Process evaluation of an autism-specific workplace tool for employersShow others and affiliations
2022 (English)In: Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy, ISSN 1103-8128, E-ISSN 1651-2014, Vol. 29, no 8, p. 686-698Article in journal (Refereed) Published
Abstract [en]
Background Limited studies exist exploring employers capacity in hiring and supporting employees on the autism spectrum, and even fewer have considered interventions targeting employers skills and knowledge in enhancing employment opportunities. In response to this need, the Integrated Employment Success Tool (IESTTM) was developed and its effectiveness established in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Furthermore, a process evaluation was conducted to determine the usability and implementation of the IESTTM. Aims/objectives The process evaluation was conducted to determine employers perceived usability, implementation, and perceived barriers and facilitators in using the IESTTM. Material and methods Employers (N = 29) provided their feedbackviaan online questionnaire. Of these, 11 participants were interviewed, further exploring their experiences. Data were analysedviadescriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results While employers frequency and usage of the IEST(TM)varied across workplaces, it was predominantly used to increase employers knowledge of autism and implement workplace strategies. A major barrier was the paper-based format of the intervention, with more than 60% of employers indicating the need for an online version. Conclusions and significance The process evaluation was a critical step in understandingwhythe IEST(TM)was effective, and how it could be further optimized for prospective employers.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD , 2022. Vol. 29, no 8, p. 686-698
Keywords [en]
Autism spectrum disorder; complex intervention; employment; hiring; work environment
National Category
Occupational Therapy
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-170565DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2020.1820571ISI: 000571556900001PubMedID: 32955966OAI: oai:DiVA.org:liu-170565DiVA, id: diva2:1476934
Note
Funding Agencies|Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC) under the Australian Governments Cooperative Research Centres ProgramAustralian GovernmentDepartment of Industry, Innovation and ScienceCooperative Research Centres (CRC) Programme; Curtin University
2020-10-162020-10-162022-10-21