Learning outcomes

To successfully complete this unit you will be able to demonstrate you have achieved the learning outcomes (LO) detailed in the below table.

Each outcome is informed by a number of graduate capabilities (GC) to ensure your work in this, and every unit, is part of a larger goal of graduating from ACU with the attributes of insight, empathy, imagination and impact.

Explore the graduate capabilities.

Content

Topics and activities will include: 

• Reflection and discernment on the desired area of engagement, and the aims and limits of the project; 
• Articulation and theological reflection on the mission ethos of a specific Christian community and its contribution to the Church and/or society at large; 
• Application to the group/community/institution with an expression of the student’s specific interests; 
• Involvement in the activity of the group/community/institution; 
• Building safe and supportive environments for working with children, young people and vulnerable adults 
• Methods of practical theology, especially critical correlation and praxis methodologies; 
• Undertaking theological reflection and keeping a record of the experience. 

Learning and teaching strategy and rationale

This unit involves 150 hours of focused learning, or the equivalent of 10 hours per week for 15 weeks. The total includes a minimum of 70 hours placement, together with up to 10 hours in class with a School of Theology appointed mentor and other students enrolled in the unit. The remaining time will include preparing a learning contract, writing a reflection paper on the placement and giving an oral report to the class.  

The unit is normally offered in multi-mode, with online classes and community engagement. Students learn through formally structured and sequenced learning activities that support the achievement of the learning outcomes. Students are asked to critically reflect, analyse, and integrate new information with existing knowledge, draw meaningful new connections, and then apply what they have learned. Collaborative and peer learning is also emphasised.  

The online classes will enable students to acquire an understanding and appreciation of Christian community engagement. Students will be guided in developing the skills of theological reflection on their practical experience.  

THCP304 emphasises students as active, adult learners. Students are recognised as adult learners who engage best when what they are learning is relevant to them and gives them the opportunity to be responsible for their own learning. In many ways, the student is the one who drives the learning forward, and their active participation in this unit is essential. Learning is designed to be an engaging and supportive experience, which helps students to develop critical thinking and reflection skills. 

Procedures for Approval of Placements 

All placements must be approved in advance by the relevant officer in the School of Theology. 

All Australian Catholic University requirements for community engagement placements must be met.

The experience may be completed on an extended basis (for example, one day per week for a period of ten weeks) or on an intensive basis (for example, two weeks full time).  

It is the student’s responsibility to propose the location of the placement, to negotiate with the proposed supervisor in situ, and to seek approval of the placement and supervisor by the appropriate officer in the School of Theology. This includes approval of the learning contract. 

The School appointed Mentor (Lecturer-in-Charge) may approve placements and supervisors within the student’s own city or regional community.  

With the approval of the Head of School, and if appropriately supported by a relevant organisation, the placement may occur as part of a short-term, formally organised program in an overseas or interstate context.