Teacher and student work on computer

Developmental Education

Young adults with mild to moderate intellectual or developmental disabilities who can independently and safely manage classroom expectations and find their way to classes can continue their education through College of DuPage's Developmental Education Program.  If you are a student in a high school transition program or have completed a transition program and are ready to explore post-secondary resources, review some of the exciting options that are available. 

Our courses will help students continue to increase academic and employment skills and improve overall communication and independence abilities. Once enrolled a Literacy, Reach Out, or Vocational Skills course, students must complete Developmental Education Information and Code of Conduct forms  in order to assist staff with providing appropriate instructional experiences. Note that no COD-sponsored transportation is provided for these classes.   

Programs

Spring 2023 Courses

Feed Your Need to Read
This literacy-based class focuses on improving reading comprehension skills in order to unlock more of each student’s learning potential. The teacher guides students through group activities and individualized instruction in order to provide challenges and boost overall reading ability!

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 7 to April 20
5 to 5:50 p.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
LEISR-0070-400, $225
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 7 to April 20
6 to 6:50 p.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
LEISR-0070-401, $225
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Basic Civics
This class focuses on the basic concepts associated with local, state and federal governments. Students learn about legislative processes and about the importance of being active participants in our democracy. 

Monday, Feb. 6 to April 17
1 to 2:30 p.m. (no class March 27)
LEISR-0070-030, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Child Care and Development
This course provides a basic understanding of ways to manage child care and development. Students discuss the developmental expectations of babies and children as well as their physical, intellectual and emotional needs. In addition, the class addresses topics of abuse and explores options for selecting appropriate child care.

Thursday, Feb. 9 to April 20
1 to 2:30 p.m. (no class March 30)
LEISR-0070-055, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Money Management
Students gain a basic understanding of ways to manage money, including topics such as cash, ATMs, credit and debit cards, shopping, budgeting, pricing and avoiding debt. A simple budget will be developed by each student that will address basic expenditures, savings and discretionary spending. 

Tuesday, Feb. 7 to April 18
1 to 2:30 p.m. (no class March 28)
LEISR-0070-050, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Survival Reading
The focus of this class is to improve student understanding of numerous types of reading that must be done to live in a modern society. Specifically, students practice and develop their skills in the areas of reading bills, instructions, maps, schedules, menus, catalogs and much more.

Wednesday, Feb. 1 to April 12
1 to 2:30 p.m. (no class March 29)
LEISR-0070-035, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Computer Skills II
A continuation of Computer Skills I, this course includes word processing, text editing, margins, text alignment, tabs, bullet lists, envelopes and labels. Recommended preparation: Computer Skills I. 

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 21 to April 20
12 to 1:50 p.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
VOCSK-0022-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Food Service Skills II
This course provides the basic/intermediate skills required for food service occupations. Topics include demonstrations and hands-on learning in sanitation, safe food handling, safety issues, food preparation and cooking. Students must be able to independently manage basic kitchen tasks. Recommended preparation: Food Service Skills I or Food Service Skills Workshop.

Friday, Feb. 24 to April 21
10 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. (no class March 31)
VOCSK-0042-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

General Office Skills II
This is an introduction to basic office tasks and the operation of office machines. Topics include filing, mailing, copying, faxing and time management skills. Recommended preparation: General Office Skills I

Monday and Wednesday, Feb. 20 to April 19
11:05 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. (no class March 27 and 29)
VOCSK-0025-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Horticulture Skills I
This course focuses on the propagation, growth and care of various plants in the greenhouse. Learning topics include types of propagation and the caring of plants from propagation to maturity (market ready). Emphasis is placed on spring/summer plants, annuals, perennials, houseplants, natives and vegetables. Students have the opportunity to select plants to propagate and apply their acquired skills. All projects are taken home.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 21 to April 20
9 to 10:50 a.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
VOCSK-0061-002, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Hospitality Skills I
This class focuses on sanitation basics and customer service. Information related to county and state sanitation requirements for hotels and restaurants—especially in light of COVID19-related protocols—are covered. Students also learn principles related to proper greetings, anticipating guests’ needs, answering questions and the importance of a positive attitude.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 21 to April 20
Noon to 1:50 p.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
VOCSK-0051-001, $299On campus in Glen Ellyn

Keyboard Skills I
This course provides an introduction to the computer keyboard and typing skills. Topics include how to touch type alphabetic and special characters.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 21 to April 20
9 to 10:50 a.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
VOCSK-0020-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Workplace Communication Skills
This course provides an introduction to essential communication skills that enhance workplace performance. Topics related to communication with employers, co-workers and the public are emphasized.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 21 to April 20
Noon to 1:50 p.m. (no class March 28 and 30)
VOCSK-0013-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Vocational Skills

Vocational Skills courses are developmental-level, non-credit courses designed to develop workplace skills that can lead to competitive, entry-level employment and enhance everyday living skills. Most courses meet two days a week, two hours a day for eight weeks on campus in Glen Ellyn. The students are integrated into the College of DuPage campus life by being supported through the student services that are afforded to all COD students.

Literacy

For students interested in building fundamental reading and writing skills, we offer Literacy classes. In a small group setting based on ability level, students develop reading and writing skills and have the opportunity to advance through the curriculum at their own pace.

Reach Out

Aimed at building life skills, Reach Out courses help students develop independence and self-advocacy abilities. Topics covered include living independently, communication skills, current events, managing money, nutrition and health, decision making and goal setting. 

COACH – Career Opportunity ACHievement

COACH is a two-year (four-term), cohort program for adults with mild intellectual or developmental disabilities. COACH has been developed to provide post-transition students with additional educational training aimed at preparing them for meaningful employment. 

Resources

Please see the following for additional resources for adults with disabilities.

Contact Information

Tracy Kline, Program Coordinator
(630) 942-3779
Email: klinet940@cod.edu

Continuing Education
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1110
(630) 942-2208
Email: ce@cod.edu
Fax: (630) 942-3785