ObjectivesThe course aims to promote strategies that enable individuals with learning disabilities to share the same rights, opportunities and choices as other people. This is achieved by studying a range of subjects including: -Methods of communication (including alternative and augmentative systems); -Effects of sensory loss and dysfunction; -Management of challenging behaviour; -Values and attitudes towards disability; -Issues in education from infancy through to adulthood, including Lifetime Learning; -Family issues; -Effective advocacy and -Multi-disciplinary working. Participants on this course come from a range of professional backgrounds and include Care Workers and Managers, Social Workers, Teachers, Nurses, Foster Carers, Speech and Language Therapists and Psychologists. There is an opportunity to meet other students at a yearly study school.
Entry requirementsThis Distance Learning Course is aimed at students who come into contact with individuals with severe or profound learning disabilities or other complex needs, and those who have a desire to gain specialized knowledge in this area. A theoretical framework is reinforced through consideration of practice related issues.
Academic titleProfound and Complex Learning Disability MSc
Course descriptionSpecial features
The course is distance learning and equivalent to 180 credits at M (postgraduate) level of study, including a 60 credit dissertation. Students are allocated a personal tutor to guide them through their period of study and are supported through a telephone/email tutorial system and via a dedicated internet site. There are no formal examinations.
An October Study School forms an integral part of the course where students attend a residential study school in Manchester. The aim of the Study School is to introduce students to the concept of a person-centred approach to support and development. The accent is on moving towards increasing choice, developing relationships, improving competence, developing community presence and participation, and increasing respect for the individual. This approach underpins all aspects of course delivery.
Students studying the MSc full time attend two 4 day study schools over consequtive weekends (8 days in total). Overseas students studying part time may also opt to attend both Study Schools in their first year. An optional two day study school on research issues is available to students during their dissertation study period.
Module details
Course unit materials are studied at a distance. Study on methods of communication and inclusion issues are compulsory. However, students may opt to study a range of additional subjects.