Developmental Services Worker - Accelerated - Humber College

Our Program

The Developmental Services Worker – Accelerated diploma is the one most frequently recognized by employees as qualifying individuals to work with people of all ages who have disabilities such as autism, intellectual handicaps, physical disabilities, and dual diagnosis.

Skilled and involved faculty enrich this program with their own real-life work experiences in health and/or human services. The program's curriculum is updated frequently – in consultation with the Advisory Committee – to keep content current and relevant. Students learn basic theoretical and practical knowledge and skills in the social service, education and health areas.

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

In Ontario, more than 370 community agencies provide a range of services including community participation supports, residential supports, and respite. The provincial government now spends more than $1.35 billion a year on community-based supports for people who have developmental disabilities, alone. Make the most of your emotional maturity, good interpersonal skills, and a commitment to integration in a career as a community support worker, educational assistant, classroom assistant in daycare centres, counsellor in seniors programs, or adult protective service worker.

Work Placement

Practicum is a very important component; thus Humber offers a rich diversity of innovative and traditional placement opportunities. Program faculty consult with students regarding their interests and preferences, and then refer students to specific agencies – many located in and around the Greater Toronto Area. Placements can also be arranged in the student’s own communities outside of Toronto. During the second semester, students complete 20 days of placement. Third-semester placement is seven weeks and takes place during the summer period (May to June).

Our 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.

Members of Humber’s Developmental Services Worker Advisory Committee have extensive experience in the developmental services profession, representing a variety of settings. Many are also members of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD).

Professional Accreditation, Endorsement and Recognition

Graduates may apply to become members of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD) and the Developmental Services Special Interest Group (DSSIG).

Admission Requirements

A bachelor's degree, or postsecondary diploma in a related field
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
If English is not your first language, refer to the English Language Proficiency Policy

Note: For more information, refer to Selection Procedures.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.

Additional Requirements

Note: These additional requirements are not Developmental Services Worker program admission requirements. However, they will be required when applying to prospective placements during the program.

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

Medical Certificate of Health
valid HeartSaver Automated External Defibrillator (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. Note: A police record check will be requested during your program of study. In respect of the 90-day limit on validity of record checks and the types of checks required by the various agencies, please do not attain a police record check prior to being accepted to the program. Faculty will support students upon arrival to the program to ensure they apply for the correct type of police documentation at the appropriate time.

Fees / Scholarships

The 2013/2014 fee for three semesters is

domestic $5,325.12
international $19,425.

Amounts listed are the total of tuition, lab and material fees, student service and auxiliary fees for the first three semesters of the 2013/2014 academic year. Fees are subject to change. For more information, refer to Fees and Financial Assistance.

Additional Costs

$750– textbooks.

Alternative Course of Study

Humber also offers the four-semester Developmental Services Worker postsecondary diploma program 01101 and the Developmental Services Worker Apprenticeship program.

Curriculum (View the 2012/13 Curriculum)

Semester 1

Course Code	Course Name
DSW 101	Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 1 Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 1 Course Code: DSW 101 This course examines the broad field of developmental disabilities from many perspectives. Topics covered include: historical perspectives changing attitudes to developmental disabilities laws protecting people who have intellectual disabilities causes, prevention and emerging research advocacy, growth, inclusion, and empowerment of people who have developmental disabilities issues facing families with members who are intellectually disabled inclusive education.
DSW 106	Intervention Techniques 1 Intervention Techniques 1 Course Code: DSW 106 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.
DSW 107	Community Orientation Community Orientation Course Code: DSW 107 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.
DSW 155	Independent Study 1 Independent Study 1 Course Code: DSW 155 Independent Study 1 is comprised of special assignments to cover the following courses: DSW 104 Human Growth and Development 1 and DSW 157 Health and Wellness 1.
DSW 157	Health and Wellness 1 Health and Wellness 1 Course Code: DSW 157 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.
DSW 202	Counselling Skills Counselling Skills Course Code: DSW 202 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.
DSW 203	Sign Language and Augmentative Communication Sign Language and Augmentative Communication Course Code: DSW 203 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.
DSW 204	Autism and Other Complex Needs Autism and Other Complex Needs Course Code: DSW 204 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.
DSW 205	Basic Pharmacology 1 Basic Pharmacology 1 Course Code: DSW 205 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.
WRIT 100	College Reading and Writing Skills College Reading and Writing Skills Course Code: WRIT 100 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 WRIT 100 successfully, students must produce writing that meets or surpasses the minimum departmental standards as set out in the attached criterion sheet.

Semester 2

Course Code	Course Name
DSW 152	Person-Centred Planning Person-Centred Planning Course Code: DSW 152 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.
DSW 154	Responding to Abuse Responding to Abuse Course Code: DSW 154 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.
DSW 158	Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 2 Introduction to Developmental Disabilities 2 Course Code: DSW 158 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.
DSW 159	Abnormal Psychology/Dual Diagnosis Abnormal Psychology/Dual Diagnosis Course Code: DSW 159 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.
DSW 207	Independent Study 2 Independent Study 2 Course Code: DSW 207 Independent Study 2 is comprised of special assignments to cover the following courses: DSW 153 Educational Strategies and DSW 163 Professionalism in Developmental Services.
DSW 213	Intervention Techniques 2 Intervention Techniques 2 Course Code: DSW 213 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.
DSW 251	Health and Wellness 2 Health and Wellness 2 Course Code: DSW 251 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.
DSW 253	Basic Pharmacology 2 Basic Pharmacology 2 Course Code: DSW 253 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.
DSW 255	Integrative Seminar Integrative Seminar Course Code: DSW 255 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.
WRIT 200	Workplace Writing Skills Workplace Writing Skills Course Code: WRIT 200 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 WRIT 100 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 WRIT 200 successfully, students must produce writing that meets or surpasses the minimum departmental standards as set out in the criterion sheet.

Semester 3

Course Code	Course Name
DSW 252	Home/Community Practicum Home/Community Practicum Course Code: DSW 252 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.
DSW 254	Life Skills/Seniors Practicum Life Skills/Seniors Practicum Course Code: DSW 254 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.
DSW 256	Education/Employment Support Practicum Education/Employment Support Practicum Course Code: DSW 256 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.

May 2013 Program Availability

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