In Working II, the Test of Interpersonal Competence for Employment (TICE) and the Interpersonal Skills Training for Employment (ISTE) curriculum are focused on skills that have been empirically identified as important for job tenure. TICE and ISTE are based on over four years of research with mildly handicapped young adults in vocational training facilities, community businesses, state rehabilitation agencies, and public schools.
The focus of both assessment and training is on developing strategies for effective interactions with supervisors and co-workers. Within the area of supervisor-worker relationships, the areas covered are: (1) responding to criticism and correction, (2) following instructions, and (3) requesting assistance. In the co-worker area, topics covered are: (1) cooperative work behavior, (2) responding to teasing and provocation, and (3) resolving personal concerns.
TICE is a 61-item test designed to be orally administered in small groups. It was standardized on over 400 mildly retarded adolescents and adults in the United States and Canada. ISTE provides training methods and materials in the areas measured by TICE. It is a scripted curriculum, using video modeling, problem-solving, behavior rehearsal, and homework as instructional methods. ISTE was field tested with approximately 150 mildly and moderately retarded young adults in special education classes and rehabilitation facilities. Inquiries regarding either the test or the curriculum should be directed to Dr. Gilbert Foss at the University of Oregon.