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Developmental Services Worker

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School of Social & Community Services

Program Availability
Type:
Diploma
Campus: Lakeshore
Program Code:
01101
Length:
Four semesters, beginning in September
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Jo Anne Nugent, EdD, program co-ordinator | 416.675.6622 ext. 3257 | joanne.nugent@humber.ca
  • Our Program
    Learn how to effectively promote the physical, mental and emotional health of individuals with special needs with Humber’s Developmental Services Worker program. Get started with initial courses on the stages of human development, the types of developmental disabilities and the range of available community support services for this population. Dive deeper into this occupation with courses on intervention techniques, person-centred planning, abnormal psychology/dual diagnosis, basic pharmacology, autism, augmentative forms of communication, responding to abuse, and health and wellness. Courses that focus on building interpersonal, counselling and business writing skills will allow you to do your job efficiently and professionally.
     
    Your developmental services worker training will provide you with a host of practical skills, including communicating with clients in sign language, safely administering medications, creating effective behavioural programming, assisting individuals with physical disabilities, and helping those with special needs to integrate into the community. Build your knowledge and expertise in our new counselling labs, which provide an ideal setting to develop abilities in working with individuals with limited verbal skills.
     
    Enhancing your training is the opportunity to learn from faculty who present at conferences, publish, conduct workshops in the community and are members of boards of directors. Through an intensive practicum at a setting such as a group home or independent living facility, you’ll get to put your theory into practice to help support and empower individuals with disabilities. With a solid combination of academic knowledge and applied skills, you’ll be well-positioned to enjoy a satisfying career making a positive difference in the lives of people with special needs.
     
    Note: Optional information sessions may be held throughout the year for appli­cants who wish to learn more about this program. For dates, call 416.675.6622 ext. 3484.
    Your Career

    Your Career

    Today, more than 40,000 adults with a developmental disability live, work and participate in their Ontario communities, and as a skilled and caring developmental services worker, you can help them live a meaningful and productive life.
     
    Your role supporting people with learning disabilities, physical challenges or other special needs, along with their families, can lead to a wide range of positions, including community support worker, educational assistant, classroom assistant in a daycare centre, counsellor in a seniors’ program, teaching assistant, adult protective service worker and residential counsellor. With your deep understanding of developmental disabilities, your skills in behavioural interventions and your desire to help others, you can build a rewarding career in this diverse social services field.
     
    Emotional maturity, strong interpersonal and communication skills and a commitment to community integration are qualities that will allow you to excel as a developmental ser­vices worker.

     

  • Professional Accreditation
    This diploma is the one most frequently recognized by employers as qualifying individuals to work with people of all ages who have disabilities such as autism, intellectual handicaps, physical disabilities and dual diagnosis. Graduates may apply to become members of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD) and the Developmental Ser­vices Special Interest Group (DSSIG).

     

  • Industry Partnerships
    This program has partnerships with an extensive list of agencies that have provided placement and/or employment opportunities for students/graduates. These partners include the following: Addus; Bloorview MacMillan Centre; Brampton Caledon Community Living; Centennial Child Care Centre; Central West Specialized Developmental Services; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health; Christian Horizons; Community Living Burlington; Community Living Dufferin; Community Living Mississauga; Community Living Oakville; Community Living Toronto; Day Centres and Visiting Services for Seniors in Etobicoke; Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board; E.C. Drury School; Haney Centre; Harmony Place Support Services; John Howard/Elizabeth Fry Society; Kerry’s Place; L’Arche; Mary Centre; META Centre; Metropolitan Children’s Aid Society; Montage Support Services; Muki Baum Treatment Centre; New Visions; Options; Peel and Halton Acquired Brain Injury Services; Peel District School Board; Reena; Rumball Centre for the Deaf; Safehaven Project for Community Living; The Salvation Army Broadview Village; Storefront Humber; Surex Community Services; Toronto Catholic District School Board; Toronto District School Board; Vita Community Living Services; Whitby Psychiatric Hospital; York South Association for Community Living.
     
    This program’s Advisory Committee is comprised of people with extensive experience in the developmental services work profession, representing a variety of settings where developmental services workers are employed. Many are also members of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD).
  • Workplacement
    A rich diversity of innovative and traditional field practice/practicum opportunities is a key component of this program. Students complete an average of 800 hours of field practice in total. Placements are in and around the Greater Toronto Area and can also be arranged in the student’s own community outside of Toronto.
    After consulting with students regarding their interests and preferences, the school refers students to specific agencies for these unpaid placements.
     
    The first three-week placement takes place in the fall semester of year one. The second three-week placement occurs in the winter semester of year one. The third placement takes place during the winter semester of year two, for four days per week for 14 weeks.

     

  • Admission Requirement
    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status
    • Grade 12 English (ENG4C or ENG4U). If English is not your first language visit the English Language Proficiency Policy
    • Three Grade 11 or Grade 12 C, U or M courses in addition to those listed above
    • Applicants who do not possess the required courses may complete admission testing to determine equivalencies. Invitation and booking of admission testing is done using the email address provided on the online application
    • Attendance at an information/interview session, which  includes:                 

    - written documentation from employers of at least 60 hours of secondary school co-op, volunteer or paid work experience, preferably with people who have developmental disabilities. Experience in other social service areas will be considered. The letter of reference should comment on your performance during your work experience. You can provide more than one letter of reference if applicable

    - completion of a written questionnaire

    - completion of an English writing sample (topic assigned at session),   which will be assessed for English proficiency. Applicants living 200 kilometres or more from the Greater Toronto Area may make alternative arrangements to do the English writing sample

    Note: For more information visit Selection Procedures.
     
    Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.
     
     
    Additional Requirements

    The following requirements must be completed before field placement can begin:

    – Medical Certificate of Health

    – Valid HeartSaver AED (C) and Standard First Aid certificates

    – Employers who provide field placement opportunities may require students to undergo a Police Record Check for criminal offences, and mandatory bonding is a requirement for some sectors of the corrections field. It is important for potential students to understand that the requirements noted above are beyond the control of Humber and may prevent students from completing the full program, including the field placement component, and/or securing employment. Applicants are advised to check the requirements for specific positions in which they are interested before enrolling in this program. Faculty will support students upon arrival to the program to ensure they apply for the correct type of police documentation.

     

  • Alternative Course of Study
    Humber also offers the Developmental Services Worker – Accelerated postgraduate diploma program 10401 and the Developmen­tal Ser­vices Worker Apprenticeship program.
  • Your Future Study Options
    Qualified graduates of this program may be eligible to apply their academic credits toward further study at many postsecondary institutions. For detailed information, visit our website at humber.ca/transferguide.

     

  • Fees
    The 2012/2013 fee for two semesters is
     
    – domestic $3,435.48
    – international $12,800.
     
    Amounts listed are the total of tuition, lab and material fees, student service and auxiliary fees for the first two semesters of the 2012/2013 academic year.
     
    Fees are subject to change.

    For more information visit Fees and Financial Assistance.

    Additional Costs
    Additional Costs

    $800 – textbooks (over four semesters); costs vary for transportation for field placement, field trips, and crisis intervention training.

Curriculum

  • Semester 1

    Course CodeCourseCredits
    COMM 200College Writing Skills

    College Writing Skills

    Course Code: COMM 200
    Credits: 3
    College Writing Skills emphasizes elements of the writing process. Although subject matter and format may change from one program to another, the skills necessary for effective writing remain the same, as do the professional standards that all Humber students are expected to attain. Students will practice the reading and writing skills that will be valuable in their college programs and build a strong base for professional business writing. Those students who plan to further their studies will develop the fundamental skills for writing acceptable academic English. To help students reach these goals, the course covers the following: analytical reading and critical thinking; essay organization and development; and the elements of clear writing, including grammar and punctuation skills. To complete COMM 200 successfully, students must produce writing that meets or surpasses the minimum departmental standards as set out in the attached criterion sheet.
    		3
    DSWA 101Understanding Human Behaviour

    Understanding Human Behaviour

    Course Code: DSWA 101
    Credits: 3
    In this course students gain knowledge of the biological, psychosocial and sociocultural factors which shape adaption and dysfunction in the general population and amongst those with intellectual disability. A central focus is the role of significant others and the community in the maintenance of emotional well-being. Personal experience and the understanding of others will be emphasized.
    		3
    DSW. 102Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 1

    Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 1

    Course Code: DSW. 102
    Credits: 3
    		3
    DSW. 104Community Orientation

    Community Orientation

    Course Code: DSW. 104
    Credits: 3
    This course introduces students to a wide variety of formal and informal community support services that work together to enhance the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Methods of researching and accessing services are addressed. It also introduces the competencies involved in successfully fulfilling the role of a developmental services worker and encourages students to identify with and demonstrate professional ethics and behaviour. Strong emphasis will be placed on the development of the student?s skills in working effectively within a group. Information gathered regarding community support services will also enhance the student?s awareness of possible placement opportunities. Students will prepare for their field placement experiences. This course is a prerequisite for all field placements.
    		3
    DSW. 107Field Practice 1 (DSW) (15 Days)

    Field Practice 1 (DSW) (15 Days)

    Course Code: DSW. 107
    Credits: 2

    This three-week block placement will introduce you to the role of the developmental services worker in a community setting. The primary focus will be on meaningful interaction with people who have developmental disabilities and their supportive networks.

    		2
    DSW. 108Human Growth and Development 1

    Human Growth and Development 1

    Course Code: DSW. 108
    Credits: 3
    This course will introduce the developmental process that occurs from fertilization to middle childhood. The main focus will be on normal development, but some attention will be placed on variations from the norm in such areas as physical, developmental and/or learning disabilities. The cognitive, physical, social and emotional aspects of development will be addressed.
    		3
    DSW. 202Developing Interpersonal Skills

    Developing Interpersonal Skills

    Course Code: DSW. 202
    Credits: 2
    This course is designed to introduce students to the theories and concepts that apply to interpersonal communication. The aim is to enhance the development of effective interpersonal skills in formal and informal, professional and non-professional situations.
    		2
    DSW. 215Intervention Techniques 1

    Intervention Techniques 1

    Course Code: DSW. 215
    Credits: 2
    What makes us behave as we do? How can behaviour be changed? This course is a general introduction to the principles of behaviour management. It will provide an overview of theory, plus the major concepts related to positive behavioural approaches, including classical and operant conditioning. The key elements of the ABC Model will be reviewed, in particular the use of reinforcement strategies to promote learning. There will also be an emphasis on the ethical utilization of behavioural techniques to enhance the probability that people who have developmental disabilities will develop effective behaviours that are personally fulfilling, productive and socially acceptable.
    		2

    Semester 2

    Course CodeCourseCredits
    DSW. 105Person-Centred Planning

    Person-Centred Planning

    Course Code: DSW. 105
    Credits: 2
    This course presents the underlying philosophy and basic components of a planning process that will provide co-ordinated, comprehensive and effective support to people who have intellectual disabilities.
    		2
    DSWA 106Educational Strategies

    Educational Strategies

    Course Code: DSWA 106
    Credits: 3
    The aim of this course is to develop in students the skills and techniques to modify teaching activities and materials for students who have developmental, physical and/or learning disabilities. Effective adaptation of teaching plans and strategies for increasing student social skills will be presented throughout the course. The role of the developmental services worker relative to teachers in the Ontario educational system will be examined.
    		3
    DSW. 109Responding to Abuse

    Responding to Abuse

    Course Code: DSW. 109
    Credits: 2
    This course will explore the nature of abuse towards people of all ages in our society. The course will result in greater awareness of the vulnerability of people with intellectual disabilities and the latest approaches in prevention and response to abuse towards this group. It will focus not only on family violence but abuse in support and care environments such as residential, school and day programs. Particular emphasis will be placed on the detection, prevention and reporting of abuse specific to the role of the developmental service worker. In light of society?s increasing commitment to overcoming this problem, the response of the community, laws and protection orders will be examined.
    		2
    DSW. 200Field Practice 2 (DSW) (15 Days)

    Field Practice 2 (DSW) (15 Days)

    Course Code: DSW. 200
    Credits: 2

    During this three-week block placement, you will be placed in a community setting where you will continue to develop and sharpen your skills as a developmental services worker. You will build on the practical knowledge gained in Field Practice 1.

    		2
    DSW. 203Human Growth and Development 2

    Human Growth and Development 2

    Course Code: DSW. 203
    Credits: 3
    The primary purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the developmental issues from puberty to adulthood, and the growth and behavioural patterns in the development of the physical, mental, emotional and social aspects of these life stages.
    		3
    DSWA 204Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 2

    Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 2

    Course Code: DSWA 204
    Credits: 3

    This is a course that explores ways of promoting the growth and empowerment of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, and ways of developing inclusive communities.

    		3
    DSW. 205Abnormal Psychology/Dual Diagnosis

    Abnormal Psychology/Dual Diagnosis

    Course Code: DSW. 205
    Credits: 3
    The purpose of this course is to provide students with information and skills, which will increase their effectiveness in supporting people who have a dual diagnosis (a developmental disability and a mental health problem). The course will review why people who have developmental disabilities are vulnerable to mental illnesses; diagnostic issues; the biopsychosocial model of mental illness; six major types of mental illnesses and how they present in people who have a developmental disability; how to prepare comprehensive information for a mental health consultation; diverse intervention modalities and how to provide comprehensive supports. There will also be a focus on how the mental health system operates and the systemic issues, which act as barriers to accessing services for people with a dual diagnosis.
    		3
    DSWA 230Professionalism in Developmental Services

    Professionalism in Developmental Services

    Course Code: DSWA 230
    Credits: 2
    In fulfilling this role, effective participation as an agency employee, team member, supervisor and as a member of either management or a labour union is examined as basic to the DSW's professional identification and effective service delivery.
    		2

    Semester 3

    Course CodeCourseCredits
    COMM 300Business Writing Skills

    Business Writing Skills

    Course Code: COMM 300
    Credits: 3
    Business Writing Skills introduces students to the strategies of effective written workplace communication. This course is designed to build on and reinforce the writing skills developed in COMM 200 and requires students to apply these skills to vocationally relevant assignments. Students will learn how to select and organize pertinent information according to purpose and audience and will practise presenting their ideas clearly, precisely, and effectively in various written formats. To complete COMM 300 successfully, students must produce writing that meets or surpasses the minimum departmental standards as set out in the criterion sheet.
    		3
    DSW. 201Human Sexuality

    Human Sexuality

    Course Code: DSW. 201
    Credits: 2
    This course will examine the impact of biological, psychological and sociocultural forces on human sexual behaviour. Emphasis will be given to the development and expression of sexuality and the education and prevention of sexual abuse in persons with developmental disabilities.
    		2
    DSWA 207Basic Pharmacology 1

    Basic Pharmacology 1

    Course Code: DSWA 207
    Credits: 2

    This course presents an introductory overview of drug therapy and the role of the developmental services worker in the administration of medications. It will also provide students with a foundation of knowledge about medications that can be supplemented throughout their professional lives. Medications used for the integumentary, musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system's diseases and disorders will be examined in more detail.

    		2
    DSW. 208Health and Wellness 1

    Health and Wellness 1

    Course Code: DSW. 208
    Credits: 2
    This course introduces students to the relationship of health and wellness to the role of the developmental services worker. It introduces students to body systems and some of the disorders associated with each. Students will also appreciate the interaction of the mind, the body, and the spirit of the people they support in general health promotion and illness prevention.
    		2
    DSW. 303Counselling Skills

    Counselling Skills

    Course Code: DSW. 303
    Credits: 3
    Students will begin with counselling skills for verbal adults. In the second half of the course, students will adapt listening skills and problem-solving techniques to individuals with developmental delay. Students will learn verbal and projective techniques to assist individuals to define emotions, communicate information and overcome current emotional challenges and past traumas.
    		3
    DSW. 304Sign Language and Augmentative Communication

    Sign Language and Augmentative Communication

    Course Code: DSW. 304
    Credits: 2
    This course is designed to introduce you to the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and augmentative communication. Students will learn ASL skills appropriate in a variety of settings and with the different functioning levels of people who have developmental disabilities and/or physical limitations. Augmentative communication options appropriate for people who have developmental disabilities will be discussed in class and researched for an assignment. Students will learn how to design and implement visual tools within developmental services settings.
    		2
    DSW. 315Intervention Techniques 2

    Intervention Techniques 2

    Course Code: DSW. 315
    Credits: 2
    This course builds upon the general principles of behaviour management techniques that were introduced in DSW. 215 Intervention Techniques 1. The emphasis will be upon the utilization of positive behavioural approaches, specifically with people who have developmental disabilities. There will be a focus on conducting functional assessments and developing programs, which will enhance the quality of life of these individuals. There will also be a review of specific behavioural topics that are connected to developmental disabilities. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on supporting individuals to accomplish their goals, while assisting them to attain socially acceptable behaviours.
    		2
    DSW. 316Autism and Other Complex Needs

    Autism and Other Complex Needs

    Course Code: DSW. 316
    Credits: 3

    This course will explore autism spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. There will be an investigation of the current knowledge base regarding the causes of both disorders. The course will focus on presenting current best practice with respect to the most effective strategies to use when supporting individuals with these conditions, including medical, behavioural, and clinical interventions. The main goal of the course is to assist individuals with autism spectrum disorder or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder to be fully integrated citizens with a positive quality of life.

    		3
    HUMA 024Humanities: An Introduction to Arts and Science

    Humanities: An Introduction to Arts and Science

    Course Code: HUMA 024
    Credits: 3
    The Humanities course focuses on fundamental questions individuals ask of themselves as they proceed through life. Why are we the way we are? Do we have free will or are we prisoners of our past experience or our biological inheritance? What motivates societies to change? Why do societal changes so often divide people into opposing camps? Why do so many people find contemporary life at home, at work, and in the community unfulfilling? What constitutes good government? How should injustice be fought? Can nations successfully deal with global problems? What is science and how does it differ from other kinds of inquiry? Can scientists provide solutions to the problems we face? What is art and does it offer answers of its own? What is its relationship to beauty, to knowledge, and to ethics? Is objectivity about art (or anything) possible? These questions are organized into units that begin with issues concerning the nature of the individual and then extend outward to various social, cultural and physical contexts. The issues explored in this course are too complex to have any one right answer. Rather, individuals must search for answers that make sense of their experiences via various theoretical perspectives. The Humanities course supports this endeavour through study of different thinkers presented in the readings and exploration of different points of view explored in class discussions. ESL students should consider taking the ESL Humanities course. Students may transfer into ESL Humanities (HESL 024) either at the Registrar?s Office or the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences Office (K201) on a first-come, first-served basis before the Last Day to Add.
    		3

    Semester 4

    Course CodeCourseCredits
    DSW. 301Basic Pharmacology 2

    Basic Pharmacology 2

    Course Code: DSW. 301
    Credits: 2
    This course presents an overview of drug therapy and provides students with a basic working knowledge of specific medications for the gastrointestinal, endocrine, respiratory, and nervous system diseases and disorders. Students can supplement this knowledge throughout their professional lives.
    		2
    DSW. 306Health and Wellness 2

    Health and Wellness 2

    Course Code: DSW. 306
    Credits: 3
    This course introduces students to specific body systems with special emphasis on disorders associated with each. Students will also appreciate the interaction of the mind, the body, and the spirit of the people they support in general health promotion and illness prevention. The course will also introduce students to physical management strategies and techniques related to life skills for those who have physical exceptionalities. This will include techniques used for handling, positioning, dressing, feeding, toileting and managing equipment and wheelchairs.
    		3
    DSW. 400Home/Community Practicum

    Home/Community Practicum

    Course Code: DSW. 400
    Credits: 4
    This course will provide students with the opportunity to apply their theory in supporting individuals, their families and friends. Students will utilize inclusion in facilitating growth and empowerment of these individuals and their families. Possible placements could include family support, group home and independent living areas.
    		4
    DSW. 401Education/Employment Support Practicum

    Education/Employment Support Practicum

    Course Code: DSW. 401
    Credits: 6
    This course will provide students with learning experiences in an educational or employment support setting such as preschool, primary or secondary school, adult developmental program, supported employment or employment training services.
    		6
    DSW. 402Life Skills/Seniors Practicum

    Life Skills/Seniors Practicum

    Course Code: DSW. 402
    Credits: 4
    This course will introduce the student to people who have developmental disabilities, and seniors who have physical disabilities. The sensory impairments (hearing, vision, speech) and physical/emotional/neurological impairments will be addressed in relation to life skills training and support.
    		4
    DSW. 405Integrative Seminar

    Integrative Seminar

    Course Code: DSW. 405
    Credits: 2
    The course will provide students with an opportunity to integrate theoretical concepts and practical experiences within a supportive environment. There will be opportunities to discuss relevant issues, methodologies, and to develop problem-solving models. Student experiences in a variety of different settings will be examined and issues such as the role of the developmental services worker, crisis management, race relations, and legal issues will be discussed. In the debriefing process, students will practice problem solving and methods of achieving results relating to such issues.
    		2
Curriculum Notes
The learning outcomes of the Humber Educational Assistant Certificate program have been incorporated into the Developmental Services Worker program in recognition of the increasing role develop­mental service workers play in promoting learning, not only as educational assistants but also as community agency and family workers.
The Developmental Services Worker program also offers this curriculum as continuing education courses in the evening.

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