Values History and Issues Related to Human Services

1

Personal values and beliefs about individuals who are different will be examined to consider how societal attitudes have developed over the years. Historical practices and paradigm shifts with resulting service provision changes, current issues and trends are considered in both a theoretical and applied manner. Social role valorization, ethics, client rights and professional responsibilities are concepts introduced and carried throughout the diploma program.

Current Range of Human Services Options

1

The development of human service options is explored from a variety of perspectives including the movement of services from being primarily facility-based to community-based, the role of consumers, organizations and services in the ongoing evolution of available options. Service delivery options will be explored, including early interventions, school/education options, work, and living arrangements.

Disabling Conditions

1

This sequence of instruction reviews disabling conditions with a major focus on developmental disabilities, including those which affect intellectual abilities, consciousness, sight, hearing, touch and motor skills. The study of each disability makes reference to causes (genetic/medical/social), incidence rates, prevention, amelioration, and adaptive devices. Impacts and responses to the disability by affected individuals, their families and social groups (including education) are presented.

Career Training
(e.g., early intervention, residential, employment, school, family and community support.)

3

An examination of organizational systems structure, inclusive community support options, client case management, social supports, resource and information management, and advocacy needs is presented within the context of at least four of the major service systems. Student experiences include classroom discussion, presentations from community professionals and practicum experiences in designated settings.

Supervised Practica

4

The supervised practica experiences include a sequence of opportunities over four semesters for the supervised application of theory in a variety of agencies in communities around the province. The student has the opportunity to work with children or adults in residential, educational or vocational settings on both an individual and group basis. Discussion of practicum experiences may occur via seminars, group discussion and instructor/student conferences.

Life Span Studies

1

A related set of age-specific theories and issues that acquaint the student with expected development across the lifespan and the impact of environment on physical, social and emotional growth. The student becomes sensitive to age and development as variables in program planning. Students relate developmental theory to issues facing families and individuals within age appropriate groupings.

Communication/Helping/Interviewing Skills

2

Involves the theoretical explanation and practical experience of functional interpersonal skills with application of these skills in the context of interviewing and conducting an effective counseling relationship. Utilizes didactic skill practice and lab simulation coordinated with theoretical presentation.

Introduction Level Psychology

1

A series of instructional units reviewing psychological theorists, theoretical contributions and frameworks. Lectures and discussion focus on principles and development of perception, motivation, cognition and their significance to the psychological functioning of the individual.

Intervention Skills and Individual Program Planning

3

A sequenced set of experiences including observation, assessment, goal planning, implementation and evaluation. Theory is applied to individuals and small group settings; this would generally include classroom instruction, small group assignments and supervised application to client interventions.

Basic Health Practices

1

Basic concepts and skills related to current community health issues including assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of strategies to maintain wellness, prevent community diseases, and identify concerns related to mental health abuse and substance abuse. Theory is applied and analyzed in classroom, small groups, community and lab settings. Skills include Standard First Aid, CPR Level C, and personal care for clients.

English Elective

1

Exceeding English 30 (Note: College communications courses may not satisfy the basic U of C admission requirement)

Open University Transfer Elective

2

Arts and Sciences