This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module builds on previous sociological and criminological learning. It aims to enhance students' understanding of the 'third sector' and the criminal justice system, and how they operate in practice. It is designed to give students experience of working in the third sector and in the criminal justice system.
Students will undertake work as a volunteer with an organisation that works within the fields of social justice, the third sector or in the criminal justice system, as 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 addition to their volunteering, students attend lectures and seminars that cover topics such as: the history and development of voluntary action in the 'third sector' and in English criminal justice system; the relationship between volunteers and professionals in 'third sector' and in the criminal justice system; the management, organisation and funding of the principal criminal justice agencies in the public sector; the management and organisation of voluntary/third sector organisations, and the application of sociological and criminological theory to practice.
Total contact hours: 30
Private study hours: 100 hours of voluntary work, 170 hours private study
Total study hours: 300
BSc Social Sciences
BA Criminal Justice and Criminology
Main assessment methods
Coursework - Essay (3,000 words) – 50%
Coursework – Presentation (20 Minutes) - 20%
Coursework - Practice Journal (3,000 words) - 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
Kendall, J. (2003) The Voluntary Sector: Comparative Perspectives in the UK. London: Routledge.
Musick, M. and Wilson, J. (2007) Volunteers: A Social Profile. Bloomington: Indiana University Press.
Rochester, C., Ellis Paine, A. and Howlett, S. (2011) Volunteering and Society in the 21st Century. London: Palgrave.
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able
8.1 Demonstrate enhanced systematic and critical understanding of the 'third sector', the criminal justice system, and/or social support and justice systems and how they work in practice.
8.2 Demonstrate a critical understanding of political and sociological theoretical perspectives upon 'third' sector or voluntary engagement in the criminal justice system.
8.3 Demonstrate a critical understanding of the relationship between theory and practice in the delivery of 'third sector' and criminal and social 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 including the use of established techniques of enquiry and analysis, especially the ability to associate theory with practice.
9.2 Demonstrate developed problem-solving skills and critical awareness.
9.3 Demonstrate the ability to work within an organisation and to communicate effectively with specialist and non-specialist audiences
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