Core Philosophy of Job Coaching
Job coaching for interns with intellectual and developmental disabilities is built on dignity, self-determination, and fading support. The goal is never “mentor-dependent success” but success that lasts after the mentor steps back.
1. Task Analysis — How to Break Down Any Job Duty
Task analysis is the foundation of effective coaching. Break every duty into the smallest possible observable steps.
Steps to Create a Strong Task Analysis
- Watch a skilled coworker perform the full task.
- Write one clear, observable action per step.
- Identify the natural cue in the environment.
- Note accommodations the intern may need.
- Test the steps with the intern and adjust.
Example 1: Greeting a Customer / Visitor
1. Stand in visible spot with friendly posture
2. Make eye contact and smile
3. Say the greeting script
4. Listen to the request
5. Provide clear information
6. End positively
Example 2: Taking & Organizing Photos
1. Check daily photo assignment
2. Find good lighting/angles
3. Take 3–5 photos
4. Review and delete blurry ones
5. Show best photos to supervisor
6. Save with clear file name
2. Least-to-Most Prompting Hierarchy
Key Rules: Give 3–5 seconds wait time. Record only the lowest prompt that worked. Physical prompts only when necessary and fade immediately.
3. Fading Prompts & Building Natural Supports
When to Start Fading
- 80–85%+ correct across sessions
- Intern responds to natural cues
- Intern self-corrects or asks appropriately
Natural Supports
- Coworker/Peer: Natural modeling
- Visual/Environmental: Checklists, labels
- Supervisor Routines: Brief feedback
- Self-Management: Intern uses own tools
4. Creating Physical Tools & Learning Materials
Create tangible supports directly from your task breakdowns.
Laminated Keychain Cards
- Print 4–6 key steps on small card
- Laminate and add to keychain/lanyard
- Perfect for scripts and safety steps
- Easy to update by reprinting
Picture Sequence Strips & Checklists
- Use photos or icons for each step
- Laminate and connect with rings
- Intern flips through while working
- Color-code for easy use
Quick Tip: Use the task breakdown from the Worksheet. Add simple photos/icons, print, laminate, and cut. These tools greatly increase independence.
5. Turning Task Analysis into Custom Learning Materials
- Complete a detailed task breakdown in the Worksheet.
- Copy steps into a document and add photos/icons.
- Print on cardstock, laminate, and cut.
- Create keychain version + workstation poster.
- Let the intern help choose images when possible.
6. Additional Job Coaching Principles
• Start with Strengths
Begin every session by naming something the intern does well.
• Use Specific Praise
“You remembered the script on your own — excellent thinking.”
• Connect to Interests
Link tasks to what the intern enjoys or is good at.
• Data is Your Friend
Use the Session Log to track real progress and guide fading.
• Collaborate with the Team
Share successful strategies with supervisors and coworkers.
• Celebrate Natural Supports
When coworkers or self-management work, celebrate it.
“Exceeding expectations is about giving you confidence and courage to accomplish anything.” — Student voice, Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program
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