Analysis of hours of direct training provided by employment specialists to supported employees.

A repeated measures analysis of the hours of direct training and the ratio of the hours of direct training to the hours worked by supported employees was conducted for two cohorts of supported employees with mental retardation employed for 6 and 12 consecutive months. Results indicated little change in the amount of direct training over time. Type of supported employment significantly affected the amount of direct training provided for both cohorts. Significant differences were found for the ratio of hours of direct training to hours worked for level of disability for both cohorts and in type of supported employment for those employed for 12 months. The need to promote employee independence by withdrawing direct training and supervision was discussed.