Gideon Robert University

INTRODUCTION

PHS 205: Community Mental Health focuses on the study of mental health and psychiatry as an aspect of community health and it is designed to afford you the opportunity to apply the knowledge of community health to the care of patients in any setting. It is also designed to help you develop such skills as required of professionals to handle interpersonal and group problems.

It is believed that primary groups are essential to the welfare of individuals thus; attention is paid to the role of the family in the care of the sick. Because the three aspects of healthcare (preventive, curative and rehabilitative) are complementary, you will have the opportunity to participate in rendering these three aspects to your clients/patients.

Psychiatry is a branch of medical science that deals with the study and treatment of mental diseases. It deals with the mind, emotions and behaviour of man scientifically; the least understood aspects of the human/animal.

Psychiatry, also known as psychological medicine, is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illnesses. Psychiatric illness is characterised by a breakdown in the normal pattern of thought, emotion and behaviour. Psychiatric symptoms, problems and illness of all kinds are extremely common throughout life while community mental health is a specialised branch of community health in which the community health practitioner utilises his/her own personality, knowledge of psychiatric theory and the available environment to effect therapeutic changes in patients’ thoughts, feelings and behaviour. The ability to effect these changes varies according to experience and education. The therapeutic role of the community health psychiatric officer cannot be described only in terms of attitudes, feelings, relationships and understanding. What the nurse brings as a person to the treatment situation is directly related to his/her therapeutic effectiveness.

Psychiatry is concerned with the promotion of mental health, prevention of mental disorders and the community health care of patients who suffer from mental disorders. Thus, community health psychiatry is the process whereby the community health practitioner assists persons either as individuals or in groups, in developing a more positive self-concept, a more harmonious pattern of interpersonal relationships and a more productive role in society.

Course Overview

The EAP 101 Introduction to Psychology course provides a foundational understanding of the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. It explores the major theories, principles, and research methods in psychology, along with their real-world applications. The course is designed to help students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

Key Topics Covered

1. Foundations of Psychology:

   • Definition, history, and major schools of thought (e.g., behaviorism, psychoanalysis, humanism).

   • Overview of research methods and ethical considerations.

2. Biological Bases of Behavior:

   • The nervous system, brain functions, and the role of genetics in behavior.

3. Cognitive Processes:

   • Sensation, perception, memory, learning, language, and problem-solving.

4. Developmental Psychology:

   • Lifespan development, including physical, cognitive, and social changes.

5. Personality and Individual Differences:

   • Theories of personality and factors influencing individual behavior.

6. Social Psychology:

   • Group dynamics, attitudes, conformity, and prejudice.

7. Psychological Disorders and Treatment:

   • Overview of mental health disorders and therapeutic approaches.

8. Applied Psychology:

   • Applications in health, workplace, and legal settings.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will:

• Understand the scope and goals of psychology.

• Recognize the biological, cognitive, and social factors influencing behavior.

• Apply psychological principles to everyday life.

• Analyze and evaluate psychological research and theories.

Assessment Methods

• Quizzes and exams to test knowledge.

• Assignments and research papers to apply concepts.

• Class participation and group projects to encourage collaboration.

• A comprehensive final exam to assess overall understanding.

Labour Law and Social Security Course Summary

This course offers a comprehensive overview of labour law and social security systems, focusing on the legal framework governing the employer-employee relationship. Participants will explore key concepts such as employment rights, employer obligations, collective bargaining, and workplace health and safety regulations. The course also covers the structure and functions of social security, including benefits like unemployment, disability, and pensions, as well as workers' compensation. Additionally, the course examines global labour law trends and future challenges in areas such as the gig economy and technological changes. By the end, participants will gain practical insights to navigate and apply labour law and social security concepts in real-world settings, making it suitable for HR professionals, managers, and legal practitioners

An Introduction to Management course provides a foundational understanding of management principles and practices relevant across various organizations. Here’s a summary of the key topics typically covered in such a course:

Key Topics

1. Management Functions:

   • Planning: Setting objectives and determining a course of action for achieving those objectives.
   • Organizing: Arranging resources and tasks to achieve objectives efficiently.
   • Leading: Motivating and managing teams to contribute towards organizational goals.
   • Controlling: Monitoring progress and making adjustments to stay on track.

2. Management Theories:

   • Overview of classical, behavioral, and contemporary management theories.
   • Discusses contributions from key figures like Henri Fayol, Mary Parker Follett, and Peter Drucker.

3. Decision Making:

   • Problem-solving processes and techniques for effective decision-making.
   • Tools and frameworks to evaluate alternatives.

4. Organizational Structure:

   • Types of organizational structures (e.g., functional, divisional, matrix).
   • Importance of alignment between structure and strategy.

5. Team Dynamics:

   • Understanding group behavior, team roles, and the stages of team development.
   • Strategies for effective collaboration and communication.

6. Leadership Styles:

   • Examination of various leadership theories (e.g., transformational, transactional).
   • Importance of emotional intelligence and situational leadership.

7. Motivation and Employee Engagement:

   • Theories of motivation (e.g., Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Herzberg’s two-factor theory).
   • Strategies for enhancing employee satisfaction and productivity.

8. Change Management:

   • Understanding the change process and its impact on organizations.
   • Strategies for successfully implementing and managing change.

9. Strategic Management:

   • Basics of setting long-term goals and aligning resources.
   • SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) as a strategic planning tool.

10. Ethics and Social Responsibility:

    • The role of ethics in management decisions.
    • Understanding corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its importance in modern business.

Course Objectives

• To develop an understanding of fundamental management concepts and practices.
• To cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills in decision-making.
• To enhance interpersonal skills essential for leadership and teamwork.
• To introduce students to strategies for managing change and driving organizational success.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Describe key management theories and apply them to real-world scenarios.
• Analyze organizational structures and suggest improvements.
• Demonstrate effective leadership and communication skills.
• Advocate for ethical decision-making and socially responsible practices.

This course is suitable for students planning to enter management roles in various industries, providing them with the tools to navigate the complexities of managing people and resources effectively

Human Resources Management Course Summary

Course Overview

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices of Human Resources Management (HRM). Students will learn about the strategic role of HRM in organizations, including recruitment, selection, training, development, compensation, benefits, employee relations, and performance management.

Key Topics

1. Introduction to HRM: Definition, importance, and evolution of HRM

2. Strategic HRM: Aligning HRM with organizational goals and objectives

3. Recruitment and Selection: Attracting, selecting, and hiring talent

4. Training and Development: Enhancing employee skills and performance

5. Compensation and Benefits: Designing and implementing reward systems

6. Employee Relations: Managing employee conflicts, grievances, and communications

7. Performance Management: Evaluating and improving employee performance

8. HRM Functions: HR planning, job analysis, job design, and HRIS

9. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Managing diverse workforces and promoting inclusivity

10. International HRM: HRM challenges and opportunities in global contexts

Learning Outcomes

- Understand the role and functions of HRM in organizations

- Apply HRM concepts and principles to real-world scenarios

- Analyze HRM challenges and develop effective solutions

- Develop skills in recruitment, selection, training, and performance management

- Appreciate the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in HRM

Assessment

- Quizzes and assignments (40%)

- Final exam (60%)

ICT Project Management is the planning, implementation, and monitoring of projects that involve information and communication technology1. The goal of ICT Project Management is to deliver a successful project that meets the needs and expectations of stakeholders1. IT project management is the process of managing, planning, and developing information technology projects2. IT projects exist within a variety of industries, including software development, information security, information systems, communications, hardware, network, databases, and mobile apps2.

IT applications are increasingly web-based. This module covers the essential web technologies to equip students with the useful skills to build websites for web-based IT applications.

To begin, an overview of the web architecture will be presented to clarify the myriad and rapidly evolving web technologies. Next, the popular web technologies will be covered in details.

Specifically, the topics include HTML, CSS, JavaScript for client-side scripting, PHP for server-side scripting, MySQL database system and industry best practices to secure the websites.

A capstone project is a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience at the end of a student's educational program. Typically undertaken in the final year of study, especially in higher education, such as undergraduate or graduate programs, a capstone project integrates and applies the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course of the program. It often involves comprehensive research, critical analysis, problem-solving, and the presentation of findings.

 Course Summary: Early Language and Literacy

The "Early Language and Literacy" module is designed for students pursuing a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, focusing on the critical importance of language and literacy development in the early years of a child's life. This course provides an in-depth exploration of how young children acquire language and literacy skills, emphasizing the role of educators in creating supportive environments that promote these essential competencies.

Throughout the course, students will examine key concepts such as language acquisition theories, phonological awareness, vocabulary development, early writing skills, and the interconnection between listening and speaking abilities. Practical strategies for fostering language and literacy development will be highlighted, including the use of play, interactive read-alouds, and diverse materials that engage children in meaningful language experiences.

Students will also learn to create a language-rich environment that enhances language exposure and supports early literacy practices, incorporating culturally responsive approaches that celebrate diverse backgrounds and languages. Assessment methods for evaluating children's progress in language and literacy will be discussed, providing tools for effective instructional planning.

Engagement with families and communities will be emphasized as a vital component in reinforcing children's language and literacy skills outside the classroom. The course also addresses the needs of diverse learners, including English Language Learners (ELLs) and children with exceptionalities, equipping future educators with the skills to adapt their teaching practices accordingly.

By the end of the module, students will possess a comprehensive understanding of early language and literacy development, empowered to implement effective strategies and curricula that foster children's communication, reading, and writing skills. Equipped with practical tools and a solid theoretical foundation, graduates will be prepared to advocate for and support literacy initiatives within early childhood education settings, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to thrive as confident, competent language users and early readers.

 Course Summary: Child, Family, School, and Communities in Early Childhood Education

This course explores the vital interconnections between children, families, schools, and communities within the context of early childhood education. It is designed for students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, emphasizing how these relationships contribute to child development and learning outcomes.

Throughout the course, students will examine foundational theories of child development, recognize the impact of family dynamics, and explore the role of effective educational systems. The course emphasizes the importance of creating supportive learning environments that nurture children's holistic growth, while also fostering strong partnerships between families and educators.

Students will gain insights into the socio-economic and cultural factors that influence child development, as well as the significance of community resources and support systems. Advocacy for children and families is a key component, preparing students to engage in collaborative efforts that lift up the needs of young children and their families.

Practical applications, including case studies and group projects, will enable students to develop effective strategies for fostering family and community engagement in educational settings. This course will prepare future educators to approach their work with a holistic lens, advocate for equitable practices, and contribute to building a collaborative ecosystem that supports the diverse needs of children and families.

Ultimately, students completing this course will emerge equipped with a deeper understanding of the complex relationships that influence early childhood education, along with the skills necessary to foster positive outcomes for children, engage families, and collaborate with community partners effectively.

The Various Definitions of Childhood Education 

Definition of Childhood 

 Early Childhood Education 

 Primary Education 

 The Purpose of Early Childhood Education 

Early Childhood or Pre-primary Education 

Introduction to Child Development Theories

Theories are formal ideas or sets of ideas intended to explain something (Collins English Dictionary). Child development theories look at children’s growth and behaviour and interpret it (Saracho, 2023). They focus on how children change and grow during their childhood, particularly cognitive, social and emotional development. Many child development theories have influenced caregiving and teaching practices over the years, and they are relevant as they:

• Aim to understand human development and various aspects of growth.
• Try to explain how children learn, change and grow cognitively, physically, emotionally and socially, which is fundamental to understanding their needs, behaviours, developmental processes and milestones, e.g. language development, cognitive abilities and social skills.
• Help caregivers keep track of children’s progress to see if they are growing and developing as expected.
• Have been thoroughly researched over the decades, expanded by modern-day behaviourists, psychologists and theorists and have become widely accepted theories.
• Help caregivers to provide supporting and nurturing environments to enhance children’s development.

It is important to tailor caregiving approaches based on these theories, as it enables more effective caregiving, fostering optimal learning, growth and development. However, it is also vital to appreciate that each child is an individual with unique needs. While theories provide a framework for caregiving in various aspects of growth and development, it is important to do further research and ensure practices are specific to the child and their environment.

The objective of this course is to provide an evidence-based understanding of best practice in strategic management, including business policy and corporate strategy. As a research-led course it will explore a range of strategic management theories.

This is an advanced PhD-level topic course. The topic will cover the role of theory in management and marketing research in a two pronged way—by covering both theory process and content. The course will begin with the ‘what’ and ‘how’ of theory and theoretical contribution (i.e., the process element of theory) in management/marketing research. Then the topic will move on to theory content by covering influential theories in management and marketing. The course will aim to cover theories that deal with micro, meso and macro phenomena. The overall goal is to strengthen knowledge and skills of advanced research candidates on the role of theory in research, learn about—and from—influential theories and practice developing their own theoretical insights into management and marketing phenomena of interest to them.

How do we research and how can we tell the difference between good and bad research? This is not an abstract question for those who intend to do postgraduate research. This course covers how to develop a good research topic, how to design successful projects and the practical skills to conduct qualitative field work. Issues of design and discovery are relevant to many students, but practical focus relates to the qualitative research tradition. This course is focused on the needs of business students but is also relevant to other areas of social science. The central activity to all of this is to develop a reflective understanding of the rules and expectation for good research in each disciplinary area. Therefore the reflective process is the core element of this course.

The "Communicable Diseases, Immunizations & Vector Control" course provides an overview of infectious diseases, focusing on their transmission, prevention, and control measures. Key topics include:

1. Communicable Diseases : Understanding different types of communicable diseases, their causative agents (bacteria, viruses, parasites), modes of transmission, and the impact on public health.

2. Immunizations: Overview of vaccine types, vaccination schedules, and their role in preventing infectious diseases. The course also addresses vaccine development, safety, and public perception.

3. Vector Control: Strategies for managing and controlling vectors like mosquitoes and ticks that transmit diseases. This includes biological, chemical, and environmental approaches to reduce vector populations and prevent outbreaks.

4. Public Health Strategies: Examination of surveillance systems, outbreak investigation, and the implementation of public health policies aimed at improving community health and preventing disease spread.

5. Global Health Perspectives: Discussion of global initiatives and disparities in disease management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in tackling communicable diseases worldwide.

Overall, the course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively address communicable diseases through vaccination and vector control strategies.

Rationale

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the concepts of Physics in an elementary mathematical setting, and to highlight their application to science and technology for the betterment of society. An additional goal of the course is to impart to students systematic problem Rationale

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the concepts of Physics in an elementary mathematical setting, and to highlight their application to science and technology for the betterment of society. An additional goal of the course is to impart to students systematic problem solving skills, which will also serve them well in other areas of life. By the end of the course, students should be armed with many of the tools they need to study Physics in depth.

Physics is the science that deals with matter and energy and the interactions between the two. It allows us to understand phenomena that take place around us and in the universe. This course is designed to introduce Physics at an entry level by examining the principal laws thus leading to a conceptual understanding of how these relate to everyday life. Students will apply these principles using practical examples, facilitated discussions during tutorial sessions, and experiments conducted during the laboratory sessions. The laws of Physics and the theories introduced in this course are useful for applications in such areas as nuclear energy and medicine, electronics, optics, materials, communications, aerospace technology, navigation equipment and medical instrumentation.solving skills, which will also serve them well in other areas of life. By the end of the course, students should be armed with many of the tools they need to study Physics in depth.Physics is the science that deals with matter and energy and the interactions between the two. It allows us to understand phenomena that take place around us and in the universe. This course is designed to introduce Physics at an entry level by examining the principal laws thus leading to a conceptual understanding of how these relate to everyday life. Students will apply these principles using practical examples, facilitated discussions during tutorial sessions, and experiments conducted during the laboratory sessions. The laws of Physics and the theories introduced in this course are useful for applications in such areas as nuclear energy and medicine, electronics, optics, materials, communications, aerospace technology, navigation equipment and medical instrumentation.

Rationale

To introduce a sound grounding in Mathematics, underpinning its applications in Business and economics. To provide a sound grounding in mathematical and statistical methods with emphasis on basics upon which competence is further expected to be applied in Business mathematics and Statistics in Commerce, Entrepreneurship, Social Work, Physical Education and Human Resource Development Degree Programmes.