Principles of Working with People with Learning Disabilities who display Challenging Behaviour draft

Program Overview

The "Principles of Working with People with Learning Disabilities who display Challenging Behaviour" course at Ulster University equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to understand and support individuals with learning disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviors. Through modules on assessment, interventions, and person-centered approaches, participants gain expertise in managing challenging behaviors effectively and promoting the well-being of individuals with learning disabilities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Principles of Working with People with Learning Disabilities who display Challenging Behaviour

is a 20-credit, postgraduate level short course offered at Ulster University's Belfast campus. It focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and support individuals with learning disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviors. This course aims to equip participants with:

• Assessment skills: The ability to identify challenging behaviors and conduct assessments of individuals displaying them.
• Plan development skills: The ability to contribute to the creation of personalized care plans for individuals with challenging behaviors.
This knowledge can be applied by professionals working with individuals with learning disabilities in various settings, including:
• Residential homes
• Day centres
• Supported living environments
• Schools

Outline:

This course typically runs over a 12-week period with weekly or block teaching depending on the specific schedule. Students can expect to be engaged in a variety of teaching and learning activities, including:

• Lectures: These sessions introduce key concepts and theoretical frameworks related to challenging behaviors.
• Seminars: These interactive sessions allow students to discuss case studies and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Tutorials: Smaller, more focused sessions provide individual support and guidance to students.
• Independent study: This involves reading, research, and self-directed learning to further deepen understanding.
The course likely covers the following modules:
• This module delves into the definition, characteristics, and prevalence of challenging behavior in individuals with learning disabilities.
• It examines the various theoretical models and explanations for such behavior.
• Students learn how to differentiate challenging behaviour from other behaviours.

Module 2: Assessment of Challenging Behaviour

• This module focuses on the different methods for assessing challenging behavior, including functional behavior assessments and other observational techniques.
• Students gain hands-on experience in conducting assessments and interpreting findings.
• Ethical considerations and data privacy in assessments are also emphasized.
• Students explore positive behavioral support strategies, individualized plans, and environmental modifications.
• They learn to implement interventions effectively and evaluate their impact.

Module 4: Person-Centred Approaches and Advocacy

• This module emphasizes the importance of person-centered approaches in supporting individuals with challenging behaviours.
• Students learn about building positive relationships, communication strategies, and promoting autonomy.
• Advocacy and safeguarding issues are also discussed.

Assessment:

This course likely utilizes a combination of assessment methods, including:

• Coursework: This may take the form of essays, reports, case studies, or presentations.
• Examinations: Written or oral examinations may be used to test students' knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
• Portfolio: A portfolio may be required to document students' learning journey throughout the course and showcase their skills and accomplishments.

Teaching:

This course is likely delivered by experienced academic and professional staff with expertise in working with individuals with learning disabilities and challenging behaviours.

Careers:

Upon completing this course, individuals may find career opportunities in various fields, including:

• Special educational needs (SEN) schools
• Learning disability services
• Residential care settings
• Supported living programs
• Advocacy organizations
This course can enhance career prospects for individuals currently working in these fields, providing them with specialized knowledge and skills to better support individuals with challenging behaviour.

Other:

• This course is available as a standalone module or as part of a postgraduate diploma program.
• Students can expect to receive timely feedback on assessments.
• The course is offered part-time, making it suitable for working professionals.

Additional Notes:

• The specific course content, teaching format, and assessment methods may vary depending on the semester or year of enrolment.

• Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU Settlements Status Fees: £777.80
• England, Scotland, Wales and the Islands Fees: £777.80
• International Fees: £0.00