What are Work Samples?
Work Samples are hands-on simulations of an actual part of a job. The Work Samples provide opportunities to try out jobs in a non-threatening safe environment. Each career kit contains all of the tools, supplies and hardware needed to perform all activities. Each career area contains three Work Samples.
The computer administers and scores the Work Samples (time and quality). Work Samples take approximately 30-40 minutes to complete. Each job task is analyzed and broken down into very easy and understandable steps. Every step is presented through video coupled with audio. If video is too fast, the program can be slowed down by using the still image with audio and/or text options.
Package Contents
Each career area contains software which includes three Work Samples, an administration manual and technical manual (PDFs), related hardware and quality hand tools. All of these are packaged in a sturdy carrying case. Each MECA kit is specifically designed to be portable and easy to administer and maintain. Consumable supplies are kept to a minimum and can be replaced locally.

Program Features
- Provides hands-on, project-oriented exploration and assessment of career areas
- Provides age-appropriate transition assessments
- Provides an opportunity to try out jobs in a non-threatening way
- Contains 3 Work Samples for each career area
- Provides entry-level, mid-level, and advanced-level job experience in each career area
- Contains all items necessary to administer the activity
- Uses quality hand tools from the workplace
- Presents each task with full video/audio
- Integrates academic with technical skills
- Contains over 2000 video clips
For more information on our Work Samples, click here to view our online catalog.
System Requirements
- Windows Version
- Windows XP SP2 or better, Vista or Windows 7
- Pentium or AMD processor (1Ghz or better recommended)
- 1024×768 Display Resolution
- 128MB RAM (256MB or better recommended)
- Sound Card and Speakers
- CD/DVD-ROM Drive
*The Computer Graphics and Graphic Design Work Samples require the use of Adobe Photoshop Elements and the Digital Video Producer Work Sample requires the use of Adobe Premiere Elements. Please visit www.adobe.com to view the system requirements for the required software to make sure it is compatible with your computer.
Macintosh Version
- OS X or better (10.4 or better recommended)
- PowerPC or Intel Processor (G4 or better recommended)
- 1024×768 Display Resolution
- 128MB RAM (256 or better recommended)
- Sound Card and Speakers
- CD/DVD-ROM Drive
Work Sample Demo
How It Works
Each career area contains three Work Samples. This allows exposure to entry-level, mid-level and advanced-level job activities.
Food Service Work Sample #1
Setting a Restaurant Cover
Food Service Work Sample #2
Taking Orders
Food Service Work Sample #3
Preparing Food
Career Areas
We now offer Work Samples in the following career areas:
- Automotive Technology
- Building Maintenance
- Computer Applications
- Computer Graphics
- Construction Technology
- Cosmetology
- Custodial Housekeeping
- Digital Video Producer
- Distribution/Warehouse
- Electronics
- Food Service
- Graphic Design
- Health Care
- Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
- Horticulture
- Manufacturing – Fabrication & Assembly
- Manufacturing – Small Parts Assembly
- Office Technology
- Sales
- Small Engines
- Telecommunications
Transition Planning System
The Transition Planning System is a unique career exploration, assessment, and training system for preparing individuals to enter tomorrow’s rapidly changing workplace. This multimedia software program is designed to assist in the transition process. The system starts with an interest-screening device, The Interest Indicator, which is used for placement into the work simulations known as Work Samples. Work Samples are hands-on samples of real work. The Work Samples are built around common job clusters. This system is specifically designed for the cognitive disabled and autistic student and adult learners.
The Transition Planning System is available in the following career areas:
- Automotive Technology
- Construction Technology
- Cosmetology
- Custodial Housekeeping
- Distribution/Warehouse
- Food Service
- Health Care
- Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
- Horticulture
- Manufacturing Fabrication and Assembly
- Manufacturing Small Parts Assembly
- Office Technology
Response to Intervention Series
The RTI Series is a new generation of assessments. These new assessments focus on measuring the type and amount of resources required for skill training for individuals with significant impairments. The total score provides an indication of the general level of instruction or training that will be required to lean relevant bench assembly tasks.
For more information, click here.




