1. Demonstrate critical knowledge of social policy as an academic discipline and political response to need and welfare (sg 2,3,7) (Knowledge and Understanding)

2. Critically analyse the major contextual factors which influence social policy development and operation (sg 1,3,9) (Analysis, Enquiry)

3. Identify, discuss and evaluate the nature of modern social need and problems (sg 4,6,7,9)
(Analysis, Enquiry)

4. Engage in critical debate to evaluate and assess the effectiveness of social policies in addressing a range of social needs and problems (sg 4,6,7,9) (Problem Solving)

Poster (800 Words) and presentation (maximum 15 minutes) weighted at 100%.
contributes to all learning outcomes

Formative Assessment - Tutor feedback will be provided in class from the tutor and peer discussion. Also via the online seminar discussion forums and via email and telephone responses to tasks and exercises.

This module will cover a range of contemporary social policy issues relating to social welfare law. The module will explore the political and academic discourse of social policy. The module content is dynamic and fast moving but will typically include topics that impact on a range of vulnerable people, for example:

Welfare Reform

Access to Legal Services

Affordable Housing

Measurements of Poverty

Food Poverty/Funeral Poverty

The VLE Blackboard will provide a structured framework for the delivery of this module. There is a mix of directed and independent study

This module is delivered by blended learning (face to face and virtual using Blackboard VLE)

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (48 hours)
22 hours - Lecture introducing ideas and delivering facts to a group of students. The lectures also include interactive exercises and activities, making use of a range of media and technologies.
8 hours module/assessment support
10 hours - Tutorials - virtual and face-to-face formative discussions in a one-to-one tutor /student contact session.
8 hours online asynchronous interaction and email exchange with module tutor

Guided Independent Study: (252 hours)
20 hours - Virtual Seminars - to provide the students with an opportunity to engage in group discussions and promote peer learning. Seminars include the use of media and new and emerging technologies.
22 hours - Preparation for scheduled sessions
10 hours - Follow up work
150 hours - Wider reading and revision
50 hours - Completion of formative and summative assessment tasks

This will consist of a combination of reading material, preparation and completion of tasks, [including self assessment tasks], and contributions to discussion forums by means of the VLE. Reading key texts and researching via the appropriate databases and academic journals. Assessment preparation and completion.

Alcock, P (2008) Social Policy in Britain, Hampshire, Palgrave Mcmillan
Baldock, Mitton, Manning, Vickerstaff Ed: [4th Edition] (2012) Social Policy, Oxford, Oxford University Press
Richardson J, Ryder A (2012) Gypsies and Travellers: Empowerment and inclusion in British society, Bristol, The Policy Press
Because this module focuses on contemporary social policy issues websites, social media and recent reports will be useful.

Access to a PC with internet access
Blackboard

This module will cover a range of contemporary social policy issues relating to Social Welfare Law. The module will explore the political and academic discourse of social policy and utilise social media for the most up-to-date developments. The module content is dynamic and will include key topical issues in the social welfare sector at the time of delivery.