Vocational digital tools for individuals with intellectual disabilities : A scoping review

Sammanfattning: Introduction: Intellectual disability causes performance problems in several domains of everyday life. Vocational training and rehabilitation can facilitate the process of employment for individuals with this diagnosis. Technology offers many possibilities in this process. Aim: The aim was to identify digital tools used in the field of vocational rehabilitation and work adaptation applicable for individuals with intellectual disability. Method: Scoping review was used, following the methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley (2005) with the five steps process. Thematic analysis was used to categorize and present the identified data. Results: Fifteen sources were identified. Findings are presented in the themes of work preparation, generic work-related skills, support during employment and access barriers. They include devices, applications and websites used in intellectual disability or other disabilities with similar impairments. However digital tools were not always accessible due to economic factors, lack of time and knowledge. Conclusions: Different digital tools including software and hardware were used with positive implications. Further research is needed to identify appropriate digital tools to facilitate vocational/employment opportunities for people with ID. Significance: Occupational therapy community, individuals and society may benefit from using this review as a guide to facilitate opportunities for using technology to support employment of individuals with ID.