Alberta Council of Disability Services

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Foundations

Foundations in Community Disability Studies

This training program was first developed in 2005 and specifically designed for direct service workers in the field of Community Disability Services. It aims to provide a comprehensive orientation to the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to staff in the field. Foundations in CDS is a collaborative effort between the government, institutions of post-secondary education, and service providers in Alberta. Foundations in Community Disability Studies has become a benchmark with the industry is widely accepted as required training for all entry-level Community Disability Services Workers without prior training or education. The program is copyrighted to the Alberta Council of Disability Services.

As of October 2023, we have made updates to the Foundations in Community Disability Studies curriculum.

Training Details 

Instructor-led Foundations in Community Disability Studies Tutor Training (Train-the-Trainer) is designed to equip tutors with the knowledge and instructional skills necessary to effectively train community disability service professionals within their organization. 

Length of Training

9 hours (delivered over three half-days)

Delivery Methods

  • Instructor-led virtual training

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain the structure, objectives, and importance of the ACDS Foundations in Community Disability Services course.
  • Identify key learning outcomes from the Foundations course and their relevance to disability service professionals.
  • Apply adult learning principles to effectively teach frontline staff in disability services.
  • Recognize diverse learning styles and adapt teaching methods to enhance engagement and knowledge retention.
  • Use facilitation techniques to create an inclusive and interactive learning environment.

Related Course

  • Foundations in Community Disability Studies – Face-to-Face
  • Foundations in Community Disability Studies – Mentor-led Online Training
 

This in-service tutor-led training is designed for organizations with an ACDS-certified Foundations Tutor to facilitate training within their agency. The program supports learners through structured guidance, ensuring they receive individualized instruction, evaluation, and mentoring.

Register for Foundations in Community Disability Studies – Face-to-Face Training

Length of Training
52 Weeks

Delivery Methods

  • Tutor-led training, taught in-person within the learner’s agency

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply person-centered support: Develop individualized care approaches based on a person’s goals, preferences, and strengths while promoting dignity, independence, and self-determination.
  • Facilitate community inclusion: Support individuals in building social connections, participating in community activities, and enhancing decision-making power.
  • Recognize and respond to abuse: Identify signs of abuse and neglect, understand reporting procedures, and take appropriate action to protect individuals.
  • Support communication needs: Utilize communication aids, alternative communication systems, and adaptive technologies to enhance interaction.
  • Ensure health and safety: Recognize potential hazards, follow safety protocols, and respond effectively to emergencies, medical concerns, and accidents.

Related Course

  • Foundations in Community Disability Studies – Mentor-led Online Training

This online training program is delivered through our Learning Management System (LMS) and is structured into three sections. Learners are supported by an in-house mentor who assists them in completing the applied skills checklist - the real-world component of the program that evaluates practical skill application.

Throughout the course, learners engage in discussions and assignments that connect course content with real-world disability support practice. Mentors play an active role in guiding learners through applied skills, grading assignments, and supporting their development.

Register for Foundations in Community Disability Studies - Mentor-led Online Training

Length of Training
52 Weeks

Delivery Methods

  • Self-paced online learning, supported by mentor

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply person-centered support: Provide individualized care based on a person’s goals, preferences, and strengths while promoting dignity, independence, and self-determination.
  • Facilitate community inclusion: Support individuals in building social connections, participating in community activities, and increasing decision-making power.
  • Recognize and respond to abuse: Identify signs of abuse and neglect, understand reporting procedures, and take appropriate action to protect individuals.
  • Support communication needs: Utilize communication aids, alternative communication systems, and adaptive technologies to enhance interaction.
  • Ensure health and safety: Recognize potential hazards, follow safety protocols, and respond effectively to accidents, emergencies, and medical concerns.
Related Course
  • Foundations in Community Disability Studies – Face-to-Face Training