Orientation and Mobility Training as a Core Component of Supported Employment for Employees with Visual Impairment

Abstract

Employment participation among persons with visual impairments (PVI) remains limited by persistent barriers, particularly mobility constraints and inaccessible workplace environments. Although Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training is widely recognised as essential for independent travel, its role within supported employment, especially in real workplace contexts, remains insufficiently examined. This study explored how O&M training supports employment access, daily commuting, initial workplace adaptation, and collaborative support processes for PVI within supported employment in Malaysia. A qualitative multiple case study design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with purposively selected informants, including employees with visual impairments, employment specialists, and employers in private sector settings. Interview data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis supported by NVivo (Version 14), with trustworthiness enhanced through triangulation and member checking. The analysis generated four interrelated themes: (i) O&M as access to employment; (ii) O&M in daily commuting and independent mobility; (iii) O&M supporting workplace adjustment and job retention; and (iv) O&M as a structured and collaborative support process. Overall, the findings indicate that O&M training extends beyond basic mobility skills and functions as an employment-oriented support mechanism across pre-employment, placement, and retention phases. The integration of context-specific O&M training within supported employment models may strengthen workplace inclusion, safety, and sustainable employment outcomes for PVI.