The module will include:

- the different types of group that a worker in a youth or community work context may work with including both formal and informal groups;

- aspects of group work theory including models for assessing the stages of group and their development and the models relating to the roles that
people take in groups;

- power in groups and the promotion of equality and anti-oppressive practice;

- leadership within a group and the skills needed to work effectively with a group;

- creating a environment that enables effective group work.

1. A Student Led Workshop
A workshop led by the student presenting an issue relating to group work followed by a written evaluation of the workshop and their role in it.
[500 words, 30%, Assessing Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 5]

2. A Case Study
A recording of a piece of work with a group. This should include an analysis of the role of the student in the group. This piece of work will draw on a range of relevant group theory. [2000 words, 70%, Assessing Learning Outcomes 1 -5]

Library
Access to computer and internet
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Douglas, T. (1995) Survival in Groups, Buckingham: OU Press. (302.34)
Richardson, L.D. & Wolfe, M. (eds) (2004) Principles and Practice of Informal education, London: Routledge. 370.941
Smith, M. K. (2005) 'Bruce W. Tuckman - forming, storming, norming and performing in groups', The Encyclopaedia of Informal Education,
available @ www.infed.org/thinkers/tuckman.htm

This module incorporates four inter-related learning strategies. These include:

1. Tutor led sessions which will give students an overview of the requirements of the module and the key theories and concepts relating to working with groups in a youth and community work context (18 hours).

2. Student led workshops relating to issues and problems associated with working with groups

3. Individual tutorials will be held to give students support and guidance in relation to their preparation for their student led workshop. (2 hours)

4. The independent study hours will allow for reading and research in relation to the module as well as reflection on their group work. (130 hours)