The UL Practicum provides a mechanism to broaden the curriculum through action-oriented research and service-learning. It is designed to facilitate students to work in cross disciplinary teams, on real-world problems, identified by external partners. Students on this module will take part in faculty designed, multi or inter -disciplinary applied research projects in collaboration with external community stakeholders (civic, public, private). As with any project, Practicum projects will comprise a varied number of work packages, which may require a variety of levels of experience and/or skills. This experiential and disciplinary diversity will be provided by a team of students with different disciplinary and programme expertise, in terms of their competence levels (eg. undergraduate or postgraduate) and the extent of their involvement in the project (eg. as part of a programme, as an elective or as a dissertation) This UL Practicum module reflects student input and work that is equivalent to one diploma level module at 15 ECTS

This module will provide students with practical experience, generic skills development (such as applied research work, team work, problem-solving and project work) as well as the experience of being part of a multi- or inter- disciplinary team. It will enable them to apply the disciplinary knowledge that they have learnt to multi-faceted real-world problems. Students will: take part in problem identification and ideation; develop a deeper understanding of academic issues areas and problems in consultation with external stakeholders; work towards solutions in collaboration; implement identified changes and evaluate outcomes. A reflective practice will underpin the student experience throughout.

Develop the capacity to apply curriculum-based knowledge in a real-world setting. Develop competence to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in collaboration with external community stake-holders Develop project work and problem solving skills

Develop competence in conveying ideas clearly and effectively to a range of different stake-holders in different organizational and/or community or cultural settings contexts. Explore issues of social responsibility, ethical practice and in sustainable community contexts. Develop the capacity to see new opportunities to address commonly identified issues/ problems within the community Challenge and question their own attitudes and values by working on a project that aims to meet identified needs and priorities in a real world setting. Recognizing the capacity of those outside their own area of expertise to deliver their own professional and/or experiential expertise into collaborative project work.

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Experience The teaching style will be interactive and problem-focused. Students will participate in the learning environment through engagement in teaching learning and assessment strategies for example, discussions, group work, self-directed learning, recommended reading, reflection, enquiry/problem-based learning and case scenarios and family/community -based projects. Demonstrate the ability to undertake independent learning activities Research Demonstrate an appreciation of current literature and how it relates to leading and sustaining change in the community. Incorporate relevant national and international research findings on community oriented research and public policy