Bachelor of Disability and Developmental Education

First year

A typical first year may include:

• topics which build foundation skills, understanding how systems work, introduction to a range of contexts, and making connections between theory and practice
• core topics include perspectives on disability, introduction to disability and neurodiversity, research and study skills 1, disability across the life course, introduction to communication diversity and support needs, critical issues in disability practice, and the disability landscape.

Second year

A typical second year may include:

• topics which focus on building skills as a competent practitioner, and applying foundation skills in a professional context
• core topics include practicum 1 (100 hour placement), introduction to principles of learning and instruction, employment and disability, research and study skills 2, advocacy and working in partnership, instructional strategies, professional ethics, and disability: health and wellbeing.

Third year

A typical third year may include:

• topics which consolidate practice skills, expose students to policy and leadership ideas, and build identity as a disability professional
• core topics include introduction to positive behaviour support, introduction to counselling skills, entrepreneurship and small business, research and study skills 3, augmentative and alternative communication, case management and support coordination, building community capacity, and practicum 2 (150 hour placement).

Fourth year

A typical fourth year may include:

• topics which refine key developmental educator skills in professional practice and leadership, including assessment and report writing and interventions including therapeutic and positive behaviour supports for children and adults
• core topics include delivering therapeutic supports, early intervention, practicum specialisation (150 hour placement) PBS: assessment and functional analysis, PBS: implementation, PBS: practicum and mentoring (including 100 hour placement), and a final capstone for professional DE practice and leadership.