If you want to build a meaningful career in disability support, this course is a great place to start. Whether you're new to the field or looking to grow in your role, you'll gain valuable knowledge, skills, and insights to make a real impact in the lives of people with disabilities. Through this self-paced program, you’ll explore the history and evolution of disability support, key policies and legislation, and the essential skills that support professionals need—like communication, problem-solving, and advocacy. 

Course Description

This program is here to help you build the knowledge, skills, and values you need to succeed in the field of disability support. Whether you’re new to this work or looking to grow in your role, you’ll gain understanding of what it takes to make a meaningful impact in the lives of people with disabilities. 

We’ll start by looking at the foundations of disability supports, where you’ll learn about the history of this field and how it has evolved. You’ll explore the move from institutional care to today’s focus on inclusion and accessibility, and you’ll see how support professionals play a key role in helping people live independently and as part of their communities. 

From there, we’ll dive into the skills and competencies that make a great support professional. This includes practical abilities like problem-solving and communication and personal qualities like empathy and patience. You’ll also learn about educational and training opportunities to help you grow and adapt to changes in the field. 

Next, we’ll focus on ethics and advocacy, two important areas of disability support. You’ll learn how to respect the rights and choices of the people you work with, build strong and respectful relationships, and stand up for their inclusion and equality. We’ll also discuss ways to take care of yourself so you can stay effective and balanced in your role. 

Finally, we’ll explore the career opportunities in disability support. You’ll learn about the new roles available and how you can align your skills and goals with a meaningful career. With Nova Scotia’s focus on community-based services, now is a great time to step into this field and make a difference. 

As you move through this program, take the time to reflect on your values and goals. Think about how the skills and knowledge you’re gaining can help you support others and grow in your career. 

This is your opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact. 

Learning Opportunity

1. Understand the evolution of disability supports: 
   1. Describe the historical timeline of disability supports in Canada. 
   2. Recognize the impact of systemic bias and group mentality on the treatment of people with disabilities. 
2. Become familiar with the key legislation and policies: 
   1. Identify significant laws and policies governing disability rights, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Accessible Canada Act. 
   2. Explain the implications of the Human Rights Review and Remedy for the Finding of Systemic Discrimination Against Nova Scotians with Disabilities (Remedy Report) and Nova Scotia’s commitment to deinstitutionalization and community-based support. 
3. Appreciate the role of support professionals: 
   1. Outline the responsibilities and ethical considerations of support workers in fostering independence and inclusion. 
   2. Reflect on the historical development of the profession and its importance in modern disability support systems. 
4. Critically Assess Systemic Barriers: 
   1. Examine the challenges and successes of the deinstitutionalization movement in Canada. 
   2. Evaluate the role of community living programs in improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. 
5. Understand essential soft skills: 
   1. Demonstrate the importance of interpersonal, problem-solving, communication and critical thinking skills in building trust and providing effective support. 
   2. Reflect on personal values like empathy and compassion and their application in professional settings. 
6. Familiarize yourself with various educational pathways: 
   1. Identify the educational qualifications and training programs available in Nova Scotia. 
   2. Evaluate the benefits of both formal education and on-the-job training. 
7. Appreciate the Importance of continuous learning: 
   1. Understand the significance of ongoing education in adapting to new practices and policies in the disability support sector. 
   2. Explore methods for staying informed. 
8. Examine evolving perspectives on disability: 
   1. Discuss the evolution of disability models from the medical to the social and critical perspectives. 
   2. Analyze how language and societal attitudes toward disability continue to evolve, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the field. 
9. Respect the rights and preferences of people with disabilities: 
   1. Recognize the importance of honouring the autonomy and choices of the people supported. 
   2. Apply strategies to respect diverse cultural, linguistic, and personal values in support work. 
10. Foster empathy and build trust: 
    1. Differentiate between pity and genuine empathy and their impacts on relationships with people. 
    2. Identify skills to build meaningful, trust-based connections while maintaining professional boundaries. 
11. Explore the principles and practices of advocacy: 
    1. Define advocacy and its various types, including self-advocacy, and understand their significance. 
    2. Assist individuals in leading their own advocacy efforts and connect them with relevant resources. 
12. Promote professional well-being: 
    1. Identify the challenges of managing stress and avoiding burnout in the disability support field. 
    2. Employ strategies for psychological flexibility and self-care to maintain emotional resilience and job satisfaction. 
13. Understand the current and future DSP landscape: 
    1. Identify the services offered under the DSP. 
    2. Recognize the programs being phased out. 
14. Evaluate key responsibilities and skills: 
    1. Understand the responsibilities of various roles, from crisis response and advocacy to developing personalized support plans and fostering community engagement. 
    2. Assess the qualifications and skills required, such as communication, problem-solving, and trauma-informed care. 
15. Identify pathways to enter the field: 
    1. Learn about education and training options. 
    2. Understand the importance of aligning personal values with the core principles of the disability support profession. 

Course Structure

This course is self-paced and will take approximately 2 hours to complete.