module specification

MN3104 - Orientation for Success in Higher Education (2023/24)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2023/24
Module title Orientation for Success in Higher Education
Module level Foundation (03)
Credit rating for module 30
School Guildhall School of Business and Law
Total study hours 300
 
30 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
198 hours Guided independent study
72 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 10%   Skills Audit
Group Presentation 30%   10 min Presentation
Coursework 60%   Reflective Commentary on student portfolio.
Running in 2023/24

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Year North Tuesday Afternoon
Year North Monday Afternoon
Year North Wednesday Afternoon

Module summary

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 study techniques addressing time management, academic reading and writing, note making, academic integrity, etc.

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.

Syllabus

Students are introduced to how learning works at university level including the concept of independent learning, and how to develop their academic skills by using the introduced study techniques. LO1

‘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.   LO2

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; LO3

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

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, 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.

Learning outcomes

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

LO1:   demonstrate a wide range of academic skills, including time management, academic reading and writing, note making, academic integrity, finding resources.

LO2:   describe the content of the courses offered by GSBL and its suitability for their continued study following successful completion of this foundational programme.

LO3:   reflect on their learning journey including their personal development of academic skills.

Assessment strategy

The assessment is developed to address the module learning outcomes and provide timely feedback to students. The assessment has three components, there are numerous opportunities throughout the module for students to test their knowledge and reflect on their progress.

Bibliography