DVST9035B International Development Practicum (13.5 units)

2017

13.5

3 x 2-hour seminars per semester
1 x 150-hour field placement per semester

1 Admission into GDPID-Graduate Diploma in International Development
1a Admission into MAID/C-Master of Arts (International Development) by coursework
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a))

1 of DVST9035, DVST9035A has been successfully completed

Graduate Diploma in International Development; Master of Arts (International Development) by coursework

Students undertaking graduate studies in International Development will have an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills from their degree in a workplace setting. Students must have undertaken, or been accepted into, the Development Studies Professional Practicum offered by the Australian Consortium for In Country Indonesian Studies (ACICIS). This is a six-week summer program in Indonesia which is comprised of two weeks of intensive language studies and seminars on international development issues, and a four-week supervised practicum placement in an international or Indonesian development organisation. Other organised internship programs may be deemed equivalent in consultation with the topic convenor. Students will keep a professional diary and collate materials for their topic assessment upon completion of the placement.

This is a work integrated learning topic. Students will spend 6 weeks in Indonesia, including at least 150 hours of supervised work in an international development agency. Supported by online modules on reflexive practice and development practice, students will prepare a final report for assessment which they bring together their academic knowledge of International Development and their practical learning in the placement. The aim of the placement is to develop professional skills related to application and testing of academic knowledge, working in a different cultural context, and working in a development agency.

Upon completion of this topic you are expected to:

• have improved professional skills including effective communication, problem solving and professional behaviour
• know how to apply some of the theories and concepts learned in the classroom to actual situations, and test the relevance of theory for practice, and vice versa
• have developed a reflective practice and an ability to synthesise it with classroom learning
• have improved skills in working across cultures and languages