The purpose of this module is to provide students with an introduction to the study and transferable skills necessary for the satisfactory completion of a higher education business course and subsequent employment and career development. In particular, the module will focus on communication and IT skills. Personal Development Planning will be introduced through this module.

Topics covered in the module will be drawn from: Introduction to the University learning environment (e.g. library induction, accessing on-line resources, IT including the use of Word/Excel/PowerPoint/Internet/Outlook etc); research skills and referencing; developing lines of argument and enquiry; written communication skills (e.g. essay, report writing); working in groups and group motivation and behaviour; managing the meeting process (agenda/minutes etc); oral communications (e.g. presentations, body language etc); assignment and examination techniques.

Week 4 - 500 word essay (20%) LO1
Week 9 - Group Presentations supported with PowerPoint (40%) LO1
Week 12 - Excel and Word Assignment (40%) LO1

LO2 will be covered by the compilation of the Personal Development Plan during personal tutorials.

The learning strategies will require students to commit 150 learning hours, of which 36 hours will consist of contact time. A combination of lectures and tutorials/workshops will provide students with the opportunity to develop a range of business skills.

A further 114 hours of independent study will require students to further develop and practise these skills using a combination of formative and summative assessment exercises independently and as part of a small group.

Cottrell, S (2003) The Study Skills Handbook, Palgrave, ISBN 0333751892

Peck, J and Coyle, M, (1999) The Student;s Guide to Writing, Palgrave, ISBN 0333727428

IT Network
Library Resources
TV/Video