The learning strategy of this module requires students to commit to 150 learning hours.
Delivery Pattern 1 - There will be 3 x 2 hour computer based workshops in, for example, Weeks 1, 3 and 8 to develop the knowledge and understanding of the subject area, the use of Blackboard VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) and the electronic portfolio. To support student learning and to monitor progress in emulating the portfolio of evidence, drop in sessions will be made available - date/time/venue will be arranged and communicated by the module leader.
Delivery Pattern 2 - There will be 6 x 1 hour computer based workshops in, for example, Week 1, 2, 3, 13, 14, and 15 to introduce the subject area and use of Blackboard VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) and the electronic portfolio. To support student learning and to monitor progress in emulating the portfolio of evidence, drop in sessions will be made available - date/time/venue will be arranged and communicated by the module leader.
The VLE also provides a comprehensive guide to the materials required as evidence within the students¿ portfolios.
Development of subject, skills knowledge and understanding will be supported through the VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) Blackboard. The key aspect is the collection of evaluated information produced by each student held within the electronic portfolio.

This module will first develop or enhance the ability of a student to be confident and a more effective learner using and applying independent learning techniques. The application of these skills is then applied to the critical thinking processes applicable to both academic study and the workplace. It aims to encourage students to develop and exercise higher order thinking abilities and apply them within the context of the management of organisations, and the need to select and use an effective communication medium to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
The mode of study is a blend of web based (VLE) study notes and activities, supported by tutor contact in a computer lab. Web based work is undertaken and collated into an electronic portfolio, which after analysis, is used to answer a number of assessment tasks (continuous assessment).

In the first part of the module, students will 'test out' the most effective means to learn using different source materials, initially using web based materials, and then widening the approach to hard copy text books. At this stage students will start to use an electronic portfolio as a means of storing selected information and answering tasks (mini-assessments).

In the second section of the module, students will develop critical thinking processes that are necessary to evaluate and develop balanced arguments regarding critical issues in business and management through a range of conceptual frameworks.

The final section of the module is concerned with communicating arguments and ideas effectively to others, with an approach that targets business and management.

Library and Internet access
Blackboard learning materials and a MS Word based electronic portfolio.

This is a hybrid module and as such there is no single text that covers the entire syllabus. Considerable information is available from the Blackboard web site. Students may find the following texts helpful.

Cottrell. S. (2005) Critical Thinking Skills-developing effective analysis and argument. Basingstoke, Palgrave. ISBN 1403996857
Cottrell. S. (2010) Skills for success. Basingstoke, Palgrave. De Bono, E., (1996) Teach yourself to think. Penguin. ISBN 0140230777

Kneeland, S. (1998) Effective problem-solving : how to understand the process and practise it successfully. Oxford. Oxford How To Books, Ltd. (Electronic book)

Fisher. A., (2001) Critical Thinking-an introduction, 6th Ed. Cambridge. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0521009847
Van den Brinh-Budgen, R. (2010) Critical Thinking for Students: Learn the Skills of Analysing, Evaluating and Producing Arguments, Oxford, How to Books Ltd

An individual electronic portfolio of evidence, weighted at 100% (LO 1, 2, and 3 each with an equal weighting)