Internship Strategy for Intellectual Disability Alumni on the Inclusive Workplace Setting

摘要

Providing real-world-based experience through a job internship program provides various benefits for developing intellectual disability skills. This study aims to find the right apprenticeship strategy for intellectual disability people who attend post-school education programs and undergo internships in inclusive workplace settings. This qualitative research was carried out on four intellectual disability people who experienced work internships in two business places. Research data was obtained from observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The data was analyzed by using data triangulation techniques. The results showed that work internships for the mentally retarded were carried out with modifications to the stages undertaken. Modification of the stage of work internship for mentally retarded is done by modelling, mentoring, supervising, and being independent. This work phase adapts the concept of mediated learning from Vygotsky. The modified apprenticeship strategy has implications for businesses to adjust the working stages and provide trainers or work assistants for the mentally retarded.