DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES WORKER
Program Outline
Major: DSWR
Length: 2 Years
Delivery: 4 Semesters
Credential: Ontario College Diploma
Effective: 2011-2012
Location: Orillia
Start: Fall
Description
The Developmental Services Worker program provides students with the knowledge and skills required to support people with developmental disabilities to participate in all aspects of life in their communities. Our program is anchored philosophically in person directed planning, and in promoting the development of natural supports and opportunities for inclusion.
Our program includes core/mandatory curriculum areas, general education, communication courses, and field placements. Core curriculum areas include intensive study in the following: supporting individuals and their families; accessibility, inclusion and participation; physical well being and administration of medication; skills of helping, as well as professional communication, values, ethics and principles.
Each academic year, theoretical learning is integrated and practiced within supervised, competency-based field placements. Students participate with people in their homes, workplaces, schools or agencies. This combination of academic and experiential learning is effective in developing and enhancing skills and in promoting employability. Opportunities are available for students to specialize on placement, where possible students will be placed within their home communities.
Career Opportunities
Job placement has consistently been a strength of Georgian's program. The downsizing of institutions has led graduates to successful employment in community based agencies. In addition to growth trends in full-time contractual and self-employment, a variety of career opportunities exist including: supported independent living counsellors, specialized care providers, residential counsellors, job coaches, educational assistants, generic skills instructors, employment instructors, advocates, mediators, and life skills instructors.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- provide support which facilitates growth and empowerment;
- facilitate the development of skills of everyday life;
- support the promotion and maintenance of health and well-being;
- promote the development of inclusive communities;
- display competent, responsible, and professional behaviour and attitudes;
- utilize resources that promote professional growth;
- employ environmentally sustainable practices within the profession.
Program Progression
Sem 1 - Fall 2011
Sem 2 - Winter 2012
Sem 3 - Fall 2012
Sem 4 - Winter 2013
Articulation Agreements
A number of articulation agreements have been negotiated with universities and other institutions across Canada, North America and internationally. These agreements are assessed, revised and updated on a regular basis. Please contact the program co-ordinator for specific details if you are interested in pursuing such an option. Additional information can be found on our website at www.georgianc.on.ca/academics/articulations/.
Admission Requirements
Applicants following the OSS curriculum must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD - 30 credits) or equivalent. OSS applicants must also have Grade 12 English (C) or (U) (ENG4C, ENG4U).
Applicants must have an up-to-date immunization record, Standard First Aid and CPR level C or HCP certification before proceeding on field placement. It is recommended that First Aid training is completed prior to program entry. It is strongly recommended that students accepted into the DSW program have volunteer or past work experience in the field of developmental disabilities.
Applicants who are 19 years of age or over by the first day of classes, and who lack the academic entrance qualifications, may be considered for entrance to an appropriate post-secondary diploma or certificate program as mature applicants. Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis and acceptance will be determined by counselling, Communication Placement Assessment (CPA), previous post-secondary education and evaluation of experience. Some programs also have specific prerequisite requirements that must be met prior to admission. Mature applicants must meet all program specific prerequisites. Those applying as mature students and having no documentation of Grade 12 education must supply, if required, proof of age, such as a copy of an official birth certificate or driver's licence. Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 of the Academic Calendar for further details.
Criminal Reference Check
Field placement agencies require an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to the start of the program. Students should obtain their criminal reference check no sooner than one month prior to the beginning of the school year. Checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. NOTE A record of criminal offences, for which a pardon has not been granted, may prevent the student from completing graduation requirements.
Graduation Requirements
18 Mandatory Courses
2 Communication Courses
3 General Education Courses
3 Field Placements
Graduation Eligibility
To graduate from this program, the passing weighted average for promotion through each semester, from year to year and to graduate is 60%. Additionally, a student must attain a minimum of 50% or a letter grade of P (Pass) or S (Satisfactory) in each course in each semester.
Mandatory
DEVS1007 Introduction to Developmental Disabilities
DEVS1008 Active Living
DEVS1009 Augmentative Communication
DEVS1010 Supports in Education
DEVS1011 Person Directed Planning
DEVS1012 Body Systems and Disorders
DEVS1013 Sexuality and Social Relations
DEVS1014 Autism Spectrum Disorders
DEVS2001 Facilitative Techniques
DEVS2014 Supportive Counselling
DEVS2016 Dual Diagnosis
DEVS2017 Developmental Services: Issues & Trends
DEVS2018 Gerontology in Developmental Services
DEVS2019 Behavioural and Family Supports
HLTH2000 Health Skills
HLTH2001 Pharmacology
HLTH2002 Medication Administration
HUMN1012 Human Lifespan Development
The descriptions that follow provide brief outlines of the courses. Please note that some courses have prerequisite and/or corequisite requirements not shown here, that need to be met in order to enroll in the course. You will be advised of any requisite requirements during the registration process, or you can contact the academic area for further details.
Communications
COMM1001 Communications at Work
Plus one addition communications to be selected from College list
(Note: this is in addition to any mandatory communications listed for the program)
General Education Courses
To be selected from College list
Field Placements
DEVS1015 Field Placement: Educational Setting
DEVS2020 Field Placement: Day/Community
DEVS2021 Field Placement: Residential
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
COMM1001 Communications at Work 42.0 Hours
Students develop their communication skills for the workplace. Using available technology, they research, write and edit work-related correspondence and short reports, individually and collaboratively. With audio-visual support, they prepare and deliver professional presentations that have vocational emphasis. In addition, students complete other communication tasks specific to their vocational areas.
DEVS1007 Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 56.0 Hours
This course provides an introduction to a wide variety of topics that are fundamental to further study in the DSW program. Students are encouraged to develop a philosophy of care and support that reflects the core values of inclusive community, advocacy, value-based support and person directed planning. Students will examine common developmental disabilities and gain awareness of the etiology, signs and symptoms, and support needs/measures for individuals with these labels.
DEVS1008 Active Living 28.0 Hours
This course examines the importance of an active living lifestyle. Personal and societal trends relating to the concepts of play, recreation, leisure and wellness will be discussed within a framework of developing quality recreational experiences for persons with special needs. Techniques of facilitation including leadership, program planning and community development will be discussed. (Attendance in a one day experience at a local outdoor education centre is strongly recommended. An additional fee applies.)
DEVS1009 Augmentative Communication 28.0 Hours
This course provides the skills necessary to communicate with individuals who have receptive and expressive communication differences and thus use other communication options to augment or replace speech. Effective collaboration with other service providers, family members, friends, employers and the community enable successful interactions for all.
DEVS1010 Supports in Education 42.0 Hours
This course examines current special education policies and procedures within the educational system. The role of educational supports will be discussed. The use of technology, various tools, and adaptations as a catalyst for learning and inclusion will be examined.
DEVS1011 Person Directed Planning 42.0 Hours
This course investigates the fundamental elements of interpersonal communication. Skills in improving communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflicts are examined. Different ways of assisting people to achieve their desired lifestyle through person directed planning will be explored. Several planning methods (technologies) will be studied. Evaluation of the supports provided as a result of the planning process will be examined in terms of outcome based performance measures, accountability and quality of life indicators.
DEVS1012 Body Systems and Disorders 42.0 Hours
This course provides students with a working knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. Common disorders associated with each system will be examined. This will assist students in the assessment of physical needs and administration of health care for persons with developmental disabilities.
DEVS1013 Sexuality and Social Relations 28.0 Hours
Sexuality and social relationships are vital components of life, and should be acknowledged and respected regardless of disability. Along with parents, DSW's often share responsibility to teach acceptable social and sexual behaviour. Some of the topics examined in this course include: sexual rights, vulnerability, masturbation, parenthood, inappropriate sexual behaviour, social skill development and techniques, and sexual counselling models. Ethics of Touch and the reporting of abuse will be discussed in depth.
DEVS1014 Autism Spectrum Disorders 28.0 Hours
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the theories regarding the etiology of autism spectrum disorders. Common signs, symptoms and characteristics will be discussed. The design and implementation of behavioural treatment plans, with an emphasis on Applied Behaviour Analysis and Intensive Behavioural Intervention, will be examined.
DEVS1015 Field Placement: Educational Setting 210.0 Hours
Students are placed in Ministry of Education approved settings (elementary and secondary schools) with supervision from certified teachers and college monitors. Acting in the capacity of an educational assistant, students assists individuals with a variety of special needs (developmental, behavioural, social, physical or learning challenges) to reach academic and life skill goals.
DEVS2001 Facilitative Techniques 42.0 Hours
This course provides students with an understanding of the principles and application of facilitative techniques designed to assist persons with developmental disabilities acquire new skills. Through a variety of procedures, including precision teaching, students will be able to utilize strategies to assist, coach or teach skills to optimize independence and encourage self-advocacy. The strategies utilized are consistent with respecting and valuing people.
DEVS2015 Supportive Counselling 42.0 Hours
This course introduces students to a problem model of helping. Emphasis is strongly placed on the values that form the foundation of supportive counselling: respect, genuineness, empathy and empowerment. Students learn about the significance and impact of relationships, processes of problem-management, finding solutions, value-based challenging, goal setting and implementation. Students practice and are evaluated in empathic listening.
DEVS2016 Dual Diagnosis 42.0 Hours
Dual diagnosis refers to a condition wherein an individual with a developmental disability is also diagnosed with a mental health problem such as mood disorder, schizophrenia, dissociative, anxiety, and/or personality disorder. This course educates students about the nature of dual diagnosis, and need for coordinated systems of support.
DEVS2017 Developmental Services: Issues and Trends 56.0 Hours
This course will examine selected issues and new directions in the areas of services and supports for people with developmental disabilities. Relevant ethical and legal issues will be studied. Professional process and practice in the context of the human service organization will be examined. Opportunities for setting professional goals and developing a career portfolio will be provided.
DEVS2018 Gerontology in Developmental Services 42.0 Hours
This course provides an overview of the normal aging processes including the physical, cognitive, sensory, communication and psychological needs of older adults. Common pathological problems, along with specialized needs in aging, are highlighted with an emphasis placed on developmental disabilities. Knowledge of community resources and understanding the role of the service provider in promoting health and well being among older adults is discussed. Grieving and the process of death and dying will be examined.
DEVS2019 Behavioural and Family Supports 42.0 Hours
This course will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to design interventions that utilize the principles of applied behavioural analysis. Students will apply behavioural change strategies through the implementation of a variety of facilitative techniques. Students will develop skills in supporting and empowering the family as a unit, within a framework of ethical collaboration.
DEVS2020 Field Placement: Day/Community 262.5 Hours
Students are placed in agencies or day service programs with supervision from agency personnel/mentors and college monitors. As instructors, job coaches or facilitators, the students support adults who are working, training towards work, or engaging in alternatives to employment such as recreation and leisure.
DEVS2021 Field Placement: Residential 262.5 Hours
Students are placed in a residential setting in a community agency with supervision from workplace mentors and college monitors. While their primary role is to befriend, they may also guide in the development of communication, life skills, and leisure life. In addition, students are expected to demonstrate competence in the administration of medications and provision of health care.
HLTH2000 Health Skills 42.0 Hours
In this course students will develop skills to assess the physical needs of persons with developmental disabilities. Students will develop skills required to administer health care and supervise self-care performed by an individual. Laboratory practice time will enhance the development of necessary skills.
HLTH2001 Pharmacology 28.0 Hours
This course is designed in accordance with DSW Provincial Standards to provide students with an in-depth examination of medications and their actions as related to persons with developmental disabilities.
HLTH2002 Medication Administration 14.0 Hours
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to safely administer medications and support self administration of medications for individuals with developmental disabilities. Students will be required to demonstrate competence in medication administration. Laboratory practice time will enhance the development of necessary skills.
HUMN1012 Human Lifespan Development 56.0 Hours
This course introduces and defines the terms "growth" and "development" through the study of developmental sequence from conception to the end of the middle age years. This course presents development in the areas of physical, cognitive, social and emotional development.
Adults with significant life and work experience may receive credits toward a college certificate or diploma program through an assessment process.
More information about Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
NOTE: Information contained in College documents respecting programs is correct at the time of publication. Academic content of programs and courses is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational objectives and employment market needs. The college reserves the right to add or delete programs, options, courses, timetables or campus locations subject to sufficient enrolment, and the availability of courses.
Last Update: July 28, 2011.