Discovery: Assessment and Planning

Emily EllisBarbara Shay

Purpose: gather together to understand the role of discovery in the employment process

Process: exploring Observations skills and interview methods

Payoff: creating a path that: closes the gaps identifies relevant work-prep methods prepares us for the volunteer and job placement phases

What we usually know about an individual

What we need to know about an individual

Discovery is…

• A strength based profile developed through observation, volunteer experiences, interview, discussion and interactions

• Time spent with the individual in environments of their choosing as well as new and sometimes challenging locations

• Taking time to NOTICE • Wondering • Capturing emerging themes - Ideal Conditions

for Employment (ICE)

People First DiscoveryOur discovery plans will assist in: Realizing someone’s dreamsUnderstanding personal relationships Identifying natural and community supportsMaximizing experiencesSupporting informed decisions Ensuring satisfaction through volunteering or paid

work

Self-concept

Close Friends

Community Members

Siblings

Professionals

Educators

Extended Family

Co-Workers

Parents

Old Friends

Profile:This is who I

am!!

Gathering Information

BOB

DAILY

WEEKLY

SOMETIMES

POSSIBILITIES

Create Questions that Cause Conversations

1) Identify individuals who may be interested in the person’s success, we could call him Bob!

2) Create introduction script3) Brainstorm questions that will cause

conversations

What information are we seeking?

• Interests and Preferences • Volunteer Experiences• Paid Work Experiences• Social and Communication Skills• Medical/Physical Status/Medication• Orientation/Mobility/Safety• Reading and Writing Skills• Learning Style(s)• Potential Barriers to long-term success• What else?

The Impact of Employment

• How will your daily routine change when you get a job?

• Will your family be pleased when you start your job?• How will things change at home when you get a job?• Will your friends be happy for you?• What will you do with your first paycheck?• Is there anyone who doesn’t want you to get a job in

the community? Why?• Do you think you will continue to volunteer once you

get a job?

Ideal Conditions for Employment

DISCOVERY

“Discovery consists of looking at the same thing as everyone else and thinking something different”

Albert Szent-Gyorgyi (Nobel Prize winner who discovered Vitamin C)

Marc Gold & Associates©

DISCOVERY TECHNIQUES and STEPS

FILE REVIEW

How might we use the chart?

ONE ON ONE INTERVIEWS WITH JOB SEEKER

INTERVIEW FAMILY AND FRIENDS

What kinds of questions might we ask?

INTERVIEW PROFESSIONALSIt is helpful to speak with individuals who have spent a lot of time with the job seeker.

Observational Techniques

• Look for the obvious and subtle details• What are some:– Certainties– Probabilities– Questions for reassessment– Anything to avoid– Transferable skills

OBSERVE AT A VOLUNTEER SITE!

OBSERVE IN A GROUP OR CLASSROOM

OBSERVE AT HOME

What might we learn at home?

OBSERVATION IN THE COMMUNITY

Where might we observe the individual?

NOTICE ?

WONDER ?