Cognition and Learning – Skills & Knowledge

Delegates completing this course will gain the skills and knowledge to:

• Develop a critical awareness of models and frameworks for understanding cognition and learning.
• Develop a thorough knowledge of the cognition and learning areas of special educational needs.
• Develop a critical understanding of the processes of assessment and teaching in relation to meeting the cognition and learning area of special educational needs.
• Understand the interplay between cognitive functioning and development, the learning environment and the socio-cultural context for learning.
• Be aware of equal opportunities and anti-oppressive practice issues in relation to identifying and assessing cognition and learning difficulties.

Cohorts begin in January, May, or September.

The next cohort begins on 15 January 2024. Book and enrol before 15 January 2024 to join our next cohort.

Learn on the job

• Harness your day-to-day experience of children with cognition and learning difficulties and work with your tutor to develop your skills.
• Become an expert in this area in your school – and save your school money.
• Develop effective support for the most vulnerable children in your school.

Engage with flexible e-learning

• Study online and integrate your learning into your working day.
• Access a wealth of practical resources, academic research, and interactive materials.
• Take part in a flexible module that draws on a broad range of learning tasks and practical experience.
• Work closely with your peers and dedicated tutors online.

Accrue credits towards your MEd

Attain 30 Masters-level (M-level) credits when you successfully complete this module.

Connect with your peers

• Obtain exclusive access to Campus Online^TM.
• Interact with your peers using our advanced learning platform and our unique student forum.

We will ensure that you never feel lonely or unsupported in your studies.

Liaise with experienced tutors

• Enjoy dedicated specialist support from a broad range of experienced tutors.
• Receive expert guidance from us throughout the module.
• Learn from SENCOs and educational psychologists who know the education sector inside out.
• Work with our friendly team of independent professionals – committed to giving you the training that you need.

Choose a start date that suits you

Cohorts begin in January, May, or September.

The next cohort begins on 15 January 2024. Book and enrol before 15 January 2024 to join our next cohort.

Take a quality-assured module

This module is validated by Middlesex University, so you can be assured of its quality.

The module is split into three strands:

Strand 1: what is cognition and learning?

• Perception, attention, memory, and metacognition as an overview of what constitutes cognition, the way in which these areas contribute to theories about and definitions of learning and learning failure, and the relationship between learning and instruction.
• Medical and social models of disability and their relationship to cognition and learning.
• Theories of intellectual development: Piaget, Vygotsky, Feuerstein.

Strand 2: assessment and teaching related to cognition and learning: research and theory

• The role of neuroscience. Neuromyths and classroom practice.
• The historical and political context related to consideration of individual differences, including the development of what is understood by ‘intelligence’ and ‘IQ’.
• Equal opportunities and anti-oppressive practice issues related to assessing cognition and learning.

Strand 3: Practical applications

Identifying, assessing and teaching individuals with cognition and learning difficulties, including interrogating the evidence base for interventions

Assessment is through coursework assignments covering the 7 learning outcomes and will consist of:

• Critical Analysis: Critically evaluate research and theory relating to the assessment and teaching of children with cognition and learning difficulties, including a consideration of the role of IQ testing and equal opportunities implications. 2,500 words.
• Reflective Analysis 1: A reflective analysis of the experiences of individuals with cognition and learning difficulties. 500 words.
• Reflective Analysis 2: A reflective analysis of the role of neuroscience in cognition and learning. 500 words.
• Practice Analysis: A visual presentation giving an overview and critique of a selected intervention approach for cognition and learning difficulties. 2500 words. 

• Practice – you will develop your professional knowledge and understanding through practice – it’s the best way to learn.
• Campus Online^TM – will support you with content that complements your learning every step of the way.
• One-to-one learning – study with some of the finest practitioners around and engage with outstanding content and practical activities that truly enhance your professional development.

Do you have an undergraduate degree?

You will need one to take this module.

Already working in an education setting?

You will get the most out of this module if you work in an education setting with children, young people or adults.

Or do you require access to an education setting?

You will need to get written permission from a senior member of staff to regularly access a setting. We will show you the best way to do this, enabling you to carry out our learning activities in your chosen setting.

Please note

As part of this process, you will also need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Visit GOV.UK for more information.

Are you based in an international setting?

This course is available online and can, therefore, be completed anywhere in the world. Please click here for advice on payment options and other information relevant to those studying outside of the UK.

We offer a flexible range of fees to suit you:

• A one-off payment of £1,495 + VAT
• Three instalments of £523 + VAT
• Ten instalments of £162 + VAT

For further information please visit the payment FAQ page found here.

Speak to us (01273 358080) or make a booking.

Cohorts begin in January, May, or September.

The next cohort begins on 15 January 2024. Book and enrol before 15 January 2024 to join our next cohort.

Please note: as it takes time to process your application and payment, we strongly recommend to register as soon as possible, so that you don’t miss the next intake.

The duration of this module is up to one year.

We do understand, however, that circumstances can arise that could prevent the course being completed in this time period. If this is the case, an extension can be arranged in conjunction with the admin team and your tutor.