Career Interventon Considerations for Students with Disabilities

Abstract

Career development is a complex lifelong transition influenced by a diversity of factors. For individuals who have disabilities, education/career-related issues are even more complex. Issues such as social acceptance, limitations to mobility, inadequate pre-vocational experiences and narrow employment prospects are some potential barriers that impact upon an individual's transition from school to work (Parmenter, 1990). Indeed, in recognition of these issues for individuals with disabilities, a shift in educational and employment policy and practice has embraced principles of inclusiveness. As a consequence, inclusive principles have articulated the role of, and the dynamic processes of, career education interventions for individuals with disabilities. Part One of this article highlights current educational and employment policy and practices that influence career guidance for individuals with disabilities. Part Two describes the needs that steer the career intervention process. Part Three identifies goals and outcomes that provide a career intervention framework. Part Four discusses a systemic and individual career intervention for Alan.