Disability & Community Studies

Introduction to Disability Studies

In this introductory survey course, students are provided an overview of disability studies and its application in the support sector.

Topics covered include an overview of disability studies theory and perspective, historical practices, social and political movements, and current best practice in the field. Students will explore the influence of disability studies within the four main areas of support: 1) Early Intervention, 2) K-12 School Systems, 3) Community Living, and 4) Post-Secondary and Employment Supports.

The course applies a critical and creative lens to understanding historical and current practice, seeking to identify and understand the influence of ableist structures and systems, while envisioning a more just and equitable future.

Teaching and Learning: Foundations

This course builds students’ observation, planning and teaching skills to create or support meaningful learning opportunities in response to diverse learning styles. Using a common set of values, students will explore several teaching strategies and how these match with different learners' needs.

Supporting Social Emotional Learning and Wellness in Self and Others

This course introduces practitioners to fundamental concepts and practices in supporting students' social emotional skills and wellness. Students will learn how supporting social emotional skills impacts short and long-term quality of life outcomes of supported persons and the Educational Assistant (EA). Methods for self-regulation and self-care for self and other will be practiced. Through a process of reflection and self exploration, students will develop an understanding of how past traumas, experiences, strengths and stretches impact our ability to support others. Using a trauma-informed lens, practitioners will use a strength-based approach to encourage the development of self-agency and other essential skills.

Disability Classifications and Related Experiences

In this survey course students will be introduced to perspectives on disability, investigate a range of disability classifications, learning needs and related experiences. A variety of disabilities will be examined as they relate to the diagnosis and the impact on people with lived experience. In addition, the course will introduce issues of self-advocacy, civil-rights, identity and current issues relevant to the communities discussed. Lived experience and personal story are prioritized in the course.

Practicum 1

This applied course builds on first semester courses and provides opportunities for students to practice skills in selected sites under supervision. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal, and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Behaviour Intervention Practicum

This applied course provides opportunities for students to practice behaviour intervention skills in selected sites under supervision. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal, and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Education Assistant Practicum 1

This applied course builds on first semester courses and provides opportunities for students to practice skills in selected sites under supervision. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal, and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Education Assistant Practicum 2

This applied course builds on semester 1 and 2 courses and provides opportunities for students to practice skills at selected sites under supervision. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal, and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Teaching and Learning: Universal Design for Learning

This course is based on the fundamentals of Universal Design for Learning. Students collaboratively plan and implement teaching strategies, as well as use tools for monitoring individuals' progress. While reducing environmental barriers to learning, students learn to incorporate multiple means of presenting materials (adaptations), as well as encouraging individuals' demonstration of learning (expression) and engagement through motivational strategies and effective communication.

Teaching & Learning: Introduction to Communication & Behaviour

In this introductory course, students learn the principles of behaviour (e.g., ABC pathway ) and the elements of communication (e.g. methods and content). Emphasis will be on supporting communication (including augmentative and alternative communication) and understanding its connection to the function of behaviour.

Supporting Communication

In this introductory course, students learn about the development of communication skills and the potential impact on individuals with communication challenges. Students will develop an understanding of elements of communication and the importance of responding to total communication. A variety of low and high tech options for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) will be explored as well as methods for supporting receptive communication using visual supports. Emphasis will be placed on practicing strategies to enhance opportunities for self-advocacy, social closeness, and active participation through ongoing responsive support of communication skills.

Positive Behaviour Support

In this course, students learn the principles of behaviour (e.g., Antecedent, Behaviour, Consequence (ABC) pathway) and develop an understanding of the relationship between communication and behaviour. Emphasis will be on supporting communication and behaviour skills through prevention and proactive teaching strategies to improve an individual's quality of life.

Perspectives on Disability

This course is designed to expose students to a variety of perspectives regarding disability. Content topics will include typical responses to diversity, language and labels, disability theory, models of disability, disability culture, advocacy and self advocacy.

Foundations of Family Support

This introductory course will emphasize the theories and principles of family support, with a focus on person centred practices used to enhance wellbeing and quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families across the lifespan. Students will examine the interdependence between family and community, and the unique role practitioners play in strengthening relationships and facilitating formal and informal social networks.

Behavioural Intervention Lab

This course provides working Behavior Interventionists opportunities to deepen their knowledge of and ability to apply the principles and procedures of applied behaviour analysis utilized with children with autism. An emphasis is placed on promoting reflective Behavioural Intervention practitioners.

Theories and Principles of Equitable Learning Communities

This course allows students to gain a critical understanding of different principles, theories, and values that shape ideas of learning and pedagogy, and which inform educational systems and institutions, from early childhood to postsecondary and lifespan learning. Students will explore their own learning experiences and develop critical perspectives toward educational justice and equity.

Supporting Social and Emotional Learning and Development

This course introduces fundamental concepts and practices in supporting social emotional skills and wellness for children, youth and adults across abilities. Students will learn how supporting social emotional skills impacts short and long-term quality of life outcomes for themselves and those they support. Through a process of reflection and self-exploration, students will develop an understanding of how past traumas, experiences, strengths and individual challenges impact our ability to support others. Using a trauma-informed lens, practitioners will use a strength-based approach to encourage the development of self-agency and other essential skills.

Working with Others

This course emphasizes self-awareness and interpersonal understanding. Models that promote positive self-awareness and effective communication with others will be presented for examination and application in practice. The course will explore communication principles and strategies that facilitate positive relationships among practitioners, schools, communities, and families.

Practicum 2

This applied course builds on second and third semester courses and provides opportunities for students to practice skills in selected sites. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Diploma Practicum

This applied course builds on CCS certificate courses and provides opportunities for students to enhance their skills in a selected site. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Practicum 2

This applied course builds on second and third semester courses and provides opportunities for students to practice skills in selected sites. Students will integrate and reflect upon their educational, personal and professional experiences in practicum and seminar.

Teaching & Learning: Supporting Communication and Behaviour

In this course, students build on DACS 1256 and apply principles of teaching and learning to support individuals whose communication and actions challenge us. Students utilize Behaviour Support planning strategies and incorporate Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods to render challenging behaviours irrelevant, ineffective or inefficient; teach desired and alternative behaviours; and enhance an individual’s quality of life.

Personal Assistance

This experiential course emphasizes personal assistance skills and health related procedures. Basic safety principles, human body systems provide a frame to develop foundational knowledge to support the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities from a person-centered and culturally relevant perspective.

Person Centered Planning and Community Building

In this course, students will examine effective strategies for enhancing citizenship and fostering a sense of belonging for individuals with disabilities by utilizing person-centered approaches and community development techniques. They will learn how to gather essential information for planning from both individuals and their support networks, while also acquiring skills to select and assess the most appropriate methods and supports. The course highlights the importance of viewing planning as a dynamic process that is closely connected to establishing and maintaining community relationships.

Personal and Professional Leadership

This capstone course is designed to deepen understanding and application of knowledge and skills introduced throughout the previous semesters. Students will have the opportunity to explore personal and professional leadership opportunities and challenges available in education and human service practice contexts.

Supports for Children & Youth with Disabilities

This course examines early intervention and inclusive school systems and evaluates current models of support for children and youth with disabilities. Students will examine different school and community supports and services using a quality of life framework.

Social Policy & Citizenship

This course provides students with an understanding of the unique needs and issues facing adults with disabilities in community. Emphasis will be placed on social policy and legislation, service options, and accountability measures. Emphasis is placed on transition, inclusive post-secondary education, employment, and supports associated with digital citizenship.

Service-Learning

This applied course uses a service-learning model as a means for students to define practice skills and make direct contributions to the community. Students have the option of completing a service-learning practicum in typical practice settings or completing a unique service-learning project that would benefit others and provide opportunities for individualized out-of-the-ordinary learning.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Across the Lifespan

This upper-level undergraduate course explores Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) from a lifespan perspective applying behavioural, social, and cognitive theories. Topics include diagnostic characteristics and the diagnostic process in British Columbia, the etiology, history, and co-morbid conditions associated with ASD. Special emphasis will be given to evidence-based interventions and support strategies within early intervention, school, and employment settings.

Disability in Context

This upper-level undergraduate course examines historical and contemporary constructions of disability from various perspectives and highlights different frameworks for interpreting the nature and meaning of having a disability. It will explore the characteristics, classification, and pathology of a range of developmental, congenital, and acquired disabilities and their relevance to sociocultural and human rights perspectives.

Functional Behaviour Assessment and Clinical Applications

In this course students deepen their professional knowledge, skills, and abilities in conducting various functional behaviour assessments, in selecting individualized interventions for individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, and in completing clinical treatment modules for the assessment and treatment of childhood eating and sleep issues as well as stereotypy.

Ethics in Applied Behaviour Analysis

This course will introduce and thoroughly orient students to the professional and ethical compliance code for behaviour analysts. Students will work through a number of case scenarios identifying various breaches to the ethical code and engage in both individual reflection and group discussion to determine ethical responses and actions in response to difficult situations.

Advanced Topics in Applied Behaviour Analysis: Intervention

This course will build on the knowledge presented in previous coursework, with a focus on evidence-based strategies for supporting positive behaviours and reducing problem behaviours. Concepts and principles of ABA, such as reinforcement principles and function-based treatments, will be reviewed as specific applications of ABA interventions that are applicable in a variety of settings for a variety of populations.

Organizational Behaviour Management

This upper-level course will introduce and thoroughly orient students to the research and practice in the field of Organizational Behaviour Management (OBM). It will provide students with the skills needed to apply the fundamental principles of applied behaviour analysis to various performance issues in organizational settings, such as performance analysis, supervision, staff training, behavioural systems analysis, organizational culture, and leadership. Organizational Behaviour is a field of study that investigates the impact that individuals and groups have in the workplace. Students will be able to apply their knowledge toward improving an organization’s effectiveness.

Foundational Principles and Empirical Basis of Behaviour Analysis

This undergraduate course will introduce students to the science of applied behaviour analysis (ABA). Concepts include ABA definitions and characteristics, behavioural assessments, intervention strategies and outcomes, behaviour change procedures, and systems support. All topics will be addressed within the context of current best practices and contemporary professional ethics.

Single Subject Research And Applications

This course builds upon the science of applied behaviour analysis (ABA). Concepts include ABA definitions and characteristics, behavioural assessments, intervention strategies and outcomes, behaviour change procedures, and systems support. All topics will be addressed within the context of current best practices and contemporary professional ethics.

Introduction to Issues in Disability Employment

This upper-level undergraduate course examines historical and contemporary constructions of employment services and supports for people with disabilities and individuals who face barriers to employment. It will highlight various theoretical frameworks for interpreting the nature and meaning of employment. Additionally, it will provide an overview of areas of practice within employment supports, including relevant practical tools, strategies, and promising practices.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace

This upper-level undergraduate course examines diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) issues and practices in the workplace. Students will explore historical and systemic barriers to employment, as well as promising practices, policies, and procedures that support inclusive workplaces. The course will also provide an overview of marginalized workplace identities and promote an understanding of personal values and their application in the workplace.

Inclusive Leadership and Change Management

This upper-level undergraduate course examines the role of leadership in facilitating organizational change. It introduces students to theories of leadership and change management, as well as methods for cultivating equitable and ethical leadership skills. The course is designed for aspiring leaders across various workplaces and sectors who seek to develop inclusive and socially conscious environments.

Disability in Context

This upper level undergraduate course examines historical and contemporary constructions of disability from a variety of perspectives and highlights various frameworks for interpreting the nature and meaning disability. It will examine the characteristics, classification, and pathology of a variety of developmental, congenital and acquired disabilities.

Functional Behaviour Assessment and Intervention

In this upper level course, students deepen their professional knowledge, skills, and abilities in conducting various functional behaviour assessments and in selecting individualized interventions for individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities.

Clinical Applications of Behaviour Analysis

In this upper level course, students deepen their professional knowledge, skills, and abilities by completing clinical treatment modules for individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Topics may include:
• Behaviour analytic instruction
• The assessment and treatment of childhood feeding and sleeping problems, and stereotypy
• Teaching verbal behaviour

Foundational Principles of Behavioural Analysis

This upper level course will introduce students to the science of applied behaviour analysis (ABA). The basic principles of operant conditioning including stimulus control, motivation, reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and schedules of reinforcement will be emphasized using examples of everyday behaviours. Students will also learn how these principles can be applied to persons with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Empirical Basis of Behavioural Techniques

This upper level undergraduate course builds upon the science of applied behaviour analysis (ABA). Concepts include ABA definitions and characteristics, behavioural assessments, intervention strategies and outcomes, behaviour change procedures and systems support. All topics will be addressed within the context of current best practices and contemporary professional ethics.

Single Subject Research and Applications

This upper level undergraduate course builds upon the science of applied behaviour analysis (ABA). Topics focus on the use of the scientific method to evaluate behaviourally-based interventions and applications to modify human behaviour. Topics include single-subject experimental designs, variables (including dependent, independent and confounding), data collection methods and procedures, the graphic display of behavioural data, verbal behaviour, antecedent controls, maintenance and generalization. Topics are presented in context of best practices and contemporary professional ethics.

Introduction to Employment Supports

This upper level undergraduate course examines historical and contemporary constructions of employment services and supports for people with disabilities, youth at risk, mental illness and others who have significant barriers. It will highlight various theoretical frameworks for interpreting the nature and meaning of employment supports. It will also provide an overview of evidence-based practice.

Application of Employment Supports

This upper level undergraduate course examines the range and application of employment supports and services for people with disabilities, youth at risk, mental illness and others who experience significant barriers. This course focuses on the use of the evidence-based employment supports methods practices and supports. Topics include developing vocational plans, job analysis/carving, cultural competency, and assessment and evaluation tools.

Employment Support Specialty: Selected Topics

This upper level course bridges informal and formal learning. In this course, students will reflect on their experience and choose an individualized employment supports and disability/barrier related learning project on which to concentrate their areas of professional interest.