Project Career: An Interprofessional Development to Support the Transition of Post Secondary Education Students with TBI to Employment

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem that affects approximately 1.7 million Americans each year (www.cdc.gov), more than 75% reported as mild. Despite the low severity rating, 5-15% of individuals... [ view full abstract ]

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem that affects approximately 1.7 million Americans each year (www.cdc.gov), more than 75% reported as mild. Despite the low severity rating, 5-15% of individuals develop chronic TBI-related symptoms causing functional limitations (Faul, Xu, Wald, Coronado, 2010). The incidence of TBI is high in young adults in the prime of their productive years. Individuals experience recovery in some functions, but cognitive impairments often remain, leading to barriers in gaining and maintaining employment (Carino, 2012).

Project Career is an interprofessional development project providing continued support to college students with TBI. This multi-site project is at Kent State University, Boston University, and West Virginia University. Participants may be students enrolled at colleges and universities within each site’s geographical location. The project’s evaluation is occurring independently through JBS International, Inc.

Project Career is designed to improve the employment success of students with TBI through a combination of cognitive support technology (CST) and individualized career counseling services as students’ transition from undergraduates to employees. Specifically, iPads, are provided, serving as the CST as well as a virtual platform to provide education, counseling, and career mentoring.

This interactive workshop will engage participants in using assessments and iPad Apps. From a case study approach, participants will appraise appropriate Apps and advance their understanding of how the iPad can be used as an educational tool and CST. Participants will learn how vocational rehabilitation and occupational therapy have combined to provide a comprehensive service to students with TBI.