Interdisciplinary Disability Awareness and Service Learning (IDASL)

2010

Project Context: There is currently an increased need for persons entering the workplace who have strong, well-developed interdisciplinary teamwork skills. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has extended the need for awareness and knowledge of disability issues to all employers, employees, and to the general public. Project Focus: The Interdisciplinary Disability Awareness and Service Learning (IDASL) program provides opportunities for students from a variety of disciplines, as well as individuals with disabilities, and family members of children with disabilities to become part of interdisciplinary teams. These teams, with faculty mentors, will provide services and supports to children with disabilities and their families, as well as adults with disabilities. The didactic, service learning, and research components of this program are carefully designed and implemented to enhance the trainees' awareness, knowledge, and skills and prepare them to become part of a collaborative interdisciplinary team in the workplace. The IDASL program is administered through the Interdisiciplinary Training (IDT) division in the Center for Persons with Disabilities (CPD). Project Services: IDASL trainees may participate in the Interdisciplinary Disability Awareness and Service Learning program at Utah State University at one of three levels: 1) Orientation/Awareness; 2) Intermediate/ Skill Development; or 3) Leadership/Experiential. Regardless of the level of competency selected, each trainee will develop an Individualized Training Plan (ITP), in consultation with an assigned faculty advisor and the IDT Director. The Individualized Training Plan addresses the IDASL Core Competencies and Objectives. To fulfill these competencies, the trainee will participate in a series of seminars, service learning hours, and research experiences. In addition to the broad array of services and settings for children and adults with disabilities provided by the Center for Persons with Disabilities, community-based programs will also be utilized for training purposes. Both graduate and undergraduate students may apply for the IDASL program. Stipends may be available for long-term trainees. The IDASL program also offers 1-3 hours of credit (undergraduate and graduate) through the Department of Special Education. The IDASL program is also available to individuals with disabilities as well as family members of children with disabilities. FY 2010 Project Focus: Fifteen students are enrolled in the IDASL class for the 2009-2010 Fall and Spring Semesters.

Training

Training Trainees

Education & Early Intervention, Child Care-Related Activities, Health-Related Activities, Quality of Life

Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, General Public

Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Urban

Regional

N/A