This key introductory module is aimed at those who are working with, or interested in working with, young people – particularly those aged 13 to 19 – in areas of practice where their participation is voluntary, and the aims of the work are broadly educational. You will examine the origins and scope of this work; its values and purposes; the changing contexts in which it occurs; how it is implemented; the roles and responsibilities of practitioners and policy makers; and the issues they face. You will develop a reflective stance towards your own practice and that of others. You may already work with young people, or you may be entirely new to the field.
What you will study
Through the printed Study Guides, the online audio-visual material and the reader, you will be exploring a range of perspectives on work with young people. As you do so you will be encouraged to reflect on your own experiences as a learner and a practitioner.
By the end of your studies you will have developed your understanding of:
- the range of practices included in ‘work with young people’
- theories and research relevant to this field of practice
- ways of supporting young people with diverse needs and abilities in a range of contexts
- ideas about how young people learn
- the impact of policy on work with young people
- reading, writing and reflecting in an academic environment.
Vocational relevance
Working with young people: an introduction is aimed at those interested in finding out more about a career in working with young people or for existing practitioners in a wide range of settings involving work with young people, focusing on the age range 13–19. You might, for example, be involved in:
- running a youth club
- working with young people on a housing estate
- participating in a faith-based group
- advising young people on health or careers
- mentoring young people
- working with a group of Scouts or Guides
- working as a counsellor or adviser in a school.
Entry
There are no formal academic or experiential requirements to study this module.
If you're not sure you're ready talk to an adviser.
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You will have a tutor who will mark and comment on your written work, and whom you can ask for advice and guidance. If you are new to the OU, you will find that your tutor will be particularly concerned to help you with your study methods. We also offer face-to-face group tutorials – where numbers permit – which we strongly recommend you to attend so that you can make the fullest use of the support that your tutor (and fellow students) can give. Where your tutorials are held will depend on the distribution of students taking the module. You will also take part in online discussion forums with other students.
Contact us if you want to know more about study with The Open University before you register.
Assessment
The assessment details for this module can be found in the facts box above.
You will be expected to submit your tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) online through the eTMA system unless there are some difficulties which prevent you from doing so. In these circumstances, you must negotiate with your tutor to get their agreement to submit your assignment on paper.