UNISON Ulearn Northern Ireland

This is part of the Open University’s Openings programme which aims to introduce new people to the Open University, helping to develop study skills, knowledge and confidence. It is particularly useful for members who work shifts and cannot commit to a regular timetable, or members who have dependent care responsibilities which makes it difficult to attend classes. Each Openings course lasts a maximum of 20 weeks and is supported by regular telephone contact with a tutor. Each learner will receive a core text, the course guide, one audio CD, one DVD and the assignment book and will work at their own speed. Learners will submit two assignments and can earn 10 credits for successful completion.

The course

Understanding Children has been prepared with the needs of new learners in mind. The course materials assume no special knowledge and no experience of studying. Talking examples from everyday life, they enable you to start from your general knowledge and interests and gradually build up to degree-level study.

Features of the course include:

• case studies that illustrate the main themes
• activities that encourage you to link the discussions in the course to your own experience
• study skills sections that help you to develop your skills and think about how you are learning
• key points sections that summarise the important information.

The course consists of three units. The ‘Babies being heard’ unit considers the ways in which babies and children under the age of three communicate and express their individuality, and how babies form relationships with people around them and why this is important.

‘Children having a say’ focuses on children between the ages of four and five and starts by exploring what happens when conflict or disagreements arise with young children and the range of ways families can resolve them. The second part of this unit explores the experience for children of moving from the home and into a nursery or school environment; changes in expectations; and having their views heard.

The final unit, ‘Young people finding their place’, looks at nine- to 11-year olds and their relationships with the world beyond the family; how their voices are heard; the skills they are learning; and their contributions to family life.

This Openings course would be helpful if you are interested in going on to study childhood studies, health and social care or education.

Courses run from February, June, September & November. You must be registered at least two weeks prior to course starting. If you are interested in this course, please download an expression of interest form.