Course Description
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.
Course Content
The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:
- The field of supporting people with disabilities has moved towards an inclusive, support-based service delivery system.
- There is now recognition of the rights of all children and youth, regardless of diverse abilities, to participate actively in natural settings within their communities.
- There are differences between natural and traditional service settings.
- There is a full array of services and supports available.
Methods Of Instruction
- Lecture
- Case Studies
- Problem-based learning
- Reading groups
- Discussion Forum / Blogs
Means of Assessment
This course will conform to Douglas College policy regarding the number and weighting of evaluations. Typical means of evaluation would include a combination of:
- On-line contributions
- Module exams
- Case studies
- Portfolio
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Examine the strengths and limitations of service options for children and youth
- Describe current models of infant development
- Describe current models of supported child care
- Describe current models of life skill support outside of school
2. Examine the necessary components of inclusive supports in schools
- Explore the five areas of development upon which primary, intermediate and graduate curriculum is built
- Review how all children learn through active participation
- Explore the diversity of learners in schools and school district responses
- Describe how individualization is provided for all learners
- Describe how community participation is provided for all learners
- Identify the differences between elementary and secondary culture
- Clarify the role of the teacher and the classroom assistant
3. Examine the strengths and limitations of current transition planning protocols
- Identify key factors that lead to a successful transition
- Examine how different individualized planning tools can be used to plan at transition points
- Compare and contrast different transition planning strategies across three major passage points: pre-school to kindergarten; elementary school to high school; and high school to post secondary options