Education Assistant Program

Program Overview

The Education Assistant Program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to support students with diverse learning needs in BC schools. Through a combination of theoretical instruction, practical experience, and field placements, the program prepares graduates to work collaboratively with teachers and other professionals to create inclusive and supportive learning environments. Graduates are qualified to work as education assistants in various settings, including regular classrooms, resource rooms, and life-skills training programs.

Program Outline

Education Assistant Program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Degree Overview:

- Overview:

The Education Assistant Program (EDAS) at KPU provides training and skills for individuals who want to work as education assistants in schools across British Columbia.

- Objectives:

The program's objectives are to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to:

• Support students with special and diverse learning needs.
• Provide personal care, behavioral and learning support.
• Facilitate inclusion, communication, and social interaction.
• Work collaboratively with teachers and other professionals.
• Understand the BC curriculum and educational policies.
• Apply effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Respond to diverse learning needs and create inclusive learning environments.

- Program Description:

The EDAS program is a two-semester, full-time program consisting of 42 credits. It involves a combination of theoretical instruction, practical experience, and field placements in BC schools. The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Child and adolescent development
• Special needs education
• Classroom management and behavior support
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Assessment and evaluation
• Curriculum development and adaptation
• Inclusive practices and strategies
• First aid and CPR

Outline:

- Program Content:

• The program is divided into five modules:
• Child Development and Learning
• Special Needs Education
• Classroom Management and Behavior Support
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Curriculum Development and Adaptation
• Each module includes a combination of lectures, discussions, group work, assignments, and practical activities.
• The program also includes a field placement component where students gain practical experience working with students in a school setting.

- Course Schedule:

• The program is offered full-time, with classes typically held two evenings per week and some Saturdays.
• The exact schedule may vary depending on the semester and availability of instructors.

- Individual Modules:

• Child Development and Learning:
This module explores the principles and theories of child development from birth through adolescence. Students will learn about the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children and how to create supportive learning environments.
• Special Needs Education:
This module focuses on the needs of students with diverse learning needs, including students with disabilities, gifted students, and English language learners. Students will learn about different types of disabilities, effective teaching strategies, and how to create inclusive learning environments.
• Classroom Management and Behavior Support:
This module focuses on effective classroom management strategies and how to support students with challenging behavior. Students will learn about positive behavior support techniques, de-escalation strategies, and how to create a safe and supportive learning environment.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
This module focuses on developing effective communication and interpersonal skills needed for working with students, parents, and colleagues. Students will learn about active listening, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills.
• Curriculum Development and Adaptation:
This module focuses on developing curriculum and adapting materials to meet the needs of diverse learners. Students will learn about curriculum design principles, instructional strategies, and assessment methods.

Assessment:

- Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods including:

• Assignments and projects
• Quizzes and exams
• Participation in class discussions
• Performance in field placements
• Reflective journals and self-assessments

- Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are based on the program's learning outcomes, which outline the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire by the end of the program.

Teaching:

- Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Group work
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Guest speakers

- Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in child development, special needs education, and classroom management.

- Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a collaborative and hands-on learning approach.
• Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through field placements in BC schools.
• The program is informed by current research and best practices in education.

Careers:

- Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the EDAS program are qualified to work as education assistants in BC schools.

- Opportunities:

Education assistants work in a variety of settings, including:

• Regular classrooms
• Resource rooms
• Work Experience sites
• Life-skills training programs

- Outcomes:

There is a high demand for education assistants in BC, and EDAS graduates are employed by all of the school districts in the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, and beyond.

Other:

- Program Fees:

Information on program fees can be found on the KPU website.

Please note:

This is a comprehensive extraction based on the information provided in the context. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official KPU website or contact the EDAS program directly.