Who are direct support workers (DSWs)?

Direct Support Workers are professionals who work with older adults and individuals with disabilities. DSWs provide a wide variety of supports such as daily living activities, community integration, skill development, emotional & behavioral health, and maintaining physical health. DSWs work in a variety of settings, including private homes, day programs, and group homes. They also assist individuals as they navigate their communities, schools, and workplaces. The goal of a DSW is to help older adults and individuals with disabilities live as independently as possible and to improve their quality of life.

Can I provide feedback on the training?

Yes, from letting us know that a link is broken or sharing your ideas for new training content, we welcome and value your input! You can contact us .

Where can I get help if I’m having trouble with the training?

If you are having trouble accessing the training on TRAIN, you can: Find instructions on the Kansas TRAIN website at: https://www.train.org/ks/welcome Contact TRAIN administrators at: kdhe.kstrain@ks.gov If you have questions about training policy or training content, contact us by fill out the form.

How long do I have to complete the training?

Each training module is self-paced; your progress is saved by the system if you do not finish the training in a single setting. Your supervisor will let you know if there is a deadline for completing your training.

Do I have to complete the self-study materials?

You do not have to complete the self-study materials to earn the Kansas DSW Training Certificate. You may have to complete self study if you're working on a more advanced certification, such as an NADSP Badge or through an apprenticeship program. Your supervisor will let you know if you need to complete the self-study material and where/how to turn it in.

What training modules should I take?

Complete all trainings assigned by your supervisor or employer. You can take any additional trainings that interest you.

Why should I take this training?

To improve the quality of care you provide to the individuals you support To improve your competency and confidence as a DSW To reduce your risk of burnout or injury To strengthen your voice as a DSW by better understanding the systems you work in

Who should take this training?

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How was this training developed?

The Kansas Department of Disability Services (KDADS) contracted with an interdisciplinary team of experts at the University of Kansas (KU) to create this training. KU also contracted with outside experts to help create training content. Community partners advised closely on training content and reviewed draft versions of the training. To see all the authors and community partners who helped create the training, visit the about page .

What does Kansas DSW Training Program cover?

The Kansas DSW Training Program shall be refered as the training. The training is divided into different modules that cover a wide variety of multi-disciplinary topics that will enhance DSWs’ skill sets and expand their knowledge of the aging and disability system. It is based on the CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) Direct Care Workforce (DCW) Core Competencies . It reflects the NADSP (National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals) Code of Ethics .

FAQs - KSDSW

Categories: General
Who are direct support workers (DSWs)?
read more
Categories: General
Can I provide feedback on the training?
read more
Categories: General
Where can I get help if I’m having trouble with the training?
read more
Categories: Training
How long do I have to complete the training?
read more
Categories: Training
Do I have to complete the self-study materials?
read more
Categories: General
What training modules should I take?
read more
Categories: General
Why should I take this training?
read more
Categories: General
Who should take this training?
read more
Categories: General
How was this training developed?
read more
Categories: General
What does Kansas DSW Training Program cover?
read more

FAQs