Training program to boost tech career interests in young adults with developmental disabilities

Evaluation of a Technology Early Career Preparation Intervention (TECH-Prep) for African American Young Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Not applicable Interventional University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT05132491

This study is testing a program that helps African American high school students with developmental disabilities get excited about technology careers by teaching them coding and social skills.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 24 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT05132491 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the TECH-Prep program aimed at African American high school students with developmental disabilities, focusing on enhancing their interest in technology careers. The program incorporates various strategies from STEM education and secondary transition research, including coding career overviews and social skills development. Participants will complete three surveys to assess their progress before, immediately after, and six weeks post-program completion. The goal is to improve self-efficacy, goal persistence, and facilitate entry into post-secondary education or employment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are African American high school students aged 18 to 24 with a diagnosed developmental disability.

Not a fit: Patients who are Caucasian or do not have a developmental disability will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance career opportunities and educational outcomes for young adults with developmental disabilities.

How similar studies have performed: While similar programs have shown promise in enhancing STEM interest among underserved populations, this specific approach targeting developmental disabilities is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individuals of diverse racial and cultural backgrounds
* Diagnosed with a developmental disability
* Over 18 but under 24
* Have the capacity to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Persons who are Caucasian
* Do not have a developmental disability
* Older than 24 years of age
* Unable to provide informed consent

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Developmental DisabilitySTEMCareer Interestunderserved populationseducation
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.