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Educational Assistant


Location(s):  Regina    Saskatoon    Distance Learning Option

Educational Assistant is a certificate program. The program (formerly known as the Teacher Assistant Program) provides the knowledge and skill development needed to assist the classroom teacher in inclusive educational settings with children and youth who have diverse learning needs. It combines theory and practical application for elementary and secondary age students in the K-12 school system.

You will be introduced to various learning styles and the adaptations required in assisting special needs students to reach their full educational potential. You will be prepared to reinforce student learning and support developmental and behavioural tasks. You will also learn how to address the personal needs of students.

You will study:

  • social, emotional and cognitive development

  • health and wellness promotion

  • the role and responsibilities of being an educational assistant

  • how to support the teacher in particular subject areas (through lesson plans and materials)

  • communication skills

  • classroom management techniques and crisis prevention

  • awareness of cultures

  • family dynamics

  • exceptionalities (causes, characteristics and accommodations)


As an educational assistant, you will support and assist in establishing a healthy learning environment so that all children and youth may achieve their potential. A practicum provides hands-on experience and assures that you have the opportunity to use your skills in a real-world setting.

Note

  • The Regina program may be delivered off campus (location to be determined)



Length: 38 weeks


Why my job is so rewarding...

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for employment in educational settings (elementary, junior high and high school levels). Generally, this is in the classroom in a school; however, it may include out-of-school settings that provide educational support to children and youth in care or alternative educational programs in youth centres.

They may be employed in:

  • traditional classrooms

  • resource rooms

  • community centres

  • before-school and after-school programs

  • lunch programs


For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): September

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Admission Requirements


Note

  • Accepted applicants may be required to provide evidence of a criminal records check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the criminal records check. The cost of the criminal records check is your responsibility.



Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

65Arithmetic
75Reading
75Sentence
5WritePlacer
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies plus consultation with program head


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
      Clinical/Practicum
    • You will participate in two six-week practicums.
      Home Study
      Online
      Sask. Communications Network
      Work-based Training

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.





Transfer Credit and Future Study Options

Graduates may receive six credit hours from the University of Regina.

  • CLTR 180  Culture and Diversity
  • You will be introduced to the many facets of culture. Your studies will focus on the personal attitudes and values involved in appreciating cultural differences. You will explore multiculturalism in Canadian society and discuss practices that promote acceptance of differences in society.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard


  • EDUC 180  Supporting Instruction I
  • The course provides an introduction to individual learning styles and other factors that influence learning differences in students. You will learn strategies that facilitate student learning including instructional approaches, class room management, and effective observation and recording.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence


  • EDUC 181  Supporting Instruction 2
  • The course focuses on providing assistance in language arts (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and basic mathematics. You will expand your knowledge of strategies to provide developmental and remedial programs under a teacher's supervision.

    3.0 Credit Units
    50.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    EDUC 180 Minimum Grade of 60


  • FMLY 181  Family Dynamics
  • You will examine the dynamics of the Canadian family, the influence of family background on the individuals and the challenges faced by families of today.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard


  • HLTH 184  Health Promotion
  • The course presents a holistic approach to wellness with a focus on personal health. You will receive instruction in the lifestyle practices that promote health and wellness. You will study workplace safety practices and have the opportunity to demonstrate competency in practical skills necessary for worker and client safety.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard


  • HUMD 100  Child and Adolescent Development
  • Your studies will focus on the period of development from conception to adolescence. You will receive information about the effects of heredity and the environment on the emotional, social, cognitive and physical development of children and adolescents. The course also provides an introduction to the theories of learning and personality and methods of studying human behaviour.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence


  • HUMR 180  Roles and Responsibilities
  • Your studies will focus on the responsibilities of teacher assistants and their relationship with classroom teachers and other professionals. You will explore the legal and ethical implications of your role as a teacher assistant and develop an understanding of the importance of professional behaviour.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence


  • HUMR 186  Interpersonal Skills
  • You will be introduced to the importance of interpersonal skills in the human services professions. You will develop effective listening and speaking behaviors that facilitate client interactions.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 291    COMM 295    NURS 114   


  • MGMT 281  Behavioural Principles and Practices
  • You will be introduced to an overview of the behavioral change process. You will examine the principles and theories of behavior management. You will look at behavioral intervention strategies to increase or decrease desired behavior. The value of functional behavioral assessments in managing disruptive behavior will be reviewed. You will study practical guidelines and techniques for working with normal and exceptional children and youth. You will have the opportunity to select, implement, and evaluate a behavioral change project intended to modify a personal goal. You will discuss the benefits of an integrated perspective when dealing with parents and managing behavioral issues in the community.



    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   ECD 222   


  • PERS 180  Basic Care Skills
  • You will study fundamental personal care skills for daily living while integrating basic concepts of respect, safety and rehabilitation. Opportunity to practice and demonstrate the skills will be provided. You will study skills needed for assisting in feeding, toileting, grooming, lifting and transferring. You will be introduced to skills needed which support individuals to maintain optimal levels of independence.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   HLTH 186    SPCR 182   

    Prerequisites:
    HLTH 184 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PRAC 174  Practicum 1
  • You will participate in a six-week practicum in a K-6 or a grade 7-12 classroom setting. You will have the opportunity to apply theory to practice while supporting and assisting the classroom teacher. Under the supervision of the classroom teacher, you will work in basic subject areas with individuals or small groups.

    13.0 Credit Units
    194.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

    Equivalent Course(s):   WORK 187   

    Prerequisites:
    EDUC 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and HUMR 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPSY 281 Minimum Grade of 60 and MGMT 281 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PRAC 175  Practicum 2
  • You will participate in a six-week practicum in a K-6 or grade 7-12 classroom setting. Students must complete practicum placements in each setting. You will have the opportunity to apply theory to practice while supporting and assisting the classroom teacher. Under the supervision of classroom teachers, you will work with students who have challenging needs.

    13.0 Credit Units
    194.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

    Equivalent Course(s):   WORK 188   

    Prerequisites:
    EDUC 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and HUMR 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPSY 281 Minimum Grade of 60 and MGMT 281 Minimum Grade of 60


  • SFTY 184  Crisis Prevention
  • You will learn strategies for crisis prevention and be introduced to the model of Crisis Intervention. You will explore the role of self awareness, triggers and response patterns in conflict situations. You will learn techniques and skills to resolve conflicts without the use of force. You will demonstrate the skills of crisis intervention by doing a five minute role play. The role and purpose of crisis debriefing will be discussed and reviewed.



    1.0 Credit Units
    20.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   SFTY 194   


  • SPSY 281  Studies of Exceptionality A
  • You will be provided with an introduction to the area of exceptionalities. You will discuss issues and trends in the field and problems associated with defining and identifying individuals with exceptionalities. You will study in depth specific areas of exceptionality: speech and language differences, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness. Emphasis will be on the developmental consequences of having a disability and intervention strategies used with individuals with disabilities.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Equivalent Course(s):   ECD 223   


  • SPSY 282  Studies of Exceptionality B
  • The course is a continuation of SPSY 281 (Studies of Exceptionality A). You will study in depth specific areas of exceptionality: behavioural disorders, hearing impairments, visual impairments, special health care needs, neurological disabilities, pervasive development disorders, and severe and multiple disabilities. Emphasis will be on the developmental consequences of having a disability and intervention strategies used with individuals with disabilities. You will review the needs of adolescents and young adults as they make the transition from schools and family homes into the community.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   ECD 224   

    Prerequisites:
    SPSY 281 Minimum Grade of 60



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