This course is an introduction to key theories, perspectives, and socio-political movements specifically relating to the fields of adult education, youth studies, and community studies. Including philosophical underpinnings, theoretical developments, and paradigmatic movements in education, the course will include explorations of local and global contexts in light of theoretical ideas and discourses. Current developments, challenges, and possibilities for contemporary learning and development will be located within the context of social, ecological, and political contexts.

10 x 3 hour sessions across 10 weeks

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1. A 3000-word academic essay will allow the students to explore a self-selected educational context in relation to international models, theories, and approaches. (60%)

2. A report (including visuals, diagrams, and narrative, equalling 1500 wrds) will present a self-selected educational issue along with an evaluation of the policies, initiatives, and implications of practice in that context. (25%)

3. Group presentation on specified topic. (15%)

1. To create knowledge of and appreciation for the key theories of adult and continuing education; youth studies; and community studies in Scotland, the UK, and internationally;
2. To develop a thorough understanding of the historical developments influencing the fields of adult education, youth studies, and community studies;

3. To identify and critically assess and analyse current patterns of provision within a broader historical and geographical context;
4. To stimulate interest and commitment to the further study of the theories and perspectives in the broad fields of learning and teaching

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of key theoretical and conceptual paradigms in the field of teaching and learning, particularly those concerning their own selected focus area and context of study;

2. Engage effectively in informed discussion about historical and policy trajectories in the field of teaching and learning, particularly those concerning their own selected focus area and context of study;

3. Critically analyse the influence of local and global agendas and programmes in educational provision

4. Develop and articulate a theoretical framework relevant to chosen area of specialisation

5. Apply the course content in individual assignments on related topics.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment. Students must complete all aspects of the assessment.