Information Research - Using library and online resources to search for and access information from academic papers and other contemporary sources. Correct referencing using the Harvard method. Avoiding plagiarism. Assessing the value of research - becoming a critical thinker.

Writing Skills - Understanding what is expected of you as a student when writing assignments, reports etc. Understanding what sort of writing skills employers expect of someone with a higher education qualification. Academic writing, referencing and citation.

Presentation Skills - How to prepare a presentation. Using presentation software such as Powerpoint. Reflection on your strengths and weaknesses as a presenter. How you can improve your presentation skills.

Reflective Learning - Reflective practice is looking back and thinking about an event or an activity in detail and learning something from it that may help them in the future. This section looks at the value and benefits of becoming and remaining reflective thinkers as students, in the workplace and throughout life.

Efficient Word Processing - There are many features of word processing software that can improve the efficiency with which you write particularly when writing long documents. This section will look at header levels, cross-referencing, including pictures and tables, tables of contents and many other features.

100% coursework assessing learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3

To include a 2000 word report (70%) Learning outcome 1, Learning outcome 2 on a technical subject of the student's choice related to their work. Linked to this the student will prepare a 10 minute presentation (30%) Learning outcome 3 which reflects on their experience of preparing the report.

The student will engage with the Blackboard site for this module to cover the learning material which includes documents, videos, exercises, reflection, formative and summative assignments. This will occupy the independent study time.

In addition the student will meet with a representative of the delivery team on regular occasions through the course either 1:1 or as a small group. This contact may be face-to-face or by video conferencing or other electronic means.

Cottrell, S. (2003) The study skills handbook. 2nd Ed. Hampshire: Palgrave Study Guides.
Cottrell, S. (2005) Critical thinking skills: developing effective analysis and argument. Hampshire: Palgrave Study Guides
Creme, P. & Lea, M.R. (2003) Writing at university. Open University Press
McMillan, K. & Weyers, J. (2006) The smarter student skills and strategies for success at university. Harlow: Pearson Prentice Hall
Moon J Learning Journals 2nd Edn 2006 Routledge 0415403758

Library
IT resources including word processor (Microsoft Word) and presentation (Microsoft Powerpoint) software.
Blackboard

None.