PP7002 - Module 3: Theory and Professional Practices

What will I learn on this module?

Students will be introduced to theory as a lens through which an interrogative analysis of social and professional contexts can be viewed. Students will be encouraged to analyse aspects of their professional practice and culture, and to identify elements of their professional context which may provide opportunities to enact change and show impact. Students will appraise and apply components of various theoretical perspectives to aspects of their professional practice, and receive a grounding in axiology, hermeneutics, ontological perspectives and epistemological articulations on research impacts.

How will I learn on this module?

Students will be facilitated to explore the different aspects of theory and the philosophy of research from a global, local, historical and contemporary perspective through a range of teaching and learning approaches. It is expected that individuals will share their study challenges and successes, understanding and experiences, which will be an integral part of the module, facilitating students to socially construct and critically appraise perceptions of their work. The module assessment will be a presentation on an aspect of professional practice, policy or development which challenges your own approach and philosophy, demonstrating your emerging knowledge and appraisal of your emerging theoretical positioning.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will work in small groups and receive 1:1 tutorial support in discussing material, identifying research areas and constructing the assignment and written component. Students will be signposted to relevant reading and materials which will inform activities and are encouraged to engage with social media in following professional advances and aspects, which inform policy and practice. Taught sessions will be made available through Panopto.

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. Understand the breadth and complexity of the development of theory and its link to professional and cultural projects
2. Know that applications of theory vary between contexts

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

1. Critically explore and analyse professionally situated underpinning assumptions and practises
2. An ability to critique sources with rigour and consistency

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

1. Enhanced communication skills
2. Further developed project management skills

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment:
Formative assessment will take place via group tasks and discussions throughout the module
MLOs: KU1, 2; IPSA 2; PVA 1

Feedback:
Feedback will be verbal by both tutor and peers.

Summative Assessment:
A recorded 30-minute presentation on an aspect of professional practice, policy or development which challenges your own approach and philosophy while drawing on theory as a lens to understand practice. 4500 word equivalent (slides & supporting notes)

MLOs: KU1 & 2; IPSA 1; PVA1

Feedback:
Written feedback against the criteria will be given by the tutor.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Critical Theory and Professional Practices will allow participants to use aspects of the broad theoretical school of thought and practice known as Critical Theory to analyse normative culture and practices in their own professional contexts. Using a Critical Theory lens and drawing on the diverse range of approaches and contributors to Critical Theory, students will be encouraged to analyse their professional practices and contexts and to uncover assumptions. Critical Theory seeks to empower individuals through a foregrounding of how assumptions, power structures and taken for granted practices can all contribute to disempowering of the individual. Through this module, students will be asked to consider these issues in relation to your own professional context and to use Critical Theory to allow students to analyse these phenomena in order to identify areas of professional practice which can be positively impacted through a dialogue about these assumptions.

Course info

Credits 30

Level of Study Research

Mode of Study 5 years Part Time

Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start January 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

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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