Course Descriptions

In this course, the students will gain an understanding of the historical and philosophical issues in the field of inclusive education.

In this course, the students will gain an understanding of the school system and the EA role within the kindergarten to grade 12 educational setting.

In this course, the students will practise the application of basic communication principles, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, as it relates to the role of the education assistant in an educational setting.

In this course, students will gain knowledge of various behaviour profiles. From a trauma- informed, social-emotional learning lens and through integration of the First Peoples principles of learning, students will develop an understanding of how to support children and youth with behavioural difficulties in school environments. Mental health challenges will be explored.

In this course, students will become familiar with a wide range of low- and high-tech adaptations for students with diverse learning needs. The course will teach the Boardmaker program and facilitate the creation of visual supports to support learning, and for use in subsequent classes. E-portfolios will be created and their purpose in the global summation of learning will be extensively discussed and evaluated.

In this course, students will explore current issues emphasized in inclusive education through definition, etiology, prevalence and implications for learning in the various areas of exceptionality. This exploration will be guided by the First Peoples principles of learning and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion values and principles. A practical skills introduction is included; taught by an Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, or Registered Nurse.

In this course, students will become familiar with a wide range of low- and high-tech adaptations for students with communication impairments. Common computer and tablet hardware and software that are used in schools will be explored. Students will learn how the school system and related agencies assess the needs of students who present with a wide range of abilities and provide appropriate differentiation. Relationships between teachers, related professionals, and the education assistants in terms of educational planning and implementations of plans regarding technology will be discussed. Students will enhance their use and confidence with Boardmaker tools to support student needs.

In this course, the student will gain knowledge of and experience with a range of accommodation strategies suitable for inclusion of students K-grade 12.

In this course, the student will gain knowledge of and experience with a range of instructional strategies suitable for inclusion of students on individualized programs in K-grade 12.

In this course, the student will gain the practical experience necessary to work effectively as an EA in the classroom supporting students K-grade 12, who present with a wide range of abilities. For those students already employed in EA role, a Capstone project will be completed.