On-line materials will exemplify topical issues and best practice case studies.

Students will be expected to use and regularly engage with the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) employed for the delivery of this module. Typically this will be 'Blackboard' and students are expected to work through the module material provided on the VLE at the suggested pace and in accordance with the Learning Activity Plan. The material will include content and activities that allow students to assimilate the concepts and skills required by the module.

On-line, telephone and email support will be provided as necessary.

A portfolio weighted at 100%. (Learning Outcomes 1,2,3)
The coursework will typically require the production of a portfolio of work that includes a self-reflection component (of knowledge and skills), a brief report or exercise on a specific/scoped technical area, and a professional development plan that governs academic and professional development. 3000 words.

This module is all about professional development - both in an immediate context for engaging with postgraduate studies and also for future employment. The module focuses on the key principles and associated practice of academic engagement and the how this can be applied effectively to enhance students' intellectual empowerment. The module will typically focus on:

The knowledge economy in a global context - how knowledge and skills matter.
The role of the emerging professional - professionalism, being professional and professional bodies.
Engaging as a student - going beyond study skills to enhance your potential.
Developing 'soft-skills' - an employer needs-based perspective.
Self-reflection - undertaking an individual 'knowledge audit'.
Professional Development Planning - bridging your knowledge and skills gap.
Essential study skills for postgraduate study (e.g. accessing academic resources, academic planning, literature reviews, referencing, assessment skills)

None

You will need to access these resources:-
- Word processing, statistical analysis and presentation graphics software.

Recommended texts:

Study Skills Guide : Essential Strategies for Smart Students
Forsyth, Patrick Connelly, Mark Connelly, Jacqueline
Pages: 180
Publisher: Kogan Page Ltd.
Location: London, GBR
Date Published: 10/2010
Language: en

LC Call Number: LB2395 -- .C66 2010eb
eISBN: 9780749461270
pISBN: 9780749461263
Dewey Decimal Number: 378.1/70281
OCLC Number: 742515569

Reference will made to specific conference/journal papers and authors during the module delivery.