Module 101: Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation

Vocational rehabilitation recognizes the person, social, and economic benefits of employment and this module will provide the foundation and the key concepts for the successful integration of people with disabilities into employment.  The conceptualization of disability will be examined through the different models including the impact on the perception of the person with a disability. The profession, including the underlying philosophy and values, will be presented.

After successful completion of this session, students will be able to:

• Understand fundamental philosophical values that characterize vocational rehabilitation professionals and how they approach their work.
• Name and explain different models of disability that analyze how disability has been perceived and interpreted in society.
• Obtain a practical, working knowledge of important legislative and social polices related to employment for people with disabilities.
• Express a basic understanding of the various concepts and perspectives that affect the practice of vocational rehabilitation counselling.
• Have an enhanced awareness of current global contextual factors and other issues affecting disability such as culture, poverty, trauma, crisis, large-scale disaster and psychosocial issues across the lifespan.
• Understand the elements of professionalism and the developmental issues of vocational rehabilitation in Canada.

CEU Hours: 9