Module Choice
Full-time students must choose a compulsory Research Methods and 3 other modules. You can either choose to com-plete 3 taught modules in the first semester and then 1 in the second semester (along with your dissertation) or you can choose 2 in first semester and then 2 in the second semester (along with your dissertation).

Part-time students generally complete one module per semester (although you can choose to speed up your studies). We would generally recommend that you choose op-tional modules in first year and that you would take your com-pulsory Research Methods module in the first semester of the following year.

International Perspectives
This module will be comparative in nature, challenging stu-dents to consider how policy/practice in other contexts has an influence on the thinking of policy makers and practitioners here at home. Students will engage with the concept of globali-sation in the field of educare and will make effective compari-sons, taking into account the cultural diversity of the countries under consideration. Students will be encouraged to engage in action-based research which seeks to identify challenges with-in the indigenous system and then design and implement strat-egies to address the identified differences. These strategies will then be evaluated to examine the effect and impact of this change

Advanced theoretical perspectives on children's crisis and trauma
Set in the context of our ever increasing awareness of the importance of the earliest phases of child develop-ment, this module involves an advanced analysis of those issues that can impact on and support children through cri-sis and trauma. Biological, psychological and sociological perspectives which contribute to development will be ana-lysed and individual differences examined. Practical strate-gies for supporting children will be explored. The module will concentrate on bringing these perspectives together to form a cohesive picture of holistic development.

Early years science and outdoor classrooms
The module will involve a range of workshops critically ex-ploring theory and practice, whilst also evaluating re-sources that support early childhood development. Playful approaches to Science and Technology, enquiry based learning, digital technology in early years science and out-door learning will be explored in terms of theory, but also in terms of the relevance to the early years setting. Critical debate will be encouraged through exploration of local, na-tional and international practices which will enhance effec-tive pedagogy in science and outdoor learning. This mod-ule will also encourage professionals to reflect critically on practice in light of research evidence, relevant policy and current issues.

*This is a proposed new module for 15/16 and is subject to change

Leadership
This module is suitable for all those involved in the field of Early Years provision, in both policy and practice contexts. The module seeks to respond to recent policy developments in the UK in the area of leadership of children's services.

A range of values and priorities in service management and leadership will be presented and students will be challenged to consider these within the context of an integrated service. There will be a particular focus on policy developments relevant to the area of service professionalism at both national and local levels. The module will address an array of management and leadership issues such as: collaborating with a range of professionals; leading a multi-professional team; the concept of professionalism; conflict management; developing a leadership style; communicating vision; self and systems management skills.

NB These modules are subject to change in 15/16

Entitlement to the Award of Master of Arts
The award of Master of Arts (MA) will be made to candi-dates who have successfully completed 180 points at M-level, through completion of four taught modules and a re-search dissertation. The degree of MA may be awarded with distinction on the recommendation of the Board of Ex-aminers.

Students who have accumulated 60 points on the MA or who have successfully completed TWO taught modules may graduate with an Advanced Certificate. Students who have accumulated 120 points on the MA or who have suc-cessfully completed FOUR taught modules may graduate with a Diploma.