Course Descriptions

CACO
Orientation

During orientation, students meet with instructors individually to discuss their educational and career goals and plan the steps needed for effective participation in the learning process. These steps might include adjusting schedules to balance home and school and making arrangements for childcare. Students are assisted with the initial university application and registration, and ongoing support is provided to guide the students throughout the term, in their pursuit of personal and educational success.

In orientation sessions, students may discuss opportunities to contribute as peer tutors. Peer tutors are trained in learning centre procedures and have the opportunity to observe instructors and other tutors at work before assuming tutoring duties themselves. In addition, workshops are held periodically for all tutors, on a variety of training topics.

CACT
Transition Skills

Students are assisted in the process of developing transition skills as they move from high school, employment or unemployment to the post secondary setting. The university environment is demanding and requires a large amount of self-motivation and personal responsibility. Students are helped to design and implement plans for personal and academic success. Topics and areas of instruction include: decision making and problem solving, stress and time management, goal setting and career/educational planning, self advocacy and empowerment, and communication and conflict resolution skills.

CACE
English

Students work on developing and refining their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills as a way of preparing them for further study in other courses. The nature of the program is self-paced and individualized study in a supportive, nurturing environment, with group work when appropriate.

CACL
English Language Instruction

Non-English speaking students are provided with basic language skills in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The focus is on meaningful communication and, through pair and small group activities, learners are encouraged to be active participants and decision-makers. Although the classroom is multi-level (low beginner to low intermediate) and learners’ individual needs are taken into consideration, it is usually an instructor-led rather than self-paced classroom. This course prepares students for ESL courses above the beginner level.

CACC
Introduction to Computers

Students learn basic computer skills that focus on word processing, e-mail and Internet skills. This course is student centred rather than curriculum driven. Lessons and assignments are integrated with other CAC courses and students are encouraged to proceed at their own pace. The instructor promotes a non-threatening atmosphere designed to help students overcome any anxiety they may have with this technology. Peer tutors are utilized when possible to assist the instructor in providing as much one-on-one support as possible.

CACS
Student Success

This course provides students with skills that will help them be successful students at the university, productive members of their communities, and active citizens of Canada. The curriculum is partially student-generated, focusing on topics of current interest, and may be enhanced by field trips and guest speakers. Sessions might include introduction to university procedures and services, developing effective learning strategies, supporting and encouraging participation in community activities, learning about municipal, provincial, Canadian, and First Nations governments, or discussion of such topics as health, exercise, diet, and stress management.

CACM
Math

Math upgrading is provided in a supportive, multi-level, self-paced classroom. Some group work is facilitated when appropriate. Students can work on basic math skills and algebra in preparation for other university courses, or prepare to write the GED or university placement tests.

CACF
Family Focus

This program assists parents who wish to upgrade or continue their studies, but need childcare and support during the transition to university level study. The on-campus childcare centre provides a nurturing environment for the children while the parents are in class or studying. In addition, the students/parents meet as a group with an instructor/counsellor at regularly scheduled times to discuss topics such as parenting, goal setting, stress management and conflict resolution. A supportive parent group, counselling, and long-term educational career planning are integral components of the program.