Service Learning

Service-learning courses provide opportunities for experiential learning in the context of an academic course. Students can count these hours toward the 120-hour experience requirement for the DDHS program.

CAMPUS TO COMMUNITY RESPITE CARE PROGRAM

UMASS AMHERST (FALL/SPRING)

The Developmental Disabilities and Human Services (DDHS) specialization program partners with Family Empowerment and the Department of Developmental Services to offer the Campus to Community respite care program. Students receive 2 academic credits (PSYCH 191M) for the weekly class (50 minutes) and field experience (3-hour block) providing respite care to a family raising a child/adult with an intellectual or developmental disability. Visit the Campus to Community website for more information.

MOUNT IDA (SUMMER)

Starting summer 2024, we are now offering a unique opportunity for pre-health students to provide respite care to families raising children with medical complexity, through a collaboration with the Boston Children’s Hospital Complex Care Service. Learn more. 

HIGHER EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (PSYCH 391ES)

In this seminar, students learn about higher education experiences for students with disabilities. As an optional component of this course, students can gain 3 hours per week of experience in one of the following on-campus programs:

EXERCISE MANAGEMENT FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS (KIN 341)

This practicum course is designed to provide students with practical application of exercise testing and technique modifications to meet the variety of needs for community-based individuals with special health concerns. Students will participate in weekly lectures and discussions followed by a practical lab experience. Learning will be hands-on through case studies, current research, class presentations, and labs/projects. In addition, weekly reflections will address client interactions, readings, and perspective on working with differently abled clients. Prerequisite courses can be waived for motivated DDHS students! Contact Judi LaBranche to learn more (jblabran@kin.umass.edu).

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