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The module will be taught through a mixture of staff-led or supported workshops (20 hours) and independent study guided by
structured learning materials and activities (130 hours). Workshops will introduce students to particular independent learning skills, and
will include a series of practical exercises designed to allow students to practise, develop and demonstrate their research skills. Workshops
will also provide a means for preparing students for their assessment and identifying and supporting weaknesses in student learning
through one-to-one tutor intervention. Students are also encouraged to seek tutorial support outside of scheduled class hours as
required. A member of staff is also normally available to help with problems that might occur in the Sociology
Laboratory when students are engaged in independent learning activities. Students are expected to practise their independent learning
skills throughout the module by focusing on a particular substantive topic as a member of a work/research group. The delivery of this
module is in part supported by the use of electronic learning environments.

A portfolio of work marked in two stages.

The portfolio to consist of materials generated from various independent study tasks set to students on a week-by-week basis.

This module introduces students to a range of independent learning skills required to pursue the undergraduate course in Sociology,
Crime, Deviance & Society, Social Minorities and the Social Sciences generally.. Topics covered include:-
- using computers as a research and learning tool.
- undertaking secondary research.
- undertaking aspects of primary research including interviews.
- manipulating and interpreting data.
- writing skills for essays including bibliographic skills.
- undertaking presentations.
- the role and value of Community & Work Based forms of Learning (CWBL) in the degree.
- the relationship between academic and employment skills.
- how to write a CV and maintain a personal development portfolio.
- the nature of the graduate labour market.

The Sociology Laboratory
Computers with Microsoft Office, Speaktext and Accessibility Software
OHP and audio-visual aids.
Tape recorders
Technical support.