Postgraduate Module Descriptor


POLM014M: MPA Applied Studies (MPA with Applied Studies ONLY)

This module descriptor refers to the 2016/7 academic year.

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

1. Induction class for the whole group: discussion of rationale, and programme of events; 
2. Regular fortnightly one-to one interviews and discussions with the module co-ordinator to oversee guided independent learning; 
3. A series of visits to local, regional and national and European institutions; 
4. A series of talks by guest speakers on topics relating to public administration; 
5. Review class for the whole group at the end of the module: discussion and appraisal

Details of Learning and Teaching Methods: 
This module will combine the following: 
1. Induction and completion classes for the whole group 
2. guided independent learning with frequent one-to-one sessions between student and tutor, including the facilitation of the written report (agreed between employer, student and module co-ordinator); 
3. talks by visiting speakers, at which student will be encouraged to participate through discussion and questioning; 
4. visits to institutions, for which students will be expected to prepare beforehand, and actively participate during the visit itself; 
5. Possible work placement activity; 
6. whole group classes, with presentations of employer reports; 
7. online reflective learning logs which ask the student to reflect on the relevance of the talks, visits, classes and written report for his or her career.

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching ActivitiesGuided independent studyPlacement / study abroad
605400

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

CategoryHours of study timeDescription
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities60Practical contact time (for example, whole class meetings, one to one supervisory meetings, possible work placements, institutional visits, guest Lectures)
Guided independent study540Independent study

Online Resources

This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).

Indicative web based resources e.g. ELE: 
The module will be supported by ELE materials, including the reflective learning log

Other Learning Resources

Websites and literature produced by the various institutions visited