RRTC-IDD Journal Article Database:
Journal Article Details
Citation:
Sung, C.; Fisher, M.H.; Okyere, C.; Park, J.; & Choi, H. (2023). Employment outcomes and support needs of Michigan Project SEARCH graduates with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A mixed-method study.
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 59
(3),
233-249.
Title:
Employment outcomes and support needs of Michigan Project SEARCH graduates with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A mixed-method study
Authors:
Sung, C.; Fisher, M.H.; Okyere, C.; Park, J.; & Choi, H.
Year:
2023
Journal/Publication:
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:
IOS Press
DOI:
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded?
No
Structured abstract:
Background:
Project SEARCH is a one-year school-to-work transition program that prepares students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for competitive employment.
Purpose:
The current study used a mixed-method explanatory design to examine Project SEARCH graduates’ overall experience of transitioning from Project SEARCH to employment, their long-term employment outcomes, and their support needs during and after the program.
Data collection & analysis:
Parents of 31 Project SEARCH graduates completed an online survey regarding the graduates’ outcomes and 9 parents agreed to participate in a follow-up interview.
Findings:
Respondents reported positive employment outcomes for 24 of the Project SEARCH graduates (77.4% employed after Project SEARCH), primarily in the customer service industry.
Conclusions:
The graduates were satisfied with their employment but also experienced difficulties and a need for additional employment preparation and support after Project SEARCH.
Disabilities served:
Developmental disabilities
Interventions:
Vocational rehabilitation