What You Will Learn In The Classroom
Your coursework begins with a review of the field of developmental services, the various categories of developmental impairments, and the spectrum of community support services accessible to this population. Following that, you will study person-centered planning, dual diagnosis, health and wellness, basic pharmacology, assisting those with autism and other complex needs, sign language and augmentative forms of communication, and appropriate ways to deal with those who have been abused. Finally, you will gain expertise in problem-solving and establishing interpersonal relationships.
Modules covered in-class include:
- Introduction to the Field of Developmental Services
- The Nature of Developmental Disabilities
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Grammar and Writing Skills for the Health Professional
- Introduction to Communication Disorders
- Communication Strategies for Inclusive Education
- Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan
- Working with Families and Persons with Developmental Disabilities
- Behavioural Support Techniques
- Health and Wellness Principles
- Dual Diagnosis; Mental Health and Persons with Developmental Disabilities
- Building Community
- Adult Development and Aging
- Essentials of Pharmacology
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems
- Introduction to Educational Psychology in Canada
- Individual Education Plan
- Professional Development; Competencies and Standards of Practice
- Self-Care Strategies for the Developmental Services Worker
- Technology for Success
- DSW Project (Community and Education Support Focus)
- Final Review and Exam
Is a Rewarding Career as a Developmental Service Worker Right for You?
What You Will Learn In The Labs
In our labs, which offer an ideal environment for developing skills for working with people who have limited verbal abilities, you will also advance your knowledge. You will learn how to assist your clients by promoting their adaptive skills, maintaining a safe environment for them, modeling and promoting a healthy lifestyle, managing their medication, and applying crisis intervention and other intervention strategies when needed.
What You Will Do During Career Search
You can assist persons with disabilities in their daily lives, employment, and community participation by pursuing a career in developmental services. You will put your skills to use helping persons who have autism, intellectual disabilities, or other needs.
