GWL208 - Gerontological Group and Activation Techniques

Outline information
Semester
Schools offering this subject
Last revision date 2024-01-29 00:03:23.782
Last review date 2024-02-05 00:15:01.426

Subject Title
Gerontological Group and Activation Techniques

Subject Description
This subject introduces the student to group modalities and programs used in activation and social service departments in gerontological agencies and institutions. Students will be introduced to small group work principles and practices for facilitating groups, Students will become familiar with common human body disorders for older adults and the programs to restore or maintain function across the domains from a holistic strengths-based biopsychosocial approach. Legislation and best practices relating to empowerment, and cultural relevance, for facilitating groups for older adults in a variety of settings will be introduced. Students will be introduced to commonly used group programs, their benefits, and methods of facilitation. Students will learn how to research and find stimulating, culturally appropriate and evidence-based activities and best practices for target groups of clients. This course emphasizes application and practice of group work skills.  

Credit Status
One Credit

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

Upon successful completion of this subject, the student will be able to:

  1. Comprehend the principles of group work including benefits for older adults, stages of a group, group dynamics, meeting interpersonal needs of clients, leadership qualities through experiential learning activities, and as shown on tests (cognitive: comprehension)
  2. Identify how programs are set up in long term care facilities and retirement homes through the use of the activity calendar in accordance with legislation on the provision of activities as demonstrated in learning activities in class, assignments and tests.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of a variety of therapeutic recreation programs used in various settings for target client groups in assignments and tests (cognitive: knowledge)
  4. Comprehend the purpose, scope and principles of activation and therapeutic recreation as shown on tests, assignments, and experiential learning activities; (cognitive: knowledge)
  5. Apply a holistic, biopsychosocial, strengths based, anti-oppression, approach to providing activities based on the domains and relevant legislation as shown in class activities, and assignments.
  6. Identify at an introductory level knowledge of the typical health concerns and disorders that older adults experience and group activation programs that may address them, through presentations and assignments. (cognitive: knowledge)
  7. Research and evaluate activation and therapeutic recreation resources appropriate to various target client groups that are inclusive, culturally appropriate and maintain or improve functional abilities in assignments and presentations. (Cognitive, application synthesis, evaluation)
  8. Facilitate a small activity group in activity  front of the class. (cognitive; application, synthesis)

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.

    •  Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.

    •  Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.