1. Students will complete an online multiple-choice exam on academic skills including topics of, finding resources, written work and referencing, demonstrating that they have understood the foundations of higher level study (LO2).
2. Students can choose to either complete an online exam where they will evidence their proficiency in one of the Microsoft application packages (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook) obtaining Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Micro credentials or produce a portfolio evidencing their skills in one of the Microsoft applications (LOs 1 & 3).

This module introduces students to essential academic and digital skills for successful study and future employment. It covers practical use of Microsoft Office applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) to support academic tasks and professional communication. Students will learn structured approaches to research and writing, including locating and evaluating primary and secondary sources, applying correct referencing, and developing core social science research skills. Students will also learn how to ethically and responsibly use artificial intelligence during their degree; whilst considering the barriers and consequences of its misuse.

The module also focuses on personal development through reflective practice, enabling students to assess their progress and identify areas for improvement. In addition, learners will explore and develop transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy, with an emphasis on their application within the criminal justice sector to enhance employability. The proficiency in Microsoft packages is aligned to the sector requirements of their employees and will support employability of students on completion of the programme.

1. Demonstrate digital capability and effective¿use of MS Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and understanding; Enquiry; Communication; learning; application; analysis; communication

2. Demonstrate a structured approach to studying, written work, use of appropriate resources to locate primary/secondary literary sources. and referencing content.

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and understanding,¿Communication

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

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and understanding; Enquiry; Communication; learning; application; analysis; communication

Students will have a mixture of lectures, workshops and tutorials on the module to support them with their studies. Some of these sessions will be practical computer based settings where students can work through learning to become proficient in Microsoft software. Each semester, students will be offered the opportunity to attend assignment support workshop tutorials to guide and assist students with their assignments for the module. Alongside the timetabled content, students will also be expected to work independently through directed and independent study.

Access to computer rooms with PCs/laptops
Access to Microsoft credential testing

Finch, E. and Fafinski, S. (2019) Criminology skills. Third edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/he/9780198799818.001.0001.

Pears, R. and Shields, G.J. (2022) Cite them right: the essential referencing guide. 12th ed. London: Bloomsbury Academic.

This module provides students with the foundational academic and digital skills needed for success in higher education and future employment. Learners will gain practical experience in using Microsoft Office applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and develop structured approaches to research and written work. The module introduces core social science research skills, including locating and evaluating primary and secondary sources, and applying correct referencing techniques. In addition, students will explore strategies for personal skill development and reflective practice, while building transferable skills relevant to careers within the criminal justice sector. Emphasis is placed on communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy to prepare students for professional environments.