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 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.

The significance of work based learning and its integration with theory will be examined. How to integrate work-based experiences to maximise experiential learning will be explored. The preparation of Reflective Journals, to monitor progress against personal development plans will also be examined.

Topics covered in the module will be drawn from: Introduction to IT including the use of Word/Excel/PowerPoint/Internet/Outlook etc); study skills, 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 time and the meeting process (agenda/minutes etc); oral communications (e.g. presentations, body language etc); assignment techniques.

The learning strategy for this module requires students to commit 150 learning hours (including assessment). This will include 36 hours of class support and 114 hours of independent and self directed study.

The class sessions will include formal lecture, student exercises, case study analysis, presentations and group discussions based on student experiences in the subject area. Students will be encouraged to integrate any work based experiences with new knowledge and skills developed in the classroom as the module progresses.

Cottrell, S (2008) The Study Skills Handbook, Palgrave
Dransfileld R. et.al (2004), Business for Foundation Degrees and Higher Awards, Oxford: Heinemann
McMillan, K and Weyers, J (2009) The Smarter Student, Pearson
Peder M. et.al., (2006), A Manager¿s Guide to Self Development 5th Edition, Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill

Staffordshire University electronic resources and off-campus library facilities.
Module website
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development - www.cipd.co.uk

An assignment report (1,000 words), demonstrating the application of study skills drawing on a range of sources. (50%) (Learning Outcomes 1 & 3).
Completion of a Personal Development Plan, culminating in the identification of personal development objectives. (25%) (Learning Outcomes 1 & 3).
An individual student presentation, based on the Personal Development Plan. (10 mins) (25%) (Learning Outcome 2)