IF3067 - Introduction to Community and Society (2017/18)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2017/18 | ||||||||||
| Module title | Introduction to Community and Society | ||||||||||
| Module level | Foundation (03) | ||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||
| School | School of Social Professions | ||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2017/18(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module is an introduction to the social sciences and community development. It provides an insight into society today, and focuses on current issues at local, national and international level. The module examines the challenges facing individuals and communities, and the role of community work and leadership and youth work in addressing these challenges. The theory and practice of policy making is outlined, with a focus on how policy can be influenced by individuals and communities. There is an emphasis on identifying employment opportunities, and gaining the skills and competencies to gain employment.
Module aims
The aims of the module are to:
• Provide an understanding of types of community and community development and youth work at local, national and international level
• Analyse diversity within and between communities
• Analyse how individuals and communities can influence policy making
• Identify career opportunities and routes for community development, youth studies and social science students
• Develop employability skills in community work, youth work and allied professions
Syllabus
• Defining community and community development
• Introduction to communities in London
• Introduction to national policy on youth and community
• Transnational, international and national communities
• Services provided to local communities: how these work, and how to influence service provision
• My future career- competences and employability
Learning and teaching
The module will be delivered through lectures, workshops and blended learning. Materials and interactive tests will be provided on the virtual learning environment Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own academic and professional development
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
• Define community and the contribution of community work and youth work to sustainable communities
• Evaluate the challenges and opportunities of working with diverse communities
• Examine the context to current social issues, and how individuals and communities can influence policy in a range of areas
• Identify and reflect on career opportunities within community development, youth work and related fields
Assessment strategy
The assessment of the module reflects linkages made between social sciences, community development, youth work and professional practice. The module is assessed through a reflective report that links academic context and professional development
Bibliography
Craig G, Mayo M, Taylor M and Shaw M. 2011. The Community Development Reader: History, themes and issues. Bristol: Policy Press.
Endorsement and Quality Standards Board for Community Development Learning. National Occupational Standards for Community Development Work.
Gilchrist, A & Taylor, M. 2011. The Short Guide to Community Development. Bristol: Policy Press
Isaacs, S (ed.) (2014. Social problems in the UK: an introduction. London: Taylor an Francis
Twelvetrees A (4th Ed). 2008. Community Work. Basingstoke: MacMillan