10 credits at level 1 (NQF level 4)
This course will give you experience and understanding of the skills involved in actively listening to those you meet, live and work with. Counselling skills are particularly valuable for anyone working with people in a helping, caring or supporting role. Research has shown that practitioners of counselling and counselling skills, whatever their theoretical orientation work more effectively when they relate in a way that embodies an attitude of genuine, non-judgmental understanding. The qualities of empathy, congruence or genuiness and unconditional positive regard are crucial in all helping relationships. Experiential group work is used on this course to help participants to foster the self awareness needed to develop these essential qualities. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own experience and listen to others in a caring, respectful and open manner.
COURSE CONTENT
Practical Listening Skills
The core conditions of empathy, genuineness and acceptance will be introduced and developed through experiential learning within the group. Skills will include attentive listening and responding, non-verbal communication, asking open questions, summarising and reflecting feelings. Specific topics chosen by participants and tutors will also be explored.
Personal Development
Participants will have opportunities to develop their self awareness through participation in group work, by keeping a reflective learning journal, and by listening to the experiences of others within the group.
Coursework and Assessment
You should also expect to spend about 4 or 5 hours a week on private study which may include reading, completing assignments and keeping a reflective learning journal. There will be a practical assessment of students’ listening skills in a 10-15 minute observed listening session followed by discussion and a short written assignment.
This course is a prerequisite for entry to the Certificates in Counselling Skills and Cognitve Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Skills.
Unfortunately the University is unable to offer this course in 2011/12.
Please contact admissions for details of alternative courses: edu.cce.admiss@uea.ac.uk or 01603 593252
