Adaptive Learning: Transition to Work (ALTW)
ALTW 105 • ENGLISH THAT WORKS: WRITING FOR CAREER & COLLEGE
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 201. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 201 |
This course supports neurodivergent students in developing foundational English skills with a focus on effective written communication in professional, academic, and everyday contexts. Students will practice grammar, sentence construction, and paragraph development through relevant, real-world assignments that foster both clarity and creativity. Emphasis is placed on communication tasks common in workplace and consumer settings, such as emails, reports, and service requests. The course also introduces students to the expectations and routines typical of college-level coursework, preparing them for success in future academic and career experiences. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 108 • COMMUNICATION FOR COLLEGE & CAREER
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 204. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 204 |
This course develops practical communication skills for success in both college and employment settings. Students will build confidence in written, verbal, and nonverbal communication through activities such as business emails, presentations, and group discussions. Emphasis is placed on understanding context, tone, and audience, with opportunities to practice self-advocacy and professional collaboration. Students will learn adaptable strategies for expressing ideas clearly, navigating academic expectations, and participating effectively in workplace environments. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 112 • INTRODUCTION TO WORD PROCESSING
| Units: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 3 lecture per week (36 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 206. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 206 |
This introductory course provides a foundation in word processing. Designed for disabled adults preparing for competitive employment, the course emphasizes essential skills for creating, editing, and managing digital documents across various platforms. Students will gain practical experience with industry-standard tools and applications commonly used in private, nonprofit, and government work environments, fostering adaptability and confidence in workplace technology. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 113 • CAMPUS WORK EXPERIENCE FOR NEURODIVERGENT STUDENTS
| Units: | 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 4.5 laboratory per week (54 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 208. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 208 |
This course offers students an introduction to entry-level workplace expectations through on-campus job placements. Participants gain hands-on experience in various campus departments, developing foundational employment skills such as time management, communication, and task completion in real work settings. The course supports students in building confidence, professionalism, and a clearer understanding of their strengths and interests in the workplace. Instruction and placements are structured to provide meaningful support while encouraging independence and growth. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 122 • WORK ATTITUDES & BEHAVIORS ON THE JOB
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 213. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 213 |
This course supports neurodivergent students in developing the professional skills and behaviors needed to succeed in a range of employment settings. Students will explore workplace expectations such as punctuality, teamwork, conflict resolution, and responding to feedback. Emphasis is placed on building self-awareness and communication strategies that align with both individual strengths and professional norms. Through discussion and practice, students will gain tools to navigate the dynamics of modern workplaces with confidence and adaptability. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 123 • JOB SEARCH SKILLS
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 212. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 212 |
This course supports students in developing the skills needed to navigate the job search process with confidence. Students will learn to create effective resumes, identify appropriate employment opportunities, and prepare for interviews. The course also addresses how to discuss employment gaps and disability-related topics professionally and strategically. Emphasis is placed on clear self-presentation, practical tools for online applications, and building a personalized approach to finding and securing meaningful work. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 126 • INTRODUCTION TO SPREADSHEETS
| Units: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 3 lecture per week (36 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 211. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 211 |
This introductory course focuses on building foundational skills in spreadsheet applications. Designed for disabled adults preparing for competitive employment, the course emphasizes creating, formatting, and editing spreadsheets, charts, and tables using a variety of tools. Students will develop the skills to organize and analyze data effectively, enhancing their adaptability to different workplace environments and tasks. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 137 • DISABILITY & THE LAW
| Units: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 3 lecture per week (36 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 216. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 216 |
This course explores the legal rights of individuals with disabilities, with a focus on how these laws impact education, employment, and everyday life. Students will examine key legislation - including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) - and learn how to advocate for accommodations and access. The course also introduces the history of the disability rights movement, offering context for current legal protections and ongoing challenges. Designed with neurodivergent learners in mind, the course empowers students to understand their rights and responsibilities within the legal system and beyond. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 138 • APPLIED COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
| Units: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 3 lecture per week (36 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 217. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 217 |
This intermediate course builds on foundational skills from ALTW 112 and ALTW 126, supporting neurodivergent students in developing more advanced digital competencies. Students will explore complex features of word processing and spreadsheet software, conduct effective online research, and gain hands-on experience with web-based applications, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and basic computer maintenance. Emphasis is placed on applying technology in practical, real-world scenarios across academic and workplace settings. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 143 • PRACTICAL FINANCIAL SKILLS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING
| Units: | 4 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 4 lecture per week (48 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 223. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 223 |
This course empowers neurodivergent students to build financial literacy and confidence in managing everyday money matters. Students will develop essential math and budgeting skills while exploring practical topics such as banking and credit union services, credit card use, saving strategies, and comparison shopping. Emphasis is placed on real-life application, encouraging students to make informed decisions and develop habits that support financial independence and long-term stability. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 146 • RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSHIP IN A DIGITAL WORLD
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 232. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade Only |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 232 |
This course explores the principles of digital citizenship and the importance of maintaining a positive reputation in today's interconnected world. Students will learn strategies for engaging responsibly and ethically in online spaces, fostering trust and credibility across digital platforms and in "real life". Emphasis is placed on understanding the impact of online behavior on personal and professional relationships, developing effective communication skills, and cultivating a digital presence that aligns with individual values and goals. The course prepares students to navigate the challenges of digital interaction while building a reputation grounded in responsibility and respect. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 203 • LEARNING STYLES & STRATEGIES
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
This course introduces students to a range of learning styles, strategies, and self-assessment tools to support academic and personal growth. With an emphasis on individualized learning, students will explore their own strengths, values, and personality traits to develop a personal learning profile. The course is designed to accommodate diverse English composition and comprehension levels, and supports neurodivergent learners in building greater self-awareness and confidence. Students will gain practical strategies to adapt their learning approaches and apply them effectively in academic, vocational, and everyday settings. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 207 • RESOURCES IN THE COMMUNITY FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: |
Non-Degree-Applicable Credit Course Basic Skills |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
Overview of community and campus resources for students with disabilities.
ALTW 209 • SOCIAL SKILLS
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
This course introduces students to practical social skills for navigating educational, professional, and community settings. Emphasis is placed on building self-esteem, effective communication, and confidence in personal and social interactions. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life. Students will explore strategies for appropriate online and in-person engagement, preparing them for success in the TTW program and beyond.
ALTW 218A • CURRENT EVENTS
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Advisory: | Not open to students with credit in ALTW 218. |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
| Formerly: | ALTW 218 |
This course introduces neurodivergent students to media literacy, communication skills, and the historical development of journalism through engagement with current events. In the first half of the quarter, students examine how news is produced, how it has evolved over time, and how to evaluate media sources for credibility and bias. In the second half, students apply their learning by selecting current events and presenting to the class with structured analysis. The course emphasizes building foundational skills in reading, interpreting, and discussing news content with confidence. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 218B • INTERMEDIATE CURRENT EVENTS
| Units: | 2 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
Building on foundational knowledge from the introductory course on media literacy and presentation skills in current events, this intermediate continuation course dives deeper into the art of persuasive communication and debate. Students will learn to analyze news sources, identify biases, and understand the influence of media on public perception. Emphasis is placed on developing skills to discern credible information, foster critical thinking, and navigate the complexities of the media landscape. The course aims to enhance students' confidence in interacting with media and each other. Students will focus on enhancing their presentation skills with an emphasis on constructing compelling arguments and engaging in informed, respectful disagreement. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 229 • HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
| Units: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 3 lecture per week (36 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass) |
| Repeatability: | Not Repeatable |
This course supports neurodivergent students in developing the skills to build and maintain respectful, safe, and fulfilling relationships. Topics include setting personal boundaries, increasing self-awareness and self-esteem, and making informed choices in personal, professional, and social interactions. Students will explore strategies for effective communication, emotional regulation, and personal safety, with a focus on building confidence and autonomy in a variety of relationship settings. This course is part of the Tools for Transition & Work cohort-based program for neurodivergent learners pursuing independent success in college, career, and adult life.
ALTW 403A • ACADEMIC SKILLS
| Units: | 0 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 24 lecture per quarter (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Non-Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Non-Credit Course (Receives no Grade) |
| Repeatability: | Unlimited Repeatability |
| Formerly: | ALLD 402, ALTW 403 |
This open-entry, open-exit course supports students in the Tools for Transition & Work program as they develop essential executive functioning skills for academic success and independence. Through targeted instruction in time management, self-advocacy, organization, and study techniques, students will build the foundation needed to navigate academic environments effectively. Emphasis is placed on developing personalized strategies to support individual learning styles and utilizing assistive technology to enhance productivity.
ALTW 403B • EXECUTIVE SKILLS
| Units: | 0 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 24 lecture per quarter (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Non-Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Non-Credit Course (Receives no Grade) |
| Repeatability: | Unlimited Repeatability |
This open-entry, open-exit course supports students in the Tools for Transition & Work program as they develop core executive functioning skills essential for independence and personal success. Through instruction in goal-setting, emotional regulation, impulse control, and problem-solving, students will enhance their ability to plan, adapt, and make informed decisions. Emphasis is placed on developing practical strategies for self-management and resilience in academic, professional, and everyday life situations.
ALTW 403C • INDEPENDENCE SKILLS
| Units: | 0 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 24 lecture per quarter (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Non-Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Non-Credit Course (Receives no Grade) |
| Repeatability: | Unlimited Repeatability |
This capstone course brings together the skills developed in ALTW 403A and ALTW 403B, focusing on fostering personal autonomy and preparing students for life beyond the classroom. Through instruction in self-advocacy, goal-setting, and navigating complex social interactions, students will strengthen their ability to tackle real-world challenges with confidence. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, resource management, and developing strategies for maintaining independence in both personal and professional settings. This course empowers students not just to succeed in college, but to thrive in their careers and communities.
ALTW 431 • PUBLIC TRANSIT SKILLS
| Units: | 0 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Non-Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Non-Credit Course (Receives no Grade) |
| Repeatability: | Unlimited Repeatability |
Introduction and practice of essential travel skills, such as reading bus/train schedules and maps, paying fares, boarding and exiting public transit, and making transfers between the same or different modes of public transportation. Students learn how to make judgments in various travel disruptions, and use appropriate social and communication skills.
ALTW 434 • STEM CAREER PATHS FOR NEURODIVERGENT STUDENTS
| Units: | 0 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 4 lecture per week (48 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Non-Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Non-Credit Course (Receives no Grade) |
| Repeatability: | Unlimited Repeatability |
Specifically designed for students with learning differences, this course aims to broaden students' horizons and inspire them to consider careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Through a combination of experiential learning and guest lectures, students will gain valuable insights into various STEM fields. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on activities, interactive projects, and real-world scenarios to provide a practical understanding of STEM concepts. The guest lectures, featuring professionals from diverse STEM backgrounds, offer students the opportunity to connect with role models and explore potential career paths. By the end of the course, participants will have a clearer understanding of possibilities within STEM and the confidence to pursue their interests in these dynamic fields.
ALTW 435 • CREATIVITY FOR SELF-REGULATION
| Units: | 0 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter) |
| Degree and Credit Status: | Non-Degree-Applicable Non-Credit Course |
| Foothill GE: | Non-GE |
| Transferable: | None |
| Grade Type: | Non-Credit Course (Receives no Grade) |
| Repeatability: | Unlimited Repeatability |
This course empowers students to harness creativity as a tool for mental health and emotional regulation. Through adapted activities in drama, music, art, and writing, students will explore various forms of self-expression to enhance their emotional well-being. The course is designed to foster independence and provide strategies for using creative outlets to manage stress, process emotions, and improve overall mental health. Emphasis will be placed on developing personalized creative practices that support ongoing emotional resilience.