Policy and Practice in Basic Skills Education (Numeracy)

About the course

This exciting and demanding masters course will develop your knowledge and critical thinking skills regarding current educational approaches to numeracy and mathematics education.

You will be taught by educational professionals and assessed using techniques including group and individual projects and assignments, research, presentations, tutorials, reports and essays.

What you will learn

The course will enhance your existing knowledge of the field of numeracy and mathematics education by critical analysis of government policy in this area.

You will have the opportunity to share your experiences and observations as basic skills practitioners and will research, critique and analyse UK and international policy in numeracy and mathematics education.

You will also increase your knowledge of the historical development of numeracy provision and the impact of policy decisions on standards and achievement. The course will give you the opportunity to debate and analyse cultural origins in order to establish what impact these have on achievement and enjoyment of numeracy and mathematics.

What you will study

In studying this course you will develop an awareness of research and build your skills in using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to carry out basic procedures essential to a masters degree programme.

You will investigate recent developments in the provision of basic skills / skills for life and its impact on the work of educational institutions. You will examine the learning and achievement of basic skills learners, taking into account that there are many factors which affect learning and achievement.

In addition, you will examine key theoretical issues that impact on adult numeracy provision and also theoretical aspects of teaching and learning numeracy and mathematics including the philosophy of mathematics and issues in the psychology of learning and teaching mathematics.

The MA Policy and Practice in Basic Skills Education (Numeracy) requires 180 credits. The Postgraduate Diploma in Policy and Practice in Basic Skills Education (Numeracy) is an exit award worth 120 credits. The Postgraduate Certificate in Policy and Practice in Basic Skills Education (Numeracy) is also an exit award worth 60 credits.

The course consists of five core modules, one optional module and a dissertation.

Special features

• The University of Bolton has a long-standing and excellent reputation for the teaching of education courses, and professional development in particular.

• We understand that studying for a masters degree takes commitment and an investment of time, money and effort. You will be taught by experienced educational professionals and have one-to-one tutor support throughout your postgraduate studies.

• As well as small group learning and support the University of Bolton has excellent libraries, 24/7 IT facilities and campus-wide WiFi for all students.

Careers and professional development

This flexible course is designed to address the professional development needs of experienced practitioners in education or other public sector roles. A masters qualification will enhance your career prospects or reaffirm your middle/senior management status.

Study on this course will also enhance skills that will support your career development, including independent working, time and project management, research skills, oral and written presentation and interpersonal skills.

On graduation you will automatically become a member of the University's alumni association, gaining access to a wide range of university facilities, including libraries, journals and periodicals as well as professional and employment advice, throughout your career.

Mode of attendance: Full-time