A study of vocational preparation of persons with developmental disabilities

Abstract

This study concerns the vocational preparation of persons with developmental disabilities. Training centres, associations and special schools were visited to analyse what kind of training is carried out. Work places where persons with developmental disabilities actually work were also visited. Interviews were carried out with programme coordinators, heads, trainers, employers, work colleagues, parents and persons with developmental disabilities themselves, m order to obtain these persons' attitudes towards the integration of persons with developmental disabilities. lt was concluded that the training provided does help persons with developmental disabilities obtain skills required for work. However, some necessary modifications in the vocational preparation programme became evident. There also seemed to be a need for more public education so that persons with developmental disabilities can integrate in society and be able to lead a more independent life.