Community Education: Foundations of Practice module (CO10008)

You will be introduced to Community Education. You will explore the history, philosophy and guiding principles and values of the profession.

You will examine some of the defining ideas and competing narratives that have shaped its development. These include ideas such as 'community', informal education, inclusion and social justice.

You will also look at contemporary issues that impact on the work of educators. You will critically analyse issues that may challenge you to think about your values. You will also analyse how these might influence the work that you do in your practice.

This means that you will explore some of the issues that can lead to tension for us as practitioners working in the field.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore the philanthropic and radical traditions which have shaped Community Education. You will also learn about the societal issues that the field of practice addresses
• develop an insight into the concept of community. This touches on topics such as:
  • the politics of community
  • community engagement
  • asset based approaches
  • community participation
• be introduced to the three main strands of Community Education practice:
  • community development
  • adult learning
  • youth work
• explore societal issues, ideologies and ideas. You will learn how they guide and define policy development and practice

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• show an understanding of the historical and philosophical foundations of Community Education. You will also show an understanding of the societal issues that it addresses
• discuss the concept of community. You will also be able to discuss the methods of community engagement and community participation
• explain key areas of Community Education practice in diverse settings. You will be able to explain its unique contribution to society

Assignments / assessment

• 2,000 word essay (100%)
  • given in Week 1
  • due in Week 12

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures (one 2 hour session per week for one semester)
• seminars (three 1 hour sessions spread through the semester)
• community profile

Typically, the programme of sessions looks like this:

1. Introduction
2. History and philosophy of Community Education
3. What / who is 'community'?
4. Freedom of practice (politics as private and public issues)
5. Community engagement, participation and inclusion
6. Youth work and young people
7. Citizenship and empowerment
8. Community development
9. Adult education
10. Community profiling