INDICATIVE CONTENT
The maths component of the module covers:
Simplification and expansion of algebraic expressions
Expanding brackets and factorisation
Linear and quadratic functions
Indices and logarithms
Basic statistical measures such as mean and standard deviation
The IT skills part of the module deals with:
Basic keyboard skills
Operating systems
General office software packages
The Internet and digital literacy
Apps and video-conferencing
The capacity to deal with IT problems and how to use these in a safe and effective manner
ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT DETAILS
1. Exam 1 Maths: This will be a standard closed book examination, with formula sheets provided (LOs 1 and 2)
2. Exam 2 Practical IT : Carry out IT tasks using general office software e.g. format text, import images into a file, produce charts, produce presentation slides (LOs 3 and 4)
Formative assessment:
Show and Tell sessions to demonstrate use of Accountancy and Maths apps
Reasonable adjustments in assessment can be applied in line with Staffordshire University guidelines:
https://www.staffs.ac.uk/students/docs/pdf/ra-guidance-students.pdf
An overall pass grade can be achieved from the two tasks, where at least 20% has been achieved in any failing task
LEARNING STRATEGIES
You will be taking part in maths and IT workshops. These will help you to develop your maths and IT skills by doing formative exercises. You'll be working on your own, with your fellow students and with the lecturer. Your time will be divided more or less equally between maths and IT.
There will be a strong emphasis on activity-focused learning and learners are expected to actively engage in all sessions. In addition, learners are required to engage in independent study to consolidate and build upon their learning in taught sessions.
A variety of multi-media resources will be employed, such as: Teams, Zoom, Padlet, Socrative, Kahoot! WeChat, Blogs and Forums. These multi-media resources will also form part of the formative, informal assessment for learning. They will sit alongside other formative tasks such as: mini-WebQuests to hone research skills, quizzes and gamification. Peer assessment and self-assessment will be employed as part of formative assessment.
There will be regular tutorials including tutorial with the academic mentor to ensure that engagement and motivation are promoted.
In the final part of the module, the teaching format changes to consolidation of learning. Formal classes will stop, instead, you'll have time for independent study to practise your maths examination and IT class test. Your tutor will be available for tutorials to sort out any problems and support your revision.
All opportunities to embed the chosen subject area, employability and an understanding of the culture of the UK will be utilised.
The learning will include face to face, online synchronous and asynchronous delivery with directed and independent study. In the event of any restrictions to face to face delivery learning will delivered online.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Manipulate algebraic expressions, solve linear and quadratic equations, evaluate and transform algebraic and logarithmic expressions.
Knowledge and understanding, Learning.
2. Apply statistical analysis and present the results in tables and charts.
Application.
3. Demonstrate digital proficiency and productivity in the use of ICT-based devices, applications and software.
Application, Learning.
4. Demonstrate the use of information, data and media literacies.
Enquiry.
RESOURCES
University and GXUN library
IT facilities
Presentation facilities
REFERENCE TEXTS
Croft, A. & Davidson, R. (2020) Foundation Maths, 7th Edition. Prentice Hall
Melton, B., Dodge, M., Swinford, E. & Schor, B.M. (2016) Microsoft Office Home and Student. Step by Step.
Microsoft Press.
Jisc (2018) Digital Literacies: https://www.digitalcapability.jisc.ac.uk/what-is-digital-capability/individual-digital-capabilities/our-digital-capabilities-framework/
There will also be an updated guide to appropriate websites and Apps
WEB DESCRIPTOR
The maths component of the module covers simplification and expansion of algebraic expressions, including expanding brackets and factorisation; linear and quadratic functions; indices and logarithms; and basic statistical measures such as mean and standard deviation.
The IT skills part of the module deals with basic keyboard skills, introduces you to operating systems, general office software packages, the Internet, and how to use all of these safely and effectively as learners but also in a workplace setting.