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Postgraduate Programme Specification

PgCert Education Studies

Academic Year 2022/23

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.

Programme Title PgCert Education Studies Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Postgraduate Certificate
Programme Code STM-PC-EDS UCAS Code HECoS Code 100459 - Education studies - 100

ATAS Clearance Required

No

Health Check Required

No

Portfolio Required

--

Interview Required

--

Mode of Study Part Time
Type of Programme Postgraduate Length of Programme Part Time - 5 Academic Years
Total Credits for Programme 60
Exit Awards available No

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Stranmillis University College

School/Department

St. Mary's University College

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 7

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Accreditations (PSRB)

No accreditations (PSRB) found.

Regulation Information

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

N/A

Programme Specific Regulations

The programme is offered in part time mode over a period of up to 5 years. All modules are credited at M-Level. 60 M level credit points are required for a Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Studies (PgCertEd). Students cannot enrol on modules which have a significant overlap in content with modules previously taken. School-based professional development can be accredited through bridging arrangements to give a maximum of 30 credit points.

Students with protected characteristics

N/A

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

Educational Aims Of Programme

This programme aims to enhance in students the academic and professional skills needed to be effective educational practitioners. It aims to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes which will enable students to engage in critical study and debate of academic and/or professional aspects of education and training.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Engage in informed debate about and critical analysis of some major issues in education and training

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are achieved through discussion with colleagues and tutors and through the submission of written assessed coursework based on each module studied.

Methods of Assessment

Summative assessment is measured against the following six major features of coursework:
- Criticality and Reflection;
- Coherence of Argument;
- Use of Literature/Research;
- Application of Professional Experience;
- Quality of Citation;
- Structure/Presentation and any other comments;
as well as the general aims of the programme and specific module learning outcomes.

Reflect on theory/practice relationships within professional contexts.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are achieved through discussion with colleagues and tutors and through the submission of written assessed coursework based on each module studied.

Methods of Assessment

Summative assessment is measured against the following six major features of coursework:
- Criticality and Reflection;
- Coherence of Argument;
- Use of Literature/Research;
- Application of Professional Experience;
- Quality of Citation;
- Structure/Presentation and any other comments;
as well as the general aims of the programme and specific module learning outcomes.

Develop competence further within specific areas.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are achieved through discussion with colleagues and tutors and through the submission of written assessed coursework based on each module studied.

Methods of Assessment

Summative assessment is measured against the following six major features of coursework:
- Criticality and Reflection;
- Coherence of Argument;
- Use of Literature/Research;
- Application of Professional Experience;
- Quality of Citation;
- Structure/Presentation and any other comments;
as well as the general aims of the programme and specific module learning outcomes.

Keep abreast of research, innovation and developments in education.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are achieved through discussion with colleagues and tutors and through the submission of written assessed coursework based on each module studied.

Methods of Assessment

Summative assessment is measured against the following six major features of coursework:
- Criticality and Reflection;
- Coherence of Argument;
- Use of Literature/Research;
- Application of Professional Experience;
- Quality of Citation;
- Structure/Presentation and any other comments;
as well as the general aims of the programme and specific module learning outcomes.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Communicate effectively by written, oral and other means.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In the teaching methods employed in various modules students will be involved in the processes of communication, co-operation, analysis and task management, enhancing their professional effectiveness. Course work involves the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of transferable skills will be principally through tutor observation during workshops. Course work assignments will require the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Use ICT competently in their study and other appropriate situations and be able to judge where the use of ICT is not appropriate.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In the teaching methods employed in various modules students will be involved in the processes of communication, co-operation, analysis and task management, enhancing their professional effectiveness. Course work involves the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of transferable skills will be principally through tutor observation during workshops. Course work assignments will require the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Improve their own learning and performance, including the development of study skills, information retrieval, and a capacity to plan and manage learning, and to reflect on their own learning.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In the teaching methods employed in various modules students will be involved in the processes of communication, co-operation, analysis and task management, enhancing their professional effectiveness. Course work involves the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of transferable skills will be principally through tutor observation during workshops. Course work assignments will require the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Analyse and evaluate, and identify problems and solutions.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In the teaching methods employed in various modules students will be involved in the processes of communication, co-operation, analysis and task management, enhancing their professional effectiveness. Course work involves the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of transferable skills will be principally through tutor observation during workshops. Course work assignments will require the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Process and synthesise empirical and theoretical data, to create new syntheses and to present and justify a chosen position having drawn on relevant theoretical perspectives

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In the teaching methods employed in various modules students will be involved in the processes of communication, co-operation, analysis and task management, enhancing their professional effectiveness. Course work involves the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of transferable skills will be principally through tutor observation during workshops. Course work assignments will require the use of transferable skills such as communication, ICT skills, analysis and synthesis.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Research, innovation and developments in selected areas of education.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are acquired through lectures, workshops and independent directed reading. Students are encouraged to rigorously scrutinise their own practice and are helped to formulate new methodologies in discussion with tutors and other colleagues.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of learning takes the form of essays, reports, preparation and evaluations of teaching resources. Assessed work tests the students’ ability to present ideas cogently, to demonstrate an appropriate level of skill and analysis, to argue from authority appropriately, and to reflect critically on the lectures, the reading, and their own practice.

Assessed coursework tests ability to gather and present relevant information and data to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relevant areas. This involves reflection upon professional practice.

Some self-assessment and peer assessment for formative purposes is practised although this does not contribute to the formal examination of modules.

A range of key concepts and modes of enquiry in educational studies.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are acquired through lectures, workshops and independent directed reading. Students are encouraged to rigorously scrutinise their own practice and are helped to formulate new methodologies in discussion with tutors and other colleagues.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of learning takes the form of essays, reports, preparation and evaluations of teaching resources. Assessed work tests the students’ ability to present ideas cogently, to demonstrate an appropriate level of skill and analysis, to argue from authority appropriately, and to reflect critically on the lectures, the reading, and their own practice.

Assessed coursework tests ability to gather and present relevant information and data to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relevant areas. This involves reflection upon professional practice.

Some self-assessment and peer assessment for formative purposes is practised although this does not contribute to the formal examination of modules.

Some of the major (from a N Ireland perspective) issues and developments in education and training.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are acquired through lectures, workshops and independent directed reading. Students are encouraged to rigorously scrutinise their own practice and are helped to formulate new methodologies in discussion with tutors and other colleagues.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of learning takes the form of essays, reports, preparation and evaluations of teaching resources. Assessed work tests the students’ ability to present ideas cogently, to demonstrate an appropriate level of skill and analysis, to argue from authority appropriately, and to reflect critically on the lectures, the reading, and their own practice.

Assessed coursework tests ability to gather and present relevant information and data to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relevant areas. This involves reflection upon professional practice.

Some self-assessment and peer assessment for formative purposes is practised although this does not contribute to the formal examination of modules.

Appropriate theoretical foundations on which to base practice.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are acquired through lectures, workshops and independent directed reading. Students are encouraged to rigorously scrutinise their own practice and are helped to formulate new methodologies in discussion with tutors and other colleagues.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of learning takes the form of essays, reports, preparation and evaluations of teaching resources. Assessed work tests the students’ ability to present ideas cogently, to demonstrate an appropriate level of skill and analysis, to argue from authority appropriately, and to reflect critically on the lectures, the reading, and their own practice.

Assessed coursework tests ability to gather and present relevant information and data to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relevant areas. This involves reflection upon professional practice.

Some self-assessment and peer assessment for formative purposes is practised although this does not contribute to the formal examination of modules.

The relationship between theory and practice in their professional working context.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning outcomes are acquired through lectures, workshops and independent directed reading. Students are encouraged to rigorously scrutinise their own practice and are helped to formulate new methodologies in discussion with tutors and other colleagues.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of learning takes the form of essays, reports, preparation and evaluations of teaching resources. Assessed work tests the students’ ability to present ideas cogently, to demonstrate an appropriate level of skill and analysis, to argue from authority appropriately, and to reflect critically on the lectures, the reading, and their own practice.

Assessed coursework tests ability to gather and present relevant information and data to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relevant areas. This involves reflection upon professional practice.

Some self-assessment and peer assessment for formative purposes is practised although this does not contribute to the formal examination of modules.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Engage in critical, analytical and creative thinking and problem solving.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Discriminate salient features in educational environments, identify trends and common characteristics in important educational processes.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Compare and contrast a variety of theories, views, perspectives, dispositions and attitudes regarding educational issues.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Judge best courses of action using objective criteria.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Engage in reflective practice in educational environments.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Formally state conclusions and arguments using evidence.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Engage in professional debate on topics and issues relevant to education, teaching and learning.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are developed through private study, directed work including coursework. They are reinforced and extended in taught sessions by lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of subject-specific skills will be principally through tutor observation during tutorials, seminars and workshops. Assessed coursework tests the range of subject-specific skills developed in a formal manner.

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
Pupil Learning through Physical Education and School Sport EDC7069 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Meeting the Needs of the Bilingual Learner EDC7040 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Personal Development: Promoting the Emotional Health and Well-being of Teachers and Pupils EDC7053 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Contemporary Leadership Issues for the Effective School EDC7059 7 30 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Promoting Learning in Early Years Irish-medium Settings EDC7044 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Children and Young People in Crisis: Pastoral Responses EDC7041 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Eloquence and Accuracy in Irish / Saibhreas agus Cruinneas na Gaeilge EDC7043 7 10 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 50% 0% 50%
Gaeltacht Irish - Study of native Irish speech EDC7076 7 20 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 50% 0% 50%
Current Issues and Future Directions in Physical Education and School Sport EDC7078 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Current Issues in the Teaching of Language and Literacy EDC7007 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Lessons for Learning EDC7051 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Understanding, Supporting and Teaching Pupils with Specific Learning Difficulties EDC7079 7 30 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Principles into Practice in the Early Years EDC7006 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Understanding and Supporting Autistic Children and Young People in Education EDC7085 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
The Pleasure and Promise of Children’s Literature in the Primary Setting EDC7086 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Contemporary Management Issues for the Effective School EDC7013 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Behaviour Issues in the Context of Special Educational Needs EDC7012 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Digital Education:Teaching for the Future EDC7083 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 60% 40% 0%
Leading Learning in a Digital Age EDC7084 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Learning and Teaching in Art and Design EDC7080 7 30 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Music Therapy EDC7082 7 30 YES -- 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Developing Coaching Science and Physical Education in Schools EDC7070 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Supporting Child Literacy in the Irish-medium classroom EDC7045 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Issues in Curriculum: Improving Practice through Lesson Study EDC7052 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Issues in the Teaching of Numeracy at Primary and Post-Primary Level EDC7011 7 30 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Poetry in the Making EDC7042 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Irish-medium pedagogies and language proficiency for the Post-Primary Irish-medium teacher EDC7058 7 30 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Teachers' Professional Lives EDC7068 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Building Capacity in Schools: Advancing Inclusivity to Raise Pupil Outcomes EDC7077 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 80% 20% 0%
Putting the Sting into STEM EDC7081 7 30 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Children's Rights and Education EDC7056 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Promoting Numeracy and Literacy Competences in Irish medium Settings EDC7075 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Approaches to Education in the Early Years EDC7004 7 30 YES YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%

Notes

In order to obtain a Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Studies (PgCertEd) students must take modules from the list above worth 60 M level credit points.