Award – Out of the Blue
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Programme Description
The course is accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA).
This short course adopts a hands-on methodology that combines practical engagement with interactive discussions and the sharing of personal experiences. Participants will have the opportunity to actively engage in various outdoor activities, especially those within the context of Blue Spaces, accompanied by expert trainers and course tutors while also participating in discussions and exchanging their own experiences.
The course aims to provide a blended learning approach that integrates hands-on experiences with reflective dialogue, creating a comprehensive and dynamic learning environment. By incorporating both experiential learning and meaningful discussions, participants will gain a well-rounded understanding of how outdoor environments can be utilised to address challenges like stress, grief, and anxiety.
Entry Requirements
- Students must have a minimum of MQF Level 3 in English language or equivalent and basic knowledge of presentation skills in digital format such as Microsoft Powerpoint and Word.
Learning Outcomes
- Knowledge The learner will be able to: a. Remember their experiences relating to terms such as stress, grief and anxiety. b. Understand the terminology that is in current use and how it is related to current life styles. c. Understand the benefits of outdoor environments: Participants will gain knowledge about the positive impact that outdoor spaces can have on mental health and well-being, particularly in addressing issues such as stress, grief, and anxiety. d. Apply methodologies for dealing with stress, grief and anxiety. e. Analyze the causes of stress, grief and anxiety especially in young people. f. Evaluate various models and approaches that deal with stress, grief and anxiety. g. Create strategies which respond to stress, grief and anxiety in the context of youth work and education. h. Create suitable outdoor activities, especially within the context of Blue Spaces: Participants will learn to identify and apply, evaluate and create appropriate activities within outdoor environments that are effective in addressing the specific challenges faced by young people.
- Skills The learner will be able to: a. Develop practical skills: Participants will acquire hands-on skills related to implementing and facilitating outdoor activities, especially those within the context of Blue Spaces, including planning, organising, and adapting activities to meet the needs of individuals or groups. b. Enhance empathy and communication: Through discussions and sharing of experiences, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the emotional experiences of young individuals facing various challenges, enhancing their empathy and communication skills. c. Apply theoretical frameworks: Participants will explore relevant theoretical frameworks and concepts that underpin the use of outdoor environments for therapeutic purposes, and learn how to apply these frameworks in practical contexts. d. Reflect on personal experiences: The course will encourage participants to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives, helping them gain insights into their own emotions, strengths, and limitations when addressing issues faced by young people. e. Collaborate and networking: Participants will have opportunities to collaborate with peers, exchange ideas, and build a network of professionals interested in utilising outdoor environments for therapeutic purposes. f. Create tailored intervention plan/s: Participants will be able to develop customised intervention plans and strategies utilising outdoor environments, especially those within the context of Blue Spaces, to address specific challenges faced by young people, considering their unique needs and circumstances.
Target Audience
- Youth Workers; Youth Leaders; Scout Leaders, Girl Guide Leaders; Social Workers; Teachers; Learning Support Educators. Furthermore, this course is ideal for volunteers and workers who are active in the social and youth care sector who would like to improve their skills. It is suitable for those who have an interest in non-formal education and want to gain knowledge, skills and competences when working with young people.
- 3 Sections
- 1 Lesson
- 4 Days
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- Structure of the Programme1
- Mode of DeliveryThis course is delivered face-to-face through a blended and experiential learning approach that combines theory, practice, and reflection.
You will be introduced to key theories, concepts, and approaches related to stress, grief, and anxiety through guided sessions. These are complemented by engaging outdoor, hands-on activities, where you will actively explore practical strategies within real-life contexts.
The course also includes fieldwork opportunities, allowing you to apply your knowledge and skills in authentic settings. Reflection is an integral part of the learning process, with journaling, group discussions, and debriefing sessions supporting you in analysing your experiences, sharing insights, and learning from others.0 - AssessmentDuring the course, the participants will be assessed on their attendance and participation. Attendance is obligatory. The trainers will be assessing the abilities and aptitude of each participant as part of their assessment in the course. Oral feedback and support will be provided throughout the teaching and learning process.
After each activity, the learners will be provided with an evaluation sheet to help them reflect on their achievement of the learning outcomes. To sustain this process, the learning outcomes and objectives of each activity are communicated and clarified at the beginning of the module.
To deepen their understanding and promote self-reflection, learners will keep reflective journals. This practice will allow them to document their thoughts, emotions, and observations, facilitating personal growth and a deeper integration of the course material. Tutors will be assessing both the process and final presentation of the journals.
At the end of the course, the participants will be requested to present a personal reflection on the learning outcomes related to how outdoor activities in and around Blue Spaces based on their course experience. They will also be asked to propose a learning plan for one relevant activity.
40% is allowed for the ongoing assessment during the module. This will be based on their engagement with the learning process ( 20%), and their participation in the activities (20%).
60% is allowed for the reflection paper.
A rubric is created for grading purposes.
Assignments and the overall assessment are graded according:
A=85 -100
B=70 – 84
C=51 – 69
D=46 – 50
E=40 – 45
F=(marks under 39) Fail0
Courses
St. Francis de Sales Institute
MFHEA Licence Number: 2023-020.
Category of Licence: Further Education Institution.