Program Handbook
Fitness and Health Promotion Program
1218
Doon Campus
School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Conestoga College
Academic Year 2015/2016
This is a companion document to the current Conestoga Student Guide
This document can be found on the program shell of eConestoga and the program specific page
online.
Revised on June 26th, 2015
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Table of Contents
PROGRAM HANDBOOK ................................................................................................................... I
PROGRAM HANDBOOK GUIDELINES ............................................................................................... V
WELCOME ..................................................................................................................................... VI
TOP FIVE EXPECTATIONS OF YOU ................................................................................................. VII
1. USE MYCONESTOGA TO CONNECT TO:.................................................................................................... VII
2. KNOW AND PLAN AROUND YOUR ACADEMIC SCHEDULE WITH YOUR FAMILY ................................................. VII
3. BE THE PROFESSIONAL YOU WISH TO BECOME - FROM DAY ONE ............................................................... VIII
4. ATTEND TO ENHANCE SUCCESS ............................................................................................................. VIII
5. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR ACADEMIC STATUS ................................................................................. VIII
TOP FIVE RESOURCES FOR YOU ..................................................................................................... IX
1. YOUR TEACHING TEAM ......................................................................................................................... IX
2. COUNSELLING AND SERVICES FOR PERSONAL NEEDS.................................................................................... IX
3. ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES .......................................................................................................................... X
4. STUDENT STUDY SPACES AND GENERAL SUPPORTS ...................................................................................... X
5. SERVICES FOR STUDENTS........................................................................................................................ XI
LETTER TO STUDENTS ................................................................................................................... XII
1. PROGRAM OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................ 1
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................ 1
PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY ............................................................................................................................ 1
PROGRAM OUTCOMES .............................................................................................................................. 3
Our Beliefs Applied to the Fitness and Health Promotion Program ............................................... 4
PROGRAM SUMMARY MAP – 2015/2016 INTAKE ........................................................................................ 5
PROGRAM DESIGN FOR YOUR COHORT ........................................................................................................ 6
PATHWAYS AND FURTHER POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES .......................................................... 6
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES ................................................................................................................... 6
2. RELATIONSHIPS .......................................................................................................................... 7
COMMUNICATION AND CONTACT INFORMATION............................................................................................ 7
Faculty Commitment to Success ..................................................................................................... 7
Faculty Availability ........................................................................................................................... 7
Contact Information and Availability .............................................................................................. 7
Contacting Program Staff ................................................................................................................ 8
Student E-Mail ................................................................................................................................. 8
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT ............................................................................................................................ 8
Student Concerns/Issues ................................................................................................................. 8
Student Representation .................................................................................................................. 8
PAC (Program Advisory Committee) ............................................................................................... 8
WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Healthcare Student Collaborative)....................................... 9
STUDENT FEEDBACK ............................................................................................................................... 10
Key Performance Indicators .......................................................................................................... 10
Student Appraisal of Teaching ...................................................................................................... 10
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
CLASS CANCELLATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 11
Class Cancellation due to Faculty Absence ................................................................................... 11
Class Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather ............................................................................ 11
Personal Notifications of Class Cancellations................................................................................ 11
3. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE ....................................................... 12
PROGRAM STANDARDS FOR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE ................................................................................... 12
CHARACTERISTICS OF SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS .............................................................................................. 13
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY AND PLAGIARISM...................................................................................................... 14
COPYRIGHT – WHAT STUDENTS NEED TO KNOW ......................................................................................... 15
Cumulative Copying....................................................................................................................... 15
SAFE PRACTICE ...................................................................................................................................... 16
STUDENT PROTECTION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................. 17
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA................................................................................... 18
Social Media Policy ........................................................................................................................ 18
Cell Phone Policy ........................................................................................................................... 19
COWAN HEALTH SCIENCES CENTRE: CLINICAL LAB DRESS CODE ...................................................................... 20
Dress Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 20
Program Standards ........................................................................................................................ 21
Uniform Standards ........................................................................................................................ 21
Guidelines for Student use of the Fitness and Health Promotion Lab .......................................... 22
Consent for Use and Disclosure of Student Information .............................................................. 22
4. ATTENDANCE AND STUDENT SUCCESS STRATEGIES .................................................................. 23
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY............................................................................................................... 23
Acceptable Reasons for Absence .................................................................................................. 23
ATTENDANCE FOR EVALUATIONS ............................................................................................................... 24
Notification for Absence from Evaluations ................................................................................... 24
Notification procedure .................................................................................................................. 24
Follow-up after Reporting Your Absence from an Evaluation: ..................................................... 25
Religious Holidays .......................................................................................................................... 25
DOCUMENTATION TO SUBSTANTIATE YOUR REPORTED ABSENCE..................................................................... 26
Evaluations worth less than 20%................................................................................................... 26
Evaluations worth 20% or more .................................................................................................... 26
TEST PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................. 26
Importance of Test and Presentation Dates ................................................................................. 27
ASSIGNMENT POLICIES ............................................................................................................................ 28
Submitting Assignments Outside of Class Time ............................................................................ 28
Working Together on Group Assignments: ................................................................................... 28
Use of Time between Classes ........................................................................................................ 29
Faculty Returning Tests and Assignments ..................................................................................... 29
General Guidelines for Quality of Written Work .......................................................................... 29
General Guidelines for Submitting Written Work......................................................................... 29
5. ACADEMIC PROGRESS THROUGH THE PROGRAM ..................................................................... 30
ACADEMIC STANDING AND PROMOTION..................................................................................................... 30
Course Add/Drop ........................................................................................................................... 30
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Course Withdrawals, exemptions and prior Learning assessments ............................................. 31
Special Timetables/Adding Dropped or Failed Courses ................................................................ 31
Academic Probation ...................................................................................................................... 31
Supplemental Work ....................................................................................................................... 32
Criteria for Eligibility to Write Supplemental Examinations ......................................................... 32
Promotion and Supplemental Procedure ..................................................................................... 33
Discontinuance: ............................................................................................................................. 33
Withdrawal .................................................................................................................................... 34
Program Transfer........................................................................................................................... 34
Appeal ............................................................................................................................................ 34
Clearance of Academic Deficiency ................................................................................................ 34
Readmission To the program ........................................................................................................ 35
Graduation..................................................................................................................................... 35
PROCESS FOR RESOLUTION OF STUDENT CONCERNS...................................................................................... 35
MAINTAINING STUDENT FILES .................................................................................................................. 36
6. FIELD PLACEMENT EXPERIENCES ............................................................................................... 38
FIELD PLACEMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ............................................................................................ 38
PRACTICUM HEALTH REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................... 39
Criminal Reference Checks ............................................................................................................ 39
SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE COURSE .......................................................................................................... 39
STUDENT CONSENT FORMS ...................................................................................................................... 39
WSIB .............................................................................................................................................. 39
BASIC SAFETY TRAINING .......................................................................................................................... 40
Concerns regarding student safety or the safety and care/service for clients ............................. 40
Safety Standards ............................................................................................................................ 42
Lack of Compliance to Health and Safety Regulations .................................................................. 44
Accident/Incident Reports ............................................................................................................ 44
7. STUDENT AWARDS ................................................................................................................... 45
AWARDS AVAILABLE FOR FITNESS AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2015-2016........................................................ 45
PROGRAM REVISION LOG ............................................................................................................. 46
The information in the Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook was accurate at the
time of the printing. If any procedures change during the academic year, students will be notified
through the college electronic learning platform.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Handbook Guidelines
The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with program specific details and other
important information. The material in this handbook is accurate at the date of posting, and is
applicable for the current academic year. Students will be informed of handbook changes that
occur, if any, through college email. Program handbooks are updated yearly and students must
check their program handbook for the current edition.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Welcome
To the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Your Bridge to Practice
What Can This Mean For You?
The opportunity to begin, today, to become the professional you aspire to be.
The opportunity to learn in real-life settings and with real-life scenarios, rehearsing for the
day when you will be in these real-life situations.
A unique inter-professional opportunity, given the number of different disciplines in the
school. You will learn with, about and from your future colleagues.
An opportunity to take advantage of the state of the art facilities, social and study spaces in
our Cowan Health Sciences Center, as well as other unique learning resources such as the
Motz Emergency Service Bays in the WREMS Station and the Child Development Centre on
the Doon Campus
Your goal of being viewed by employers as a “preferred graduate” is up to you; your
professors, technologists, administrative staff and College services look forward to
supporting you as you journey from day one to your graduation.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Expectations of You
1. Use MyConestoga to Connect To:
Your Conestoga Email: (e.g. John Smith, Student Number 1234567, jsmith4567@conestogac.on.ca)
• This is the official communication vehicle regarding your academic requirements. Check it
regularly and respond as requested.
eConestoga: (Desire to Learn)
• This is your resource for all course-based program information and course-based
communication with your faculty.
• Make eConestoga your partner in learning; this is your guide to all course activity.
Student Portal:
• Find your grade information, college tuition invoices, class schedules and absence reporting.
Practicum Health Requirements: (Go to “Services” and find “Practicum Services Link”)
• Keep track of your requirements; know that they are complete to allow you to go on your
practicum.
2. Know and Plan around Your Academic Schedule With Your
Family
Course Schedule:
• Your schedule has been planned with many people and multiple considerations in mind.
• Classes can be scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (note, times for practicums follow work
place schedules).
• Changes may be considered but only for extenuating reasons (Please discuss with your
Program Coordinator).
The Academic Year has critical dates: Please plan around these dates to ensure you are here when
you need to be--including the potential need to be present for the two weeks after the semester
ends if you might need to complete supplemental work to allow you to continue to the next
semester. Program start and end dates, holidays and deadlines for course add/drop and withdrawal,
are located in the Student Guide. Course changes (add/dropping) may also be made through the
Student Portal under the “My Courses” tab.
Fall 2015
Dates
Winter 2016
Dates
Fall Orientation Week
Fall Semester Classes
Start
Last Week of Semester
Intersession (no classes)
Aug 31 – Sept 4
September 8
December 14-18
Dec. 21-Jan 1/16
Winter Orientation
Winter Semester Classes
Start
Study Week
Last Week of Semester
Intersession (no classes)
January 4
January 5
February 15-19
April 18-April 22
April 25 – May 6
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Expectations of You
3. Be the Professional You Wish To Become - From Day One
Civility, respect, and professional behaviors will be key to the quality of your learning experience—
and a future employer's first and lasting impression.
Professional Dress & Conduct: See section three of the Handbook for professionalism expectations
for your program. The college’s Student Guide sets out Student Code of Conduct for our community
at Conestoga.
Pre-practicum Health Requirements Complete as required; without these, you will not be able to
progress to your practicum and your program completion will be in jeopardy (per your information
in the Student Portal)
Social Media: Use responsibly –don’t blow your future on ill-advised communication with the e-tools
that we use so freely (see section three of the Handbook)
4. Attend To Enhance Success
Please Review Attendance Expectations in See Section 4 of the Handbook: Attendance for class,
labs and practicum underpins student learning and your experience as a future professional.
Absence from Evaluations: Must be reported in the Student Portal before your absence to be eligible
for a repeated evaluation.
Request for Accommodation for Religious Holidays: Must be requested to your Program
Coordinator in the first three weeks of each semester.
5. Take Responsibility for Your Academic Status
Student Records if you have questions about your student record, academic status and or program
withdrawals, go to the Registrar’s Office and speak to your Program Coordinator.
Fee Payments: Payment is required to attend classes. Check your Student Portal for invoices.
Credit Transfer/Exemptions: Conestoga supports the transferability of academic credits between
programs and educational institutions through recognized transfer pathways, articulation
agreements and course-to-course equivalences. Please refer to the Student Guide for more
information.
Student Forms: To access forms go to the Student Forms page.
Academic Policies & Procedures: May be found under Policies and Procedures.
Student Affairs Polices & Procedures: May be found at the Student Affairs page.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
1. Your Teaching Team
Contact Information: Is posted in eConestoga and in your Handbook (Section two in the Handbook)
Appointments: Making appointments (in person, by phone, email) helps to ensure your desired
resource is available.
Email Inquiries: will be answered within two business days.
Urgent Need for Help: Program Assistants are available to help you reach one of the Teaching Team
(contact information in Section two of the Handbook)
2. Counselling and Services for Personal Needs
College Counselling: Professionally-trained counsellors can help you achieve your educational
goals—for such common support as stress management, anxiety, depression, transition issues,
family issues, etc. Counselling is free, voluntary and confidential. Arrange to see a Counsellor quickly
if academic or personal problems stand in the way of your college success. To make an appointment,
visit or call Doon--Room 1A101, 519-748-5220, ext. 3360, Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. Check the
counselling services website for more information.
Good2Talk: Confidential 24-hour phone line for stresses big and small 1-866-925-5454
Conestoga Security: Provides a safe and secure work and learning environment. 519-748-5220 ext.
3357. Refer to the Student Guide for Conestoga’s Safety and Security Services and procedures.
Student Financial Services: Student Financial Services can help you by providing you with options to
finance your post-secondary education.
CSI Food Bank: The CSI Food Bank is an emergency food relief program for current Conestoga
students.
Health Services: Your family doctor on campus. Check out the services that they offer on their
website or call 519-748-5220 ext. 3679. Services available Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. Some
same day appointments may be available by walk-in. A full-time health nurse is on site.
Facility Information: Refer to the Student Guide for information on after-hours parking, classroom
and computer labs.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
3. Accessibility Services
Students with Documented Disabilities are encouraged to book an appointment with Accessibility
Services to access accommodations –EARLY in your program. Disability-related documentation will
be required to book an appointment. Go to the Accessibility Services webpage for more information.
Adaptive Technology Aids and Special Facilities:
Adaptive Aids are arranged through Accessibility Services; handicapped –accessible washrooms are
located throughout the campus. Contact the Adaptive Technology Lab for more information on
adaptive technology aids.
4. Student Study Spaces and General Supports
Cowan Health Sciences Centre (F-wing)
Student Lounge Space –Enjoy seats on each of the three floors. Plugs for laptops and charging
stations are located throughout these areas.
Student Meeting Room Space—Book through the Customer Service Desk for general access to 1F18
and 1F20 and spaces designated for degree programs.
General Access Computers and printers are located in two areas:
• 1st Floor –in the student lounge area with photocopier
• 2nd Floor—at the Customer Service Desk and kiosk area
Open Access Lab –2nd Floor, 2F18.
This is available on a come and go basis for health & pre-health programs practicing key skills. It is
open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day. Book with an Open Access Nurse Technologist.
Lockers—are available with your tuition; important to store your extra clothes and books, etc. so
that you can be at your professional best in the lab. To learn how to obtain a locker, please click
here.
Information Technology-- New ITS HELP DESK—1st Floor Ewing (provides supports & general
assistance with college-related needs such as Email, Network accounts, connectivity & wireless
printing. Go to the Web IT Service Desk for more information.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
5. Services for Students
Library Resource Centre: Located on 2nd Floor B Wing; Go to the Library Resource Centre page for
more information.
International Education Office: Check out the International Education Office for services available to
you.
Learning Commons: Your one-stop resource for academic services and resources, such as Math,
Writing Skills, Peer Tutors and resources for APA. Check out their website or Access through
MyConestoga.
Student Life: Get involved and shape your experience. Visit the Student Life page or Connect to
MyConestoga for your Co-Curricular Record.
Student Financial Services: Your one-stop resource to apply for student awards and bursaries apply
early to increase your chances.
Bookstore: Your location to buy books (check out their options including used books), clothing for
your program and general supplies. Find it in the A wing, just inside Door 1.
Co-op and Career Advising: Your resource for Co-op Placements (if you are in a degree); your source
of help to look for summer jobs or future careers and gain help preparing your resume. Check out
the Co-op and Career Services site for more information.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Letter to Students
Dear Fitness and Health Promotion Student,
Congratulations on your acceptance into the Fitness and Health promotion Program.
This handbook has been prepared to provide information about academic standards, guidelines and
processes specific to the Fitness and Health Promotion Program. Reading, understanding and
following the information in this handbook is an important first step in your success in this program
and your chosen profession. The handbook has been compiled with careful consideration for your
personal and professional growth during your two years at the College. If you do not understand
any of the information in this handbook, please ask the Faculty or Program Coordinator for an
explanation.
Use the index in this handbook as your guide and the contents as your continuous reference as you
proceed through the program. The Fitness and Health Promotion Faculty will refer to the handbook
often, but the responsibility for knowing the program standards is ultimately yours.
In addition to the Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook, the Conestoga Student Guide
outlines important policies and procedures for you to follow. The Fitness and Health Promotion
Program Standards and Procedures Handbook are a supplement to, but not a replacement for, the
Conestoga College Student Procedure Guide.
We are here to help you have a successful two years. Should you experience difficulty or need
assistance in any area of your studies, please come and speak with us, and we will work with you to
help you reach your career goal of becoming a fitness and health promotion practitioner.
All the very best to you in your studies.
Sincerely,
Marlene Raasok (Executive Dean, Health & Life Sciences and Community Services),
Paul Finch (Chair, Health Sciences),
Fitness and Health Promotion Coordinator / Faculty
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1. Program Overview
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Description
This program is designed to train and prepare individuals as qualified fitness and health
consultants working within the fitness and lifestyle industry. Graduates are equipped with the
skills to accurately assess and monitor health and fitness levels to prepare safe and effective
programs that meet client needs and interests. As fitness and health promotion professionals,
graduates will provide services and programs to a variety of diverse populations within profit
and non-profit sectors. The program offers instruction in the areas of physiology, fitness
assessment and exercise prescription, as well as health promotion and lifestyle counselling,
nutrition, injury management, program planning, marketing, leadership, motivation and
interpersonal skills. Courses will be offered using online components. Students will also have the
opportunity to obtain internationally recognized certifications that include general commercial
liability insurance such as:
•
•
•
Ontario Fitness Council Resistance Trainer
Ontario Fitness Council Group Fitness Trainer
Ontario Fitness Council Personal Fitness Trainer
Additionally, students are prepared to challenge nationally recognized certifications such as:
•
•
•
Certified Professional Trainers Network (CPTN)
Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology (CSEP-CPT)
CanFitPro (FIS, PTS)
Students also gain valuable field experience during their on-campus internship and field
placement within the fitness and lifestyle industry.
Program Philosophy
The fundamental responsibility of a student is to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to be a
competent practitioner upon graduation. As students preparing to become fitness and health
promotion practitioners, it is imperative that your behaviours and attitudes reflect the professional,
ethical standards that are embraced by your chosen profession. We believe that a value system
incorporating high moral and ethical integrity is of vital importance, and regard the absence of such
values as critical and dangerous to practice. We believe integrity to be a quality that includes sound
moral principles, sincerity, honesty and self-respect.
It is the expectation of all students, Faculty, and administration that fitness and health promotion
practitioners will incorporate and function within the Standards of Conduct for Conestoga College
Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning.
The job market in the field of fitness and health promotion is changing as it is in most human
services. The growing demand and need for the provision of fitness, leisure and health promotion
services in our complex society has imposed increased responsibilities on agencies and individuals
responsible for service delivery.
The increasing emphasis on lifestyle modification through fitness and health promotion and the
growing private sector opportunities in both community services and specific corporate services are
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
current examples of these changes. The need for educated and well trained fitness professionals is
upon us.
Graduates of the Fitness and Health Promotion Program are skilled in identifying needs in the
community while also designing programs for individuals and groups to meet a wide range of
objectives and goals. Being faced with the task of creating or adapting programs requires special
knowledge and skills in program administration and business practices, an awareness of community
resources in general, and the ability to communicate effectively with managers, boards, committees
and funding agencies.
Fitness and health promotion professionals are qualified consultants working within the fitness and
lifestyle industry, equipped with the skills to provide assessment, counseling, exercise prescription
and leadership services that require keen motivational, technical and organizational abilities. Along
with strong interpersonal and communication skills, the practical and administrational skills of
graduates are recognized by the industry and are paramount in the provision and management of
safe, effective fitness and health programs. Graduates plan, promote, and deliver a wide range of
services including activity and educational programs, which enhance the health and fitness of
individuals in many diverse settings. The concept of wellness, especially the relationship between
active living and well-being, is an integral part of a graduate’s learning. Additional skills include
operation/management of fitness facilities, program administration and promotion, fitness testing
procedures, planning/conducting physical exercise programs, designing, implementing and
evaluating health promotion interventions, identification and management of safety and injury
issues, and adaptability and flexibility in servicing diverse populations from both profit and non-profit
sectors.
Graduates may find employment in the retail fitness industry in a variety of settings including private
fitness and health clubs, YMCA/YWCA, corporate recreation and health programs. Graduates may also
find employment with community institutions for special populations, hospitals, municipal recreation
departments, and private health consulting firms. In addition, graduates may choose to become
consultants or business entrepreneurs. He/she is prepared to meet the multi-dimensional demands of
a growing market in fitness and health promotion.
*Adapted from Vocational Standards, Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, Fitness and
Health Promotion Program Standards, August 2003.
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Program Outcomes
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
1. As per the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Vocational Standards, successful
completion of the program will enable the graduate to:
2. Conduct assessments of fitness, well-being, and lifestyle for clients and effectively communicate
assessment results.
3. Prescribe appropriate physical activity, fitness, and active living and lifestyle programs to enhance
health, fitness, and well-being of clients.
4. Utilize appropriate interviewing and counseling skills to promote or enhance health, fitness, active
living, and well-being of clients.
5. Collaborate with individuals in the selection and adoption of strategies that will enable them to
take control of and improve their health, fitness, and well-being.
6. Develop, implement and evaluate activities, programs, and events which respond to identified
needs and interests of clients and maximize the benefits of health, fitness, and well-being.
7. Train individuals and instruct groups in exercise and physical activities.
8. Contribute to community health promotion strategies.
9. Assist in the development of business plans for health and fitness programs, activities, and
facilities.
10. Implement strategies and plans for ongoing personal and professional growth and development.
11. Develop and implement risk management strategies for health and fitness programs, activities,
and facilities.
12. Interact effectively with clients, staff, and volunteers in health and fitness programs, activities
and facilities.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Our Beliefs Applied to the Fitness and Health Promotion Program
We believe that Conestoga College’s Fitness and Health Promotion Program incorporates the above
philosophy into our preparation program by:











accommodating individual situations, as appropriate for emerging adult learners, encouraging
and expecting students to develop behaviours necessary in the workforce and in the Fitness
and Health Promotion profession, including: self-reflection, responsibility for self and own
actions, honesty, integrity, and punctuality,
designing courses and experiences to support students in constructing knowledge about
exercise science and health promotion in meaningful ways,
modeling a variety of teaching styles, providing a variety of learning experiences, and by using
a variety of evaluation methods,
modeling communication and problem-solving skills as well as professional behaviours and
attitudes required of fitness and health promotion educators,
supporting the integration of theory and practice,
providing students with opportunities to connect theory and its application in combination
with practical experience,
facilitating students’ understanding to enable them to “make sense” of their practical
experiences in view of theory,
engaging students actively in their learning process, recognizing and appreciating the
different styles and approaches to learning that an emerging adult learner may use/exhibit
(multiple intelligences),
building on previous successes in order to enhance confidence of the student as a learner,
supporting students as he/she develops their professional philosophy of fitness and health
promotion,
mentoring students as he/she proceeds through their journey of becoming a fitness and
health promotion practitioner in both the classroom and through their field placement
experiences,
offering general knowledge and generic skills, in addition to specific vocational skills, and
endeavoring to support the fitness field and the local community, believing that learning is
life-long and that fitness and health promotion practitioners play a vital role in our society.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Summary Map – 2015/2016 Intake
Program Map describes your learning journey with three important components:
1. All courses focus on you demonstrating development towards the program outcomes and capabilities through your program journey.
2. There are themes for your learning that will inform you on the courses you will take to develop program capabilities.
3. Each semester has a theme that creates milestones for your learning within a semester and your journey from one semester to the next semester
and ultimately to your readiness to graduate.
Level 1
Exercise
Science
Health
Promotion &
Behaviour
Change
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Comprehension and
integration of theory,
technical skills and professional
practice.
Practice, application
and analysis of theory,
technical skills and
professional practice.
Consolidation,
application
and evaluation of knowledge,
skills and professional
practice.
Exercise Science I
Exercise Science II
Exercise Science III
Fitness
Assessment &
Exercise Prescription I
Fitness Assessment &
Exercise Prescription II
Fitness Assessment & Exercise
Prescription III: Therapeutics
Fitness Assessment & Exercise
Prescription IV: Diverse
Populations
Motivational Interviewing &
Coaching I
Motivational Interviewing &
Coaching II
Health Promotion I
Health Promotion II
Fit for Work, Fit for Life
The Psychology of Lifestyle and
Behaviour Change
Nutrition I
Business &
Professional
Practices
Practice &
Application
General
Education and
EES
Nutrition II
Entrepreneurship & Business
Practices of Fitness and Health
Promotion
Group Fitness Leadership I
Group Fitness Leadership II
Management & Professional
Practice
Campus Internship I
College Reading & Writing
Safety in the Workplace
Elective Gen Ed Course
Elective Gen Ed Course
Campus Internship II
Field Placement
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
The program adheres to the program standards set by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and
Universities to ensure that graduates will be provided with the entry-level skills he/she needs to
become successfully employed. An electronic version of these standards is posted on the Ministry of
Training, Colleges and Universities website.
Program Design for Your Cohort
Students can find their program design on the student Portal by following the steps below:
1. Log in to Student Portal
2. Click on ‘My Courses’ tab
3. Select ‘View Progress Report’ button
Courses are listed by level/semester. Students can also view courses for the most current program
design for this academic year on the Conestoga College website. To find these courses, students need
to scroll down the page to the ‘Program Courses’.
Pathways and Further Post-secondary Education Opportunities
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a
degree or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga
programs or partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.
There are a number of different opportunities available to students who want to continue studying at
Conestoga. Whether you wish to transfer to another program or apply to a new program after
graduation, Conestoga has established pathways to help you meet your goals. Conestoga Pathways
information is available on Conestoga’s website.
Employment Opportunities
Graduates find employment in such areas as commercial fitness and health facilities, municipal
recreation departments, private agencies (for example health consulting firms), senior citizens'
centres, and rehabilitation centres or self-employment through personal small business
entrepreneurship.
95% of 2012-2013 graduates found employment within 6 months of graduation. Their average
starting salary was $31,204.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the
Government of Canada website.
6
2. Relationships
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Communication and Contact Information
Faculty Commitment to Success
To ensure your success in the program, it is important you become familiar with those who are here
to support and help you along your way. If you have any day-to-day questions about your program,
courses or school work in general do not hesitate to contact your Program Co-ordinator, faculty,
Chair or Dean.
Faculty Availability
Faculty offices are located in the main building (4B area) and students are welcome to see individual
faculty to discuss course work, assignments, or any other issues. During the first several days during
the start of the semester faculty will explain how you can contact them outside of class time.
Individual faculty timetables may be posted. As faculty have diverse teaching schedules, it is best to
make an appointment to ensure he/she is available. Faculty members will endeavour to reply to
email messages within 48 business hours.
Telephones for internal use are located outside the entry to faculty workspaces. Beside this phone
will be a faculty directory with extension numbers only. If you have an appointment with a faculty
member, please call to confirm that you have arrived. Please do not enter until you have
confirmation that the faculty member is available to meet with you. If you do not have an
appointment, please call the person you wish to meet with to confirm that he/she is present and can
see you. If you do not reach them, please leave a message. In an interest of respecting the work
environment for everyone in this area, please do not wander into faculty workspaces looking for
them.
Contact Information and Availability
Paul Finch, Chair
Health Sciences
pfinch@conestogac.on.ca
(519) 748-5220 ext. 2395
Elissa Stevens, Coordinator
Fitness and Health Promotion
estevens@conestogac.on.ca
(519) 748-5220 ext. 2364
Andrew Lubczuk, Faculty
alubczuk@conestogac.on.ca
(519) 748-5220, ext. 3922
Melissa Hakkers, Program Assistant
mhakkers@conestogac.on.ca
(519) 748-5220, ext. 2454
Ruth Parliament, Faculty
rparliament@conestogac.on.ca
(519) 748-5220, ext. 2942
7
Contacting Program Staff
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
When contacting program staff outside of class time it is advisable to use e-mail or telephone. Your
message should include the following information:
•
first and last name
•
course and level
•
brief description of reason for contact
•
telephone number where you can be reached
Student E-Mail
All students are supplied with a College e-mail address. Use the College e-mail and/or eConestoga
email ONLY when communicating with Faculty. Non-College e-mail addresses (e.g. Hotmail) are not
acceptable. Students are expected to check their College e-mail and eConestoga email regularly as
most official communication will be via this method.
Student Engagement
Student Concerns/Issues
We appreciate that concerns/issues may arise during the learning experience. Our goal is to
collaborate - students with faculty and staff - to resolve concerns quickly and to learn and improve
from these situations. To achieve this goal, we need an effective problem-solving environment.
This means:
When a concern arises, it needs to be raised immediately and discussed by the individuals involved.
This is most important for effective problem solving.
**Problem-solving closest to the individual associated with the learning is the place to start.
Please see the “Student Concerns/Issues” section in the Student Rights and Responsibilities section
of the College Student Guide regarding the informal and formal procedures for the resolution of
concerns and issues.
Please note that issues and concerns related to a placement site, its operation or its employees
should first be brought to the attention of the Conestoga Clinical Instructor/Responsible faculty/Field
Placement Supervisor, subject to the additional procedures outlined in the Sections on
“Professionalism” and “Concerns Regarding Safety or Care/Service for Clients during a
Practicum/Field Placement.
Student Representation
CSI and Conestoga agree that a student has the right to invite a member of CSI to a student/faculty
meeting, provided that 24 hours advance notice is given to faculty. This advance notice will ensure
that all parties will have an opportunity to adequately prepare for the meeting.
PAC (Program Advisory Committee)
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Each program at Conestoga has a Program Advisory Committee (PAC), which is made up of industry
and academic representatives, as well as current students. They meet several times a year to discuss
the direction in which that industry is heading and any improvements that can be made to keep the
program current. This helps to ensure that students are learning material that is relevant to their
industry.
At the beginning of each year, the coordinator of the program will ask for student volunteers. The
coordinator will decide which students will represent years one and two. The student representatives
are expected to attend the meetings. Students must prepare and submit a report based on guidelines
provided by the Program Chair/Coordinator which will be presented at the meeting. Students are
expected to be professional, dress in business attire and engage in discussions.
WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Healthcare Student Collaborative)
Conestoga College offers many unique and exciting opportunities for personal and professional
growth. One of the things that contribute to the excellence of this college is the host of exciting
extracurricular opportunities that add to the culture of this fine institution. WIHSC (Waterloo Interprofessional Health & Community Student Collaborative) is one such club whose members strive to
‘learn with, from, and about’ each other.
Membership of this active group is comprised of students enrolled in health, community, and social
sciences programs at the Doon campus. Some of the most popular initiatives that this group regularly
engages in are interactive simulation exercises, peer-mentoring, guest speakers, paper case studies
and monthly meetings. To find out more about this exciting opportunity, please visit the WIHSC
website. The website includes information on past events (pictures and videos) as well as how to get
involved. Get involved, have fun, and learn more about the team members you will work with upon
graduation. For more information, please contact your program coordinator.
9
Student Feedback
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Student feedback is an essential component of our continuous improvement process. Our
opportunities for student feedback include:
Key Performance Indicators
All college programs in the province are evaluated using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through
the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. This survey is conducted each academic year.
Strategic goals to improve the programs are developed from these results. This data and other data
specific to the campus and the program/school are collected so that Conestoga College can
continually improve quality.
Student Appraisal of Teaching
The Student Appraisal of Teaching (SAT) allows direct feedback from students on teaching for a
particular course. Completion of the SAT form gives teachers and academic managers valuable
information, to use for improving teaching at Conestoga.
The SAT process occurs at semester-end. One quarter of the faculty is appraised per term, and each
has two courses selected by their academic managers for appraisal. All teachers have a SAT review at
least once every two years. Students complete either an electronic or paper copy of the SAT. A
summary of results is prepared by Institutional Research.
The report is sent to the Academic Manager who shares the report with the faculty member AFTER
all marks for the semester have been collected. Continuing Education students may have an
opportunity to complete an SAT form at the conclusion of each Continuing Education course.
10
Class Cancellations
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Class Cancellation due to Faculty Absence
All class cancellations due to Faculty absences will be posted in the Student Portal on the left hand
side of first page which a student sees after logging in. These notices in the eConestoga Learning
Management System will be the only general notifications of class cancellations due to Faculty
absences.
Class Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather
College closure due to inclement weather will be announced on local radio stations (92.9; 88.3; 1460;
96.7, 105.3, and 1240). It is up to Associate Faculty and students to listen for campus closures. If the
college is closed a message will be left on the campus switchboard after office hours. A notice will
also be placed on the college website.
Personal Notifications of Class Cancellations
Option to receive personal notifications of class cancellations:
Students have the option of receiving special e-mails or SMS text messages notifying them of class
cancellations due to Faculty absences. To receive such personal notifications students must subscribe
to this special service.
To subscribe:
• Log in to the Student Portal
• Select Notifications under the Profile tab
• Select the method by which you would like to be notified
• Click Update.
Note: To change the e-mail address to which these notifications will be sent, select My Addresses
under the Profile Tab, and change the default e-mail address.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
3. Standards of Conduct and Professional Practice
Program Standards for Professional Practice
The Fitness and Health Promotion Program provides both academic study and practical training to
prepare students for careers in working with a variety of populations. Throughout the program,
students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and to apply themselves to
academic achievement. Professionals function in an independent and interdependent environment.
The fundamental responsibility of a student is to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to be a
competent fitness and health promotion practitioner upon graduation. As students preparing to
become professionals, it is imperative that behaviours and attitudes reflect standards that are
endorsed by Conestoga College and your chosen profession. As a Conestoga College Fitness and
Health Promotion student, there are three areas of conduct you are expected to follow; Academic
Conduct, Professional Conduct, and Social/Behavioural Conduct.
As a student of Conestoga College you are a member of the College community and as such you have
received a Conestoga Student Guide that includes Student Rights, Student Responsibilities, and
Student Code of Conduct. The Student Responsibilities section includes detailed information
regarding plagiarism, cheating, and academic dishonesty. It is essential that you review this section
and familiarize yourself with these responsibilities. It is expected that your conduct as a student will
be reflective of the responsibilities listed. If you have any questions regarding any of them, please
contact your Program Coordinator.
In addition to all Student Responsibilities found in the Conestoga Student Guide, Fitness and Health
Promotion students have the following obligations:
• Complete the learning objectives, tests, assignments and all other forms of student work,
with honesty and professional integrity
• Attend class, and field placement as scheduled
• Actively engage in classroom learning processes
• Demonstrate ethical and professional behaviour while attending class, and field placement
• Protect the integrity of the Program and the College
• Maintain the confidentiality of all classroom and field placement experiences, including use of
any form of social media, and seek clarification from Faculty/administration when unsure of
any of these standards
As a Fitness and Health Promotion student, please note that all expectations referred to above and
found in the Conestoga Student Guide apply equally to field placement experiences and to all
work/activities related to field placement experiences as they relate to clients and staff, their person
and/or property.
12
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Characteristics of Successful Students
In order to assist students with their transition from previous endeavours to their studies in the
Fitness and Health Promotion program, and prepare students for professional success in their chosen
fields of study, the following characteristics of a successful student have been identified as follows:
1. Not surprisingly, he/she attend classes regularly. Moreover, he/she is on time. If he/she misses a
session, he/she feels obligated to let the professor know why, and their excuses seem legitimate
and reasonable. He/she makes sure they get all assignments he/she missed and understand
specifically what was covered in class.
2. Successful students speak in class, even if their attempts are a bit clumsy and difficult. He/she ask
the questions that the professor knows many in the class are bound to have, provided he/she is
listening.
3. He/she sees the professor before or after class about grades, comments made on their papers,
and upcoming tests. Sometimes he/she just wants to ask a question or make a comment relative
to the class discussion.
4. Successful students turn in assignments that look neat and sharp. He/she take the time to
produce a final product that looks good, a reflection of a caring attitude and pride in their work.
5. He/she is attentive in class. He/she doesn’t chat, read, or stare out windows. In other words,
he/she is polite and graceful, even if he/she gets a little bored.
6. Almost all work and assignments are turned in on time, even if every one of them is not brilliant.
Successful students seem driven to complete all work.
7. The most successful students may well end up at the professor's office door at least once during
the semester. He/she will go out of their way to find the professor and engage him/her in
meaningful conversation.
From: Innovation Abstracts, Vol. X, No. 1
13
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Academic honesty is expected and required of all Conestoga students. In order to maximize your
success as a student, it is critical that you familiarize yourself with the Academic Integrity Policy
found in the Conestoga Student Guide. This guide has been provided to you during orientation and is
available on the college website. The Academic Integrity Policy provides a detailed description of the
following:
•
Scope of academic integrity,
•
What academic integrity means,
•
What types of behaviours constitute a breach of academic integrity, and
•
The penalties associated with breaching academic integrity.
After reading this information, if you do not fully understand what is meant by academic integrity,
and what is required of you to maintain academic integrity, please speak with a faculty member or
your program coordinator. Please note that maintaining academic integrity is very serious, and that it
is your responsibility as a Conestoga student to know the Academic Integrity Policy and to initiate
help if you do not fully understand it.
Below are a few hints to help you avoid breaching academic integrity.
•
Make sure that you recognize information that requires referencing.
Example
Required Referencing
Milk is good for you.
General information in the public domain.
Does not require referencing.
“According to Health Canada milk beverages
Direct quote right from a published
provide the nutrients needed for healthy bones
source. Requires a reference.
and optimal health”.
Health Canada. (2008). Canada’s food guide:
Milk and alternatives. Retrieved May 17, 20011
from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/foodguide-aliment/choose-choix/milk-lait/indexeng.php
Consuming milk every day provides the nutrients Information that has been put into your
that you need for healthy bones and optimal
own words, but offers information outside
health.
of public domain related with specialized
Health Canada. (2008). Canada’s food guide:
knowledge. Requires a reference.
Milk and alternatives. Retrieved May 17, 20011
from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/foodguide-aliment/choose-choix/milk-lait/indexeng.php
•
Whenever you refer to material from another source, whether book, journal article, video,
newspaper, or electronic publications, you must acknowledge your source using proper
citations and references. The APA style is the format most often used in the health and social
sciences. Please visit the Conestoga Learning Commons for assistance with the APA format.
•
If you work collaboratively with others on an assignment, including in class assignments that
expect independent submission, make sure that you do not copy words or ideas from others
intentionally or by accident.
14
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
•
Make sure that you read the Academic Integrity Policy located in the Conestoga Student
Guide, and that you fully understand it. The policy describes additional behaviours that
represent a breach of academic integrity.
Copyright – What Students Need to Know
Photocopying and scanning at Conestoga are governed by the Copyright Act, an agreement with
Access Copyright, and the Association of Canadian Community Colleges’ Fair Dealing Policy.
Under the terms of our Access Copyright license which gives the broadest permission:
You can photocopy or scan the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Up to 10% of most published works
One chapter that is greater than 10%, but no more than 20% of the book
One article, short story, play, poem or essay from a book, magazine or journal issue
containing other works
One newspaper article or page
One entry from an encyclopedia, dictionary, annotated bibliography or similar reference work
One drawing, sculpture, painting, print, architectural work of art or work of artistic
craftsmanship from a larger volume containing other works.
Cumulative Copying
If you copy 10% of a book today, 10% next week, 10% the week after that, and so on, this is called
cumulative copying and it is not allowed. The copy limits apply to an entire academic year, so once
you reach the limit for an item, you can’t copy more until the next academic year.
You cannot copy or scan the following:
• Workbooks or study guides that are intended for one-time use
• Instruction manuals
• Sheet music and original artistic works including photographs or prints
• Advertisements
• Business cases
• Any of the items on the Access Copyright Exclusions list
You can find all of this information and more on the Copyright for Students web page.
If you have any questions about copyright or the limits of copying on campus, contact Tessa Dueck,
Copyright Technician, at tdueck@conestogac.on.ca or 519-748-5220 ext.3604.
15
Safe Practice
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Safe practice is part of professional practice. It is an expectation of everyone who is or wants to be a
professional.
There are a number of policies and procedures associated with practical training in your program
that have been developed to ensure your safety and the safety (physical and emotional) of those
around you. These will be reviewed with you during your program.
The following basic procedures are outlined for your attention and follow-through:
1. Your personal safety begins with the use of professional attire and foot wear and with your
attention to the health and safety expectations that may be identified throughout the
College.
2. Help us have a safe and pleasant environment by wiping up spills, by ensuring lap top cords
do not snake across walking areas and by reporting equipment or facility problems when you
see them.
Concerns such as these in the Cowan Health Sciences Center may be reported to the Customer
Service Desk in the Cowan Health Sciences Center.
3. Specific dress codes, personal protective equipment and specific codes of behavioral conduct
may apply to certain programs; failure to follow these may result in your inability to
participate in a lab, class or experiential learning activity.
4. Safe work practices are to be followed during all training; follow the direction of your
instructors. If you have a practicum, your Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty member will
ensure that you are aware of safe practices and safety precautions and procedures. This
includes problem-solving by the Responsible Faculty and Program Coordinator with the
College’s Occupational Health & Safety Department as required. For example, should outside
temperatures during the summer become unusually hot, very high temperatures may occur
in some workplaces; this could require that specific steps be taken to ensure a safe working
environment.
5. All safety-related accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to the Instructor-inCharge immediately. This is an opportunity to problem-solve about how to avoid these areas
of concern for the future.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Student Protection Acknowledgement
A Student Protection Acknowledge confirmation pop-up will appear once an applicant/student logs
into the Student Portal. A PDF directs students to policies and procedures relevant to their academic
responsibilities. Policies and procedures are searchable on Conestoga’s website. Students are advised
to review and comply with all policies and procedures including the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Academic Dispute and Resolution Policy/Procedure
Academic Integrity Policy
Academic Recognition Policy
Academic Credential Procedure
Clearance of Academic Deficiency Policy/Procedure
Co-operative Education Policy
Discontinuance Policy/Procedure
Eligibility to Participate in Co-op Work Terms Policy/Procedure
Evaluation of Student Learning Policy/Procedure
Grading Procedure
Graduation Requirements and Convocation Procedure
Honours Policy/Procedure
Program/Course (Cohort) Withdrawal Procedure
Student Concerns and Issues/Procedure
Student Fees Policy
Student Feedback Policy
Violation of Academic Integrity Procedure
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Professional Conduct and Use of Social Media
To ensure a quality and respectful learning environment both in the classroom and in field
placement, the use of cell phones and laptop computers for social networking can only be used
during break times, before/after class and outside of field placement.
Laptops and other forms of technology can be used in the classroom when the use pertains to the
content and processes of learning facilitated by the professor.
Faculty reserve the right to remove and hold any technology device that is a disruption to the class
processes of teaching and learning until the end of class.
Social Media Policy
•
•
Social media has many advantages for a professional. It can be used to network, to resource
information and keep current
As a student and future professional, it is essential to maintain professional boundaries in all
communication, including Social Media.
BE AWARE:
• “Electronic messages are not anonymous. They can be tracked, misdirected, manipulated and
live forever on the internet. Social media sites create and archive copies of every piece of
content posted, even when deleted from on-line profiles. Once information is digitalized, the
author relinquishes all control.”
“Online identities and actions are visible to the public and can result in serious repercussions or
embarrassment. As the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Ontario notes, users may intend to share
their online existence solely within their own network, but in theory anyone can access the user’s
musings, photos and information. Further, the words can be altered, forwarded and misquoted.1.
1. Professional Advisory. 2011. Use of Electronic Communication and Social Media. The Council of the Ontario College of Teachers.
18
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Ensure that your posts reflect you as the professional you are and wish to become – if a potential
employer were to see your posts.
1. Many types of social media encourage instantaneous, casual dialogue. It is important to
remember that even an innocent comment may be easily misunderstood
2. Assume that information you post or send can be accessed or altered by anyone.
3. Consider whether any posting may reflect poorly on you, your school, or your profession.
4. Avoid online criticism about other students, colleagues, professors or field placements.
5. Avoid impulsive, inappropriate or heated comments.
6. Pictures should not be taken, posted to social media sites or shared without the express
permission of all individuals involved.
7. Remember that online sites you visit are not anonymous.
8. Make sure your on-line name and E-mail reflect professionalism.
9. Ensure that your postings will not be considered harassment or defamation of a peer,
colleague, faculty or others.
Maintain privacy of all care and service activities when in practical work experiences:
1. Do not take or post any pictures while on placement or involved in lab activities
2. Maintain client-provider relationships and boundaries. The addition of a client to a
‘friendship” status online is unacceptable.
Please respect the fact that your faculty and staff will not invite you to their personal web pages
when you are a current student (Keep faculty and staff as resources to connect with after you have
graduated or after you have left the college)
Cell Phone Policy
Students should respect their professors and other instructors by following program policy and not
use their cell phones for personal use during class time. This is representative of the professional
manner in which you are expected to act as you prepare to enter the workforce.
Students should refrain from bringing their cell phone into a test or examination. Phones should be
left in your locker or left in your bag at the front of the classroom. In the event of an urgent need to
keep your cell phone with you during a test (parents with young children, students experiencing a
family emergency, etc.) please speak to your professor as soon as you enter the examination room.
Those who have been permitted to bring a phone into the classroom will likely be asked to either
leave the phone with the professor, or he/she may be permitted to leave their phone out on their
desk where it is visible to the professor and proctors. In any case, students are not permitted to
touch or answer the phone without raising their hand to ask for the professor/proctor’s permission.
If you are found to have a cell phone in your possession during an examination that has not been
declared, you will be asked to leave the examination room, and will be given a zero on the
assessment.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Cowan Health Sciences Centre: Clinical Lab Dress Code
The Clinical Lab areas of the Cowan Health Sciences Centre (CHSC) are comprised of clinical bed labs,
the Cross Centre for the Advancement of Patient Care Simulation and the Open Access Lab. In order
to maintain these as safe professional spaces, appropriate dress must be worn. The purpose of this
dress code is to insure the safety of the student, faculty and staff and also to prepare them for the
clinical environment. The dress code is designed to comply with infection control procedures,
workplace health and safety considerations and professional safety. All lab areas are covered by this
policy for all programs in the School of Health, Life Sciences and Community Services. Noncompliance with this dress code will result in the person being asked to leave the lab area. (If during
scheduled lab time, this may result in a missed lab)
Dress Requirements
• Lab coat, scrubs or clinical dress as set forth by the program (should be neat and clean)
• Lab uniforms must be high/long enough to cover the midriff, even when bending or reaching.
• Clean athletic shoes (e.g., running shoes). These shoes must be worn in lab.
• Sock must be worn
• Hair tied back, if hair is long, then it must be up
• No rings, necklaces or dangling earrings
o A pair of studs may be worn; one in each ear
o A plain wedding band may be worn
• Nails should be kept neat and short; artificial nails and nail polish are not allowed
• No hats to be worn (exceptions related to the Human Rights Code)
• No denim or sweat pants
• Scented Products must not be worn
• No chewing gum
Note: the Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation requires full clinical uniform to be worn.
I.e. Family of Nursing/RT: scrubs, Paramedic/Pre-Service Fire: uniform
Please be reminded that the labs are a clinical setting and, as such, the requirement for proper hand
washing/hygiene is in effect.
Clinical Lab Areas: 1F26, 2F06, 2F10, 3F35, 3F36, 3F38, 3F40, 3F45, 3F46
Open Access Lab: 2F18
Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation: 2F30, 2F50, 2F34, 2F46
20
Program Standards
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Conestoga College School of Health & Life Science and Community Services has been given the
mandate to prepare fitness and health promotion practitioners. The Province of Ontario expects the
College to graduate fitness and health promotion practitioners who meet the standards that have
been established for the profession. The Conestoga College Student Guide, Standards of Conduct
stipulates College expectations that are to be applied to all programs.
Fitness and health promotion practitioners function in an independent and collaborative
environment. The majority of the time, the practitioner's involvement with a client is of an
independent nature. There is an implicit trust by the client that the fitness and health promotion
practitioner is an ethical, moral and competent person.
Uniform Standards
As a Fitness and Health Promotion Program student, it is important to present a professional
manner, particularly when in a placement setting (community or health institution). A professional
demeanor and appearance are important in establishing effective working relationships with clients
and colleagues. As a guest in any agency providing placement experience, it is important to always
act and dress appropriately.
Cowan Health Sciences Centre: Clinical Lab Dress Code
The Clinical Lab areas of the F wing Cowan Health Sciences Centre (CHSC) are comprised of clinical
bed labs, the Cross Centre for the Advancement of Patient Care Simulation and the Open Access Lab.
In order to maintain these as safe professional spaces, appropriate dress must be worn. The purpose
of this dress code is to ensure the safety of the student, faculty and staff and also to prepare them
for the clinical environment. The dress code is designed to comply with infection control procedures,
workplace health and safety considerations and professional safety.
All lab areas are covered by this policy for all programs in the School of Health, Life Sciences and
Community Services. Non-compliance with this dress code will result in the person being asked to
leave the lab area. (If during scheduled lab time, this may result in a missed lab) Please see ‘Dress
Requirements’ above for a more detailed list.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Guidelines for Student use of the Fitness and Health Promotion Lab
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
No food or drink (water is allowed) is to be in the lab area of the room.
Lab uniforms (as described above and dictated by the program) must be worn in the lab at all
times.
The materials and equipment from the lab must remain in the room.
Students may be in the room only when Faculty is present in the room, or when authorization has
been given.
Students are expected to show respect for the environment and equipment. The lab is intended
for educational, not recreational, use.
The room is be left clean after each class
Permission must be given by Faculty to utilize any of the materials or equipment.
Consent for Use and Disclosure of Student Information
From time to time, the college may request the use of student pictures for media and promotion
purposes. You are entitled to refuse consent to use of your picture and this will not hinder your
progress in the Fitness and Health Promotion Program in any way. In addition, other educational
institutions or prospective employers may request personal information such as transcripts, awards
received, evaluations etc. Details pertaining to the release of your picture or personal information
are highlighted in the following consent forms.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
4. Attendance and Student Success Strategies
Attendance and Punctuality
In view of the learning complexities of the Fitness and Health Promotion Program, it is imperative
that students attend classroom, lab, and community experiences as scheduled. Health Science
Programs are based on competency-based curricula with defined learning objectives, which place a
great deal of emphasis on the minimum theoretical and practical skills required to enter the
profession. Therefore, students who are absent from class, lab, and community experiences place
themselves in academic jeopardy in meeting the competency based learning objectives as stipulated
by the program.
If extenuating circumstances require students to miss a class, please note that it is the student’s
responsibility to share this information with Faculty and to acquire any missed information.
Cumulative absence during the Program will be reviewed by the Promotion Committee.
Students are expected to arrive on time for classroom, lab, placement and community experiences.
Repeated late arrivals may result in the student being denied access to the class or lab experience.
Acceptable Reasons for Absence
1. Illness: Students experiencing health concerns that prevent attendance should notify their
professor of their absence in advance and be prepared to present a certificate from a physician in the
event of missing any form of assessment.
2. Compassionate Leave: Request for leaves of absence to attend to family illness, death or family
problems are considered. These requests will be submitted to the professor who will consult with the
Program Coordinator and Chair if necessary.
3. Jury Duty: Any student who receives a summons for Jury Duty should bring the document to the
Chair to assess if it can be arranged to have the subject excused if such duty interferes with the
progress in the program.
Note: Scheduled vacation and work commitments are not acceptable reasons for missing or
rescheduling a test/examination or any other type of evaluation.
23
Attendance for Evaluations
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
An evaluation is defined as a test, exam, presentation or any other formal assessment that requires
your presence in a class or lab. Evaluations are critical components of each course and overall
success for you in your Program.
The School’s approach to requirements for attendance at evaluations reflects the expectation that as
emerging professionals, students must demonstrate a professional attitude and attention to
evaluations, in the same manner that expectations for future work as professional will require
attention to workplace procedures. Consequences for missed evaluations are balanced against
reasonable support where it is warranted.
In order to support student success:
• Evaluation and presentation dates are scheduled and communicated at the beginning of each
semester.
• Unplanned extenuating circumstances involving the college, the program or the faculty that
may require changes to the course schedule will be communicated to students.
• In support of the development of professionalism, students are required to take all
evaluations at the scheduled times.
• Students who make personal commitments that conflict with the evaluation dates or
assignment deadlines do so at their own risk.
• There will be no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts (e.g. work,
family commitments or vacation plans).
• Students who wish to reschedule an evaluation or a presentation due to a religious holiday
are required to discuss the situation with faculty within the first two weeks of the semester.
• Academic accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities through
the Accessibility Office.
Notification for Absence from Evaluations
Students are required to notify the program of absence from any evaluation for any reason.
Notification must be received prior to the start of the evaluation.
Failure to do so will result in a mark of zero being assigned.
Notification procedure
Log into the student portal and click on the Absence tab and indicate that you will be absent from
class on a day that has an Evaluation. You will receive a confirmation email that you have recorded
your absence for that day.
Note:
• Your professor will be aware of your absence from an evaluation by your lack of attendance
and because you have entered your absence using the online Absence Recording System on
the Student Portal.
•
The Absence Recording System shows you as being absent for the day, starting from the time
that you record your absence. (For example if you record your absence for that day at 11:00
a.m. the system will show you as being absent for all classes starting after 11:00 a.m. that
day.) If you are then going to be present again for some later class, you will need to bring your
presence to the attention of your Professor in that later class.)
24
•
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
The earliest that you may record your absence for a particular day is after 8pm on the
preceding day
Follow-up after Reporting Your Absence from an Evaluation:
•
•
•
•
•
•
You must make contact immediately with faculty to explain the reasons for your absence and
to arrange a meeting.
If there is a concerning pattern of absence you will be asked to meet with the program
coordinator. This may result in the need for you to provide documentation verifying the
reason for your absence, in accordance with the requirements specified in sections below
titled “Evaluations worth 20% or more” and “Evaluations worth less than 20%”
Faculty will then make alternative evaluation arrangements as appropriate and you will
complete any necessary forms.
Students are required to complete the alternative evaluation as scheduled.
If the evaluation is to be conducted in the testing center, you will be asked to show your
student card before you are permitted to write the test.
Tests will be made up In the College Testing Centre in the following week, or by individual
arrangements with program faculty.
Religious Holidays
Students are permitted by Conestoga policy to be absent from class to observe a recognized religious
holiday. Any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in an examination, study, or work
requirement on some particular day or days because of religious beliefs will be given the opportunity
to make up the work that was missed or do alternate work/examinations subject to timely
notification.
Conestoga recognizes all religious holidays as defined by the College Employer Council
It is the responsibility of the student to:
a. Plan ahead and be aware of the dates of all examinations and other course obligations;
b. Advise the faculty member that he/she will be seeking accommodation to observe a
recognized religious holiday and make a request in writing to your Program Coordinator
within the first one weeks of the semester and prior to the dare of assessment that falls on
the religious holiday. Exceptions based on extenuating circumstances must be approved by
the Chair.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Documentation to Substantiate Your Reported Absence
Evaluations worth less than 20%
Missed evaluations worth less than 20% of the student’s final grade will be rescheduled once per
program semester subject to proper communication described above.
Once per program semester means that only one absence for an evaluation will be
accepted
across all courses in a program for a semester. Implications of major illnesses
or personal
circumstances impacting several course evaluations at one time will require
discussion with the
program coordinator prior to faculty arranging alternative evaluations.
If an evaluation cannot be rescheduled (for example an experiential activity or participation in a
group presentation) reallocation of marks will be determined by faculty. This will be documented on
an interview record and signed off by both faculty and student.
If more than one evaluation that is worth less than 20% is missed, documentation requirements for
evaluations worth 20% or more apply (See 2.2).
Evaluations worth 20% or more
Any student who misses an evaluation worth 20% or more will receive a mark of zero unless the
reason for missing the evaluation and the accompanying documentation verifying the reason for the
absence are deemed acceptable by the program. Examples of reasons deemed acceptable include
incapacitating illness, death of a close family member, and required court appearance.
NB: If an evaluation is missed due to illness, the health care professional attesting to the
illness must have firsthand knowledge of the situation and direct involvement with the
treatment / management of the condition. For example, a note from a clinic provided by a
physician seeing the student for the first time, after the illness has resolved, is unlikely to
meet the program standard for documentation.
Test Procedures
•
•
•
•
•
Once a test begins, students may not leave the test room for 30 minutes. If he/she finishes a
test before that time, he/she may review their answers but are expected to sit QUIETLY and
not disturb others. Once students leave the room he/she may only re-enter when invited
back by Faculty.
Any student found cheating during the course of an examination/test will be addressed
according to procedures found in Conestoga Student Guide.
Faculty is responsible to advise as to the material permitted in the testing room. Personal
items and learning materials will be left in an area identified by the Faculty.
Faculty will advise as to the seating arrangements of students.
During open book tests, students must bring their own course materials (books, notes,
learning packages etc.) for individual use only. Students may not share any of these materials.
Electronic devices, such as, iPads, iPods, text messaging, laptops, cell phones, and translators
will not be permitted.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Importance of Test and Presentation Dates
Test and assignment dates are scheduled at the beginning of each semester. Unplanned extenuating
circumstances involving the college, the program, or the faculty may require changes to the course
schedule. If this occurs, students will be notified.
Students are required to write all tests during the scheduled in-class test times. Students who make
personal commitments that conflict with meeting test and assignment deadlines do so at their own
risk. There will be no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts (e.g. work,
family commitments or vacation plans). Students who wish to reschedule a test or presentation
because of a religious holiday are required to discuss the situation with faculty at the beginning of
the semester.
Academic accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities through the
Accessibility Services Office.
27
Assignment Policies
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
The expectation of health professionals is that he/she complete assigned work competently and in
the allocated time, or that he/she anticipate difficulty in meeting deadlines and notify the
appropriate person(s).
The following regulations regarding assignments reflect this belief and are designed to ensure that
graduates of the programs meet these expectations.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Students are required to submit all written assignments on or before the date and time specified.
Students should anticipate problems that will necessitate an extension of time.
If an extension of time is required, students will make this request to the appropriate professor.
Assignments are to be submitted through eConestoga (when applicable) and a hard copy (if
required) of the assignment presented to the professor.
An extension of time will be given only if arrangements have been made with the professor prior
to the due date. Extensions will not be given if the request is made the day the assignment is
due.
Late assignments will be accepted but there will be a 10% penalty for each day an assignment is
late up to three days. After three days, the assignment will be worth zero marks but must still be
submitted to complete the course.
All assignments must be completed. A student will not receive a passing final grade until all
assignments have been submitted, even if the late penalty reduces the points possible to zero. All
late submissions must be turned in by end of the semester.
Submitting Assignments Outside of Class Time
While assignments should be submitted in class or via eConestoga on the day they are due, if
circumstances require that they be submitted outside a scheduled class, the following procedure
should be followed:
1. Provide an electronic copy of your assignment to the Faculty as per Faculty instructions.
2. Contact Faculty by email to alert them that you have submitted your assignment.
3. Bring the hard copy of the assignment with an attached copy of the e-mail you sent to the
Faculty member to 4B Doon Main building and submit into the Assignment Drop Box by the
Administrative Assistant office. Please refrain from submitting late assignments after 5:30
p.m.as the building may be locked.
Working Together on Group Assignments:
Students will often work with their fellow peers on various assignments/projects throughout the
program. Each group member is responsible for ensuring that he/she has an equal role in the group.
All students in the group should review the completed work before it is submitted/ presented. When
issues/concerns arise during the group process, it is the responsibility of group members to contact
the course professor for assistance prior to due date.
28
Use of Time between Classes
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Students are encouraged to use breaks between classes for personal needs (food, washroom, phone
calls, emails etc.) but also for group work, studying, connecting with Faculty, Field Placement
Supervisors, etc.
Faculty Returning Tests and Assignments
In order to support student success, students will be given continual feedback on their progress
throughout the semester. Individual Faculty will inform students in class how/when tests and
assignments and/or marks on them will be returned. Please note that some tests will be returned to
students and some may be retained by Faculty. Under no circumstances are students to enter the
offices of Faculty or look through papers on a desk without a Faculty present. Students who have
questions about tests/assignments/grades should follow the process outlined below:
•
•
•
At least 24 hours after receiving the mark and within 7 days, write a note to the Faculty,
indicating the area(s) of clarification required,
Initiate a meeting with the Faculty to discuss,
Bring pertinent information (assignment, mark sheet, etc.) to the appointment.
General Guidelines for Quality of Written Work
In the Fitness and Health Promotion program, both in courses and field placement, there are
continuous requirements for written work in a variety of formats (papers, assignments, forms and
plans, handouts, etc.). It is expected that all students will meet the standard of English required
within the profession. Faculty and Field Placement Supervisors will identify students who are having
difficulty in this area and will approach them to discuss the need for improvement. Students may be
referred to the Learning Commons to help them improve the quality of their written work.
General Guidelines for Submitting Written Work
For specific course requirements, refer to the Course Schedule and Evaluation Methods information
provided. If you are not clear about course requirements, discuss this with individual faculty.
Students are required to use spell-check and grammar-check to assist with the editing of written
work. The Learning Centre will be an invaluable resource to students who require assistance in
organizing and writing an assignment with correct spelling and grammar.
Unless otherwise indicated by professors, generally, assignments should be:
• Word processed (typed)
• Single spaced and 1 sided
• Submitted using font size of 12 CPI, if word processed and proper margins
• Written in a grammatically correct manner (use spell and grammar check)
• Handed in securely fastened with a cover page indicating the course name, Faculty's name,
student's name, section and date submitted
• Handed in at the beginning of class on the designated due date in class, unless otherwise
indicated by professor
• Handed in using the APA format (see below) if references are required
Note: Faculty does not assume responsibility for assignments not given directly to them in hard copy
at the beginning of the relevant class. Students should avoid handing in assignments outside the
regularly scheduled class time and should make every effort to hand assignments in to professor in
person.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
5. Academic Progress through the Program
Academic Standing and Promotion
The Conestoga Student Guide is your first source for information concerning academic regulations,
policies and procedures. The Conestoga Student Guide is available on the college website and by
visiting the “Student Guide” tab in your Student Portal.
In addition to the Academic Regulations found in the Conestoga Student Guide, the following apply
to the Fitness and Health Promotion Program;
Program Standards require that students pass all courses in a semester before being promoted to the
subsequent semester
Students who fail to meet program standards will be reviewed by the Promotion Committee.
Reasons for presentation at Promotion Committee Meetings include:
•
•
•
•
Failure of a theory course and/or practice course.
Patterns of absence from class or practice, which may affect achieving program standards.
Excessive accumulated absences from class, lab or practice.
Failure to follow through on previous Promotion Committee recommendations.
A student who has not met the standards will not be promoted to the next level of the Program. The
Promotions Committee may decide such a student should be discontinued or may require the student
to complete one or more of the following, or an alternative as deemed appropriate:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Complete supplemental requirements for course failures (see criteria for writing of
supplemental examinations). Following successful completion of supplemental work, the
highest course grade that can be achieved is 65%.
Follow through with counselling (academic and/or personal).
Follow through with health measures as recommended.
Complete makeup work for missed learning experiences. Total time lost will be assessed on
an individual basis. Additional time may be required to complete program objectives.
Complete the requirements of Probationary Status.
Complete compulsory practice remedial assignments.
Course Add/Drop
You can add, change and drop courses from your portal depending on the dates and which program
you are in:
1. Log in to the Student Portal
2. Click on the “My Courses” tab
3. Scroll over the icons to the right of individual course listings. It is strongly recommended that
students consult their program coordinator/academic advisor prior to dropping a course.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Course Withdrawals, exemptions and prior Learning assessments
Below is information to supplement the information found in the Conestoga Student Guide;
Your Conestoga Student Guide provides detailed information about dropping courses. If you are
planning to drop a course, you must do so within the time period. If you have missed that time
period, please see the Program Coordinator and he/she will advise you as to your options. Not
attending does not constitute an official dropping of a course and will result in a grade of “F”.
If you have completed courses from a College or University that you think may be very similar in
content to courses in the Fitness and Health Promotion Program you may be eligible for a course
exemption. (Please note that to receive an exemption, courses must have been completed within the
past 7 years and with a mark of at least 60%.). If you would like to proceed with a request for
exemptions, please contact your Program Coordinator for guidance. Please note that exemptions will
not be processed until a student is registered in the Program. The exemption process will take some
time (two-three weeks), and students should attend all scheduled courses until he/she receive the
exemption as he/she will be responsible for all material covered in class should the exemption be
denied.
If you feel you have acquired the knowledge and skill presented in a specific course (including field
placement) without taking that course in an academic institution, you may wish to investigate Prior
Learning Assessment (PLAR). Please consult a Continuing Education Calendar, available at the
Conestoga website, for details.
Special Timetables/Adding Dropped or Failed Courses
Please note that when students are not taking the program in the prescribed sequence, he/she will
be on “special timetables”. Prior to the beginning of the semester, students should attempt to add
missed courses from a previous semester by logging in to the Student Portal and following the
instructions to register for courses. If students are not able to add courses on their own (because of a
timetable conflict or full course section) he/she must seek assistance from their Program Coordinator
during the “Special Timetable Registration” initiated by the College. Dates, times and locations of
Special Timetable Registration periods are posted in the student portal in advance of the beginning
of each semester. Students must attend this meeting where he/she will receive further guidance
regarding this academic status from their Program Coordinator.
Graduation
Students who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are
accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the
program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs
must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
Academic Probation
Students who have been unsuccessful in their field experience, have failed two or more academic
courses, and/or have required considerable testing/assignment variances may be recommended for
Academic Probation. Academic probation allows students to be promoted to the next level with a
special timetable or with academic conditions. Special timetables and academic conditions are
designed as part of written learning contract that the student and program coordinator create
together. The goal of these measures is to allow students to continue in the program accompanied
by a supportive plan for success.
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Supplemental Work
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
A student that is unsuccessful in a course may be granted the opportunity to complete supplemental
requirements.
Criteria for Eligibility to Write Supplemental Examinations
1. No more than two supplementals throughout the program and no more than one supplemental
per course will be offered.
2. For the purposes of determining supplemental eligibility repeating a failed course counts as a
supplemental in that course.
3. The student must have passed at least one test/exam in the course.
4. The student must have achieved a final course grade of 50% or within 10% of the required pass
mark, whichever is the higher standard. Therefore, for courses with 65% pass, the student must
have achieved 55%.
5. There must be no academic misconduct on record for the semester (e.g. plagiarism)
6. A student who attains a course grade of less than 55% for a vocational course will not be offered
a supplemental in that course.
In addition, the following will also be considered by the committee:
•
•
•
•
Previous academic history.
Current clinical practice performance.
Demonstration of professional behaviour
Attendance in class, lab, and practice experiences
NOTE:
• A fee is to be paid to the Registrar’s Office for supplemental work.
• If the student is successful in completing the supplemental work for the course, the failing
course grade will be upgraded to the minimal passing grade of 65% for the Program.
32
Promotion and Supplemental Procedure
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
PERSON
Promotion Committee
ACTION
Grants or denies permission for supplemental work.
Program Coordinator/Instructor
Meets with the student.
Completes the supplemental form with criteria.
Reviews the recommendation of the Promotion
Committee.
Student
Takes completed Supplemental Form and payment to
Registrar’s Office.
Brings pink copy of Supplemental Form for admission to
supplemental as well as photo ID
Program Chair/Program
Coordinator/Instructor
Sets date for supplemental examination.
Notifies student and Registrar's Office of result of
supplemental work.
Failure to successfully complete requirements of the promotion committee will result in
discontinuance from the program.
Discontinuance:
Students who have failed to meet all program standards or who have failed to meet the standards set
out in the Conestoga Student Guide and/or the Fitness and Health Promotion Program Standards and
Procedures Handbook involving academic dishonesty, student responsibilities, or unacceptable
behaviour, attitude or conduct may be discontinued from the Health and Fitness Promotion Program.
Students can be discontinued according to the following reasons:
•
•
•
•
For failure to meet academic program standards by failing two or more courses in the same
term
For violating documented ethical standards of practice
For inappropriate behaviour that jeopardizes the study of other students
For not adhering to the professional standards of health and ability required for this kind of
work
Procedure
1. The professor notifies the promotions committee of the reasons a student is suggested to be
discontinued.
2. The promotions committee reviews the reasons and recommends discontinuance.
3. The program chair and/or coordinator meet with the student to explain the reason(s) for
discontinuance and complete the Discontinuance Form. A copy of the form is forwarded to
the Registrar.
4. The registrar forwards the student a letter outlining the discontinuance and explains the steps
involved in requesting an appeal.
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Withdrawal
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Students not planning to return to the Fitness and Health Promotion Program the following semester
are expected to complete a Withdrawal Form available from the Program Coordinators, the
Registrar’s Office, or on the college website.
Program Transfer
Prior to transferring to another program, it is recommended that the student meet with the program
coordinator or academic advisor. Students who decide to change programs may do so by completing
and submitting a program application form to the Registrar’s Office. If considering transferring to a
program outside the school in which he/she is currently enrolled in, students may want to discuss
options with a career advisor. When a student moves from one Conestoga program to another and
where courses numbers/codes are identical or equivalent, automatic credit is given if passing grades
are met.
Appeal
Students have the right to appeal any academic decisions as set out in the Conestoga Student Guide.
It is recommended that students begin this appeal process by first meeting with the Faculty and/or
Program Coordinator and/or Program Chair.
Clearance of Academic Deficiency
Please refer to Conestoga Student Guide for the procedure and criteria regarding Clearance of
Academic Deficiency. Please note that following the end of semester, contact with any student
eligible to write a supplemental will be made either by phone or email. A specific date, time and
room number will be given to each student. If a student does not respond to this contact, the
student forfeits the opportunity to write a supplemental test. The maximum number of
supplemental opportunities during the program is two per student.
Procedure
1. Promotions Committee grants or denies permission for supplemental work.
2. Program Coordinator contacts student and sets up a time to meet and fill out the
Supplemental Request Form.
3. Student brings form and pays additional fee for supplemental work at the Registrar’s office.
4. Student receives supplemental work from Program Coordinator.
5. Student completes supplemental work (test or assignment) in accordance with the times and
dates given by the Program Coordinator.
6. Student meets with Program Coordinator to submit assignment.
7. Supplemental work is assessed and the Registrar’s Office is contacted with the result.
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Readmission To the program
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Only one opportunity for readmission following discontinuance will be offered. Acceptance is not
guaranteed and is dependent on seat availability and academic status.
Students are required to apply for readmission when he/she has been absent from their program for
one semester or longer unless an Intention Form has been completed (returning students only), or
when the student has withdrawn or been discontinued. Upon readmission, students are placed into
the current program of study which determines graduation requirements. Students are subject to the
college and program policies and procedures in place at the time of readmission.
Students applying for readmission to Level/Semester one must do so through ontariocolleges.ca.
Students applying for readmission to a level beyond Level/Semester one must do so using a
Conestoga College Program Application Form. Applicable fees will be charged.
The application for readmission will be reviewed based on the student's academic eligibility, program
readmission requirements, and space availability. The student will be informed in writing of the
decision
For additional information, refer to the Readmission Procedure found on the college website.
Graduation
Students are expected to respond to their invitation through their Student Portal. Convocation
ceremonies are held in the spring and fall of each academic year. Students, who take longer than the
advertised program length, are responsible for completing any new or additional courses due to a
program design change. Students who complete their program after the scheduled completion date
are required to fill out an Application to Graduate form and submit it with payment to the registrar’s
office. Students who are discontinued or have withdrawn and then return to the college will be
placed in the current program design and must meet all requirements to graduate.
Process for Resolution of Student Concerns
In order to resolve any concerns which may arise during a course, field placement or relating to the
program overall, students are encouraged to resolve issues or concerns informally at the program
level prior to proceeding to a formal appeal.
If attempts have been made, and a successful resolution has not been reached, students are
encouraged to refer to their Conestoga Student Guide, and to follow the procedures outlined under
the “Academic Dispute Resolution and Appeal Procedure” section.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Maintaining Student Files
1. Official records of each student’s education are maintained electronically by the Registrar.
Academic records are also maintained by the College regarding Course Outlines to support
the level of achievement in a particular course.
2. Administrative records related to your experience in the Program are maintained to
demonstrate compliance with external and college requirements. This information is as
follows:
Student Information
Pre Practicum Health
Requirements
 per copies of information
received from students
Acknowledgement of WSIB
Understanding
 signed by each student prior
to the first practicum
placements
File Location and Student Access
Retention
In Health Tracker, by individual
student access
**accessed through My Conestoga

Each student has his/her own
information on the Health
Passport for provision to
practicum agencies as required.
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program
 By the Program, by the Program
Assistant responsible for
Placements
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program
 In Program File with Program
Assistant
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program.
Student Consents Signed on
Admission (per Student
Handbook)
 Student Consent for Release
of Information
 Student Understanding of
Professional Standards
 Student Understanding of
Safety Requirements
3. Academic Files are set up as required for a student to document important matters relevant
to a student’s progress or to document and monitor resolution of concerns.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Student Information
A. Documents related to academic
progress
 Correspondence regarding
course equivalencies
 Correspondence re
supplementary examinations
 Learning Contracts
 Disabilities Information & plans
B. Records of Competency
Attainment
C. Documents related to areas of
Concern
 Interview Records, with
supporting email
documentation as appropriate
 Student Code of Conduct
 Incident Reports
 Letters/emails of significant
concern and replies
 Appeals
File Location and Student
Access
 In Student File,
maintained by the
Program Coordinator,
initially, and then filed
for safe-keeping during
the student’s time in
the Program –
maintained by the
Program Assistant
Retention
For one year following
graduation
As above
As above
As above
As above
4. Students may review the contents of your Academic file by:
•
•
Requesting this in writing to the Program Coordinator
Reviewing the file in the presence of the Coordinator
5. At the end of one year, the contents of your file will be destroyed through the College’s
process for purging confidential documents.
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6. Field Placement Experiences
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Field Placement Policies and Procedures
1. It is the student’s responsibility to be familiar with all aspects of the field placement process,
including course outlines, policies, field placement requirements, and particularly the
evaluation package.
2. Students are expected to work their full shifts as assigned by their Field Placement Supervisor
and to complete the placement attendance log. The length of shifts can vary from placement
to placement. Students who will be absent from placement are required to notify both the
facility where he/she is placed and their Field Placement Coordinator at the College prior to
the start of their shift that day. Students who require special shift considerations due to
extenuating circumstances should negotiate this with their Field Placement Coordinator at
the beginning of placement.
3. Students are required to make up any time missed from field placement in full or half day
blocks. Students incurring four or more absences (full or partial days) must meet with their
Field Placement Supervisor to review the situation and develop a plan for completion of the
placement. Students may be required to produce written documentation such as a doctor’s
note to validate the reasons for their absences.
4. Students may (after the fact) request, in writing, to their Field Placement Coordinator, to have
up to two make up days waived provided that the circumstances surrounding the absence are
extenuating and verifiable (i.e. injury, surgery, family health, bereavement) and the
placement is progressing satisfactorily. The decision to waive make up days is made by the
Field Placement Coordinator (after consultation with the Field Placement Supervisor). These
days are monitored and recorded in the student’s placement file.
5. Students who have not completed all required hours or learning requirements by the end of
the semester may be eligible for an incomplete. This would be negotiated with their Field
Placement Supervisor in consultation with a Program Coordinator and the placement site. If
the incomplete is approved the student may be granted an extension to return to the
placement and complete the outstanding items. Specifics about the terms will be outlined
using the College’s incomplete form.
6. Students may request that their field placement be carried out in a special setting. Students
who are interested in a special placement should discuss their intent with their Field
Placement Coordinator.
38
Practicum Health Requirements
Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed by students prior to
student field/clinical placements. Successful placement completion is required for students to
progress to program completion. To qualify for field/clinical placement learning experiences,
students must present the following at the start of the program in accordance with pre-admission
information provided by the College:
• A complete immunization record including MMR and Tdap. Seasonal flu vaccination is
required during flu season (October – March).
• TB Testing: Evidence of current 2-step or previous 2-step + current 1-step if more than one
year has passed since 2-step testing.
• Standard First Aid and CPR – HCP level
• An annual Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS). Police Checks must be clear of
any unpardoned criminal offences. An unclear criminal record may result in the inability to
participate in field placement/clinical which will jeopardize progress in the program.
Acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency; some agencies may request
students to provide a VSS completed within six months of placement start date. Students with
criminal records are advised to meet with the program chair for academic counselling to
determine program suitability.
Criminal Reference Checks
Placement agencies may require Criminal Checks (aka Vulnerable Sector Police Check) for Fitness and
Health Promotion students. It is the responsibility of the student to request the Criminal Check with
the local police department and to cover any related costs. The student is to keep the Reference
Check and not submit it to the college but supply the information directly to the agency if requested.
Safety in the Workplace Course
All students who participate in unpaid work placements during the course of their program will be
required to successfully complete the mandatory Safety in the Workplace course prior to going out
on placement. The course will provide students with an introduction to workplace hazards and
general safety awareness. Students will receive a Record of Completion to provide evidence of this
training to placement sites and will consent to their workplace insurance coverage.
Student Consent Forms
Students are required to complete program specific consent forms. To access the forms, students
should go to the Practicum Services Community on myConestoga and open the Consent Forms
tab. Students can then electronically sign-off all applicable consent forms after reading each
document.
WSIB
Prior to your first placement, you must sign a Declaration of Understanding of WSIB Coverage related
to Unpaid Clinical Placements indicating you understand that WSIB coverage will be provided
through the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities while you are on training placements.
This Declaration will be placed in your student file. It is your responsibility to ensure that the
Declaration of Understanding for WSIB Coverage is signed and returned or you will not be allowed to
attend your field experience.
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It is your responsibility to ensure that the Declaration of Understanding for WSIB Coverage is signed
and returned or you will not be allowed to attend your field experience.
Basic Safety Training
Concerns regarding student safety or the safety and care/service for clients
Field placement experiences provide the opportunity to demonstrate and enhance your learning in
the practice environment. These practicums have been organized by your Program in partnership
with the organization where you have been placed.
The following procedures have been developed to make it easier to identify and address any
concerns or issues regarding your safety or the safety and care of clients that may come up during
the practicum in a way that supports both a solid learning experience and a constructive partnership
with the practicum site.
A. Communication of General Concerns regarding Your Safety or The Safety and Care/Service
for Clients
1. Students will be provided with an Orientation to their placement site on the first day of their
placement. The Orientation may include details of the placement site’s policies and
procedures related to communication about the safety of the work environment and /or the
safety and care of patients/residents/clients.
2. If a student has any concerns about the safety of the work environment and/or the
safe/appropriate care/service for clients:
a. The student must immediately report these concerns to the College individual associated
with the practicum (Clinical Instructor, Faculty responsible for your practicum, Field
Placement Supervisor).
b. The Clinical Instructor /Responsible Faculty/Field Placement Supervisor will discuss this
concern with Site Management.
c. For concerns of a serious nature (e.g. concerns impacting a total student group; a serious
care/service situation), the Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field Placement
Supervisor will discuss the situation with the Program Coordinator and, potentially, the
Department Chair. The Coordinator or Chair will immediately contact practicum site
management to determine next steps.
3. Should facility policies require that practicum students report safety or care/service concerns
immediately to practicum site management, the student should report to the Clinical
Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field Placement Officer immediately afterward.
B. Reporting of Incidents of Student Injury during a Practicum Experience:
1. Should students experience personal injury of any kind, this must be reported immediately to
the Placement Employer and Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field Placement
Supervisor. The Placement Employer will provide first-aid that may be necessary, including
arranging for transportation to emergency medical services if required. The Clinical
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field Placement Supervisor will notify the Program
Coordinator and Chair and complete an Unpaid Work/Education Placement-Accident Report
(UWEP-04) and will send this to the College’s Occupational Health & Safety Office. Where
necessary, the Occupational Health & Safety Office will complete a WSIB 7 form, a MTCU
Letter of Authorization to Represent Placement Employer and a MTCU Work/Education
Placement Agreement Form.
C. Reporting of Student Involvement in Situations of Possible Injury to Clients during a Practicum
Experience or Student Damage to Facility Property
1. Should students be involved in care/service situations where there the care/service results in
a potential concern/injury to patients/residents/clients of the placement site, this concern
must be immediately reported to the Practicum Site in order that care can be given. This
situation must also be reported immediately to the Clinical Instructor/Responsible
Faculty/Field Placement Supervisor. The faculty member will discuss this immediately with
the placement site and ensure that an incident report is completed. The faculty member must
also inform the Program Coordinator and the Department Chair for a discussion of program
expectations and implications. It is the responsibility of the Chair to ensure that all
documentation is obtained regarding the incident and to inform College officials accordingly.
2. Should students be involved in situations where there is alleged damage to
resources/physical property at the Practicum site, this concern must be reported immediately
to the Practicum Site and to the Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Placement Officer.
The faculty member will inform the Program Coordinator and Department Chair for a
discussion of program expectations and implications. It is the responsibility of the Clinical
Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Placement Officer to complete an incident report with the
Chair accountable to ensure all documentation is obtained and to inform College officials
accordingly.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Safety Standards
Conestoga College is committed to establishing and maintaining a healthy and safe work and study
environment.
General safety consideration will be provided in the Orientation to the Fitness and Rehabilitation
Labs. Throughout your course of study your professor will guide you through the use of safe work
practices. Safety considerations and the safe handling and use of equipment in the Fitness and
Rehabilitation Labs are incorporated within the leaning outcomes of your program (outcomes 10 &
11).
It is the student's responsibility to follow guidelines for safety once he/she have been taught and to
ensure that he/she has had training on the use of any equipment prior to its use.
Person
Action
Chair
Provides training opportunities for faculty and staff on new equipment in
the Fitness and Rehabilitation Labs.
Provides an orientation opportunity to the Fitness and Rehabilitation Labs
to all new faculty and staff, including all procedures and regulations.
Provides training opportunities for all new faculty and staff on equipment
with which he/she is educated to use.
Professor
Ensures that he/she has had proper education in the use of any piece of
equipment prior to using it.
Provides training on the use of equipment in accordance with instruction
manuals, learning manuals or textbooks at the point in time congruent with
the learning outcomes of the educational program.
Ensures that students are able to use and/or operate equipment in a safe
manner.
Student
Ensures that he/she has completed and understood the basic safety training
required for the program.
Ensure that he/she has had proper education regarding the safe
use/operation of equipment prior to its use.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Person
Action
Student
Agrees to follow safety procedures and regulations as outlined by faculty
and staff and to questions those he/she does not understand.
Recognizes his/her own responsibility for personal safety and assumes
accountability for his/her own actions.
Consults with staff or faculty in situations in which he/she is unsure of the
appropriate safety considerations.
Report to a college employee any potential hazard or situation which
he/she perceives to be unsafe.
Will not use or operate any equipment on which he/she has not been
trained or which he/she is unsure about safe operation.
Professor
Follows up appropriately on any report of a hazardous situation given to
him/her by a student, rectifying it if this is within the scope of knowledge
and training of the professor.
Reports to the Chair any potential hazard or unsafe situation which he/she
is unable to rectify.
Provides Chair with information about the hazard or situation and action
taken by the Professor.
Follows safety procedures and regulations as outlined for the Fitness and
Rehabilitation Labs and questions those he/she does not understand.
Consults with staff in situations in which he/she is unsure of the appropriate
safety considerations.
Chair
Recognizes his/her own responsibility for personal safety and assumes
accountability for his/her own actions.
Follows up on all reports of unsafe equipment, procedures or practices to
correct the situation.
Monitors equipment and practices to ensure safety in the Fitness and
Rehabilitation Labs.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Lack of Compliance to Health and Safety Regulations
Any person who fails to comply with Health and Safety regulations or handles equipment in an
unsafe or abusive manner will be asked to leave the Fitness and Rehabilitation Labs. Faculty have the
authority to ask any person who fails to comply with Health and Safety regulations or handles
equipment in an unsafe or abusive manner to leave the Fitness and Rehabilitation Labs.
Accident/Incident Reports
A College Unpaid Work/Education Placement Accident/Incident Report is to be completed with
accuracy by the Program Coordinator with the student at the time of the accident/incident. The
Report is to be forwarded to the Occupational Health and Safety Manager within 24 hours of the
Accident/Incident. The Hospital Report must also be filled out in accordance with hospital/agency
policy. Students are covered by College Insurance.
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
7. Student Awards
Conestoga has more than 400 awards, bursaries, scholarships and academic grants available to
Conestoga students. These funds are made available to our students through the partnerships we
have established with local business and industry leaders. To be considered for an award, complete
the General Application available through your Student Portal. Notifications and instructions to
complete the application are sent to all full-time students’ email accounts in the fall semester
(Deadline: First Friday in October) and winter semester (Deadline: First Friday in February). Visit the
Student Financial Services on Conestoga’s website.
Awards Available for Fitness and Health Promotion 2015-2016
The following awards* are available to the students of Paramedics. Students who have questions
about any of these awards should speak with their Program Coordinator. Please watch your college
email for information from the Financial Aid office concerning application deadlines, processes and
eligibility. You may obtain information about other school wide awards and scholarships from
Financial Aid. You can find the General Awards Application by clicking here.
* Note: All awards correct at time of print, but are subject to change.
Award
TD Financial Group
Awards for Student
Excellence in
Interprofessional Practice
Canadian Federation of
University of Women
Description
Criteria
Nominated
Final semester of your program, demonstrate
leadership and engagement in school wide
Interprofessional initiatives, demonstrate
professionalism, demonstrate financial need
Apply
75% +, female registered in Yr. 2, demonstrate
financial need, intellectual achievement and
promise
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Fitness and Health Promotion Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Revision Log
Last Revised
June 18, 2015
June 26th, 2015
By Whom
Paul Finch
Jillian Grant
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