This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module is normally taken in stage 3, as it builds on previous criminological learning. It aims to enhance students' understanding of the criminal justice system and how it operates in practice, and to give students experience of working in the criminal justice system.
Students will undertake work as a volunteer with an organisation that works with the criminal justice system agreed by the module convenor (assistance is available to identify appropriate volunteering opportunities. Students will complete 100 hours of volunteering for this module by the end of the Spring term.
In the Autumn term, in addition to their volunteering, students attend six lectures and six seminars that cover topics such as: the history and development of voluntary action in the English criminal justice system; the relationship between volunteers and professionals in the criminal justice system; the management, organisation and funding of principal criminal justice agencies in the public sector; the management and organisation of voluntary/third sector organisations that work with the criminal justice system, and the application of criminological theory to practice.
In the Spring term, in addition to their volunteering, students attend six workshops to reflect and present on their academic and practice learning.
Total contact hours: 30
Private study hours: 100 hours of voluntary work, 170 hours private study
Total study hours: 300
BA Criminal Justice and Criminology
Main assessment methods
Essay (5000 words) - 50%
Seminar Presentation - 20%
Assignment - Learning Journal - 30%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
Healey, J. and Spencer, M. 2008, Surviving your Placement in Health and Social Care: A Student Handbook Milton Keynes: Open University Press
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate enhanced understanding of the criminal justice system and how it operates in practice.
8.2 Demonstrate a critical understanding of political and sociological theoretical perspectives upon voluntary engagement in the criminal
justice system.
8.3 Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between theory and practice in the delivery of criminal justice services.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Demonstrate enhanced research and analytical skills, especially the ability to associate theory with practice.
9.2 Demonstrate development of problem-solving skills and critical awareness.
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