REPORT - Written Report – Study Skills

Students will produce a structured written report to a provided computing business case study. For this they will need to demonstrate effective academic study skills, including research skills, academic writing around the business and associated computing issues, referencing background work completed, and reflection on learning and skill development they have made through doing the assessment. The report will require students to analyse information, present findings clearly using appropriate digital tools (Word processor and spreadsheets), and reflect on their academic progress and readiness for undergraduate study from its completion.

EXAM - Examination – Foundational Mathematics

The examination will assess students’ understanding and application of foundational mathematical concepts through practical case studies and problem-solving scenarios (related to basic numeracy, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus functions). Students will be required to solve routine mathematical problems for these, demonstrating logical reasoning and problem-solving skills relevant to computing and data contexts. The focus of the exam is to relate maths to practical use within solving computing problems.

This module addresses the following indicative topics:

Academic Study Skills:

Understanding learning outcomes, assessment criteria, and feedback
Academic writing, referencing, and avoiding academic misconduct
Time management, organisation, and independent learning strategies
Reflection and personal learning development
Address of accessibility and inclusion
Introduction to what is simulation based learning
Address of employability and professional practice
Introduction to sustainability concepts

Digital and Academic Skills

Use of word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software
Information literacy and use of library resources
Presenting information clearly using tables, charts, and graphs

Foundational Mathematics:

Numeracy: arithmetic operations, percentages, ratios, and measures
Algebra: indices, logarithms, equations, and formula manipulation
Trigonometry: ratios, graphs, and basic problem solving
Introduction to differentiation and integration

Problem Solving and Data Awareness:

Applying mathematical techniques to routine computing problems
Interpreting and presenting numerical information
Use of spreadsheets for basic analysis and visualisation

BCS / TechSkills / Employability elements:

Development of fundamental maths-based principles and concepts
Formulation of early career goals

1. Apply effective study skills, including writing, referencing, and time management, within academic work.

Programme Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding, Reflection

2. Apply foundational maths skills to solve routine computing problems.

Programme Learning Outcome: Application and Problem-Solving

3. Use basic digital and maths tools to analyse information and present data clearly for academic tasks.

Programme Learning Outcome: Digital Literacy, Application and Problem Solving

4. Identify your academic skills and learning progress to support progression to the next level of study.

Programme Learning Outcome: Communication, Personal Development and Entrepreneurship

Teaching and learning on this module will combine lectures, tutorials, and practical workshops to support the development of both academic skills and mathematical understanding. Sessions will blend theory with worked examples and guided practice, enabling students to apply concepts during taught sessions.

Students will be supported through formative exercises, problem-solving activities, and guided independent study. A range of learning resources, including online materials, practice questions, and study guides, will be provided to help students build confidence and prepare for assessments.

Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment
Scientific calculator
Spreadsheet software (e.g. Microsoft Excel)
Word processing and presentation software
Access to library databases and online learning resources

Prewett, P. (2023), Foundation Mathematics for Science and Engineering Students, Springer Nature.

Nolting, P. (2023), Winning at Math: Your Guide to Learning Mathematics Through Successful Study Skills, Hawkes Learning.

Charatan, Q. and Kans, A. (2024) Maths for Computing: A Beginner's Guide (Undergraduate Topics in Computer Science), Springer Publishers.

Smith, M. D. (2023), The Abundant University: Remaking Higher Education for a Digital World, MIT Press.

McMillan, K. & Weyers, J. (2022), The Study Skills Book, Pearson.

In this module, you will develop the essential study skills and mathematical foundations needed for undergraduate study in computing. You will learn how to manage your learning effectively, write and reference academic work, and use digital tools to support your studies. Alongside this, you will build confidence in foundational mathematics, including numeracy, algebra, trigonometry, and introductory calculus. The module is designed to support your transition into higher-level study by strengthening both your academic skills and problem-solving abilities.