The indicative for this Independent Studies module will include:

Introduction to the Independent Studies module:
- Learning contracts/learning agreements, assessment strategies, professional and personal development.
Academic skills:
- Planning, writing and structuring academic work as above, including writing a research/study proposal.
Approaches to research:
- Methods of research.
- Accessing databases; assessing evidence and the meaning and importance of contemporaneous evidence-based research.
- Investigating how research can be incorporated into practice.
Workplace review:
- SWOT analysis, identification of workplace/organisational topics to help formulate research/study proposals.

The summative method of assessment requires students to propose and justify the method of assessment they would like to undertake.
Examples of assessment could include

A 3000 word report or article for publication that critically evaluates and demonstrates evidence of a change they have effected in their specific workplace. (addressing all LO's) (Weighted at 100%)
OR
Alternatively students can write a 2,000 word reflective essay on a change they have personally implemented in their area of work. The written submission to demonstrate critical analysis of topic material. (Weighted at 80%). A 15minute PowerPoint or poster presentation, with supporting literature to accompany the work. (Weighted at 20%) (addressing all LO's). Both elements of this assessment must be passed.

The summative method of assessment will be weighted as 100% of the total module mark.

The initial formative method of assessment requires students to write a:

- Research/Study Proposal:
Consisting of a 750 to 1,000 word research proposal, where students detail their chosen assessment method for 30 credits at Level 6.
This method of assessment would be marked as either a `Pass or Fail¿. ¿ this is formative assessment and should be formative feedback given rather than pass or fail
This research/study proposal would form the basis of the negotiated `learning contract¿ with the Module Leader.
- Learning Contract:
The learning contract will be jointly written by the student and the Module Leader. The learning contract will outline aims, predicted outcomes, time scales for achievement and self-directed learning activities.
The contract must demonstrate academic level 6 learning and should be based on Knowles¿ (1986) template. Knowles, M. (1986) Using Learning Contracts. New York; Jossey-Bass.

Formative assessment strategies during the module will include continuous monitoring of students¿ progression e.g. during taught sessions, group work, class discussions and individual tutorials, resulting in constructive feedback by the Module Leader. Students may also receive feedback from their nominated mentor in their area of work.

The Independent Studies module in total culminates in 300 hours of learning for a 30 credit, level 6 (Degree) award. The prescribed number of hours are achieved by means of:
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (20 hours)
20 hours of direct contact (taught sessions including, presentations, external specialist speakers, scenarios, group tutorials, action learning sets and quizzes).
11 hours Direct teaching hours
6 hours Action learning sets
3 hours Group tutorial

Guided Independnet Study: (280 hours)
self directed study

Computer and display screen with internet access
Module handbooks
Learning contracts

Bowden, J. (2011) Writing a report: how to prepare, write and present really effective reports. 9th Edition. Oxford; How to do books.
Brotherton, G. Parker, S. (2008) Work based learning and practice placement. Newton Abbott; Reflect Press.
O'Leary, Z. (2010) The Essential Guide to Doing your Research Project. London; Sage.

Currently employed by the Heart of England Foundation Trust (HEFT)