Assisting K-12 learners with special needs

The Education Assistant (aka Teacher Assistant) program introduces various learning styles and adaptations required in assisting learners with diverse learning needs to reach their full educational potential. You will be prepared to reinforce student learning, support developmental and behavioral tasks, and to address the personal needs of students. The program combines theory and practical application for elementary and secondary age students in the B.C. K-12 school system.

The entire program can be completed online, or you may choose to take a select number of courses in a classroom setting. Full-time students start in September and complete their studies by the end of the following June. Part-time students have up to five years to complete the program's course work and practica.

Program Topics

You will study:

• social, emotional and cognitive development
• health and wellness promotion
• the roles and responsibilities of being an education assistant
• the K-12 school system in BC
• the roles & responsibilities of classroom partners
• communication skills
• classroom management techniques and crisis prevention
• awareness of cultures
• family dynamics
• exceptionalities (causes, characteristics and accommodations)