Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have knowledge and understanding of a number of alternative therapies and several approaches to maintaining health and wellness. While remaining sensitive to the needs of exceptional individuals, students should have developed the skills required to critically evaluate the claims that a given therapy can benefit an exceptional individual. Students should have had some basic experience with a number of stress reduction and relaxation exercises and activities which could be employed to enhance their own health and well-being and that of their clients. Students should be aware of the professional and ethical issues related to combining alternative therapies with other forms of professional practice.
Synopsis Alternative medicine and therapies are becoming a much more accepted part of our society. This subject introduces a number of alternative therapies and programs and encourages students to evaluate them critically. Particular attention will be paid to claims that a given therapy can help learning disabled or otherwise exceptional individuals. Topics covered may include acupuncture and acupressure, adjustment and well-being, biofeedback, Doman-Delacato patterning, the dynamics of health and wellness, herbal treatments, hypnotherapy, Irlen lenses, educational kinesiology, massage, meditation, naturopathy, psychoneuroimmunology, self responsibility, self regulation and health behaviour, stress management and yoga. Individual students will be encouraged to make an in-depth study of one therapy or program. Students will be expected to participate in regular lecture-demonstrations and discussions, to read widely and to complete written assignments. They will also be expected to participate in exercises and activities concerned with their own health and well-being. If there is sufficient interest, a course in sensitive massage may be arranged.
Assessment Resource folio containing annotated references and resource materials: 30% + Seminar or practical demonstration including preparation of written materials (1000 words): 20% + Research paper (3500 words): 50% + A hurdle requirement for eligibility for assessment is regular attendance and participation in classes and practical activities.