Dog training collaboration

Kankakee Community College Professor Cari Stevenson, Ph.D., recently had an article published by the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues.

Titled “Bridging Communities: A Collaborative Program in a Community College,” the article highlights the partnership between KCC and a nonprofit service dog training organization. The partnership includes KCC students who apply behavioral psychology principles while helping train service dogs for veterans with PTSD.

As a result, there is hands-on learning for students; socialization for the puppies; and a sense of purpose for veterans, who serve as role models. The initiative also led to a new KCC class, PSYC 2623, Learning and Conditioning.

The full article can be read on the SPSSI website.

KCC offers a transfer program with the courses needed for a first two years of a bachelor’s degree in psychology. The program is part of the Illinois Articulation Initiative, and fulfills general education core requirements at more than 100 participating Illinois colleges and universities. The college also has a Mental Health Technician certificate, designed for students interested in entering the mental health field to working in human services positions specializing in behavioral and mental health.

For more information about KCC program options, visit info.kcc.edu, email advising@kcc.edu or phone 815-802-8500.

 

Shown in the photos: (Left-right) KCC student Emma Talamonti, a dog in training, Dog Trainer Peggy Moran and KCC student Keyla Justice; and KCC student Kayla Adams with two dogs being trained.