Youth Work:Theory, Practice and Policy

This module sets out to provide the learner with a knowledge of youth work theory, practice and policy. Commencing with Modernity Burrell and Morgan's Sociological Framework will be applied to the historical development of youth work in Ireland. Drawing upon Hurley and Treacy's (1997) Four Models of Youth Work different practice approaches will be examined. This will detail the purpose, adult view of the young person, participation and the type of activities.

From the 1980's to the present day. This module will outline the changes in relation to how young people are view by adults and how they may view themselves, it will examine contemporary youth work approaches and policy. These late-modernity and post-modern perspectives will be related to youth work, the purpose of youth work, different concepts of non-formal and informal education, youth work and outcomes and the role of youth work in multi-disciplinary approaches will be examined.

1. Draw upon sociological understandings to describe the historical development of youth work in Ireland

2. Analyse past and present policy pertaining to youth work

3. Discuss contemporary youth work perspectives

4. Plan, deliver and evaluate a youth work programme

5. Compare and contrast different National and International youth work approaches