Essay of 1,500 words analysing a short (up to 30 mins) piece of the student's own helping communication, with a focus on effectiveness - 70% (learning outcomes 1 and 2)
Analytical summary of a reflective course Journal (1000 words) outlining important personal events and learning from the course - 30% (Learning outcome 3)

Formative Assessment / Feedback:
Self, peer and tutor evaluation of a videotape involving counselling another course member

Communication and counselling skill theories and practice
The efficacy of counselling with regard to its evidence base.
Integrating basic counselling skills to enhance the carer/client relationship.
Self-awareness and interpersonal sensitivity - empowering clients
Ethical issues, contracting, confidentiality and referrals in counselling practice
Person centred theory and skills
Working with families
Concepts of grief and bereavement
Child abuse and counselling
Cognitive skills/therapy

Contact Hours: (36)
16 hours Lectures,
6 hours Discussions
3 hours Groupwork
3 hours Skills practice in classroom
3 hours video work
3 hours Supervision group
2 hours Tutorials

Independent Study Hours; (114)
54 hours Independent study time
60 hours Assignment preparation

Video camera(s) and playback facilities; library for journals and texts, internet for wider searches
Blackboard

Freshwater, D. (2003) Counselling Skills for Nurses, Midwives and Health Visitors
McLeod, J. (2007) Counselling Skills, Maidenhead McGraw Hill / OU Press (e book)Open University Press
McLeod, J. (2003) Introduction to Counselling, Buckingham, Open University Press (e book)