1. Portfolio 3000 words 40% - reflections on two student-led research activities and must include preparation notes from the research. [Learning Outcomes 1, 2 & 5]

2. Individual presentation, 1000 words, 20% submit notes and bibliography [Learning Outcomes 1, 4 & 5]

3. Essay 2000 words 30% [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 & 5]

4. Blog (Journal) 1000 words 10% [Learning Outcomes 3, 4 & 5]

A pass (50-59%) is awarded only when all of the assessment is complete and the work meets the learning objectives of the module.
A merit (60-69%) is awarded for an exemplary performance in meeting the learning objectives of the module.
A distinction (70% +) will be awarded for excellence in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

Course textbooks to be supplied by the university.
Computer and internet for access to Blackboard and relevant websites.
Library, where you will find relevant electronic textbooks, electronic journals, and audio-visual materials.
The Blackboard virtual learning environment; details will be supplied in the module handbook.

This module incorporates a number of inter-related learning strategies. The main focus of learning will be on self instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course material (delivered via Blackboard), which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking the specific tasks set. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor. (24 hours) The Blackboard sessions will be used for the consideration of core issues and themes relating to contemporary youth work. The independent study will require reading around selected topics, the development of individual responses to the reading and the preparation for the assessments. The module will run over 22 weeks including 4 weeks to complete assessments.

The module presents a critical and up-to-date overview of the theoretical and practice issues involved in youth work and broader work with young people. The module will examine the role of youth work in addressing social inequality and challenging contemporary representations of young people and make connections between representations of young people, social policy frameworks and a range of innovative practice interventions. The module will be grounded in the rapidly changing context of youth work practice and explore how youth workers can continue to deliver youth work within an ethical framework that supports the needs of young people into the future.

Batsleer, J.R. (2008): Informal Learning in Youth Work. London. Sage
Davies B. (2013): Youth Work in a Changing Policy Landscape: The View from England. Youth and Policy. No. 110, May 2013
Jeffs T. & Smith M. K. (2010): Youth Work Practice. Hampshire. Palgrave Macmillan