Adult Special Education

In British Columbia’s public post-secondary institutions, Adult Special Education (ASE) programs respond to the needs of a diverse group of learners. Individuals with disabilities, or with a combination of barriers to education, employment or independence, are eligible to enroll in these programs/courses in accordance with each institution’s guidelines (Douglas College, 2009). ASE programs respond to industry and community needs, and relate directly to local labour market trends. 15 BC post-secondary institutions recognize or offer ASE courses and programs.

The topics in ASE programs and courses include, but are not limited to, skills for independence, literacy and numeracy, computer literacy, employment transition, and career readiness. ASE programs and courses may also include targeted vocational skills training and work placements. Learning is enhanced by the use of student-centered best practices. ASE programs and courses emphasize skill development for the workplace, and promote independence, community inclusion, and lifelong learning.

The purpose of the ASE Program-Specific Transfer Guide is to provide information to learners, parents, caregivers, instructors, employers, community agencies and counselors throughout British Columbia. The Guide will help its users identify transferability among ASE courses, many of which are not eligible for inclusion in the BC Transfer Guide because they are categorized as developmental or preparatory courses. The creation of the Program-Specific Transfer Guide is also intended to encourage participating institutions to articulate their current offerings, to identify potential learner pathways, and to identify areas for the development of new programs and courses.

Last updated: October 2020.