The module involves a multifaceted approach to learning. 25 hours will be spent in class. There will be 125 hours of independent study. This independent study time will be used for:
Practical work with a community group
Reading focused on text and other materials relevant to the conceptual and practical aspects of the module and the assessment
Production of the portfolio for assessment.

This module will introduce students to the concept of participation for action (PA) and its applications in relation to community consultation. It will also train students in how to lead a team to deliver creative community consultation. The module will begin with an investigation of the context of participatory approaches to involving local people in decision-making. The module will then explore a variety of approaches to creative community consultation. The module will address the skills needed for students to be able to lead a team to use creative approaches to community consultation. Students will take part in a real community project to apply their learning in practice.

Oxfam, Have you been PA'd? Using participatory appraisal to shape local services, Oxfam: UK Poverty Programme
PDF version available on www.oxfam.org/ukpp

Chambers, R. (2002) Participatory Workshops, Earthscan
ISBN 185383 863 2

Pretty, J. et all, (1995) Participatory Learning and Action, IIED
ISBN 1 899825 00 2

Library - where you will find relevant textbooks and journals
Community group for practical work - where you will practice the techniques learned in class
Computer - where you will find relevant internet websites
Flip charts, pens, and post-it notes - which you will need for practical techniques

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

A Portfolio of 2000 words (or equivalent)

The portfolio must contain:

1. Evidence of participation in the practical project
2. Evidence of in-class Presentation
3. Successfully completed Get Talking learning journal/ workbook including evidence of practice
4. Reflective essay of 1000 words

The portfolio will require individual reflection on the experience of learning about and supporting others to learn about participatory approaches to community development. The portfolio will also demonstrate reflection on practical work and reading related to community participation and consultation. The portfolio will assess learning outcomes 1-4.