Thompson Rivers University is a public teaching and research university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees and vocational training. Its main campus is in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada, and its name comes from the two rivers which converge in Kamloops, the North Thompson and South Thompson.
The Life Skills program at Thompson Rivers University is a program for students with cognitive and other disabilities who are pursuing an independent lifestyle. The objective is to maximize students’ full potential and personal development by:
– Learning a variety of practical skills required for everyday living
– Improving social skills
– Strengthening community connections and knowledge
– Increasing independence
The Life Skills program includes two courses:
The interactive “Money & Social Skill” course is designed specifically to teach Money Skills (basic banking) and social skills in a group setting with students receiving feedback on an ongoing basis. While learning a variety of money and social skills required for everyday living, students will interact with others in supportive environment.
Each week a cluster of related skills will be taught, such as counting and exchanging money. Students will then practice what they have learned in the classroom and out. Social skills will be coached during all activities taking place in the classroom or community. The course is designed to improve conversational skills, increase personal awareness, and enhance social competencies and judgment so students have more confidence and can better handle social situations at home, school and in the community.
The “Reading & Computer Skills” course is designed specifically to teach reading and computer skills in a group setting with students receiving feedback on an ongoing basis. While learning basic reading skills required for everyday living students will interact with others in a supportive environment.
Each week a cluster of related skills will be taught such as recognizing sight words, and hazardous signs and reading stories. Students will also learn about computers in the classroom and practice typing in computer labs. The course is designed to improve reading skills and fluency, as well as learn about computers and computer safety.
TRU is also partnering with People in Motion — a non-profit organization aimed at improving the quality of life of people with disabilities by delivering educational, fitness, and social programs — in delivering this community-based program.
According to www.tru.ca.
