Advanced Communication Techniques in Care
Module Description
This module will focus on the importance of effective communication in care.
Students will be introduced to effective communication tools and techniques which promote patient engagement and which enhance coordination amongst the different teams in care.
Entry Requirements
- A qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent) in Care or a related field and English Language at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).
- In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted on the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA College, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
*Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.
Target Audience
The programme targets the following groups:
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in the field of care.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of career paths within the care profession.
- Individuals seeking to enhance their ability to interpret, assess, and communicate care-related information.
- Individuals already working in care who wish to progress to more advanced positions.
- Individuals aiming to continue their studies in health and social care at higher levels.
Career Paths
This qualification prepares students for advanced roles in direct care provision, including:
- Senior Care Assistant
- Community Support Worker
- Mental Health Support Worker
- Pediatric Care Assistant
- Personal Care Assistant
- Disability Support Worker
- Palliative / End-of-Life Care Worker
- Rehabilitation Support Worker
- Residential Care Worker
How you’ll be assessed
The course comprises:
- Evening classes for part-time courses.
- Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
- Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
- Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Formative Assessment
- Summative Assessment
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Apply effective communication techniques appropriate for different care environments.
- Facilitate shared decision-making through the use of communication tools.
- Manage communication issues in complex care settings.
- Improve care outcomes through effective communication.
Knowledge
By the end of the module/unit, the students will be able to:
- Apply effective communication techniques appropriate for different care environments.
- Facilitate shared decision-making through the use of communication tools.
- Manage communication issues in complex care settings.
- Improve care outcomes through effective communication.
Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Adapt their communication techniques and styles to different care contexts.
- Overcome barriers to communication through the application of strategies such as active listening, assistive technologies, interpreters, etc.
- Foster significant interactions and relationships through the use of skills such as empathy and cultural competence.
- Enhance comprehension and engagement in the decision-making process.
- Exchange information in a clear and timely manner.
- De-escalate conflict through mediation and active listening.
- Identify and mitigate any breakdowns in communication.
- Make use of digital documentation and other strategies to address and mitigate any communication gaps.
Module-Specific Learner Skills
The learner will be able to:
- Maintain a patient-centred approach in high-pressure situations.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences
The learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find, download, and upload assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials, etc.