Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2015-2016 (archived)

Module SOCI40330: PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Department: Applied Social Sciences

SOCI40330: PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Type Tied Level 4 Credits 30 Availability Available in 2015/16 Module Cap
Tied to L5KB07
Tied to L5KC07
Tied to L5K007

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • The module will provide an opportunity for the students to:
  • Develop a critical understanding of the concept of professional development and use this in applying and integrating learning from the discrete elements of their professional programme.
  • critically examine theoretical perspectives on current practice in their profession including principles and values, professional ethics and professionalism, anti-racist , anti-oppressive and empowering practice;
  • develop a critical understanding of reflection and reflexivity, and skills in reflective writing, and reflective practice;
  • explore their own identity and values, and identify professional and personal development needs;
  • explore the nature of the professional relationship, developing understanding and skills in one-to-one communication and groupwork;
  • practice a range of professional skills within a classroom environment through practical exercises and case studies;

Content

  • The module is in two parts.
  • Part 1 will cover generic aspects of professional and personal development: • The influence of academic disciplines on the social professions • Professionalism • Ethics and Values • Communication Skills • Diversity/cultural diversity • Interprofessional working • Critical Thinking/critical reflection/reflective writing • Critical practice • Report writing/accountability
  • Part 2 will offer students the opportunity to study and reflect on an area of special professional interest in tutor-facilitated groups.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • have developed a critical understanding of the nature of professional practice, including professional values and responsibilities, within a social science theoretical framework;
  • have developed knowledge and understanding in an area of special professional interest.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • be able to assess reflectively and critically the relevance of their current professional practice experience to the requirements of community and youth work settings.
Key Skills:
  • be able critically to reflect on their personal values, experiences, knowledge, skills and professional practice;
  • be able to examine and evaluate a range of practice interventions;
  • have developed skills in communication and working in groups;
  • be able to apply theoretical knowledge and understanding (including specialist areas of interest) to the development and enhancement of practice.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Teaching and Learning Methods will include individual and group tutorials, group discussion, practical exercises (e.g. role plays, simulation, drama, use of visual arts), study groups, case studies, reflective recordings, independent reading, field visits.
  • Core teaching will take place together with Master of Social Work students facilitating interprofessional learning
  • The written assignment of 3000 words will assess knowledge and understanding of professional practice and skills in critical reflection.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Tutorials 5 1 per term plus 2 in summer average 45 minutes 3.75
Seminars 18 9 per term in first two terms 2 hours 36
Preparation and reading 260.25
TOTAL 300

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Assignment Component Weighting: 50%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written assignment 3000 words 100% Yes
Component: Learning Journal Component Weighting: 50%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Learning Journal 3000 words equivalent 100% Yes

Formative Assessment:

1500 word assignment on reflective practice.


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University