Working with Children and Families: Diversity and Communication

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 4
• Convenor: Ana da Cunha Lewin
• Assessment: a 15-minute class presentation (50%), 1500-word essay or case study (40%) and class participation (10%)

In this module we explore theoretical, social, cultural and professional understandings of children, families and diversity and the ways these understandings inform professionals’ work with them. In addition we will explore how communication theories can be applied to support professional and personal communication.

Indicative syllabus

• Childhood: historical and cultural perspective 
• Families: a cultural and historical perspective 
• Parenting and family structures 
• Social inclusion and family diversity 
• Diverse families
• Communication
• History, diversity and social inclusion: bringing it all together
• Class presentations

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• demonstrate an awareness of societal/cultural/historical beliefs about the status and needs of children
• reflect on current and historical beliefs about the role of the family
• understand how such beliefs influence how professionals work with children and families
• critically discuss the role of the practitioner in supporting children and families
• discuss the needs of diverse children and families and consider ways in which professionals seek to meet these
• begin to critically reflect on the professional skills, such as multi-agency working and effective communication, that facilitate collaboration and positive relationships in educational/care settings
• understand a range of communication theories and practice, and their application to professional and personal communication.