ObjectivesThis program is designed to provide educational training and field work experiences in the area of various exceptionalities (with concentration on persons with developmental disability) so that the graduate is well equipped to work with individuals with an exceptionality on a day-to-day basis. Compassion, dedication, and empathy form the basis of such work, along with elements of applied behaviour analysis, instrumental counselling, psychology, healthcare, training and education methods, communication skills, life skills and job coaching.
Practical experienceThe student is involved in an ongoing process to develop a variety of skills and professionalism through various placement educational experiences.
In this course, students are introduced to acceptable and professional workplace communication practices (both oral and written), preparing them for placements and employment in the helping professions. The course will also provide the opportunity for students to develop greater understanding of the helping professions and of the relationships among individuals and society.
# DSW1000 - 001 - Group Dynamics & Instrumental Couns
Students are involved in a group dynamics seminar that is designed to help them acquire the necessary interpersonal skills to meet the needs of persons with developmental disabilities and their families. Emphasis is placed on effective communication, motivation, conflict resolution, personal growth and professional behaviour. Students are expected to demonstrate respect and empathy for peers, professionals, parents and the adults and children we provide services to at all times. Advocacy is an important role of the Developmental Services Worker. Issues in the field and what the Developmental Services Worker role is to facilitate change will be discussed and examined. The course services as an introduction to counselling for individuals with exceptionalities.
# DSW1115 - 003 - Applied Behaviour Analysis I
This is an introductory course in learning theory, applied behaviour analysis, and programming for individuals with exceptionalities. Basic programming skills, the development of effective learning climates, and the role of positive reinforcement to modify behaviour are examined.
# DSW1117 - 003 - Education & Training I
This course is an introduction to the etiology, assessment and developmental effects of having an exceptionality on children and adults. Academic programming, the role of the educational assistant and training techniques to teach fundamental life skills in community settings will also be examined. Current inclusionary practices are a focus of learning and disussion in both the school system and in society as a whole. Students will be given an introduction to provincial legislation governing child and adult services.
# DSW1120 - 003 - Selected Topics in Develop Psy.
Examines normal human development from conception to old age and compares development through the lifespan for persons with disabilities. Physical, cognitive, social and emotional aspects of development are covered.
# DSW1125 - 002 - Systems/Theories in Dev. Practices
Developmental Practices is an introductory course in working with persons with disabilities. It explores issues that affect people with developmental disabilities. The course of study involves basic theory and history of treatment of the atypical population by society. The incidence, prevalence, prevention, etiology and classification systems are examined. Emphasis is placed on genetic and environmental influences on the development of disabilities. Upon course completion, students will have a working knowledge of the service systems in the community that support and empower individuals with disabilities and their families.
# ENG1551 - 001 - Writing Fundamentals: Ind. Study
This course is required in the first semester of most post-secondary programs at Cambrian. The purpose of the course is to allow students to develop their independent learning skills and to review the fundamental conventions of Standard English.
# HSC1136 - 003 - Basic Nursing Skills
This course will help the student understand concepts of health and safety. Principles and techniques of basic nursing care will be discussed, demonstrated, and practised, which will enable the student to assist the developmentally disabled individual in his/her activities of daily living and prepare the student for the first field placement.
Semester 2
# ENG2335 - 002 - Speaking/Writing Comm. Services II
In this course, students continue to work on acceptable workplace communication practices (both oral and written), preparing them for placements and employment in the helping professions. The course will provide the opportunity for students to develop greater understanding of the dynamics of the helping professions and the relationships among individuals and society. Students will also learn the importance of research related to the helping professions.
# DSW1190 - 003 - Field Work I
Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Semester I. This is a three-week block placement in one of the service areas. Students are expected to display appropriate program knowledge, basic programming skills, and professional behaviour as assistants to the supervisors.
# DSW1210 - 003 - Systems&Theories In Devel.Serv. II
Prerequisite: DSW1110 This course is a continuation of DSW 1110, with emphasis on supported employment and community living. Additional related syndromes will be discussed.
# DSW1215 - 004 - Applied Behaviour Analysis II
Prerequisite: DSW 1115 This is an advanced course in learning theory and applied behaviour analysis with severe behaviour disorders and learning problems. Ethical considerations surrounding the use of behaviour modification techniques are developed. Counselling skills for persons with special needs are taught and practiced.
# DSW1217 - 003 - Education & Training II
This course is a continuation of DSW 1117 and examines the etiology, assessment and the developmental effects of having an exceptionality on children and adults. Academic programming, the role of the educational assistant and training techniques to teach fundamental life skills in community settings are examined. Current inclusionary practices continue to be a focus of learning and discussion in both the school system and in society as a whole. Students will also examine the underlying causes and functions of behavior and learn positive strategies and approaches to change behavior.
# DSW1225 - 003 - Applications in Developmental Serv
Applications in developmental services is a second semester course that examines more closely important contemporary issues in working with individuals with a disability. The course consists of two main components. Component A This section examines the issues of physical, emotional, verbal and sexual abuse as well as neglect as it affects children and adults with disabilities. Component B All students must successfully complete and be certified in non-violent crisis intervention and prevention.
# DSW1230 - 003 - Autism Spectrum Disorders
Prerequisites: Successful completion of DSW 1116, DSW 1220, DSW 1115 Examines the etrology, prevalence and characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Evidence based practices and strategies will be for working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders will be studied for use in educational community and home settings.
# ENG1751 - 001 - Job Search Skills: Ind. Study
Prerequisite: ENG 1551 Through guided independent study, students will explore the job search process in detail and gain a comprehensive understanding of the theories and practices that lead to successful job searching and career planning. This course will also encourage further development of the independent learning skills and strategies practiced in ENG 1551 and 1581.
# HSC1236 - 003 - Basic Nursing Skills II
Building on theory from Part I, this course will provide the student with an overview of basic health problems his/her client may experience. Principles of health maintenance will be emphasized to enable the student to assist the client in activities of daily living. Students will be provided with an overview of the legalities and principles of medication administration. They will also have the opportunity to practice basic nursing skills learned in Parts I and II, including vital signs, basic dressing techniques, and medication administration in lab setting.
Semester 3
# DSW2310 - 003 - Dual Diagnosis Treatment & Assess
Prerequisite: Successful completion of DSW year one. This course involves two components: applied behaviour analysis relevant to various settings (such as residential, educational and community day programs), and advanced counselling skills designed to meet the needs of community-based individuals and parents. In addition, preparation for the job search will be undertaken.
# DSW2315 - 004 - Augmentative Communication Systems
This course provides students with alternative languages suited to the unique needs of clients with impaired hearing or speech production. Students are expected to achieve basic functional competency in the use of sign language and alternative communication systems.
# DSW2316 - 003 - Advanced Education & Training
Prerequisite: Successful completion of DSW year one. This advanced programming course relates assessments and programming skills to the unique developmental needs of particular groups of individuals. Life plan development and formats are reviewed in depth.
# DSW2330 - 003 - Observation and Recording
The course will also focus on issues of client confidentiality, informed consent and responding to requests for client information under current legislation.
# DSW2391 - 006 - Field Work IIA
Prerequisites: Successful completion of DSW 1116, DSW 1115, DSW 1216, DSW 1215, HSC 1136, HSC 1236, DSW 1225, DSW 1230 This placement is designed to provide students with experiences in settings that meet the daily needs of students/clients. Experiences in providing direct care of primary needs, quality life experiences, community orientation and involvement, and quality educational programs will vary from placement setting to placement setting. Students may also be instructed in related medical competencies.
# DSW2392 - 006 - Field Work IIB
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Field Work IIA This placement is designed to provide students with experiences in settings that meet the daily needs of students/clients. Experiences in providing direct care of primary needs, quality life experiences, community orientation and involvement, and quality educational programs will vary from placement setting to placement setting. Students may also be instructed in related medical competencies.
Semester 4
# DSW2400 - 012 - Field Work III
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the first three DSW semesters. This is an eight-week block placement in specialized programs. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced skills in applied behaviour analysis, education, life skills, and counselling. Appropriate interpersonal behaviour, professionalism, and confidence are to be maintained throughout this final placement. Students may also be instructed in related medical competencies.
# DSW2490 - 012 - Field Work IV
Prerequisites: Successful completion of DSW 2400 This is a continuation of DSW 2390. Students are expected to continue to develop skills learned in DSW 2390 during an eight-week, block placement.