module specification

This module introduces students to how universities work and how they can be successful in their studies. It provides an overview of the opportunities and challenges at university.  The module is designed to provide students with the main elements of the learning process. An important distinction is that students enter university to learn, not to be taught, and this module is designed to provide students with guidance in the learning process. It introduces the concept of the learning cycle and learning styles. It provides students with an overview of how memory to store information as well as enabling recall of previously encountered information, so that students can build on it and re-store it as new information. 

This module also introduces students to the different courses offered by the university
to prepare them for their decision regarding which course they wish to take following successful completion on this foundational course.  In addition, students are introduced to, and will practice, a wide range of skills necessary for successful academic study, such as exam technique, academic literacy, creativity and critical thinking.  

The module aims to:
 provide students with a sound understanding of what is required to succeed when studying at university level;
 provide a framework for the development of a range of academic, research, and attributes that will contribute to life-long learning and employability;
 provide students with ‘tasters’ (that is introductions) to all GSBL’s programmes of study to enable them to make informed decisions regarding their future study.

Students are introduced to how learning works at university level including the concept of independent learning, and how best to use their memory to enhance their learning, and complement their learning style. LO1,LO4

Students will have opportunities to develop and practice a wide range of personal and academic skills, such as academic literacies, presentation skills, exam technique, critical thinking, teamwork, goal setting, and research so that they can succeed during their studies LO2,LO4

‘Taster’ sessions will be delivered on all other GSBL courses to provide students will all the information they need to make informed decisions regarding their future study.    LO3,LO4

Students will be encouraged to take responsibility for the development of their approaches to learning, demonstrate an ability to formulate successful strategies for future learning success and reflect effectively on their current position and future direction in a number of contexts; LO4

PDP and reflection are an integral element of all Level 3 modules. Given this module’s focus on development PDP and reflection are embedded in every activity.  The module consists of 3 hour weekly sessions, that is, 2 hours plus 1 hour tutorial, during which students will participate in a wide variety of activities designed to orientate them to learning in higher education and develop personal skills such as communicating and listening, and academic skills such as academic reading and academic writing.  They will receive formative feedback on their performance throughout the module, which will feed into a reflective PDP.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

LO1:   explain the importance of using memory properly and in conjunction with learning
          styles for success in all learning activities at university;

LO2:   demonstrate a wide range of academic skills, including presentation skills and
           exam technique;

LO3:   describe the content of the courses offered by GSBL and its suitability for their
           continued study following successful completion of this foundational
           programme.

LO4:   locate information, use it appropriately, and reference it using Harvard
           referencing.

There are three assessment points to capture students’ progress.

The first assignment relates to LO1 and assesses students understanding of what is needed to succeed at university, and how their memory, learning style and study techniques can be used to their best advantage;

The second assessment reflects LO2, and examines students understanding of the content of all of GSBL’s courses and asked them to provide a rationale for their choice of future study.

Feedback on their learning activities including their learning strengths and weakness and academic goals will feed into a reflective commentary as the final assessment which reflects LO3.

Textbooks:

Core Text:
Burns, T. and Sinfield, S. (2016) Essential study skills, the complete guide to success at university. London: Sage.
Cameron, S. (2016) The Business Student's Handbook: Learning Skills for Study and Employment. Harlow: Prentice Hall.
Gallagher, K (2016) Essential Study and Employability Skills for Business Management Students. Oxford: OUP
Ramsey, P. Maier, P. (2010) Study Skills for Business and Management Students.  Harlow: Pearson Education.

Other Textbooks:
Cottrel, S. (2013) The Study Skills Handbook. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan.
Lowes,R. Peters, H. & Turner, M. (2004) The International Student's Guide:Studying English at University. London: Sage Publications
Pedlar, M. Burgoyne, J. and Boydell T. (2013) A Manager's Guide to Self-Development. Maidenhead: McGraw Hill.
Schön, D.A. (1995) The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think in Action. Aldershot: Arena.

Journals:
Websites:
https://learning.londonmet.ac.uk/studyhub/

Electronic Databases:
WebLearn
Blogs

Social Media Sources:
LinkedIn