HS 284D Practicum-Human Services, Direct Support Specialist

Lab Hours: 12
Credits: 4

Provides experience working on-site in a human service agency to integrate field and classroom experiences. Offers Direct Support Specialist students two different practicum sites, each at least two terms in length, during the Associate of Applied Science degree acquisition. The second-year practicum is more comprehensive and provides an opportunity to develop more advanced skills.

Prerequisite: HS 103, HS 150, HS 155, and HS 170; or consent of instructor. (All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.)
Student Learning Outcomes:

Personal knowledge and skills: Develop, practice, and evaluate the values and skills possessed and/or acquired as a direct support specialist.
Service knowledge and skills: Develop and practice skills necessary to work with clients or consumers served by the agency.
System knowledge and skills: Develop an awareness of the philosophy, activities, and practices of the agency.
System knowledge and skills: Develop the capacity to work with agency staff in establishing and maintaining place in the agency.

Content Outline

Personal Knowledge and Skills
- Intercultural competency
- Personal characteristics
- Coaching
Service Knowledge and Skills
- Advocacy
- Outreach
- Supervision
- Case management
- Care coordination
- Leadership
- Interventions
- Creating and Implementing Treatment Plans
System Knowledge and Skills
- Ethical codes and boundaries
- Workplace expectations
- Community resources and referrals
- Records
- Work relationships