Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
4-10-2026
Faculty Mentor
Nadine Hanner
Abstract
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often experience barriers to employment related to limited opportunities to develop and practice professional social skills within supportive environments. This capstone project aimed at enhancing workplace readiness among adults with IDD by implementing a structured social skills training program focused on professional communication. The program was conducted at a day center for adults with IDD and served 10–15 participants seeking employment opportunities, with staff involvement to support sustainability.
A mixed-methods approach was used, incorporating informal staff interviews, participant observations, weekly skill demonstration scoring, and post-intervention surveys completed by both participants and staff. The intervention consisted of three structured sessions per week over four weeks, and was concluded with a simulated work experience through a snack cart activity designed to promote real-world application of learned skills. Program materials included written session plans, visual supports, handouts, and objective scoring sheets to facilitate carryover and replication.
Results indicated favorable outcomes, with 100% of surveyed participants reporting positive effects and the majority expressing increased preparedness for work. Observational and scoring data demonstrated that the majority of participants independently, or with minimal prompting, applied professional social skills by the conclusion of the program. Qualitative feedback highlighted improved confidence, engagement, and skill retention, while staff emphasized the program’s simplicity, effectiveness, and ease of implementation. These findings suggest that structured, occupation-based social skills interventions can support vocational participation for adults with IDD and reinforce the role of occupational therapy in promoting inclusion, independence, and meaningful employment.
Recommended Citation
Crowe, Caroline, "Enhancing Workplace Readiness Through Social Skills Training for Adults with IDD" (2026). Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium. 139.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-elotd/139