Introduction
This course is designed to be delivered entirely online to allow flexibility for you as you will be working or volunteering within the community.
It is a rolling programme so although there are two ‘official’ start dates – if the programme is open for applications, you should be able to start almost immediately, working your way through the coursework.
Successful completion will see you gain a Professional Development Award in Community Involvement.
The programme introduces you to Community Learning and Development (CLD) theory and practice, with particular focus on involvement in community capacity building, which is one of the three main strands of CLD.
This level 6 award will prepare you for possible progression to other programmes at an equal or increased SCQF level in the field of Community Learning and Development. You are likely to be a mature learner.
The award is suitable for you if you already have some understanding and experience of Community Learning and Development – but have no formal qualifications in the field. Those of you who are employed in the field of CLD, and who achieve a recognised qualification such as this award, may qualify for membership of the Scottish CLD Standards Council.
It is an 18-week course of learning – normal college holidays mean it will be half of a college academic year.
Course code
SWCO
Location
Varies
Duration
You will be invited to the campus for induction to ensure you can log on using your student ID and password. We will be able to help you navigate Teams and our learning platform to ensure you get a good start.
100% engagement with the online learning will be required. Considerable study will be required out with the notional 3 hours a week you should specifically set aside for engaging in the online learning.
Entry Requirements
You must be prepared to work online.
You must be eligible to join the PVG scheme (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) which may involve a criminal record check.
You must be volunteering or working within the community.
You must be capable of working and writing at SCQF level 6 – which is equivalent to Higher. You can demonstrate this is the Supporting Information section of the application.
Information and Interview Session Requirements
In your application under “Other Relevant Information” you should state where you currently work or volunteer.
Your offer of a place depends on your application. Please be prepared to talk about yourself and why you want to gain qualifications in this area, what your future career plans are, and what support you have around you to keep you focussed on study. If we need more information, we will contact you.
Course Content
Community – capacity building, introduction, values and principles and tutorial.
You should have access to a device with working camera, speakers & microphone where you can do online research and write assignments as well as having access to the internet for Microsoft Teams. You are welcome to use our study areas on campus to access wi-fi but should also then ensure you bring headphones/mic along with your device as our study areas are open spaces. It will not be possible to complete this course using just a mobile phone.
A limited number of devices are available to borrow within the college on a daily basis if you do not have a device of your own – you will still require your own headphones if using these devices.
Assessments
There are assessments to complete which are mostly ongoing through portfolio, and mostly open book
Progression
You may want to look at progressing to another level 6 full time programme or HNC level. It is likely you will be able to qualify for membership of the Scottish CLD Standards Council.
Career Prospects
Many community groups (paid and voluntary positions)
Additional funding information
N/A
Selling Points
Since the learning is online – this programme can be delivered right across the region and further afield, with only a few times where learners may be asked to attend Dumfries Campus.