Transformative Community Education (NFQ Level 7)

Programme Overview 

The Transformative Community Education programme will explore theoretical concepts of community education, lifelong learning transformation and social change. Analyse specific case studies in relation to community education, social action and transformation. Investigate and identify strategies and practical approaches to curriculum design, development and delivery for transformative community education and support digital citizenship and social media activism. Examine the Irish and European Union policy frameworks with regard to lifelong learning further education and training and community education. Support practitioners to appreciate the value of e-learning in community education through experiential engagement and support the continuing professional and educational development of practitioners in the sector. 

Format

Induction Day: Full Day Face to Face workshop (10am-4pm) 
Online Sessions: Once a week for 2 hours every week for 8 weeks  
Midway Workshop: Full Day Face to Face Workshop (10am-4pm) 
* Format may be modified if part of a tailored or Certificate Programme. 

Learning outcomes 

On successful completion of this module students will be able to: 

• Understand the theories of community education, social capital, social action and the power of working and learning together to build stronger communities. 
• Identify key policy issues with regard to community education. 
• Have learnt to apply skills and knowledge in their practice. 

• Have developed their critical and reflective thinking. 
• Continue to develop self-awareness, interpersonal skills, by reflective practice and application of their learning. Develop best practice in Community Education.  
• Have an understanding of e-learning in delivering Community Education 

Assessment component 

As part of the assessment for this programme, learners will be required to complete a reflective journal throughout the programme, produce an academic essay and complete an online exam.

Teaching, Learning and Assessment 

Students will acquire in-depth knowledge and develop research and problem-solving skills through work and enquiry-based learning, more formally structured tuition, and self-directed learning.  They will develop competencies in the following transferable skills: written and oral communication, critical thinking, digital literacy, group collaboration, problem solving, planning & time management.  A variety of assessment methods such as reflective journals, presentations, research projects, portfolios and assignments are used on the programme. 

Learner Supports  

At An Cosán, we support our learners fully so that they can achieve their full potential.  

• Technology moderators provide technical support and encouragement to learners in advance of and during online sessions. 
• Qualified tutors with in-depth classroom experience and subject matter expertise are readily available to discuss programme content. 
• One-to-one online mentors are available throughout the programme. 
• Learners are actively encouraged to support one another and build collaborative learning communities.   

Time commitment 

For accredited programmes, you need to be available for two full day workshops (2 x 6-hour face-to-face workshops) and 8 online sessions (2 hours per week). It is recommended that participants allocate a minimum of 3 hours per week for self-directed study to cover suggested readings and videos. 
* Format may be modified if part of a tailored or Certificate Programme. 

Entry Requirements 

Applicants must be 18 years+.  Applicants should have completed the Leaving Certificate or a QQI (FETAC) Major Award at Level 5 preferably in the area of leadership, community development studies or a related area. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Institute of Technology Carlow policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL). Applicants may be required to attend for an interview.  

Admissions 

Closing date for applications is 3 weeks before start date of programme. 

Fees 

All 10-week accredited programmes are €300 per participant.  The course fee includes a non-refundable deposit of €50 payable to secure a place. Please note that 50% of the fees must be paid upfront with the balance to be paid before the course finishes.  Bursaries and phased payment options available for individual learners.  

Find out more:

• Visit our website
  To access more information on all An Cosán Programmes and to find out about the application process for the Academic Calendar 2021/2022, visit our website: www.ancosan.ie/adult-education/
   
• Join our weekly Open Day / Information Sessions
  If you are considering going back to education this year we invite you to join one of An Cosán’s weekly online Open Day / Information Sessions every Friday at 11am.
  Register to attend on this link: http://bit.ly/AnCosanOpenDays 

• Click here to download a copy of An Cosan’s Brochure 
• Click here to subscribe to our bi-monthly EZine: Pathways 
• Contact a member of our team:
  To register and receive further information on any of our Programmes, please contact our team on: 

  Tel: 01 – 462 8488 | Email: info@ancosan.ie | Visit our website: www.ancosan.ie Address: Kiltalown Village Centre, Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 R3PN