This module is all about professional development - both in an immediate context for engaging with Postgraduate studies and also for future employment. The module focuses on the key principles and associated practice of academic engagement and the how this can be applied effectively to enhance students' intellectual empowerment.

The module will typically focus on:
The knowledge economy in a global context - how knowledge and skills matter.
The role of the emerging professional - professionalism, being professional and professional bodies.
Engaging as a student - going beyond study skills to enhance your potential.
Developing 'soft-skills' - an employer needs-based perspective. Self-reflection - undertaking an individual 'knowledge audit'. Professional Development Planning - bridging your knowledge and skills gap.
Essential study skills for postgraduate study (e.g. accessing academic resources, academic planning, literature reviews, referencing, assessment skills)

A portfolio weighted at 100%. (Learning Outcomes 1,2,3)

The coursework will typically require the production of a portfolio of work that includes a self-reflection component (of knowledge and skills), a brief report or exercise on a specific/scoped technical area, and a professional development plan that governs academic and professional development consisting of 3000 words.

There will be formal lectures as part of the residential weekends.

Students will be expected to use and regularly engage with the Moodle Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) employed for the delivery of this module. Students are expected to work through the module material provided on the VLE at the suggested pace and in accordance with the Learning Activity Plan. The material will include study content and activities that allow students to assimilate the concepts and skills required by the module.

Recommended texts:

FORSYTH P., CONNELLY J. (2010) Study Skills Guide : Essential Strategies for Smart Students. London:Kogan Page

Reference will made to specific conference/journal papers and authors during the module delivery.

1) Discuss critically the contemporary organisational context in which professional work occurs and the crucial significance of knowledge and skills development within the knowledge economy and within specific areas of healthcare engineering and facilities.
(ENQUIRY, KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING)

2) Critically reflect on and critically evaluate personal academic development and career needs, and make subsequent personal action plans to addresses development needs.
(ANALYSIS, ENQUIRY, REFLECTION)

3) Apply the principles of professionalism to enhance study and research skills that are of value to postgraduate study and future employers.
(APPLICATION)