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Enhance A Worker's Ability To Learn And Perform Independently
In some instances, using a compensatory strategy will eliminate instruction and allow the individual to participate in activities which he/she otherwise would not be able. There are multiple strategies that can be used for any support need. Brainstorming by the worker who has a disability, the employer, coworkers, and job coaches can usually generate a list of possible options. The following provides some examples of possible compensatory strategies.
Worker needs a strategy to sequence his/her job duties.
- written list
- recorded instructions
- picture book
- assignment board
- imagery (e.g., worker visualizes himself walking a specific route)
- place/environmental "markers" (e.g., walk to the windows, look for the green file cabinet, walk to it, etc.)
- map or line drawing
- picture cues
Worker needs to organize copy requests to complete work assignments.
- in/out box for each person requesting work
- stacking files for organizing requests by days of the week
- audio cassette of requests
Care should be given to the design and construction of strategies to ensure that they do not stigmatize the worker.
It is helpful to remember that:
- Strategies should be those that any adult would use within a work environment and would be accepted by the work culture.
- Using a compensatory strategy may require instruction and should be included within task analyses that are developed.
- If instruction is required, the worker, employer, coworkers, and the employment specialist should decide who will provide the support.
- If the job coach provides the initial training, a design for fading support to that naturally occurring in the workplace should be developed and implemented as soon as possible
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