An Evaluation-Management Information System for Vocational Rehabilitation

Benefit-cost analysis has been helpful in assessing the viability of rehabilitating physically, mentally, and culturally handicapped persons to increase their employability, but gives little help to project and program managers in choosing among alternatives. This paper presents a model for calculating the income effects of the program treatment on individuals, based on comparison with national survey results for persons with the same characteristics, taking account of labor market factors and the availability of similar programs. Unfortunately, existing longitudinal surveys, such as the University of Michigan Income Dynamics Panel and the Census’ National Longitudinal Survey, fail to capture much necessary information and fail to deal adequately with moonlighting (secondary employment) and job search. Rostker’s final section presents the detailed questionnaire and flowchart for a proposed new national sample survey that has not been field tested but appears to meet the requirements to provide an adequate control group for the evaluation of large-scale, continuous employment development programs.