This module explores the construction of spirituality and religion from a UK perspective and its implications upon spiritual care in practice. During this module you will:
- engage with a series of concepts and theories which have informed how our beliefs are shaped through historical, political, and sociological factors.
- examine the sociology of religion and spirituality, consider the development of secularisation and secularised forms of spiritual belief which have developed without religious roots, and analyse how these factors affect the way you engage in your professional or social environment.
- critically evaluate the current NHS policy and guidance on 'spirituality' in the light of the understanding of religion and spirituality gained.

A key aspect of this module will be the use of critical reflection to explore the values and beliefs of participating students

The learning strategy will utilise a variety of formats to provide the opportunity to internalise theory, apply this and critically effect upon outcome. Included within lectures will be group work, partner work and reflective discussion

Contact hours:(30)
10 hours Lecture/tutor-led presentation
5 hours Student-led presentations and discussion
5 hours Student group tasks (comparative interpretations)
5 hours Student group tasks (case studies)
5 hours Visiting speakers

Independent Study Hours: (120)
40 hours Background reading
20 hours Presentation preparation
36 hours Written assignment preparation
24 hours Problem solving/ group discussion

VLE will be used to distribute teaching and learning materials

Library
IT Facilities

Written assignment: The assignment will take the form of a critically reflective study analysing personal belief and values in light of existing theory regarding the construction of spiritual and religious beliefs and the impact of those beliefs within the process of patient/client interaction (addressing LO's 1& 3)

Presentation of 20 minutes duration: A critical reflection and expression based upon your written assignment you may also wish to include in the presentation other forms of creative expression e.g. music, poetry, readings, artwork, narrative, diary etc, to further demonstrate the construction of belief and value in the life of the individual (addressing LO 2)

Both elements of assessment must be passed

Formative feedback will be supplied through the course of the module in response to feedback from group tasks

J. Carrette & R. King (2005). Selling Spirituality. Routledge
P. Heelas & L. Woodhead (2005). The Spirituality Revolution; why religion is giving way to spirituality. Blackwell Publishing
Pesut, B; Fowler, M; Taylor, E.J.; Reimer-Kirkham, S; Sawatzky, R (2008) 'Conceptualising spirituality and religion for healthcare', Journal of Clinical Nursing 17:21, 2803-2810
G. White. (2006) Talking about Spirituality in Health Care Practice: A Resource for the Multi-professional Health Care Team. Jessica Kingsley Press