Project Name
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on State Systems and Employment
Grant Number
H133B980037
Tool Type
Checklists
Tool Class
Nonengineering Tool
Disability Targeted
All Disabilities
Study Target
Checklist for job seekers is for people with disabilities using the employment service agency.
Study Goal
To identify aspects of agency culture that aid in the job search process.
Tool Admin
Checklist for job seekers is for people with disabilities using the employment service agency
Ease of Use
Very Easy
Time to Complete
30 Minutes
Skills Needed
None
Equipment Required
None
Sensitive Issues
None
Approvals Required
No
How Administered
For the consumer, each item is read and checked with yes, no, or not applicable. No special equipment or skills are necessary. The list is available in alternative formats. It would be easy to apply it to other consumer groups with little or no modification.
Scope
The checklist items are organized around five main themes participants need for a positive, successful experience: consumer directedness, coordinated services, positive agency culture, access to services, and quality personnel.
Development Background
Development of this checklist included extensive literature review regarding the themes that are present for people to have positive experiences with service agencies. Researchers also examined legislative and policy changes and their effects on job search.
Development Methodology
Consumers were interviewed and asked to describe their experiences using a state agency to find employment. Checklist items were drawn from interview responses.
Outside Consultation
Drafts of the checklist were shared with researchers in the field who provided comments and questions.
Consumer Input
Yes
Used Elsewhere
This method of development should fit easily in other research areas.
Other Purposes
The checklists could be applied to any job seeker using a state agency to find employment.
Sample Type
No specific sample type
Data Analysis
Is Complete
Limitations
The original sample could have been larger but was suitable for the project.
Findings
Researchers found that if all five themes are present, consumers have a positive, successful experience. Users might argue as to the priority of the themes or suggest others. However, for the consumers involved in this research, agencies need to have these five components to service delivery to ensure a positive consumer experience. People should have high expectations.
Interpretations
The consumer checklist was made for job seekers to evaluate their previous or current experiences using a service system to find employment. The purpose was to raise awareness about what should be expected and provide ideas about how to meet their needs if these five components are not apparent. The agency checklist will assist frontline staff who are taking suggestions from consumers, people who deal directly with people with disabilities.
Research Methods
Data analysis has been completed using a standard qualitative approach.
Findings Impact
It will encourage service personnel to listen to the individual perspective of the consumer and facilitate their jobseeking experience.
Peer Review Status
This tool has been subject to peer review.
Is Tool Free
Yes
Tool Contact
John Butterworth, PhD
Contact Name
John Butterworth, PhD
Phone
617/287-4357