prevocational training
Preparatory interventions designed to develop fundamental work-related skills and behaviors before formal vocational training or job placement.
Full Definition
Prevocational training encompasses interventions that prepare individuals for eventual entry into vocational programs or competitive employment by addressing foundational work-related competencies. This approach focuses on developing basic work behaviors such as punctuality, task persistence, following directions, and interpersonal skills rather than specific job skills. Prevocational programs often include assessment of work tolerance, attention span, and ability to follow safety procedures. Occupational therapists use prevocational training particularly with clients who have cognitive, psychiatric, or developmental disabilities to build the prerequisite skills necessary for successful vocational rehabilitation.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective (pre-vocational training); use as one word when used as a noun.
In Context
- "The client participated in a six-week prevocational training program to develop basic work habits and social skills." — Rehabilitation report
- "Prevocational training included simulated work tasks to assess the individual's readiness for competitive employment." — Vocational assessment summary