Work/Academic Simulation Program (W/ASP)
This Three Day Graduated Work/Academic Simulation Programme involves client engagement in simulated work/academic activities designed to determine a baseline for the development of a vocational rehabilitation plan as an initial step towards work re-entry or to return to school/educational pursuits following an injury and extended period of disability. In addition, it also acts as a simulated “work trial”.
The Program will initially consist of 3 graduated days allowing for a measurable increase in productivity, essential for optimum outcome results given the time the client has been off work and is likely de-conditioned. It will also allow for observation and determination of the client’s optimum functional tolerances, work related behaviours (such as cooperation, initiative, motivation, flexibility, adaptability, ability to tolerate stress and pressure, interactions with co-workers, reaction to noise, ability to work independently etc.), literacy and language skills, computer skills, physical and cognitive stamina to manage/maintain a satisfactory work performance from a part-time level of productivity to a full day, thus providing a baseline for subsequent vocational or academic pursuits.
Throughout the 3-day period, physical functional tolerances will be observed and analysed in conjunction with the physical demands of the client’s job description. Work simulation and aptitude tasks will be used to determine the client’s cognitive stamina and to identify the client’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses profile relative to considered occupation(s). Repetition of these tasks on two of the three days will help to determine the rate at which the client’s work productivity and stamina is improving, an important consideration for adaptation to the workplace/academic establishment.
Ultimately, the program will be a springboard to more specific work and academic pursuits. In this respect, it will help to address such considerations as: the appropriate entry point for graduated return to work; the appropriate academic load for those considering school re-entry; English as a Second Language (ESL) and learning considerations; the need for academic upgrading and/or the need for work hardening; indicated accommodations; the need for a rehabilitation activation programme, workplace ergonomics and/or compensatory strategies.
Over the three days the client will receive education in the principles of hurt versus harm, energy conservation, good posture and positioning for such activities as lifting and carrying, bending and reaching. Other ergonomic and accommodative strategies will also be incorporated within the programme. The Work/Academic Simulation Programme is a comprehensive first step that will help to determine the client’s ability to improve over time. It will also help to determine whether further active participation in a vocational rehabilitation programme is likely to be an effective strategy to facilitate the client’s return to work/school – either on a full-time basis or a graduated plan negotiated with the employer/academic institution.