Online Courses for an Activity Director

Activity directors take online courses to further their education at their convenience.

An activity director oversees the planning and implementation of programs in the facility in which he works. Activity directors often work with elderly individuals. They may take courses to supplement their education. Online courses allow an activity director to add to his knowledge base, conveniently and at his own schedule.

Identification

Activity directors assume responsibility for creating programs to enhance the quality of living for elderly individuals. These programs offer fun activities, and may increase cognitive function as well as physical function and skills. Directors often manage staff, delegating duties to see the planned activities implemented. Degrees for activity directors vary. Those holding a bachelor's degree or an associate's degree need 4,000 hours and 6,000 hours work experience with the elderly, respectively, to become an activity director.

MEPAP

Prior to earning certification as an activity director, individuals must complete Modular Education Program for Activity Professionals, also known as MEPAP. Some providers offer the course online. The course lasts 16 weeks.MEPAP splits into two components. Each portions includes 90 hours of training. Part one covers fundamentals of activity planning for elderly patients, in which participants learn how to plan and create activity programs. Part two prepares participants for practical applications of activity planning. They learn how to delegate duties and oversee staff to ensure programs are carried out.

Additional online courses

Activity directors take a variety of online courses to stay informed about their field. These courses cover several subjects relevant to the elderly population. Course topics include general activity-director duties, health, event planning and management. Participants learn about the regulations for planning activities in health care facilities. They also learn assessment techniques to use during planned activities to better address the needs of their clients.

Certification

The National Association of Activity Professionals offers certification and credentialing for activity directors.The organization offers exams monthly. After registration, individuals take an online exam that lasts up to two-point-five hours. The certification exam carries a fee of $175 and contains 250 questions. The exam format includes true/false and multiple choice items. The National Certification Council for Activity Professionals also credentials activity directors. Credentialing and certification establish standards for activity directors.

References

• The National Association of Activity Professionals: Registration for the NAAPCC Exam
• Education-Portal: Glossary of Career Education Programs RSS feed subscription Glossary of Career Education Programs / Liberal Arts and Humanities / How to Become a Certified Activities... How to Become a Certified Activities Director: Career Roadmap
• National Certification Council for Activity Professionals: Mission Statement
• Central Piedmont Community College: FAQ for Activity Director OAP 7006 and OAP 7007
• Education-Portal: Online Activities Director Classes and Courses Overview