A professional JOURNAL length 1500 WORDS weighted at 30%. This is related to an aspect of professional practice. (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3)

An ESSAY length 3500 WORDS weighted at 70%. This concerns informal education and/or inclusive intervention with young people. (Learning Outcomes 1, 4 & 5)

Key Information Set Data:
100% coursework

A full DBS clearance is required for commencing the module due to the practice requirements relating to work with young people and vulnerable adults.

Oasis College Library with e-portal for remote access
On-line resources via Blackboard through Staffordshire University
On-line access to Staffordshire University Library and books order system
Access to ICT resources at Oasis College

This module introduces students to a variety of pedagogical understandings with particular focus on current theoretical thinking. It aims to develop knowledge of the informal / formal education continuum and the factors that contribute to this continuum. The module introduces students to emotional literacy and communication theory, and discusses verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Learning styles, and the theories associated with learning styles, are explored. The ethical understandings of learning strategies within youth work, with particular emphasis on key themes of inclusion and empowerment, are identified and discussed. Youth work curriculum design, the relevance of varied curriculum content and styles for individuals and learner encouragement are explored and discussed. The module encourages students to understand the requirements and preferences of the learner and the impact this has on the planning, delivery and evaluation of appropriate learning opportunities. Awareness of the professional context is raised, and students are encouraged to discuss and apply associated issues.

This module examines contemporary theories and trends related to social inclusion. Consideration is given to current social and political interventions designed to promote social inclusion and/or combat social exclusion. A number of specific interventions and youth work methodologies intended to promote social inclusion are explored, and students are encouraged to critically appraise their own youth work practice in their light. These include peer education, youth participation, club work, detached work, youth justice and the Youth Contract.

300 hours, of which 50 will be lectures, tutorials and learning groups, a minimum of 80 fieldwork hours, and the rest directed/independent study. Lectures will involve a range of interactive teaching methods.

Key Information Set Data:
17% scheduled learning and teaching activities
56% guided independent learning
27% placement

Banks, S. (ed.) (2005), Ethical Issues in Youth Work, Abingdon: Routledge
Batsleer, J. (2008), Informal Learning in Youth Work, London: Sage
Batsleer, J. & Davies, B. (2010), What is Youth Work? Exeter: Learning Matters
Buchroth, I. & Parkin, C. (eds.) (2010), Using Theory in Youth and Community Work Practice. Exeter: Learning Matters,
Emery-Wright, S. (2009), Empowering Young People in Church, Cambridge: Grove Books
Fitzsimons, A., Hope, M., Cooper, C. & Russell, K. (2011), Empowerment and Participation in Youth Work, Exeter: Learning Matters
Jaques, D. & Salmon, G. (2007), Learning in Groups (4th edition), Abingdon: Routledge
Jeffs, T. & Smith, M. (2005), Informal Education: Conversation, Democracy and Learning, Derby: Education Heretics Press
Kelly, A. V. (2009), The Curriculum: Theory and Practice, London: Sage
Pimlott, J. & Pimlott, N. (2008), Youth Work After Christendom, Milton Keynes: Paternoster,
Richardson, L. D. & Wolfe, M. (2004).,Principles and Practice of Informal Education: learning through life, London: RoutledgeFalmer
Roberts, J. (2009), Youth Work Ethics: Empowering Youth and Community Work Practice, Exeter: Learning Matters
Sapin, K. (2013)., Essential Skills for Youth Work Practice (2nd edition), London: Sage
Stanton, N. (2004), Mastering Communication (4th edition), Basingstoke: Open University Press
Westergaard, J. (2009), Effective Group Work with Young People Maidenhead: OUP
Wood, J. & Hine, J. (2009), Work with Youth People, London: Sage