The module has been designed as an introductory module to provide learners with key skills for studying a criminology degree in HE. The module is used to deliver the PDP provision for level four and to utilise/build/critique the application of digital technologies. The module includes student employment/employability opportunities as an integral part of their course. The learners will produce a module portfolio which includes working toward a MS Office Specialist and Expert certification. Learners will spend time dedicated to learning the Staffordshire University ‘cite them rite’ Harvard convention.

Semester 1 assessment, students will complete the following: Online Multiple-Choice Test on Referencing 40 Questions (LO2)

Semester 1 and 2 assessments, students will complete an online skills portfolio containing Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Micro credentials (LOs 1 & 3)

Students will complete 2 elements of assessment for this module:

During both semesters there will be 4 x two-hour sessions allocated to Personal Development planning (PDP) and in these sessions students will work in a group on developing skills such sending formal emails, developing their CV, presentation delivery, and enhancing their transferrable and employability skills.

Semester one

Students will spend semester one in 4 x two-hour workshops building up their digital skills and knowledge of Microsoft software. Tutors will provide a focus on MS Excel, but students will develop their knowledge on MS Word and PowerPoint depending on their skills and experience. Students can practice and take mock exams using G-matrix software on university computers. Students must complete a 'specialist badge' in Excel as part of their Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Portfolio. Students will spend 3 x two-hour workshops developing their skills for referencing using the Cite them Rite convention.

Semester two

Students will spend time working LinkedIn Learning suitable for their level of competency which will allow them to prepare for to the MOS Excel Expert certification exam for Office 2019 and Office 365 (MO-201). The graded portfolio will be based on monitored student engagement with the G-matrix platform and how many hours each student has been practicing.

Guided Independent Study: (148 hours)

This will include locating sources on the Internet and practicing IT and skills focused activities. Developing academic skills including identifying, locating, and analysing topic related literature

Assessing and developing time management strategies and trying methods for managing time efficiently.

Module Learning Outcome

1. Demonstrate digital capability and effectively use MS Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

University Learning Outcome

Knowledge and understanding; Enquiry; Communication; learning; application; analysis; communication

Module Learning Outcome

2. Demonstrate an effective ability to reference work accurately, clearly, and concisely. Using the Staffordshire University Cite Them Right version of Harvard.

University Learning Outcome

Knowledge and understanding; Communication

Module Learning Outcome

3. Assess and appraise your personal skill development and learning achievements.

University Learning Outcome

Knowledge and understanding; Enquiry; Communication; learning; application; analysis; communication

Access to computer facilities to access materials on the web and specialist online databases

Access to Virtual Learning Environment- Blackboard and G-matrix software

Access to appropriate texts and journals

Finch, E. and Fafinski, S. (2019). Criminology Skills. 3rd edn. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Pears, R. and Shields, G. (2022) Cite Them Right: The Essential Referencing Guide 12th Edition (Bloomsbury Study Skills) London: Bloomsbury

We have consulted with employers in the justice sector who explain that they need graduates who are digitally literate and effective using Microsoft software. This module will run in both semester one and two and will be divided into Micro credentials and study skills for success with academic writing. The module will enable you use the required academic conventions to provide effective academic writing and presentation skills. This will focus on how to structure assignments and meet learning outcomes successfully by citing evidence to support your answers and produce a very effective reference list.

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