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Community Development and Youth Work
Higher Certificate in Arts
Course Details
Course Code | GA_SCDPC_C06 |
---|---|
Level | 6 |
Duration | 2.5 years |
Credits | 120 |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Mayo |
Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
This part-time award aims to provide learners with a specialised education in Community Development and Youth Work. It is apparent in today’s contemporary societies that social inequalities exist, environments are under increasing pressure and human rights for some people remain unfulfilled. The successful graduate will be an autonomous community development and/or youth worker, equipped with skills, knowledge and competencies to work within a wide range of statutory and non-statutory organisations and agencies.
The graduate as a critical thinker will be able to engage and work with diverse groups to consider factors that are social, cultural, economic, sustainable, technological and political at local, societal and global level that impact upon people’s daily lives. The reflective graduate, by applying human rights principles, and a knowledge of empowerment and through collectively working with others will set out to promote social change and equality. If they wish, the graduate will be able to pursue further academic studies.
Funding Opportunity
This programme is funded under new SUSI pilot – Part-time Fee Scheme for SUSI funding | ATU – Atlantic Technological University
Work Placement
The part-time Higher Certificate (Level 6) in Arts in Community Development and Youth Work will secure the Professional Practice Placements. The programme will discuss the available placements with learners prior to allocation.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Academic and Professional Skills (SC:CB)The aim of this module is to develop academic and professional development skills for student success in higher education and beyond. This module combines online learning activities and small group workshops to focus on areas such as academic writing and integrity, creative thinking, problem-solving, time management, communications, group work, technology, innovation and presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply appropriate tools and principles to optimise the learning experience. 2. Develop self-reflection practices for individual and group-work activities. 3. Recognise different information sources and apply the principles of academic integrity. 4. Assess a variety of professional communication practices and digital tools and apply to problem-solving. 5. Consider how the chosen discipline has a responsibility to wider society. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Sociology for Community Development and Youth WorkThe aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the discipline of sociology. Drawing upon the writings of Comte, Durkheim, Marx and Weber relating to modernity the module will proceed to consider post-modern frameworks to examine contemporary societies. The module will explore societal structures, socialisation and family, norms and values, social stratification, education, poverty and culture, with specific attention accorded to processes that lead to inequality and social exclusion. Through deliberation personal values and life experience are explored, with the intention the learner will be enabled to identify how they see and how others see the world. Through various sociological lenses, individual, community and societal dynamics will explore historical and contemporary social processes that promote equality and sustainability in diverse contexts. This exploration provides a basis to consider practice which is rights based, anti-discriminatory and culturally competent to work with diverse groups and individuals. A brief introduction to research types linked to specific paradigms provides insights to social research and its purpose will be included. The learner will be encouraged to appreciate the limitations of sociology in relation to understanding the tasks and processes of Community Development and Youth Work. Learning Outcomes 1. Evidence a broad introductory knowledge and understanding of the concept of society 2. Describe an introductory knowledge of the historical development of thediscipline of sociology from modernity to post-modernity 3. Describe different formations of social divisions that lead to social inequality, discrimination, social exclusion and how to challenge such processes. 4. Evidence an ability to apply fundamental sociological concepts to Community Development and Youth Workcontexts, considering theory, policy and practice |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Introduction to Community DevelopmentThis module seeks to introduce the learner to the principles and theories of community development. The module will attempt to provide the learner with an initial understanding of the philosophy and principles of community development. It will explore the historical development of community development in Ireland and how the process of community development has been and continues to be a powerful driver of social change in Ireland. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a knowledge of the philosophy of community development and how it relates to sustainability and youth work. 2. Detail theprinciples of community development. 3. Define the processes involved in community development. 4. Describe variousdifferent approaches to community development |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Information Technology for Digital Media and SocietyTo introduce the learner to the fundamentals of information technology and it's application. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the use and role of Information Technology in society. 2. Identify the different types of hardware and and explain how they can be used. 3. Differentiate between software applications and their appropriate use. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Preparation for Placement in Community and Youth WorkIn advance of commencing an integrated learning model of professional practice placement in Stage 2, this module will prepare students for practice settings and equip them to approach the placement with confidence and a certain level of competence. The module will provide students with a knowledge and understanding of safety issues in the workplace, enable students to demonstrate a set of practical skills relevant to the community and youth work professional and the ability to apply theory in practice using a theory to practice model. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of safety issues in the workplace including the concept and regulation of safety and good safety practice. 2. Evidence the management of safe people and manual handling taskand challenging behaviour techniques 3. Demonstrate the application of learning models to evidence integration of theory and practice.. 4. Evidence successful completion of Children First training 5. Demonstrate an understanding of supporting and working with vulnerable people 6. Demonstrate practical skills of how to capture applied learning in a personal e-portfolio |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Group Dynamics and DevelopmentThe aim of the module is to work with learners to gain theoretical knowledge, competencies and practical skills pertaining to group work in community and youth work settings. This will include the concepts of working ethically with different groups, service participants, community members, colleagues and within multi-disciplinary teams. The module explores group formation, group boundaries, group agreements, group dimensions and task and process. Groups and teams will be defined and the importance of boundaries, ethics, roles including leadership, communication skills, verbal, non-verbal, active listening and conflict resolution skills will be examined. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of why people join groups 2. Evidence an understanding of different types of groups, their formation and the associated behaviour and roles 3. Effectively use different communication techniques to enhance the effective function of a group 4. Demonstrate anunderstanding of conflict, why it occurs and how it can be addressed. 5. Reflect upon personal experience of being a member of a group |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Introduction to Youth WorkThis module outlines the historical development of youth work commencing with the industrial revolution through to the present. Drawing upon sociological frameworks, various views of young people and their needs are explored. Subsequently, learners will be guided to explore the interplay between youth work theory, models of practice and policy in relation to working with young people. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the historical unfolding of youth work in Ireland 2. Articulate the interplay between theory, practice and policy in relation to youth work 3. Apply youth work concepts in youth work contexts. 4. Discussdifferent adult perceptions of young people |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Introduction to Social PolicySocial policy is pivotal in promoting the welfare of individuals and communities, but may also result in unintentional negative outcomes for some groups within society. This module guides the learner to explore social policy, its formation and how it relates to other disciplines. This will include sociology, politics, economics and history among others. The learner by engaging with the module content develops an understanding of how social policy is formed and how it may impact upon on the daily lives of individuals and communities. Learning Outcomes 1. Define social policy and how it relates to other disciplines 2. Provide an overview of the historical development of social policy 3. Present the complexities associated with the policy-making processes 4. Describe how social policy may influence the daily lives of individuals and communities |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Academic and Professional Skills (SC:CB)The aim of this module is to develop academic and professional development skills for student success in higher education and beyond. This module combines online learning activities and small group workshops to focus on areas such as academic writing and integrity, creative thinking, problem-solving, time management, communications, group work, technology, innovation and presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply appropriate tools and principles to optimise the learning experience. 2. Develop self-reflection practices for individual and group-work activities. 3. Develop academic writing skills, recognise different information sources and apply the principles of academic integrity. 4. Assess a variety of professional communication practices and digital tools and apply to problem-solving. 5. Consider how the chosen discipline has a responsibility to wider society. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Creativity with Communities and Young PeopleThe module aims to address fundamental questions about cultural democracy and human rights, with a particular focus on practical strategies to develop cultural literacy and cultural capital. It seeks to achieve this by combining a theoretical understanding of the issues that arise in community-based cultural activity with practical approaches to exploring the significance of creativity in community and youth work. This practical exploration will focus in particular on the aesthetic and ethical issues arising from the tensions between product and process in community-based cultural activity. The module aims to encourage and enable an exploration of these issues, by providing an experiential context, conceptual frameworks and a forum for examining and exploring the role of the arts in community and youth work. The module will also seek to address and explore the contemporary debate on sustainability and creativity, and will situate an understanding of community as part of the inter-relationship of social, cultural, environmental and psychological factors as key determinants of human well-being. The module should provide students with a context for subsequent learning, enhance their power of independent judgement, enrich their perspectives on human society and encourage reflection on the interface of culture, sustainability, human rights and community development in community and youth work. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a deeper and broader knowledge and understanding of culture, cultural literacy, cultural capital, cultural rights and cultural democracy. 2. Analyse differing views on the arts in community, sustainability and youth work and the role of the artist and volunteer in this work. 3. Demonstrate a familiarity with contemporary debates on art and sustainability. 4. Appraise and evaluate issues of social well-being, culture, community and sustainability in relation to their own professional and personal lives. 5. Demonstrate an enhanced capacity for thought, self-reflection, autonomous learning and expression through the arts, including the ability and confidence to articulate an internalised personal world view, manifesting solidarity with others and engaging creatively with them |
10 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Introduction to PsychologyThis is a Level 6 Module taught over a single semester. It is designed to provide students with a broad introduction to the scope and range of psychological theories and principles, and their application to life. This module will incorporate proficiencies across the domains of practice relevant to the field of psychology that contributes to understanding the person in social care practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Have a broad knowledge and understanding of the historical and theoretical development of the discipline of psychology, human development, health and wellbeing, disorder and dysfunction as it relates to the Social care Worker(Proficiencies 5.4, 2. Describe the role of psychology in various contexts and its contribution to the social and behavioural sciences, identify all behaviours as a form of communication and the evidence base for interventions associated with behaviours (Proficiencies 2.17, 3.6, 5.10) 3. Describe and discuss contemporary approaches and schools of thinking in psychology (Proficiency 5.1) 4. Apply basic psychological theory to understanding human behaviour and lifespan development (Proficiencies 1.22, 1.23, 5.1, 5.6, 5.7, 5.14) |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Introduction to LawThis module introduces students to the nature and sources of law in Ireland. It also considers the structure of the Irish legal system. The module also provides students with an insight into the legal institutions and the roles of various legal personnel. Learning Outcomes 1. have a broad introductory knowledge and understanding of factors which shape the legal environment 2. have a broad knowledge and awareness of the workings of the Irish legal system including the institutions, division and administration of law and the roles of various legal personnel. 3. have an appreciation of the role of law in society, its relevance to society and a sensitivity to legal considerations in the environment in which they live and work. 4. have a broad introductory knowledge and understanding of the sources and principles of Irish law in a European context. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Youth Work:Theory, Practice and PolicyThis module sets out to provide the learner with a knowledge of youth work theory, practice and policy. Commencing with Modernity Burrell and Morgan's Sociological Framework will be applied to the historical development of youth work in Ireland. Drawing upon Hurley and Treacy's (1997) Four Models of Youth Work different practice approaches will be examined. This will detail the purpose, adult view of the young person, participation and the type of activities. From the 1980's to the present day. This module will outline the changes in relation to how young people are view by adults and how they may view themselves, it will examine contemporary youth work approaches and policy. These late-modernity and post-modern perspectives will be related to youth work, the purpose of youth work, different concepts of non-formal and informal education, youth work and outcomes and the role of youth work in multi-disciplinary approaches will be examined. Learning Outcomes 1. Drawupon sociological understandings todescribe the historical development of youth work in Ireland 2. Analyse past and present policy pertaining to youth work |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Community Work: Theory, Principles and PracticeThis module provides a critical introduction to the theory, principles and practices of community work emphasising the significance of promoting inclusion, participation, equality and capacity building within communities. The module will examine community work history, policy development and structures to support same. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of the concept of community |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Reflective Practice for Community Development and Youth WorkThis module is designed to introduce Learners to concepts and models related to reflective practice, self-care and wellbeing. Through applying reflective models to experiential activities, Learners will gain an understanding of the importance of self-awareness, personal growth and development of professional practice. The module will empower Learners to recognise the people they work with in Community Development and Youth Work settings as active equal partners in decision-making and reflective processes to bring about social change. Community Development and Youth Work often involves irregular working patterns, the module will enable Learners to recognise the importance of self-care and well-being as part of sustaining professional practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Engage in reflective practice to identify personal strengths and increase self-awareness 2. Engage in reflective practice to identify ares for Continuous Professional Development 3. Describe the importance of reflective practice in relation to working with individuals or groups and improving practice 4. Define self-care and wellbeing and develop techniques to positively influence personal health and wellbeing. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Digital Media SkillsThis practical module will provide the learner with the opportunity to build an e-portfolio and develop appropriate digital content. Learning Outcomes 1. Build and publish a professionally presented e-portfolio and demonstrateUniversal Design Principles. 2. Plan, create and publish a blog. 3. Plan, create and publish a video. 4. Plan, create and publish visual/image content. 5. Plan, create and publish audio content. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Community and Youth Work Professional Practice 1This module is designed to empower learners to commence the process of integrating theory, policy and practice in community and youth work contexts. The first of two professional practice placements at this stage of study comprises of: 1) Semester one, 16 hours per week for 13 weeks = 208 hours in a Community Development setting. 2) The second of the professional placements will be within a youth work setting. This placement will also comprise of 16 hours per week for 13 = 208 hours. Each placement is weighted at 10 ECTs. The placement context under supervision will provide a setting for further experiential learning, enhance the learner's confidence and reflective abilities, to observe and analyse and to make independent judgements. The development of professional skills and competencies will assist the learner to gain a more in-depth understanding of culture, sustainability, human rights and community development in community and youth work. The placement co-ordinator will liaise with each learner regarding placement site options. While ever attempt will be made to secure a placement of choice, it is not always possible due to availability, site geographical spread, transport needs and other possible factors. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of safety issues in the community and youth work settings, including the concept of regulation of health and safety. 4. Observe and analyse interactions within the placement context maintaining confidentiality 5. Keep and maintain reflections as an element of their e-portfolio for the duration of the placement |
20 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Developmental PsychologyThis is a Level 7 Module. It is designed to develop learners' understanding of the psychological principles involved in human development. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the issues and factors that influence development, motivation and learning |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Civic Engagement and LeadershipThis module will consider civic engagement and leadership. The module will critically examine the concepts of adult and youth leadership. It will review leadership theories and explore the historical distancing of young people from decision-making. The module proceeds to consider contemporary models of youth leadership and differentiates between leadership and civic engagement. In an adult-centred world, young people have been positioned in at the centre of the civic engagement debate. Participation by individuals and groups is seen as central to leadership and civic engagement. Theories and models of participation will be reviewed, to include the concepts of power, democracy, empowering and dis-empowering processes, building of social capital, social support and resilience. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss leadership theories and styles |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Legal Framework for Community and Youth WorkThis module will introduce students to the legal environment which frames community and youth work. It will sensitise learners to the legal issues which arise in their work. Learning Outcomes 1. demonstrate an awareness of the legislation governing youth work practice; |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Community and PlaceThis module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to undertake a community profile, focusing on the use of written historical sources, oral history material, and recent and historical demographic data. It endeavours, through a combination of digital mapping technology and more traditional methods, to access and collate material relating to a community's past. An appreciation of a community's past has a bearing on our capacity to understand the present and plan for the future, in addition to contributing to sense of place. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse the written and oral evidence for a communitys past. 2. Identify and employ a range of relevant sources to compile a community profile. 3. Prepare documentation for the community profile to a professional standard using different media. 4. Demonstrate an ability to use digital mapping for community and youth work projects. |
05 | Elective |
1 |
Entrepreneurship in Community and Youth WorkThis module explores the role, process and value of entrepreneurship in community and youth work contexts. An assessment of the skills, instruments and attributes required for community and youth entrepreneurship will be undertaken and models of good practice will be reviewed. Module participants will work with a sample social entrepreneurship project to identify how this can drive social change within community and youth work. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate the role and specify the value of entrepreneurship within community and youth work contexts 2. Debate the advantages and disadvantages of the processes; impacts and outcomes of different models of youth and community entrepreneurship practice in Irish and international contexts 3. Identify the instruments, skills and attributes of effective entrepreneurship in community and youth contexts 4. Actively engage with the process of entrepreneurship planning and delivery within a social enterprise; community or youth project |
05 | Elective |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements are those stated by the university in its Access, Transfer and Progression Policy at any given time. At present they are a Grade O6/H7 or better in five Leaving Certificate subjects including English or Irish and Mathematics with a minimum of 160 points. Maths at F2 is acceptable to meet the minimum Maths entry requirement. Irish at F2 is acceptable to meet the minimum language requirement.
OR
Five different subjects at GCSE grade C or better to include English/Irish and Maths with a minimum of 160 points.
OR
Equivalent qualifications and scores from other countries which will be assessed and scored by the university.
OR
A Pass in a QQI FET Foundation Certificate, the NUIG/ATU Foundation Certificate or any Foundation/Access Certificate delivered by the regional cluster (ATU or NUIG).
OR
A Pass in any QQI FET Major Award at level 5 or 6. (Programmes with specific Leaving Certificate Maths requirements should include the following or similar: QQI FET applicants for engineering programmes in ATU must have completed awards including a Mathematics module (5N1833, 6N3395, 5N18396, 5N0556 or 5S2246) or LC maths.)
OR
A graduate of Further Education who is a holder of a pass QQI FET Major Award at Level 5 or 6 in Community Development and/or Youth Work can apply to the University for the direct entry into the first year of the programme.
OR
Applicants who have successfully completed and passed ATU’s GA_ECOMM_S06 Certificate in Community Development Practice, Special Purpose Award.
Garda Vetting
Garda Vetting is required.
English Language Requirements
English Language Requirements will be as determined by ATU and as published in the Access, Transfer and Progression Policy.
Non-EU applicants who are not English speakers must have a minimum score of 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in each component) in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or equivalent. All results must have been achieved within 2 years of application to ATU.
EU applicants who are not English speakers are recommended to have a minimum score of 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in each component) in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or equivalent.
Careers
Graduate careers typically include various positions as Assistant Youth Workers or Youth Workers in national and international youth work organisations, roles in organizations working with young people, Rural and Community Development Workers, positions within rural and community development organisations, and roles in international Non-governmental Organisations focusing on human rights, advocacy, and development education.
Further Information
Application Closing Date
Start Date
Who Should Apply?
This programme is designed for emerging or existing community development and/or youth workers. The part-time flexible programme allows people to engage in formal professional education while still being bale to meet other life demands such as employment, family or community responsibilities. If you are passionate about people, rights, justice and the environment that this is the course for you. The professional values of community and youth work implore us to address the equalities that exist and to work collectively for a sustainable future. Professional work placements throughout this programme allow you to develop your skills, values and practices to promote equality, human rights and advance positive social change.
Contact Information
Dr. Sheila McArdle
E: Sheila.mcardle@atu.ie
Ms. Mairead Cluskey
E: mairead.cluskey@atu.ie
Environmental Humanities & Social Sciences