This 20-credit module provides learners with an opportunity to develop communication skills through the use of a range of simulated environments and interview techniques including WASP. They will also learn the importance of personal reflection and its application in professional practice. The unit will include a broad range of simulated experiences delivered in a variety of settings which will include classroom/simulation suit and online settings. This will provide the basis of evidence for assessment of this unit.

Simulated service user interview activity will link to:
LO 2. Evaluate the effectiveness of their own interview skills.

Simulated group multi-disciplinary activity will link to:
LO 1. Demonstrate an understanding of key theoretical concepts underpinning communication skills.
LO 3. Demonstrate knowledge of theoretical concepts of the different types of communication.

The interview will take place in a realistic setting and will be recorded for quality assurance.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (48 hours)
You will attend lectures on key topics. There will also be opportunities to participate in small groups to explore some of the key issues raised in lectures and undertake practical activities. This will include scenarios, groups discussions/debates and presentations. You will also be asked to take part in peer review which will further support the giving and receiving of constructive feedback.

Guided Independent Study: (152 hours)

100 hours: Independent reading - You will be expected to read the recommended reading and utilise the learning materials which you will have full access to via Blackboard.

52 hours: Simulation interview preparation - you will need to undertake the necessary research and analysis to respond to the simulation activity. This will include completing simulated web-based tasks which will require you participate in online practice mock interviews to accommodate the changing climate and different variations of how you support a client. You will be expected to have made use of the relevant library resources/web-based sites to identify relevant academic texts/ journal articles.

Module Learning Outcome
1. Demonstrate an understanding of key theoretical concepts underpinning communication skills with service users.

University Learning Outcome
1 Knowledge
6 Communication

Module Learning Outcome
2. Evaluate the effectiveness of their own interview skills and use of WASP model.

University Learning Outcome
8 Reflection
1 Understanding

Module Learning Outcome
3. Demonstrate knowledge of theoretical concepts in relation to the different methods of communication (online, face to face, telephone).

University Learning Outcome
1 Knowledge and Understanding

You will have access to a range of materials on Blackboard VLE including articles, session slides, and interactive activities. You will also be able to access a variety of digital material through our Library and specialist databases.

Dunhill et al (2009) Effective Communication and Engagement with Children and Young People, their Families and Carers. London: Learning Matters Ltd.
Trevithick, P. (2012) Social Work Skills and Knowledge a Practice Handbook 3rd Edition. Maidenhead: Open University Press. (e-book).
Tait, A & Wosu, H. (2013) Direct Work with Vulnerable Children: Playful Activities and Strategies for Communication.
Webb et al (2015) Lawyers Skills. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

N/A

Learners will be able to understand and apply a different range of communication skills in a variety of professional settings is an essential requirement in any supporting role. This module provides students with practical opportunities to develop and reflect upon their communication skills and questioning techniques required in different settings which may present when supporting future clients and engaging with families. They will develop the required underpinning theoretical knowledge and understanding to adapts their methods of communication to address interchangeable situations.

Simulated service user interview activity will link to:
LO 2. Evaluate the effectiveness of their own interview skills

Simulated activity will link to;
LO 1. Demonstrate an understanding of key theoretical concepts underpinning communication skills
LO 3. Demonstrate theoretical concepts of the different types of communication

The interview will take place in a realistic setting and will be recorded for quality assurance.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (48¿hours)

You will attend lectures on key¿topics.¿There will also be opportunities to participate¿in small groups to explore some of the key issues raised in lectures and undertake practical activities. ¿ This will include scenarios, groups discussions/debates and presentations. You will also be asked to take part in peer review which will further support the giving and receiving of constructive feedback.

Guided Independent Study: (152¿hours)

100¿hours: Independent reading - You will be expected to read the recommended reading and utilise the learning materials which you will have full access to via Blackboard.

52¿hours: Simulated skills activities (Basic life support, assessment of service user, engagement with service users in different environments, intervention planning / making referrals for support) and debriefing on completion of simulated activities

You will have access to a range of materials on Blackboard VLE including articles, session slides, and interactive activities. You will also be able to access a variety of digital material through our Library and specialist databases. Further to this simulated activities will take place in skills labs, immersive suites and community house.