Disability & Community Studies

Code	Course Description
DACS 1140	Introduction to Practice In this introductory survey course, students are provided an overview of the disability supports sector, focused on understanding historical practices, their continued influence, and the values and ethical considerations informing the sector. Students will explore the four main areas of support: 1) Early Intervention, 2) K-12 School Systems, 3) Community Living, and 4) Post-Secondary and Employment Supports. They will be introduced to Indigenous concepts such as Jordan’s Principle and new TRC based practices in education and community living. The course also introduces the legal and funding frameworks informing the sector.
DACS 1150	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.
DACS 1152	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.
DACS 1170	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.
DACS 1240	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.
DACS 1241	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.
DACS 1244	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.
DACS 1245	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.
DACS 1250	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), while encouraging individuals' demonstration of learning (expression) and engagement through motivational strategies and effective communication.
DACS 1256	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.
DACS 1257	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.
DACS 1258	Supporting Communication and Behaviour In this course, students learn the principles of behaviour (e.g., 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.
DACS 1270	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.
DACS 1280	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.
DACS 1341	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.
DACS 2140	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.
DACS 2152	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 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.
DACS 2320	Working with Others This course emphasizes self-awareness and interpersonal understanding. Models that promote positive awareness of self and communication with others will be presented for examination and application to practice. This course will explore communication principles and strategies that facilitate positive relationships between practitioners, schools, communities and families.
DACS 2340	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.
DACS 2341	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.
DACS 2344	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.
DACS 2356	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.
DACS 2370	Personal Assistance This applied lab course emphasizes support skills in personal care and health related procedures. Basic safety principles, human body systems and common health problems will also be reviewed.
DACS 2380	Person Centred Planning and Community Building In this course, students will explore practical strategies for enhancing citizenship and belonging for persons with disabilities through person centred processes and community building techniques. Students will learn how to identify and obtain crucial information for planning from individuals and their support networks, while learning to differentiate, choose, and evaluate the right methods and supports. Emphasis is placed on understanding planning as a dynamic process intricately linked to building and sustaining relationships in community.
DACS 2420	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.
DACS 2421	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.
DACS 2431	Contemp Practice in Adult Serv This course provides students with an understanding of the unique needs and issues facing adults with disabilities utilizing services. Emphasis will be placed on the policy and legislation, service options, and accountability measures related to inclusive post secondary education, employment, and supports associated with aging and end of life care.
DACS 2440	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.
DACS 3430	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.
DACS 4111	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 of what it means to have a disability. It will examine the characteristics, classification, and pathology of a variety of developmental, congenital and acquired disabilities and their relevance to socio-cultural and human rights perspectives.
DACS 4114	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.
DACS 4115	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.
DACS 4116	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.
DACS 4122	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.
DACS 4123	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.
DACS 4131	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 experience barriers to employment. It will highlight various theoretical frameworks for interpreting the nature and meaning of employment. It will also provide an overview of areas of practice within employment supports, including relevant practical tools, strategies and promising practices.
DACS 4132	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 work, as well as promising practices, policy and procedure supporting inclusive workplaces. The course will also provide an overview of marginalized workplace identities, understanding our personal values and their application in the workplace.
DACS 4133	Inclusive Leadership and Change Management This upper level undergraduate course examines the role of leadership in facilitating organizational change. The course introduces students to theories of leadership, change management, and means of cultivating equitable and ethical leadership skills. The course is designed for aspiring leaders across workplaces and sectors, seeking to develop inclusive and socially conscious spaces.
DACS 5111	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.
DACS 5112	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.
DACS 5113	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
DACS 5121	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.
DACS 5122	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.
DACS 5123	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.
DACS 5131	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.
DACS 5132	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.
DACS 5133	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.

Disability & Community Studies

Course List