Essentials of Family Group Decision Making
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Program Overview
Essentials of Family Group Decision Making
Course Overview
The Essentials of Family Group Decision Making is a short course offered by Robert Gordon University, developed in partnership with Children 1st and the City of Edinburgh Council. This 15-credit course at SCQF level 9 is designed for social workers and health and social care professionals working across both children's and adult's services.
Mode of Study and Attendance
- Mode of Study: On Campus
- Mode of Attendance: Part Time
Course Length and Start Date
- The course requires 3 days of attendance, with assessment to be completed 4 weeks after the final teaching day.
- Start Date: By arrangement
What You Will Study
This unique certificated course brings together health and social care practitioners in a supportive learning environment to develop a critical and informed understanding of the context, theory, process, and delivery of Family Group Decision Making (FGDM). The course aims to provide participants with the knowledge and skills required to co-ordinate and run an effective family group meeting.
Learning Outcomes
- Appraise the theory and practice of the Family Group Decision Making model in a national and international context.
- Evidence a critical understanding of the role, function, and principles underpinning the position of Family Group Decision Making co-ordinator.
- Compare the Family Group Decision Making model with other approaches, evidencing a critical awareness of the positives and challenges of using Family Group Decision Making.
Course and Module Information
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses, and course content and structure may change over time.
Learning Methods
The course uses a mixture of learning methods, including experiential learning, group activities and discussions, classroom-based presentations, and supplementary online materials. All 3 days of the course adopt a workshop model, offering a mixed approach to student learning. Groups consist of between 10-16 students.
Off Campus and On Demand
The course is delivered off-campus in a classroom environment, with geographic locations determined by participant demand. The course runs two to three times across the calendar year, with dates determined by participant demand.
Assessment
Students are assessed via a single essay of 3,000 words, which should be submitted 4 weeks after the final teaching day.
Staff Delivering on This Course
The course is delivered by experienced practitioners from Children 1st who have both skills and knowledge of the coordination and delivery of FGDM. The course is supported by a Principal Social Work lecturer from RGU who has academic and professional experience of support, care, and protection activity.
Independent Study
Participants will be required to engage with independent study, focusing on knowledge gain through reading material relevant to the course. Participants will also be expected to undertake independent study in relation to the assessment.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia, and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning and Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students benefit from using the collaborative virtual learning environment, Moodle. Students are provided with 24/7 online access to learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in academic writing, study skills, maths and statistics, and information technology support.
Library Support
The Library offers support for the course, including the books, eBooks, and journals needed. They also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops, and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing.
Job Prospects
Successful completion of the course means participants will be positioned to undertake the coordinator role and to run an effective Family Group Meeting.
RGUflex
RGUflex delivers on-demand flexible learning where students can upskill, reskill, or pursue a passion. It can also be used by employers to allow them to build an education pathway for their employees to gain the skills and knowledge to meet business needs.
Entry Requirements
Students should hold a degree in a related or relevant discipline. If students do not hold a degree but have significant practice experience, they are encouraged to contact the course leader.
Fees
- Academic Year 2025/2026: £940 for the entire course
- Academic Year 2024/2025: £850 for the entire course
Additional Costs
Travel to the location of the course is not included in course fees. Other course-related costs, such as the cost of books, placement costs, accommodation, and living costs, are also not included in the course fees.
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter.