Course Resources Archive

The module provides a student with the opportunity to undertake an approved independent programme of study, which addresses the educational objectives of the student's course. The unique nature of the study may require students to engage with some of the following learning activities: individual tutorials, directed reading, the use of distance learning materials or a placement. Attendance at lectures, seminars, workshops or conferences which are not otherwise available within the course may also be appropriate.

The specific details of the independent study will be approved on an individual basis, but will be guided by the following principles:

a) To enhance the work completed by the student throughout other post graduate studies

b) To encourage the development of partnerships between existing postgraduate students and professionals working in the related occupational fields

c) To encourage the application of knowledge to professional and discipline contexts

d) Allow students the opportunity to complete a small-scale study that is related to their chosen course.

On successful completion of the module the student should be able to provide evidence of at least one of the following learning outcomes.

1) critically evaluate competing rationales informing policy and, or practice;

2) develop a critical and reflexive analysis of contemporary conventions or practices;

3) construct and execute a research project that facilitates an enhanced understanding of policy or practice.

These learning outcomes should be achieved within course-related occupational or professional contexts:The learning activities associated with this module are also intended to allow students to identify and develop:

1) skills required to work effectively with others;

2) links with external agencies relevant to their career path;

3) critical and reflexive skills to evaluate their own involvement in the module;

4) subject-specific skills determined by the independent study undertaken.

200 hours total. This will depend on the programme of study but may include:

• individual tutorials
• attendance at lectures
• use of distance learning materials
• learning agreements
• seminars
• workshops
• conferences
• placements
• observation of practice
• reviewing key documents

Where the programme of study includes attendance at modules which are not at postgraduate level, the 'independent' element will normally be in the form of agreed work required to raise the level of study to postgraduate level. This could be completed through a programme of advanced reading and tutorials.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.