Lifelong Learning (Singapore) MA

This master's degree differs from the IOE-based MA Lifelong Learning in that it is taught entirely in Singapore. The venue is our partner institute, the Institute for Adult Learning (IAL). The programme comprises four five-day modules (carried out over the weekend), and a dissertation. Between modules, students will be in contact with their tutor or dissertation supervisor. Students are also required to attend a one-day Induction programme and a three-day Dissertation Workshop aimed at providing additional support to students learning at a distance from London. Students will have access to the library and administrative support provided by the IAL. Upon successful completion of the programme, the degree awarded will be Master of Arts in Lifelong Learning.

The MA LLL (Singapore) programme will:

• give you critical insights into the concept of lifelong learning
• examine knowledge, learning and pedagogy in formal and informal settings
• raise questions about the contribution of lifelong learning to social cohesion and economic competitiveness
• look at policy developments for learning in the private and public sector
• help you to develop a high level of academic and research skill.

Where appropriate, the modules will also examine lifelong learning policies and practice in Singapore and the region.

Features

This masters degree provides the opportunity to:

• take part in national and international discussions of the implications of lifelong learning
• relate the core topics to your own professional practice
• work with leading researchers in the field of lifelong learning
• benefit from a high level of individual support.

Who is this programme for?

Teachers, trainers, coaches, mentors, and managers in lifelong learning, including adult, professional, vocational, and workplace learning in the public or private sector; also those interested in research in Continuing Education and Training or lifelong learning, or those interested in these areas in a personal capacity.

Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents, and international candidates, are welcome to apply.

Entry requirements

A good first degree, and relevant professional experience. If you do not meet this requirement, you may be able to qualify through special procedures.

How are you assessed?

By coursework assignments of up to 5,000 words, essays and portfolios with reflective statements, and a 20,000-word dissertation.

Attendance

Face-to-face full-day sessions carried out over five days (including weekends).

More information

A one-day induction programme covers an introduction to the course modules and course requirements. Candidates will be required to undertake a critical review of an academic article on lifelong learning, followed by a feedback session on their writing and analytical skills. Students will also be assisted in other areas, including course administration matters, the use of learning tools such as the IOE library, literature search, and Moodle (the e-learning platform).

Students must complete a 20,000 word dissertation as part of course requirements. A three-day dissertation workshop will help them prepare for their dissertation.

Core modules

• Lifelong Learning: Theories and Perspectives

• This module covers the introduction to the development, context, and concepts of lifelong learning. In addition to the major concepts associated with the subject, you will be introduced to the history of adult learning and lifelong learning, the different ideologies underlying these, as well as the different forms lifelong learning has taken in the context of Europe (including the UK), and East Asia (including Japan and Singapore).

• Learning and Teaching for Adults

• This module aims to develop an understanding of major theories relating to learning and teaching for adults. By evaluating comparative practice in post-compulsory and professional education, it will help students develop a critical understanding of the relationship between pedagogy and the organisational contexts in which they work, and promote a questioning and analytic approach to contemporary approaches to teaching, learning, and assessment.

• Managing and Enhancing Work-based Learning

• This module is designed for those working in professional and vocational contexts where work-based learning is an established and growing expectation. It will deepen your understanding of the literature in the area, help you reflect on the common practices in the work-based learning environment, and enable you to apply learning to your specific professional and vocational context. It includes a visit to, and an observation of, an unfamiliar workplace, as well as action research in the student's workplace, which will form the basis of the module assessment.

• The Design, Conduct and Evaluation of Educational and Social Research

• This module provides you with the knowledge and understanding of the theoretical foundations, processes, and practices of educational and social research. It enables you to critically evaluate, design, and conduct research in your particular areas of academic and professional interest. It also includes engagement with a wide range of approaches to both qualitative and quantitative research. Course materials consist of a collection of core readings relating to theory, design, methods, and methodology. Also included is a selection of research students relating specifically to vocational and adult continuing education and training that is relevant to Singapore.

How to apply

Applications should be made through the Institute for Adult Learning.