Learn various aspects of getting and managing credit, using credit cards and debit cards responsibly, identity theft, and being wise consumers. Learn about the importance of having appropriate insurance coverage, insurance vocabulary, and various types of insurance and their benefits.  Other current consumer economic topics may be covered.

               

This course is an introduction to basic word processing and spreadsheet applications using Word and Excel and basic computer graphic programs, such as Picasa, Snipping Tool, Gimp, Movavi, and Google Earth to create a final video which will showcase their assignments.Students will have opportunities to use an iPad, smartboard,and microphone to support these assignments.  Students will also learn how to select and print to a color printer, and save and transfer items using a flash drive.


(Prerequisite to Practicum for Independent Living  -South)  This course focuses on five areas: Rental costs, leases, defining terms, furnishing an apartment, and living with a roommate.  Students will have a better understanding of factors that are important in locating an apartment or independent living arrangement, reading ads and abbreviations, accessing information via the internet, and determining monthly expenses.  Students will have a greater understanding of periodic vs. fixed term leases, understanding leases, and tenant rights.  Students will learn about security deposits, application fees, rent credits, renters insurance and utility bills.  Students will also learn about items needed to furnish and stock apartment, and compare the costs of new vs. used.  Students will increase their awareness of living with a roommate, expectations, compatibility and resources to find roommates.

Students participate in discussions that provide a forum for peers to share life experiences and personal challenges, while employing problem solving processes and developing effective self-expression skills.  This class provides practical solutions for understanding unstated rules in social situations.  Through uses of role-playing, social stories, and group interaction the class focuses on continuing to build and strengthen the foundations of effective communication. Effective communication mechanics will be encouraged in a positive affirming atmosphere.  Students will learn the characteristics of passive, aggressive and assertive behaviors, and how to deal with life’s situations in a healthy way. They will also increase their skills in understanding body language and facial expressions, analyzing different social interactions and how they can be misinterpreted.  Students also learn to recognize and express feelings in positive ways and learn how to relax in today’s busy world using a variety of activities to increase vocabulary and verbal expressions.

Learn various aspects of getting and managing credit, using credit cards and debit cards responsibly, identity theft, and being wise consumers. Learn about the importance of having appropriate insurance coverage, insurance vocabulary, and various types of insurance and their benefits.  Other current consumer economic topics may be covered.