COURSE OUTLINE
Course Title: Youth Development Work: Introduction to Theory and Practice
Course Code: YDEW1000
Credits: 3
Year: 1
Competency Standard: 3
Course Description:
This course introduces learners to the foundations of the profession by exploring the theoretical principles which underpin the concept of youth and youth development work through an exploration of the history of youth development work with special reference to the evolution of practice in the Caribbean. The course will examine definitions and labels attributed to youth including child, youth, juvenile, adolescent and young person and will highlight issues affecting special categories of youth. By engaging in the study of the contemporary status of the Caribbean youth development work, learners will understand
the significance of professionalisation and competencies, the roles and responsibilities of the youth worker, the dynamics of working with youth individually and in groups, special ethical issues, current institutional values and organisational structures for youth development work in the Caribbean. The course will also introduce learners to the rights- based approach to youth development. Learners will begin a Learning and Professional Development Journal to outline professional goals and objectives and to practice reflective thinking to help develop their personal and professional practice. The Learning and Professional Journal will be used and updated as learners progress through their programme.
Course Objectives:
On successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Knowledge
1. Explain the key concepts of youth and youth development work
2. Discuss the historical evolution of youth development work, globally and in the Caribbean
3. Describe the core values and principles underpinning youth development work as a profession
4. Analyse the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of youth development work in the Caribbean
5. Assess the value of the rights-based approach to youth development work
6. Evaluate the key perspectives, models and approaches that underpin youth development work
7. Explain the roles, responsibilities and competencies required of the youth development worker
8. Assess the life situation of youth in Caribbean countries to determine areas for improvement
9. Illustrate the importance of working in partnership with youth and locate the construct of partnership within professional approaches to youth development work
10. Assess the political, economic and social factors which influence youth development work in the Caribbean
Skills
11. Apply principles, values, ethics and theories to cases based on real-life situations
12. Apply appropriate youth development models and approaches to cases based on real-life situations
13. Exhibit reflective skills, through written analysis of elements of personal and professional practice of youth development work
14. Conduct a situational analysis of the political, economic and social elements in a community
Attitudes
15. Value and adopt the principles, values and ethics of youth development work
16. Integrate personal values, beliefs and attitudes of youth development work into personal practice
17. Appreciate the value of the rights-based approach to youth development work
18. Reflect on and evaluate personal perspectives and values related to professional youth development work
19. Respect the rights of individuals and reject stigma, discrimination and prejudice
