Access to Higher Education Diploma (Education) - General
Overview
Want to study an education related subject at undergraduate level but not yet sure which area suits you best? Then this Access to HE Diploma (Education) with its General Pathway is the ideal course for you. It provides a great balance of educational practice alongside theory and childhood studies, making it the perfect programme for students who want to gain a valuable insight into the world of education.
If you do not possess the traditional qualifications, such as A-levels then the Access to HE Diploma is an excellent alternative route to university. This diploma is accepted by most UK universities and helps prepare you for the demands of Higher Education. It has been specially constructed to suit the needs of potential students who have been out of education for some time.
We strongly recommend that you first select the degree course you would like to study, and make sure that the university you wish to attend is happy with your Access to HE Diploma (Education). Once you have checked that it meets their entrance criteria, you will know that this course is the right path for you.
Distance learning courses offer you freedom with your studies. First of all, you are not required to wait until September to get started. You can start straight away or begin studying at a time that suits you the most. Secondly, you are not required to attend classes, you can study from home, at a time that is convenient for you. This is perfect for those who have a particularly demanding work or family life.
Nothing can stop you pursuing a career in any number of areas once you have the undergraduate degree under your belt. Many students go on to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by studying towards an undergraduate degree or a PGCE, but that does not mean just because you study education that you need to be a teacher. There are plenty of alternative career paths which you can take after you graduate.
How does the course work?
The Access to HE Diploma works just like any other qualification, the only difference is you do not have to attend classes. We provide you with all the course materials you need online which are easy to understand and offer a broad range of additional information to help and assist you. You will also have access to our expert tutors who will be there for you every step of the way. All of our tutors are contactable via our online portal, email or phone.
The flexibility of distance learning makes it possible for people to pursue their educational goals. We will provide you with an individual learning plan outlining your deadlines for achievable targets. Also, our dedicated tutors and a network of like-minded and supportive students are just a click away.
With an Access to HE Diploma, you can study at your own pace. The speed at which you study is your choice, you can complete the course in 6 months or choose to spread it out over 18 months.
Modules
Unit 1: Preparing To Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task.
- Know how to interpret and discuss concepts and debates in responding to a set, academic writing task.
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
- Understand the role of reference, allusion and paraphrase to avoid plagiarism.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources.
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced.
- Understand a range of reading strategies.
- Understand note-making methods.
- Understand how to plan draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Roles, Responsibilities & Relationships in Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the role and responsibilities of the teacher/mentor/trainer
- Understand the professional relationships between teachers and trainers engaged in education.
- Understand the importance and use of Teacher’s Standards.
- Understand the importance of continued professional development for education staff.
Unit 5: The Developing Child
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the stages of development of children from birth to 18 years.
- Understand the stages of cognitive development of children from birth to 18 years
- Understand factors which affect social, emotional, physical and cognitive development in children from birth to 18 years.
Unit 6: Influences on Educational Achievement
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the differences in educational achievement between different groups.
- Understand measures to address differences in educational achievement.
Unit 7: The Psychology of Learning
On completion of this module you will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of a range of theories of learning
- Demonstrate an understanding of different learning and teaching styles
Unit 8: The Human Nutrition and the Digestive System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the organs of the digestive system
- Understand nutrients and their sources
- Understand the components of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 9: Theories of Child Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand Piaget’s theory of development.
- Understand the major criticisms of Piaget’s work in child development.
- Understand alternative theories of development.
- Understand how stages of development link to practical situations.
Unit 10: Language acquisition
On completion of this module you will:
- Understand the stages of development on children’s language.
- Understand the contrasting views on language acquisition.
Unit 11: The Development of Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand changes and developments in the educational system.
- Understand contrasting theories of the role of education in society.
- Understand the relationships between educational opportunity, social class, gender and ethnicity.
Unit 12: Developmental Psychology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of early relationships in child development.
- Understand explanations of the development of individual differences.
Unit 13: Disability and Special Education Needs
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know the different types of disability and special education needs.
- Understand key features of the current legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures for working with learners with disabilities and special education needs.
- Understand the planning approaches used in the classroom to support inclusive learning involving learners with disabilities and special education needs.
Unit 14: Play
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand types and the value of play.
- Understand the theories of play in relation to children’s life stages.
- Be able to plan, deliver and review an activity linked to a theory of play, which meets an intended learner’s needs.
Unit 15: Short story
On completion of this module you will:
- Understand narrative elements of the story.
- Understand textual features and language.
- Understand the influence of social and historical factors on the text.
- Know how to make a personal response to the text.
- Know how to use supporting evidence.
Unit 16: Managing Behaviour in the Classroom
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of maintaining a positive learning environment in a classroom.
- Understand how to maintain a positive learning environment
- Understand some of the underlying causes of behavioural problems as displayed in the classroom.
- Understand methods for managing pupil behaviour.
Unit 17: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive tract throughout life
- Understand the sequence of events from conception to puberty
Unit 18: Sociology of Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of education as a socializing agency.
- Understand the roles of education in contemporary society.
- Understand the sociological explanations of labelling and the use of stereotypes
- Understand the concept of meritocracy.
Unit 19: Equality of Opportunities
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the main aspects of the legal framework which identify rights and responsibilities about equality of opportunities.
- Understand how to promote equality of opportunities, inclusiveness and diversity in the workplace.
Unit 20: Safeguarding in Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the development of legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures for safeguarding learners in education.
- Be able to categorise different types and recognise indicators of, abuse.
- Understand policies and procedures in relation to safeguarding in an educational institution, and their use.
- Understand how different agencies work together to safeguard learners in education.
- Understand the importance of application of accepted Codes of Practice in classroom practice.
Requirements
If you wish to start your Access to Higher Education Diploma right now, you should hold a GSCE in maths and English (or equivalent) at grade C or above. It is a common requirement for entry to most universities and degrees. However, you can also have a relevant NVQ at level 2 if you wish to study a related degree at university.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas have been designed to help learners follow their academic aspirations and get them into their choice university. You must be mindful that each university has its own admission criteria, and some may even differ from course to course. These can include, but not be limited to:
● A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction.
● A face-to-face interview at the university
● Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university.
● Course-related work placements or work experience
● GCSE Grade A – C in Maths and English (or equivalent level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills etc.) Or a full level 2 NVQ qualification in a related subject.
Students wishing to gain entry to higher education at the end of this Diploma should conduct some preliminary research on the admission criteria as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment. Each learner is responsible for researching the entry criteria and ensuring they meet the requirements. Learndirect is not able to accept responsibility if anyone completing an Access to HE Diploma fails to secure an offer from a higher education institution.
Assessment
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total in order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma in Education. Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on academic content. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you advance your study skills.
As part of your programme you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Qualifications
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Education) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: (40010837). This course has also been assigned 60 credits.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Developing your career
Your Access to Higher Education Diploma and the way it is delivered within our innovative learning platform is designed to give you the best possible chance of fulfilling your dream of studying at university. Higher Education Degrees confirm to any employer your intellect, motivation and ability to work independently to succeed not just in your area of specialism but also life itself. A higher education degree is a gateway qualification that will allow you to apply 1,000's of graduate programmes as well as setting you apart from those who don't have a degree.
Want to study an education related subject at undergraduate level but not yet sure which area suits you best? Then this Access to HE Diploma (Education) with its General Pathway is the ideal course for you. It provides a great balance of educational practice alongside theory and childhood studies, making it the perfect programme for students who want to gain a valuable insight into the world of education.
If you do not possess the traditional qualifications, such as A-levels then the Access to HE Diploma is an excellent alternative route to university. This diploma is accepted by most UK universities and helps prepare you for the demands of Higher Education. It has been specially constructed to suit the needs of potential students who have been out of education for some time.
We strongly recommend that you first select the degree course you would like to study, and make sure that the university you wish to attend is happy with your Access to HE Diploma (Education). Once you have checked that it meets their entrance criteria, you will know that this course is the right path for you.
Distance learning courses offer you freedom with your studies. First of all, you are not required to wait until September to get started. You can start straight away or begin studying at a time that suits you the most. Secondly, you are not required to attend classes, you can study from home, at a time that is convenient for you. This is perfect for those who have a particularly demanding work or family life.
Nothing can stop you pursuing a career in any number of areas once you have the undergraduate degree under your belt. Many students go on to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by studying towards an undergraduate degree or a PGCE, but that does not mean just because you study education that you need to be a teacher. There are plenty of alternative career paths which you can take after you graduate.
How does the course work?
The Access to HE Diploma works just like any other qualification, the only difference is you do not have to attend classes. We provide you with all the course materials you need online which are easy to understand and offer a broad range of additional information to help and assist you. You will also have access to our expert tutors who will be there for you every step of the way. All of our tutors are contactable via our online portal, email or phone.
The flexibility of distance learning makes it possible for people to pursue their educational goals. We will provide you with an individual learning plan outlining your deadlines for achievable targets. Also, our dedicated tutors and a network of like-minded and supportive students are just a click away.
With an Access to HE Diploma, you can study at your own pace. The speed at which you study is your choice, you can complete the course in 6 months or choose to spread it out over 18 months.
Modules
Unit 1: Preparing To Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task.
- Know how to interpret and discuss concepts and debates in responding to a set, academic writing task.
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
- Understand the role of reference, allusion and paraphrase to avoid plagiarism.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources.
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced.
- Understand a range of reading strategies.
- Understand note-making methods.
- Understand how to plan draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Roles, Responsibilities & Relationships in Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the role and responsibilities of the teacher/mentor/trainer
- Understand the professional relationships between teachers and trainers engaged in education.
- Understand the importance and use of Teacher’s Standards.
- Understand the importance of continued professional development for education staff.
Unit 5: The Developing Child
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the stages of development of children from birth to 18 years.
- Understand the stages of cognitive development of children from birth to 18 years
- Understand factors which affect social, emotional, physical and cognitive development in children from birth to 18 years.
Unit 6: Influences on Educational Achievement
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the differences in educational achievement between different groups.
- Understand measures to address differences in educational achievement.
Unit 7: The Psychology of Learning
On completion of this module you will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of a range of theories of learning
- Demonstrate an understanding of different learning and teaching styles
Unit 8: The Human Nutrition and the Digestive System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the organs of the digestive system
- Understand nutrients and their sources
- Understand the components of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 9: Theories of Child Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand Piaget’s theory of development.
- Understand the major criticisms of Piaget’s work in child development.
- Understand alternative theories of development.
- Understand how stages of development link to practical situations.
Unit 10: Language acquisition
On completion of this module you will:
- Understand the stages of development on children’s language.
- Understand the contrasting views on language acquisition.
Unit 11: The Development of Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand changes and developments in the educational system.
- Understand contrasting theories of the role of education in society.
- Understand the relationships between educational opportunity, social class, gender and ethnicity.
Unit 12: Developmental Psychology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of early relationships in child development.
- Understand explanations of the development of individual differences.
Unit 13: Disability and Special Education Needs
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know the different types of disability and special education needs.
- Understand key features of the current legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures for working with learners with disabilities and special education needs.
- Understand the planning approaches used in the classroom to support inclusive learning involving learners with disabilities and special education needs.
Unit 14: Play
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand types and the value of play.
- Understand the theories of play in relation to children’s life stages.
- Be able to plan, deliver and review an activity linked to a theory of play, which meets an intended learner’s needs.
Unit 15: Short story
On completion of this module you will:
- Understand narrative elements of the story.
- Understand textual features and language.
- Understand the influence of social and historical factors on the text.
- Know how to make a personal response to the text.
- Know how to use supporting evidence.
Unit 16: Managing Behaviour in the Classroom
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of maintaining a positive learning environment in a classroom.
- Understand how to maintain a positive learning environment
- Understand some of the underlying causes of behavioural problems as displayed in the classroom.
- Understand methods for managing pupil behaviour.
Unit 17: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive tract throughout life
- Understand the sequence of events from conception to puberty
Unit 18: Sociology of Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of education as a socializing agency.
- Understand the roles of education in contemporary society.
- Understand the sociological explanations of labelling and the use of stereotypes
- Understand the concept of meritocracy.
Unit 19: Equality of Opportunities
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the main aspects of the legal framework which identify rights and responsibilities about equality of opportunities.
- Understand how to promote equality of opportunities, inclusiveness and diversity in the workplace.
Unit 20: Safeguarding in Education
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the development of legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures for safeguarding learners in education.
- Be able to categorise different types and recognise indicators of, abuse.
- Understand policies and procedures in relation to safeguarding in an educational institution, and their use.
- Understand how different agencies work together to safeguard learners in education.
- Understand the importance of application of accepted Codes of Practice in classroom practice.
Requirements
If you wish to start your Access to Higher Education Diploma right now, you should hold a GSCE in maths and English (or equivalent) at grade C or above. It is a common requirement for entry to most universities and degrees. However, you can also have a relevant NVQ at level 2 if you wish to study a related degree at university.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas have been designed to help learners follow their academic aspirations and get them into their choice university. You must be mindful that each university has its own admission criteria, and some may even differ from course to course. These can include, but not be limited to:
● A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction.
● A face-to-face interview at the university
● Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university.
● Course-related work placements or work experience
● GCSE Grade A – C in Maths and English (or equivalent level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills etc.) Or a full level 2 NVQ qualification in a related subject.
Students wishing to gain entry to higher education at the end of this Diploma should conduct some preliminary research on the admission criteria as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment. Each learner is responsible for researching the entry criteria and ensuring they meet the requirements. Learndirect is not able to accept responsibility if anyone completing an Access to HE Diploma fails to secure an offer from a higher education institution.
Assessment
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total in order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma in Education. Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on academic content. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you advance your study skills.
As part of your programme you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Qualifications
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Education) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: (40010837). This course has also been assigned 60 credits.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Your Access to Higher Education Diploma and the way it is delivered within our innovative learning platform is designed to give you the best possible chance of fulfilling your dream of studying at university. Higher Education Degrees confirm to any employer your intellect, motivation and ability to work independently to succeed not just in your area of specialism but also life itself. A higher education degree is a gateway qualification that will allow you to apply 1,000's of graduate programmes as well as setting you apart from those who don't have a degree.
Need proof of your English and Maths skills? Want to catch up and learn more English and Maths? You can for free when you sign up to this learndirect course.
