This is a first draft only.
A. Subject Knowledge and Understanding
- An appreciation of the prime importance of the ‘lived experience’ in all research and service design.
- The social and economic context of dementia.
- An understanding of the relevance of ‘personhood’, ‘self’ and ‘identity’ in dementia.
- An understanding of different approaches to care, including person, family and relationships.
- The contribution of the cognitive neurosciences to understanding the symptomatology of dementia.
- The limitations of the medical model of dementia.
- The social model of disability and rights-based approaches.
- The nature of knowledge and research approaches.
- Application of inclusion and collaboration.
- The significance of language, stigma and citizenship.
- An acknowledgement of innovation and leadership.
- A recognition of the major legal and regulatory systems underpinning safe and high quality care.
- The organisation of healthcare systems to promote health and wellbeing whatever the care setting.
- Features of an environment which might promote wellbeing in dementia.
- The strategic drivers behind national and international research into dementia.
B. Analytical skills
- Critically review and evaluate evidence in terms of its source, reliability, validity and significance.
- Critically evaluate research methods appropriate to their purpose.
- Synthesise information and arguments in an original way.
- Ability to present information in an audience-appropriate way, e.g. scientific papers, posters, podcasts, talks, blogs.
C. Subject-specific skills
- Critically evaluate policies related to dementia, nationally and internationally.
- Apply in-depth knowledge and critically reflect on the impact of culture and diversity on people with dementia.
- Critically evaluate the influence of different approaches on perceptions of dementia (e.g. ethnographic, quantitative, case study, drug trials, art).
D. Generic and transferable skills
- Have developed and be able to apply critical evaluation skills in context.
- Demonstrate an understanding of ethical considerations in working with people with dementia including consent.
- Demonstrate an understanding of legal considerations, including human rights, equality legislation, and capacity.
- Identify and apply strategies to enhance partnership and collaboration.
- Effectively utilise Information Technology, and specifically online communication.
Subject areas for the PG Certificate, PG Diploma and Masters
Year 1 (Postgraduate certificate in dementia)
Art and science of dementia (30)
Living beyond a diagnosis of dementia (30)
Year 2 (Postgraduate diploma in dementia)
Above +
Three out of the following:-
Law and regulation (20)
Leadership (20)
Innovation and improvement (20)
Care and support (20)
End of life (20)
Enhancing health and wellbeing (20)
Public health (20)
Communities and inclusion (20)
Year 3 (MSc in Dementia)
Above +
Research methods (20)
Practice-focused dissertation (40)
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