Interdisciplinary Disability Awareness and Service Learning
The Interdisciplinary Disability Awareness and Service Learning (IDASL) Program offers opportunities for students from a variety of disciplines to increase their awareness, knowledge and understanding of people with disabilities and their families across the life span. Taking advantage of this program will broaden a student's experience and promote interaction with individuals with disabilities. IDASL gives opportunities to use a student's growing expertise to benefit individuals with a variety of disabilities from birth to old-age.
IDASL Program Components
1. Didactic
People with disabilities, in addition to faculty and professionals from a variety of disciplines conduct a series of interactive seminars and presentations (Fridays, 1-4 PM). These seminars use a collaborative, solution-focused approach in resolving the real issues faced by individuals with disabilities and their families in achieving full community participation.
2. Service Learning
All students participate in a range of service learning activities that provide examples of interdisciplinary community-based and family-centered services. Students select sites according to their time commitment to the program, the requirements of their home discipline, and their own personal interests. Service Learning sites include:
- The Assistive Technology (AT) Lab supplies training in the fabrication, modification, and repair of assistive technology products.
- BRASC provides day training and support for individuals with severe disabilities.
- Child Care Nutrition Program is a federally funded contract through the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The program is an extension of the School Lunch Program to ensure that adequate nutrition is available to children in a licensed day care provider's home.
- Common Ground offers outdoor recreation to people with disabilities.
- OPTIONS for Independence offers services that promote independence and choice to people with disabilities as a nonresidential Independent Living Center.
- Project PEER supports students with cognitive disabilities, aged 18-21, and facilitates transition from the public school system.
- Top Sports addresses the recreational and leisure activity needs of children and youth with disabilities living in the Cache Valley area.
- Up To 3 Program benefits infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.
3. Research
Seminars provide basic information about disability-related research. Students will also be team members in a Participatory Action Research (PAR) group during the course. There are also a limited number of opportunities for working on research projects already underway at the CPD.
Expectations
The IDASL Program is two semesters. Each student will be expected to attend all seminars (Fridays, 1-4 PM) and complete assignments. Stipends are available according to level of expertise (Bachelors, Masters, or doctoral student) and time commitment. You will receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the course. You can also register for credit (SPED 6500).
Time Commitments
Students may participate in the IDASL Program at one of three levels: Regardless of what level, students will attend all course seminars, complete assignments, and participate in a PAR group project. All students focus on disability-related knowledge and awareness with an interdisciplinary emphasis.
- Orientation/Awareness: One credit option available.
- Intermediate/Skill Development: Two credit option and stipend available. Students at this level will complete 30 service learning hours per semester at a variety of community sites.
- Leadership/Experiential: Three credit option and stipend available. Students at this level will complete 105 service learning hours per semester at a variety community sites.