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A Delphi Study to Improve Agreement Regarding Vocational Assessment Terminology
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

A Delphi Study to Improve Agreement Regarding Vocational Assessment Terminology

Amanda McCarthy, Randall Boen, Pamela Leconte and Stephanie Smelser
Vocational Evaluation and Career Assessment Professionals journal, Vol.20(2), pp.5-53
2025
DOI: 10.52382/WERT1928.v20i2.1
url
https://doi.org/10.52382/WERT1928.v20i2.1View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Vocational evaluation and career assessment services are vital for individuals with disabilities, providing them and their families with essential information to make wellinformed decisions regarding their education, careers, and independent living. However, significant variability exists among providers and settings in terms of the types, quality, and intensity of these services. Despite prior literature defining various levels of vocational assessment, inconsistency persists in how vocational evaluation and career assessment are applied in research and practice; inconsistency can also create uneven and poorly designed services, which negatively impact clients. This inconsistency hampers effective research and impedes accurate program evaluation. Through this study, researchers aimed to establish distinct definitions of vocational assessment and vocational evaluation to promote consistency in research, practice, policy, and advocacy. The study employed a modified electronic Delphi survey technique, consisting of two survey Rounds, with participation from 21 experts. Four key definitions emerged from the study including an overall definition for vocational assessment as well as definitions for each of the three levels of vocational assessment. These definitions provided experts an opportunity to describe and distinguish the range of vocational assessment services provided. Recommendations for future research and practice are provided.
 vocational evaluation Delphi method vocational assessment levels of assessment vocational rehabilitation

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