Adaptation of the Knowledge Validation Inventory to Measure Training Needs of Vocational Rehabilitation Service Providers in Kuwait Schools

Abstract

Research on vocational rehabilitation in Kuwait is limited, in part, due to the availability of instruments validated for use in Arab countries. The purpose of this study was to adapt the Knowledge Validation Inventory (KVI) for use in Arabic populations and to determine the psychometric characteristics of the adapted inventory for assessing the training needs of vocational rehabilitation service providers in Kuwait. The Knowledge Validation Inventory-Arabic Version (KVI-A) was administered to a convenient sample of 764 service providers from Kuwait special schools. Internal consistency for the three scales of the KVI-A ranged from .94 to .97. Exploratory factor analysis identified six distinct factors: (a) assessment and career counseling; (b) resources and services of rehabilitation; (c) counseling theories, techniques, and applications; (d) medical, environmental, and functional implications of disability; (e) case management; and (f) techniques and strategies of disability prevention and working effectively. Years of experience, job title, and service provider qualifications predicted training needs scores. Significant differences in knowledge domains and training needs were obtained across the identified predictor variables. Evidence suggests that the KVI-A is applicable for use in primarily Arab countries. The knowledge domains identified can be used to develop a training curriculum and certification credentials for Kuwait.

Challenges and Opportunities in International Partnerships in Rehabilitation Counselling: An Exploratory Study

“…In countries not formally recognising the profession of rehabilitation counselling, service delivery systems are based on medical models and typically employ occupational therapists, social workers or various medical professionals. These system differences create both service incompatibilities and limit jobs in countries developing rehabilitation counselling programs (Alfawair & Lee, 2015; Yaeda et al, 2015).…”

Assessing Vocational Rehabilitation Professionals’ Competencies in Taiwan

“…One of the variables affecting personal competence in job-related responsibilities is knowledge of topics relevant to performance. Also, effective training and professional development enhance employee’s personal motivation, assist professionals to keep up with a rapidly changing practice environment, and help them to become aligned with the requirements for career growth (Alfawair & Lee, 2015; Hasson, 2006; Roessler & Mullins, 1995; Truitt, 2011; Wheaton & Granello, 2002). The scope of VR services is global in nature; however, little is known about empirically identified domains of professional competence required to provide high quality VR services to facilitate career development and community integration for persons with disabilities in countries outside of the United States.…”

Introduction to the Special Issue on International Rehabilitation Counseling Research

“…Factor analysis results yield three competency factors: (a) vocational counseling, (b) workplace disability case management, and (c) workplace intervention and program management. Similarly, Alfawair and Lee (2015) adapted the Knowledge Validation Inventory (KVI) to assess training needs of vocational rehabilitation service providers in Kuwait. Their factor analysis of the KVI yielded six knowledge domains: (a) assessment and career counseling; (b) resources and services of rehabilitation; (c) counseling theories, techniques, and applications; (d) medical, environmental, and functional implications of disability; (e) case management; and (f) techniques and strategies of disability prevention and working effectively.…”