Sessional Faculty (EDCS 1540) ()

The School of Social Work and Human Service (Faculty of Education and Social Work) at Thompson Rivers University Kamloops campus invites applications for a sessional lecturer to EDCS 1540 (3.0.0) Interpersonal Communications and Helping Relationships. This course is delivered in-person at the Kamloops campus on Thursdays between 8:30 and 11:20 from September 8th to December 23rd 2026.

EDCS 1540 Course Description:
Self-awareness is a foundation for the development of competent human service workers. By focusing on personal development this course offers an opportunity to learn and use interpersonal communication skills effectively. Students will also be introduced to knowledge and skills that increase effectiveness in helping relationships with client populations. Topics such as group dynamics assertive behavior and conflict management will be covered.

Course Learning Outcomes:
1. To increase personal awareness self-understanding and effective interpersonal communication by examining motivations emotions values attitudes beliefs perceptions learning styles personal styles self-concept how we affect others and how others affect us.
2. To explore relevant concepts and major theories associated with the study of interpersonal communication.
3. To develop and demonstrate basic communication skills that can be used in interpersonal and helping relationships; skills such as assertiveness and conflict resolution.
4. To know basic knowledge about group functioning and be able to identify roles within.
5. To develop an awareness of the function of feelings that will assist in conflict resolution individually and in a group process.

A relevant doctoral degree with a graduate credential in child and youth care education or social work is preferred. A masters degree in child and youth care social work special education or education is required.
A minimum of 5 years of direct experience in K-12 or the Community Living sector within the last 10 years is required.
A minimum of five years K-12 teaching experience with direct experience working with Educational Assistants is preferred.
Leadership and supervisory experience in K-12 inclusive education settings or the Community Living sector is preferred.
Post-secondary education instructional experience is required while teaching experience with entry-level certificate or diploma students is preferred.
An ability to demonstrate experience integrating Indigenous knowledge and teaching methods (TRC CA 62) is required.
Proven skills in building student capacity for intercultural understanding empathy and mutual respect (TRC CA 63) are required.
Teaching excellence including developing culturally appropriate curricula (TRC CA 10) is required.
Candidates must provide evidence of their ability to commit to creating time and space for relationships based on respect as human beings supporting and embracing differences with kindness love and respect (NIMMIWG 15.7).
Demonstrated commitment to the inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities in school and community settings with a clear understanding of the historical legacy of social marginalization medicalization and the institutionalization of people with physical and cognitive disabilities is required.
Working familiarity with current instructional methods and support practices in inclusive education trauma-informed education and community settings is preferred.
Demonstrated ability to teach inclusive practices to entry level support workers is required.
Demonstrated experience or training in curriculum development preferred.