This should include the following elements:

1,000 word illustrated essay within the area of a specified research topic [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5]
Folder of short academic writing exercises [Learning Outcome 5]

This module introduces you to the skills needed to research, evaluate and present information, - skills on which the professional practice of art and design now depend. You will be introduced to resources both within and outside the University, which enable you to gather information. You will learn the conventions employed to organise information, and explore some of the techniques - (and technologies) now used to present information in written, verbal and visual forms. The emphasis is very much on acquiring skills through practice. In addition to illustrated talks and informal discussion groups, you will participate in exercises designed to help you understand the methods and conventions by which you can research, evaluate and communicate your interest in both the practice and history/theory of art and design. You will learn how to use the Design Collection, and external research resources, as well as the Thompson Library. You will also acquire the IT skills you need for the gathering and presenting of information in an academic context. You will carry out a research-based, specialist project, working as a member of a team, and will make a presentation of your findings to staff and students. You will carry out a series of short exercises on academic writing and write a brief essay. This module also introduces you to the principles and practices of Personal Development Planning, and to the tools and support for this, provided by the University.

Lecture Theatre
Data Projector
My Portfolio
Design Collection
Library

Technical instruction and demonstrations
Academic writing workshops
Lectures
Small group sessions (seminars, tutorials)
Independent Study in support of your project work
Short exercises and assignments that help you to apply and evaluate your learning

Burnham, Douglas, Studying Independently: Writing Better Essays, Exams & Presentations, Faculty of Arts Media & Design Booklet 2006

Bernstein, Mashey Maurice, and George Yatchisin. 2001. Writing for the visual arts. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Prentice Hall.
Chambers, Ellie, Andrew Northedge, and University Open. 1997. The arts good study guide. Milton Keynes: The Open University.
Clanchy, J. & Ballard, B. (1993) How to Write Essays: A Practical Guide for Students
Cooper, D. (ed., 1992) A Companion to Aesthetics, Blackwell, Oxford.
Cooper, R and Press M The Design Agenda John Wiley 1995 ISBN 0471941069
Davies, B. (1990) Study Skills: a Student's Survival Guide
Fairbairn, G. & Winch, C. (1996) Reading, Writing and Reasoning
Fowler, R. (1973) A Dictionary of Modern Critical Terms, Routledge and Kegan Paul, London.
Mather, Peter, and Rita McCarthy. 2005. The art of critical reading : brushing up on your reading, thinking, and study skills. Boston: McGraw-Hill.
McIlroy, David. 2003. Studying @ university : how to be a successful student, Sage essential study skills. London ; Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications.
Rowntree, D (1988) Learn How to Study
Williams, R. (1983) Keywords, Fontana, London.
The Student Skills Guide, Drew and Bingham 1997 ISBN 0566078473