DA5108 - Intervening in People’s Lives

Apprentices will be expected to attend all lectures and seminars and actively participate in discussions, ask questionsand take clear notes. They will complete assigned readings and pre-work and come prepared to discuss key concepts and theories and engage in workshops and group work. Like in practice, apprentices will collaborate with peers, share ideas, and practice skills. They will learn through analysing case studies and simulations and apply theory to real-world scenarios, identify challenges and solutions. To reflect on their learning, apprentices will regularly review their notes and use reflective journals to process their experiences and develop self-awareness. Apprentices will have the opportunity to seek out additional resources, explore online resources, textbooks, and academic journals to deepen their understanding. Apprentices will participate in simulations, role-plays, and volunteer work (if applicable) to develop practical skills.



Apprentices will learn by engaging with community representatives and people with lived experience of social work services and carers and by listening to their experiences and perspectives they will broaden their understanding of social work practice.

In accordance with Social Work England’s Professional Standards, the module will assist apprentices in developing knowledge and skills for working in partnership with people who use care and support services to identify their strengths and needs, challenge disadvantage and promote rights. By assisting apprentices to develop skills in recognising and using power and authority in the assessment and intervention processes, and developing knowledge of where interventions are necessary, the module will contribute towards ensuring that social work interventions are proportionate and in the best interests of people who use care and support services.

The module team will provide academic support throughout the duration of the module. Teaching and learning strategies provided by the module team will include lecturer and facilitated focused seminar groups to support apprentices’ knowledge and academic development. They will have access to lecturers at specifically designated times via email and one-to-one meetings. Formative work will include teaching staff, members of the University’s Educators by Experience group, and peer group feedback in preparation for the summative assignment. Feedback will identify aspects of strengths and aspects of learning where apprentices may require development. The feedback received from staff and peers on their formative task will be verbal and will support the development of the wider review for the summative task. Contact details for all tutors for this module are available in the module handbook and via the e-Learning portal. Personal tutors will also meet with apprentices regularly to provide both academic and pastoral support where required throughout their enrolment on the apprentice programme.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding (K&U):  

 

K&U1 Apply systemic and other theoretical frameworks to analyse and understand individual, family, and community dynamics. Illustrate a clear ability to apply these frameworks in assessment and communication.



K&U2 Focus on understanding communication patterns, power dynamics, and the impact of inequalities on relationships, life outcomes, and opportunities.



Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities (IPSA): 

 

IPSA 1 Enhance skills in linking individuals to community resources, fostering collaborative relationships with community organisations, and understanding the broader social factors influencing clients' lives.



IPSA 2 Show an awareness of how cultural and linguistic differences impact communication and interventions.



Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA): 



PVA 1 Integrate value-based and ethical considerations into practice by respecting individual autonomy, maintaining confidentiality, and navigating complex family and community systems ethically.

PVA2 Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and lifelong learning by staying up to date on best practices and actively seeking opportunities for professional growth.

Formative assessment: Participation in class discussions, case study analysis, presentations, reflective journals.



Summative

Summative assessment: Essay (2000-word assignment demonstrating understanding of the social work process in relation to intervening in peoples’ lives), practical assessment (simulation or role-play), portfolio of learning.

How will feedback be provided.

The module team will provide written feedback via the e learning portal for the summative assessment.

DA4088, DA4089, DA4091, DA4092, DA4093

DA5109, D5111, DA5112

This module equips apprentices with the knowledge and skills to effectively assess and intervene in the lives of individuals, familiesand communities. As an apprentice they will explore a range of theoretical frameworks, such as systemic practice and Green Social Workto understand complex social dynamics, environmental injustice and practice which recognises the importance of developing and supporting sustainable communities. Apprentices will be provided learning on key issues in social work, those that affect people, such as climate change and discrimination, as well developments in practice, such as on-line technology, anti-oppressive practice and community social work. They will develop critical communication skills and analyse how power structures and inequalities impact people's lives. The module emphasises ethical decision-making, value-based practice, and collaboration with communities. The module places a strong emphasis on recognising and decoding communication patterns, power structures, and the pervasive effects of inequalities. It seeks to foster a nuanced understanding of how these factors shape relationships, influence life trajectories, and create or limit opportunities for people within society.