Program Overview

Introduction to Social Development Studies

The Social Development Studies program offers students the opportunity to engage in experiential learning through the Applied Apprenticeship course, SDS 496R. This course provides third and fourth-year SDS-major students with an opportunity for unpaid experience in an applied/real-world setting.

Course Overview

SDS 496R: Applied Apprenticeship is a credit
on-credit course that consists of two components: Practical Experience and In-class Learning. The course is typically reserved for SDS Major students, with priority given to 4A/B students. Department consent is required, and the class is capped at 25 students.

Practical Experience

• Complete 70 hours of applied experience in a local agency/organization.
• Past placements have included Big Brothers Big Sisters, Strong Start, The Centre for Community Based Research, Kids Ability, The Working Centre, The Volunteer Action Centre, local elementary schools, and more.
• These hours can be divided however the student and the agency supervisor need, as long as they are all complete before the end of the term.
• Students are responsible for their own transportation to placement and applicable costs for placement-required forms (e.g., criminal record check).

In-class Learning

• Meet bi-weekly onsite at Renison with other 496R students and the course coordinator.
• These classes are for setting learning goals, discussing rewards and challenges arising from the placement, and presenting experiences/outcomes.
• Expect discussion opportunities, writing reflection papers, and providing a 10-minute presentation on the placement.
• Attendance is key to getting the most out of this course; students must be present for at least 5 of the 6 on-campus classes to get the course credit.

Application and Enrolment Process

1. Submit SDS 496R Application: During the month of September, submit the SDS 496R Application Form.
2. Confirmation of Interview Slots: Receive an email in early October if selected for a brief interview with the course coordinator.
3. Course Interviews: Interviews with the course coordinator typically happen in the last 2 weeks of October and will last 15-30 minutes.
4. Placement Interviews: A second interview with the placement agency may be needed, facilitated by the coordinator.
5. Course Added to Schedule: A successful applicant will be internally enrolled in SDS 496R by the SDS Department for the applicable term.

Student Perspectives

• Students have reported valuable take-aways from their placements, including learning the difference between a job and a career, being an educator and role model, and witnessing progress in clients.
• Examples of student experiences include working with individuals with learning disabilities, developing a support program for biological children in foster families, and creating a workshop on resilience for high school students.

Course Coordinator

• Dr. Jim Perretta is the course coordinator for SDS 496R: Applied Apprenticeship.
• Dr. Perretta teaches a number of other SDS courses centered on psychology concepts and well-being and maintains a clinical private practice.

Conclusion

The Social Development Studies program, through the Applied Apprenticeship course, offers students a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their skills and understanding of social development principles. This experiential learning experience is invaluable for students looking to make a meaningful impact in their future careers.