What will I learn on this module?
Within this module you will develop the knowledge needed to support practice when working with older people. You will develop a critical understanding of key theoretical perspectives on ageing, with a focus on life course perspectives. You will also explore current, global, debates on ageing and develop the ability to apply underpinning knowledge to counselling practice when working with older people.
Within this module you will explore the realities of aging in society from the perspective of older people. As part of this module you will also explore a range of issues that may impact on older people and influence their engagement with guidance and counselling services.
How will I learn on this module?
Teaching and learning strategies for this module will include lectures and seminars to outline the main concepts, trends and theories. Facilitated group discussions will be integral to the module where you will explore key concepts in more depth and draw out individual and collective analysis. You will be expected to engage with directed independent study tasks, as well as working in informal groups to present your ideas. Online forums and discussion groups will also be introduced to enhance your learning.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Lecturers will facilitate seminar groups to support academic development. You will have access to Lecturers at specifically designated times via online forums; email; group tutorials and one to one meetings. Formative and summative assessment tasks include ‘feed-forward’ in preparation for assignments, and ‘feedback’ to identify aspects of students’ strengths and also aspects which require development. Contact details for all tutors for this module are available in the module handbook and via the eLP. Guidance tutors will also meet with you regularly to provide both academic and pastoral support.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will be able to critically discuss the perspectives and views of older people (on guidance and counselling)
2. You will be able to appraise key policy and legislation relevant for working with this group as well recognise and appraise current (local and global) debates on ageing and the implications of these for guidance and counselling practice.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. You will be able to critically evaluate different theoretical perspectives on ageing and apply knowledge to counselling practice when working with older people
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. You will develop the ability to critically reflect on the impact of value based and anti discriminatory focused principles in practice with older people
How will I be assessed?
Formative 1
You will engage in a 750 word equivalent online discussion of current debates on ageing and the implications of these for guidance and counselling practice.
Formative 2
You will work in study groups to prepare a presentation within which you will consider how your understanding of theoretical perspectives on ageing can inform counselling practice when working with older people.
Summative
You will select one of the following assignment formats (in consultation with module staff):
1. A critical review of an incident involving ‘older’ people/person
2. A case study involving an individual or group of ‘older’ people
3. An essay on engaging ‘older’ clients – title to be negotiated with module staff
4000 words (MLOs 1-4)
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
The overall aim of this module is to enable students to develop the knowledge needed to support practice when working with older people. Students will develop a critical understanding of key theoretical perspectives on ageing, with a focus on life course perspectives. Students will also explore current, global, debates on ageing and develop the ability to apply underpinning knowledge to counselling practice when working with older people.
Course info
UCAS Code B9L5
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing
Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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