The integration of large numbers of disabled persons within the mainstream of society has furthered the development of several community based employment preparation programs. Community based training efforts are demonstrating that the work of developmentally disabled persons compares well with the work of their non-handicapped peers. Factors contributing toward successful participation within competitive employment settings are specified for the areas of (a) training approach and methodology, (b) program management, and (c) trainee characteristics. Feedback from employers provides a basis for defining the strengths and needs of developmentally disabled persons within work environments.
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