A Randomized Controlled Trial of Virtual Reality Job Interview Training in Pre-Release Employment Readiness

• In Event: Technology in Institutional and Community Corrections: Innovative Approaches from National Institute of Justice-Funded Projects

Abstract

Job interviewing is a critical barrier to employment for citizens who struggle to find employment after their release. This randomized controlled trial sought to confirm whether virtual reality job interview training (VR-JIT — a computerized job interview simulator and evidence-based practice in mental health services) improved employment outcomes when added to the Vocational Villages (VV — a pre-release employment readiness program in two Michigan prisons). Returning citizens were randomized 2:1 to receive VV service as usual with VR-JIT (VV+VR-JIT) or VV alone. Participants in VV+VR-JIT had greater odds of obtaining employment and obtained it more quickly by six-months post-release. Also, VV+VR-JIT improved job interview skills and motivation. This presentation will discuss these findings and implications for future research.

Project supported by NIJ Award #2019-MU-MU-0004

Authors

• Matthew J. Smith, University of Michigan

• Meghan Harrington, University of Michigan

• Brittany Ross, University of Michigan

• Lady Funcke Munoz, University of Michigan

• Camille R. Quinn, University of Michigan

• Daphne M. Brydon, University of Cincinnati

• Jennifer E. Johnson, Michigan State University

• Gary S. Cuddeback, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Justin D. Smith, University of Utah

• James Merle, University of Utah

• Jane K. Burke-Miller, University of Illinois Chicago

• Morris D. Bell, Yale School of Medicine

• Brian Friedman, Michigan Department of Corrections

• Pamela Kryscio, Michigan Department of Corrections

• Aaron Suganuma, Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office