Thirtieth Anniversary Issue on Progress and Priorities in Direct Support

You can learn more about applying skills related to this issue of Frontline Initiative (FI) in DirectCourse content. DirectCourse is a set of online training products. They focus on inclusion and community support. You can go to the DirectCourse webpage and select a product from the “Curricula” menu to learn more or request a free trial . All DirectCourse products are accredited by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) . The content can guide you in what you need to know to create great e-badge examples for the NADSP E-Badge Academy (see more below).

Below is a sample of DirectCourse content that relates to the theme of this issue of Frontline Initiative.

The College of Direct Support (CDS)

The role of the direct support professional (DSP) has shifted over the past 30 years but is more critical now than ever before. Today, DSPs support people within their communities in the ways they choose. Understanding the past helps DSPs to provide quality supports today. Growing as a professional is key to providing quality support. CDS provides a foundation in history and content to support DSPs to advance in the future.

Civil Rights and Advocacy: History of the Disability Rights Movement

The Disability Rights Movement has been an important part of the shift toward quality supports. This lesson explores this history and the role it played in supporting rights and advocacy. Learners will reflect on how their beliefs and actions may affect the rights of the people they support. This content could help learners who want to earn the NADSP E-Badge for Self-Advocate Ally.

Direct Support Professionalism: Becoming a Direct Support Professional

The profession of direct support, and those who work as direct support professionals (DSPs), have a unique role in the lives of people with disabilities. This content looks at the role of the DSP and how it has changed over time. It explores the value of professionalism in this work. Content in this lesson could help learners who are working toward the NADSP E-Badge for Professional Development.

Direct Support Professionalism: Working with Your Strengths and Interests

Growing as a direct support professional includes knowing your strengths and interests. This content teaches ways to use strengths to support people in your role. You will learn how to reflect on past work as you develop a professional development plan. This content could help learners who want to earn the NADSP E-Badge for Self-Care.

Introduction to Developmental Disabilities: A Brief History of Developmental Disabilities

Support for people with developmental disabilities has changed over the past two centuries. This lesson describes three models that reflect these changing views. It explores how the role of direct support professionals has changed through time. Content in this lesson could help learners who are working toward the NADSP E-Badge for Self-Advocate Ally.