NCJ Number
102400
Date Published
Unknown
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This paper describes an approach to the correctional education of handicapped offenders that emphasizes work skills assessment, vocational training, and the development of job-finding and job-retention skills.
Abstract
A high percentage of young offenders have learning disabilities that should be addressed by correctional education programs. The educational approach must focus on the development of skills required to function independently in the community. An important element of the program is a cooperative offender-staff assessment of needs and abilities related to employment. This equips offenders to manage their strengths and weaknesses in finding and retaining jobs. The vocational evaluator and educator should match offender abilities to specific job components to ensure the success of vocational training, job placement, and job retention. The offender will continue to be assessed in the context of vocational training and job performance. A curriculum for learning disabled offenders should also address the development of work adjustment skills, which will increase the offender's ability to solve job-related problems. Another program component is training in a self-directed job find, which includes instruction in completing job applications, interviewing, organizing a job search, and pursuing job leads. Training in job retention skills focuses on the effective performance of job tasks and interaction with coworkers and supervisors. 43 references.