer, and community categories.…

Work-based learning interventions, particularly cooperative education, are a viable way to support the post-high school transition process, enhance work-related cognitive development, and increase the occupational engagement of at-risk youth. Using propensity score matching to analyze data from the Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002…

Nine model transition programs for students with learning disabilities were reviewed. Seven exemplary program components emerged: individualized planning and coordination; vocational preparation; academic remediation and support; academic, vocational, and social-personal counseling; support systems and services; job seeking and placement; and…

Defines dimensions of vocational thoughtfulness: transfer of learning, situated learning, and learning from experts who shape culture. Outlines potential areas of inquiry--empirical, interpretive, and critical. (SK)

Observations of mentor-apprentice interactions in a secondary youth apprenticeship program revealed the following: (1) apprentices had opportunities for socially shared, hands-on applied activities; (2) mentors instructed, demonstrated, coached, and explained; (3) no mentors had formal training in instruction; and (4) apprentices were able to…

Examines career development and career behavior theories and results of practical observations of exemplary career preparation and transition programs. Describes programs that apply both theoretical and practical concepts to provision of transition services for special needs services. (SK)

Describes, demonstrates, and promotes the use of log-linear analysis in research that investigates categorical variables associated with the study of career development and transition for individuals with disabilities. Formulas used by chi-square and log-linear analyses are presented, and log-linear analysis is demonstrated using data from a…

Reflects on a previous article in this issue that demonstrated the use of log-linear analysis in research investigating categorical variables associated with the study of career development and transition for individuals with disabilities. Initial exposure to and motivation for pursuing the study and use of multivariate categorical data analysis…

A three-round Delphi technique elicited responses from 18 vocational special needs personnel regarding research needs and priorities for the next 10 years. A high degree of consensus was achieved on 57 percent of 91 research statements. Critical issues identified were transition and at-risk students. (SK)

This paper addresses the theoretical and practical concerns of transition-related career assessment for adolescents with mild disabilities. It defines assessment terms and then discusses the applicability of prominent career theories. Primary career assessment areas that support the preparation of adolescents with mild disabilities are identified.…

The Central Nebraska Goodwill Industries Transition Model is a process initiated during the freshman year of high school. Involvement begins with assessment/evaluation activities culminating in development of a transition planning component to the Individualized Education Plan. The model includes development of a regional transition advisory…

Pedagogical alternatives for preparing student to make the transition from school to work are examined and synthesized into six key components of successful transition programs. Four desired outcomes of program participation include connecting theory and practice, developing maturity, gaining personal awareness, and attaining professional insight.…

Discusses current problems and issues facing vocational special education in rural areas, including limited educational access resulting from isolation, teacher shortages, and financial problems; curriculum shortcomings; lack of relevance to local job market; and lack of local employment opportunities. Describes successful rural strategies,…

Data from the National Education Longitudinal Study, 1988-94, were used to examine career-related characteristics of rural and nonrural secondary students. The best predictors of transition status were occupational aspiration for college-bound youth, socioeconomic status (SES) for rural work-bound students, and SES and vocational education for…

The role of social awareness in the employment success of adolescents with mild mental retardation was examined in a two-phase study. In phase 1, a set of social awareness descriptors designed to measure the three components of social awareness--sensitivity, insight, and communication--was developed and validated in a five-stage process. In phase…