Although the details of the content of this module will be dictated by the requirements of the Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) it is expected the fundamental aspects of the module will contain the following:

Students will be provided with the theoretical aspects that underpin the knowledge base of the module. Such as; risk, uncertainty and decision making, reflexivity, making judgments, disability analysis, assessing mental, intellectual and cognitive impairments, along with a base line knowledge of the factors that impact on the activities of daily living, such as; health conditions and impairments. This knowledge base and skills will be required to carry-out a non-diagnostic holistic physical\psycological\social examination of the Claimant.

Assessment tools used to analyse and assess individual's ability to live independently will be explored, along with methods used to test such evaluations such as triangulation. Legal and ethical issues will also be considered as an understanding of auditable measures will ensure efficacy, objectivity and reliable reporting.

Face to face study days will enable students to work collaboratively with other students across a range of disciplines to empower and promote peer support. Students will be supported in the development of their autonomous decision making skills and made aware of the approved referral processes and pathways available to ensure individuals are appropriately assessed. Preceptors will be provided with the knowledge and skills to support students through their award and to assess their competencies and develop their profile of evidence at postgraduate level. The role and responsibilites of the Preceptor will be explored, including aspects of teaching, assessment and learning needs of the students they will be supporting.

As the Preceptors will be responsible for quality and audit of the PIP Assessments, this module will provide students with the knowledge and skills to deliver a comprehensive audit regime, utilising reporting tools which will allow detailed analysis to be made. This will allow actions to be correlated with outputs and outcomes, enabling the Preceptors to audit the language used, along with the quality of the assessment and the correct use of descriptors.

Communication, conflict resolution, personal values and beliefs, compassion and dignity will be incorporated throughout the acquisition of the requisite observation skills and will be integrated into all the above aspects in order to provide the student with the appropriate knowledge and qualities in order to undertake an in-depth interview and physical examination to enable their objective and valid judgement upon an individual's ability to live independently. This will be tested via a Viva in front of a Panel of University staff and Preceptors

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (72 hours)
9 study days with the first 5 study days as follows:

3 study days at the start of the semester
Induction Day - Launch the award, library, study skills, IT, introduction to Blackboard and Clinical Skills, meet personal tutors and peer groups
Study Day 1 - Introduction to PIP Assessments (drama session by Theatre Group) Workshops around Activities of daily living report writing skills
Study Day 2 - Introducing skills required for in depth interview ¿ Observation and Communicating skills, along with systems approach on e-learning support

Final 2 days of Semester
Study Day 3 - Peer review
Study Day 4 - Viva's

The PIP Preceptors will then attend 4 study days where audit and quality issues will be explored

Audit procedures will be explored

Guided Independent Study Hours: (378)
Independent learning when student will undergo on-line tasks to support learning of theoretical aspects of risk-decision making, legal and ethical considerations, referral processes, reflexivity, triangulation

Units of learning would be identified for the on-line activities, culminating in formative assessments for each unit. Each unit can be directly associated with aspects of the PIP form and final report. Standard report templates and supporting texts will be provided. However, Masters students will be expected to construct a framework suitable to their individual report in line with both learning outcomes and the requirements of the intended audience. Students will also have the opportunity to seek the support of the Academic Skills Tutors

72 hours face to face attendance for workshops, lectures and role play utilising a theatre group. This will also include formative tasks given via on-line
200 hours in placement - This will be practical training within the students normal work place where they will supported in achieving their competencies by working through a competency document supported by a Preceptor
78 hours of in-house training in their workplace by the Commissioner including audit and quality issues
100 hours Independent Learning researching the evidence base and writing their assignments

Blackboard
On-line resources
IT
Library

Colbert, B., Ankney, J. & Lee, K. (2009) Anatomy and Physiology for Nursing and Health Professionals. Harlow, Pearson Education Ltd
Fook J and Gardner F (2007) Practising Critical Reflection: A Handbook Maidenhead: Open University Press
Hull C, Redfern L & Shuttleworth A (2005) Profiles and Portfolios: a guide for health and social care. Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan

Students must be at least 5 years post qualified registered health professionals and employed as Preceptors to Independent Assessors tasked with assessing individuals who are currently receiving Disability Living Allowance and be able to make recommendations to facilitate independent living, which may include a Personal Independent Payment (PIP)

Competency document Pass\Fail 0% Weighting (meeting LO's 2, 3 and 4)

Viva 50% Weighting

Present and defend in a Viva a Profile of Evidence which must contain:
Completed PIP Form
Associated PIP Report
Short Reflective Piece
Completed formative assessments
Evidence of competency from competency Document
Completed audit documentation
(meeting LO's 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7)

Completion of Learning Log and fully referenced reflective piece 3500 words 50% weighting (meeting LO's 5 and 6)

All elements of assessment must be passed

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Formatively Assessed by on-line tasks and also on face to face study day