This programme provides a broad-based platform for the study of key aspects of education, in particular, current concepts, practices and issues. It focuses on the nature of learning and human development and the socio-economic, historical, cultural and political contexts of educational institutions and of the wider society in which learning takes place.
It is also concerned with the differing approaches to knowledge and curricula within institutions, and with evaluating the nature of, and the outcomes arising from, educational processes. This involves debate about the aims of education and the conflicting research paradigms from which educational practices are drawn.
Although the programme does not lead to Qualified Teacher Status, many students go on to become primary school teachers by taking the Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Primary Education.