Linking Learning to Careers (LLC)
About the Intervention
Linking Learning to Careers (LLC) is a demonstration program designed for high school students with disabilities (sophomores and juniors) in Vermont. The program builds on usual Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) services to emphasize unpaid and paid work-based learning experiences (WBLEs) in integrated environments, college exploration and coursework opportunities at the Community College of Vermont, team-based guidance and support from DVR staff (including transition counselors, career consultants, and youth employment specialists), dedicated assistive technology support, and additional transportation funding. LLC's goal was to provide each treatment group member with three WBLEs during their involvement in the program, including one job shadow experience, one unpaid internship or volunteer experience, and one employer-paid WBLE. The program used assessment tools like the O*NET Interest Profiler to align youth's interests with job opportunities. LLC staff used optional planning tools, including the LLC Career Pathway Plan, to gather treatment group members' short- and long-term career goals. The program was implemented across 12 district offices in Vermont from April 2017 to summer 2021.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect: on service use (25% had at least two WBLEs including one paid vs. 9% control)
Positive effect: on having at least one WBLE (68% vs. 28% control)
Positive effect: on postsecondary education enrollment (31% vs. 22% control)
Positive effect: on enrollment at Community College of Vermont (22% vs. 15% control)
No effect: on employment within 24 months overall (66% vs. 61% control)
Positive effect: on employment for later enrollees (66% vs. 55% control)
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
Those with DisabilitiesPrograms & Services
General Education, Special Education ServicesDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s)Citation
Feeney, K., Honeycutt, T., Peterson, E. & Sevak, P. (2021). Linking Learning to Careers Demonstration: Impacts 24 Months After Enrollment (ED614751). ERIC.
Study Demographics
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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