A new program scheduled to begin at Conestoga’s Doon campus in January 2015 will provide individuals with developmental disabilities and other significant learning challenges with the opportunity to experience college life and enhance their academic and vocational skills.
Community Integration through Co-operative Education (CICE), a two-year Ontario College Certificate program, includes core courses in such areas as numeracy, communications, job and life skills, human relations and health and wellness. Students will also have the opportunity to build on their vocational interests and develop skills and knowledge in one of several areas of specialization by participating in program courses and work-integrated learning.
Support for the development of the program has been provided by the Hallman Foundation.
According to Chair Goranka Vukelich, Community Integration through Co-operative Education will help students who cannot access traditional post-secondary programming to achieve their potential and become contributing members of the community.
“The program challenges us to look at people through a lens of capabilities - what they can do - and use these capabilities as a springboard to help learners develop skills for independent living,” said Vukelich.
Students enrolled in the CICE program will have access to tutors, support workers and learning strategists who will facilitate the learning process. Specialized labs will provide the assistive technology and other supports required to help those with learning challenges achieve their potential, participate in college life, develop vocational skills and transition into the community.
There are still spaces available for the January 2015 intake. As part of the application process, all applicants will be required to attend an information session and interview to determine program suitability, area of interest and participant goals.
Program details are available at http://www.conestogac.on.ca/fulltime/1343.jsp
For more information, contact Goranka Vukelich, 519-748-5220, ext. 3393.