NCT Doula University Certificate

Teaching

We will enable you to learn through a combination of experiential and interactive face-to-face study days, tutorials, synchronous and asynchronous online learning, and self-directed study. Interactive study days and tutorials are intended to develop knowledge and understanding and the application of learning through small group activities, practice tasks and discussion, and modelling.

Alongside the modelling and practice of skills, we will use practice scenarios, case studies, supervision and inquiry-based learning to develop skills and knowledge. Synchronous (timetabled) and asynchronous (not timetabled) online learning, along with self-directed study will give you the opportunity to deepen your understanding of the topics and concepts and further develop both skills and knowledge.

You will have a personal academic tutor (PAT) who will be available to support you throughout the course.

You will also take part in discussions with midwives and observe midwifery practice in the field. As you progress through the course towards qualification you will support a woman/pregnant person/couple through birth with the support of the tutors. This is an important part of transitioning into practice.

Contact time

Across a nine month period you will spend four weekends at the University.

Typically contact time will be structured around:

• Eight days of interactive workshops across four weekends
• 24 hours observing midwifery practice
• 5 hours of online tutorials/information sessions in a group of not more than 16 students
• 1 hour of one-to-one supervision
• An undetermined length of time supporting a birth with constant contact and support available from tutors

Independent self-study

In addition to the contact time, you are expected to undertake guided independent personal self-study. Typically, this will involve completing online activities, reading journal articles and books, undertaking research in the library and online, preparing coursework assignments and interactive sessions.

Independent learning is supported by a range of excellent learning facilities, including The Hive and library resources, the virtual learning environment, and extensive electronic learning resources. Resources can be accessed in other universities and colleges via SCONUL for those students not local to Worcester. NCT also provide excellent resources, up to date research and information for all students and practitioners via their intranet babble and the main website.

Duration

9 months part-time – September-June

Some preparatory reading and planning are required prior to the course starting

Teaching staff

You will be taught by a teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the course. The team includes senior tutors and professional Doula practitioners with on the ground experience. All tutors have registered lecturer status at the University of Worcester.

Teaching is informed by research and consultancy. All NCT tutors hold a degree and have also gained the skills and experience needed through the NCT in-house tutor training system which includes a specific focus on Adult Learning.

Assessment

The course provides opportunities to test understanding and learning informally through the completion of practice or ‘formative’ assignments.

Each module has one formal or ‘summative’ assessments, which is graded and counts towards the overall module grade. Assessment methods include a range of coursework assessments such as practical interactive sessions and reflective writing.

The typical summative assessment pattern for the Doula modules is:

• 1 x Reflective essay
• 1 x Interactive practical session

You will receive feedback on practice ‘formative’ assessments and on formal ‘summative’ assessments.

Verbal or written feedback is given for all formative assessments. Students doing practical formative work at tutorials or study days receive immediate verbal feedback from tutors and their peers. Tutors feedback on written formative work directly to each student individually.

All summative assessments receive written feedback within 20 working days.

Feedback is intended to support learning and you are encouraged to discuss it with personal academic tutors and module tutors as appropriate.