University of Plymouth

Faculty of Science and Engineering

School of Biological and Marine Sciences

Programme Specification

BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography - (2055)

BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography (Integrated) – (4386)

September 2019

1. BSc (Honours) Marine Biology and Oceanography

Final award title BSc (Honours) Marine Biology and Oceanography

Level 6 Intermediate award title BSc Marine Biology and Oceanography

Level 5 Intermediate award title Diploma of Higher Education

Level 4 Intermediate award title Certificate of Higher Education

UCAS code: CF17JACS code: C161/F730

2. Awarding Institution: University of Plymouth

Teaching institution: University of Plymouth

3. Accrediting body: N/A

4. Distinctive Features of the Programme and the Student ExperienceThe B.Sc. (Hons) Marine Biology & Oceanography programme is designed to provide a study of the biology and ecology of marine organisms within the context of the physical and chemical environments that characterise the oceans and shallow waters in which they exist. The programme is particularly suitable for students with a broad interest in marine biology and a desire to understand the functioning of marine systems on both a global and a local scale.

The Marine Biology & Oceanography degree focuses on open ocean systems and the study of how biological systems are driven by the physical properties of the oceans (e.g. tides, waves, currents). Studies range from understanding how nutrient upwellings support the world’s great fisheries, to how turtles and whales use ocean currents to migrate over vast distances. The degree covers a rich mix of topics that will enable students to appreciate and understand the physical and chemical processes driving the oceans, the biology and ecology of the organisms that dwell there, and the impact of human activities such as global climate change and ocean acidification. The degree provides the necessary skills and knowledge to participate in, and contribute to, our expanding awareness of such a challenging and exciting environment. The acquisition of field skills and techniques is supported by residential field courses in both Level 4 & 5 and the programme also utilises facilities at the University’s Marine Station to provide hands–on experience of sampling at sea. Students also have the option to undertake the HSE Professional SCUBA course; this is the standard qualification for all commercial diving in the UK. For

reasons of Health & Safety, there are limited places on the HSE Professional SCUBA course and additional costs are involved.

There is a strong emphasis on research-informed teaching throughout the degree. In level 6 all students conduct a research project either based on campus or at a host institution. Students present the outcomes of their research in the form of a scientific paper and via an oral presentation at our annual Marine Biology Conference.

5. Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Group(s)This programme conforms to the academic standards set out in the National Subject Benchmark Statement for Biosciences (2007) and, where relevant, the Subject Benchmark Statement for Earth Sciences (2007). The Benchmark Statements are available at:http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/Biosciences07.pdfhttp://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/EarthSciences.pdf

These benchmark statements are referred to throughout the intended learning outcomes for this programme.

6. Programme StructureThe diagrams below outline the structure of the BSc (Hons) Marine Biology & Oceanography programme. Details relating to the content of each module can be found in the individual PUMRs. Note that not all optional modules will be available each year.6.1 Stage 1 / Level 4

Semester 1*MBIO120

Introduction to Marine Biology

BIOL131 Cells: The

building blocks of life

OS102 Oceanography

Semester 2MBIO123*

Marine Biology Field Course

MBIO161 Evolution & Behaviour

MBIO162 Biodiversity

* Tutorials. Modules that include the Stage 1 tutorial provision for all marine biology degree programmes.

6.2 Stage 2 / Level 5

Semester 1

MBIO228Biology of Marine

Organisms20 credits

OS201 Global Ocean Processes

20 credits

Option 120 credits

Semester 2

MBIO227Biological

Oceanography Field Course

20 credits

MBIO225Methods in Marine

Biology & Oceanography

20 credits

Option 220 credits

Stage 2 / Level 5 Option 1 – 20 credits from:MBIO221 Marine Molecular BiologyOS207 Scientific DivingOS209 Marine Remote Sensing

Stage 2 / Level 5 Option 2 – 20 credits from:MBIO217 Ecology of Shallow Water Marine HabitatsOS204 Waves, Tides & Coastal Dynamics.

Stage 3 – Optional Placement YearBPIE336 Marine Biology related Placement

6.3 Stage 4 / Level 6

Semester 1MBIO313

Personal Research40 credits

Option 1 & 240 credits

Semester 2

MBIO341Biological

Oceanography20 credits

Option 320 credits

Stage 4 / Level 6 Option 1 & 2 – 40 credits from:BIOL311 Ecotoxicology (20 credits)MBIO327 Marine Ecology (20 credits)OS303 Ocean Dynamics (20 credits). OS304 Managing Marine Ecosystems (20 credits).

Stage 4 / Level 6 Option 3 – 20 credits from:MBIO339 Ecology & Conservation of Marine Vertebrates (20 credits)MBIO363 Fish & FisheriesOS309 Marine Pollution & Environmental Change (20 credits).

7. Programme AimsWe aim to deliver a programme that: provides a broad understanding of marine ecology, oceanography and how

biology is shaped and influenced by the physical and chemical hydrographic environment.

offers a broad, relevant and contemporary curriculum, enriched by the scholarly activity of staff

provides plentiful opportunities for practical/field work and experiential learning in marine biology and oceanography

Produces graduates with genuine flexibility in career choice and broadly applicable skills; and

challenges, stimulates, enthuses and encourages students.

Through the BSc Marine Biology and Oceanography programme we aim to develop graduates who:

have thorough knowledge, understanding and practical experience in selected areas of marine biology and oceanography

are competent in a wide range of intellectual, biological and key skills are critical, rational and creative thinkers are confident, adaptable and independent learners are readily employable are intellectually inquisitive, equipped for life-long learning and ready to play a co-

operative and responsible role in society.

8. Programme Intended Learning Outcomes

8.1. Knowledge and understandingOn completion graduates should be able to demonstrate:1. an understanding of the physical properties and chemical processes of the

oceans;2. an understanding of the interrelationships between marine organisms and the

physical and chemical environment of the oceans;3. understanding of the functioning of large-scale biological systems within the

oceans;4. an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of life processes through the

study of organisms, their physiological processes, their genetics and evolution;5. the ability to read and use appropriate literature with a full and critical

understanding, while addressing such questions as content, aims, objectives, quality of information, and its interpretation and application

6. the capacity to give a clear and accurate account of a subject, marshal arguments in a mature way and engage in debate and dialogue both with specialists and non-specialists, using appropriate scientific language

7. critical and analytical skills: a recognition that statements should be tested and that evidence is subject to assessment and critical evaluation

8. the ability to employ a variety of methods of study in investigating, recording and analysing material

9. the ability to think independently, set tasks and solve problems10. the need for both a multidisciplinary and an interdisciplinary approach in

advancing knowledge and understanding of Earth systems11. the processes which shape the natural world at different temporal and spatial

scales and their influence on and by human activities12. methods of acquiring, interpreting and analysing information with a critical

understanding of the appropriate contexts for their use.

8.2. Cognitive and intellectual skillsOn completion graduates should be able to:1. recognise and apply subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts or principles2. analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically, including published

research or reports3. obtain and integrate several lines of subject-specific evidence to formulate and

test hypotheses4. apply subject knowledge and understanding to address familiar and unfamiliar

problems5. recognise the moral and ethical issues of investigations and appreciate the need

for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct.

8.3. Practical skillsOn completion graduates should be able to:1. undertake sufficient practical work to ensure competence in the basic

experimental skills appropriate to the discipline under study2. design, plan, conduct and report on investigations3. record, collate and analyse data using appropriate techniques in the field and/or

laboratory, working individually or in a group4. undertake field and/or laboratory investigations of living systems in a responsible,

safe and ethical manner.

8.4. Numeracy skillsOn completion graduates should be able to:1. receive and respond to a variety of sources of information: textual, numerical,

verbal, graphical2. carry out sample selection; record and analyse data in the field and/or the

laboratory; ensure validity, accuracy, calibration, precision, replicability and highlight uncertainty during collection

3. prepare, process, interpret and present data, using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques, statistical programmes, spreadsheets and programs for presenting data visually

4. solve problems by a variety of methods, including the use of computers.

8.5. Communication, presentation and IT skillsOn completion graduates should be able to:1. communicate about their subject appropriately to a variety of audiences using a

range of formats and approaches, using appropriate scientific language2. cite and reference work in an appropriate manner, including the avoidance of

plagiarism3. use the internet and other electronic sources critically as a means of

communication and a source of information4. undertake field and/or laboratory investigations of living systems in a responsible,

safe and ethical manner.

8.6. Interpersonal and teamwork skillsOn completion graduates should be able to:1. identify individual and collective goals and responsibilities and perform in a

manner appropriate to these roles, in particular those being developed through practical, laboratory and/or field studies

2. revaluate performance as an individual and a team member; evaluate the performance of others

3. develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of science and of the validity of different points of view.

8.7. Self-management and professional development skillsOn completion graduates should be able to:1. develop the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (e.g. working

independently, time management, organisational, enterprise and knowledge transfer skills)

2. identify and work towards targets for personal, academic and career development3. develop an adaptable, flexible and effective approach to study and work.

9. Admissions Criteria, including APCL, APEL and DAS arrangementsAll applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English at Grade C or above.

Entry Requirements for BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography

A-level/AS-level

120-144 points; A-level Biology (or equivalent) obligatory. A typical offer might be 128 points including B @ A-level Biology and grade B in a qualifying  2nd science, or 128 points with A in Biology and two other A levels. Points can include a relevant Extended project (EPQ) in addition to 3 A-levels. Qualifying science subjects are: Applied Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. General Studies is not a qualifying A-level.

BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma

Candidates may be interviewed before an offer is made. Applications from students studying 18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma in Applied Science, Animal Management, Environmental Sustainability or Countryside Management (Marine & Coastal Ecology) are welcomed. Typical offer: DDD, depending on units studied. Please include details of units in your UCAS application.

Access to Higher Education at level 3

Pass an Access to HE Science course with 60 credits overall, to include 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 credits must be at distinction and 15 credits at merit or higher. Must include a minimum 15 credits in biology units, plus 15 credits in other relevant subjects (includes mathematics, physics, chemistry, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology, technology or psychology). An interview is usually required

Welsh Baccalaureate

AB at A Level to include Biology and a second science subject, plus 120 points from WB

Scottish Qualifications Authority

320 points including Biology and a second science.

Irish Leaving Certificate

AABBB at Higher Level, to include Biology and second science plus Ordinary Level Grade C Maths and English

International Baccalaureate

330 points, normally to include grade 5 in Biology and a second science at Higher Level.If overseas and not studying English within IB, must have IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 in all other elements.

Year zero Foundation programme at

Students who pass the Year zero Foundation programme and meet the conditions specified can progress to one of the Faculty’s BSc (Hons) programmes. To progress to the next stage, a student would normally be expected to achieve and average mark >60% and pass

University of Plymouth

all modules (120 credits). In certain circumstances we allow your overall performance to compensate (CP) for failure in a maximum of 20 credits per stage. There are a limited number of places available within each of the marine biology programmes [BSc (Hons) Marine Biology, Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology and Marine Biology and Oceanography]; the number of available places will be specified at the commencement of each academic year. In the event of over-subscription, progression to these programmes will be determined on the basis of academic performance in the Foundation Year, and suitability to each of the programmes, which will be determined at interview. Guidance on choice and detailed advice will be provided by the Admissions Tutor and Foundation year tutors.

10. Progression criteria for Final and Intermediate AwardsThe University’s standard regulations for progression apply. A copy of the regulations can be found at http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/extexam/pages/academic-regulations.aspxAfter Level 4 students may decide to transfer to another marine biology BSc programme scheme at the beginning of Level 5. All transfers are subject to availability of places.

Progression onto Level 5 of Marine Biology and Oceanography will be considered for holders of an FdSc in an appropriate subject dependent on prior experience. Any FdSc that names this award as an agreed progression route will automatically be deemed suitable for Level 5. Progression from University of Plymouth International College is subject to passing Stage 1 (Level 4) of the UPIC Equivalent Integrated Programme. This consists of the standard Stage 1 of the programme plus ILS1005: Interactive Learning Skills and Communications.

The School has developed exchange schemes with universities in other countries, including continental Europe. Students may spend all of Level 5 on such a scheme. Students on exchange must follow and pass an approved programme of study. The marks gained do not normally contribute numerically to the final degree; the final award will be based on Level 4 (10%) and Level 6 (90%) marks.

11. Exceptions to RegulationsNone

12. Transitional Arrangements

This section outlines changes to the programme specification. The first cohort of students to take the programme described here, in its entirety, will graduate in 2021. Students graduating in 2019 and 2020 will have the interim arrangements described below:

Year of entry Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3/4 2020 New New New2019 New New New2018 Old New New

Below is a list of all the old modules and how they can be mapped onto the new coded modules. This table should be used when students are required to repeat credits from the old degree programme after the new programmes have started.

Modules in old scheme Equivalents in new schemeMBIO120 Introduction to Marine Biology

No change

MBIO121 Life of Earth BIOL131 Cells: The building blocks of life

OS102 Physical & Chemical Processes of the Ocean

No change

Plymouth Plus (OS106PP, BIOL124PP, BIOL125PP, ROCO103PP or ENGL405PP)

Removed from Programme and MBIO122 split into 2 separate modules (see below).

MBIO122 Evolution & Biodiversity MBIO161 Evolution & BehaviourMBIO122 Evolution & Biodiversity MBIO162 BiodiversityMBIO123 Marine Biology Field Course

No change

MBIO228 Biology of Marine Animals No changeOS201 Global Ocean Processes No changeMBIO221 Marine molecular ecology No changeOS207 Scientific Diving No changeOS209 Marine Remote Sensing No changeMBIO227 Biological Oceanography Field Course

No change

MBIO225 Methods in MBO No changeMBIO217 Ecology of Shallow Water Habitats

No change

OS204 Waves Tides and Coastal No change

DynamicsMBIO313 Personal Research No changeMBIO327 Marine Ecology No changeMBIO325 Marine Algae Removed from programmeOS303 Ocean Dynamics No changeOS304 Marine Ecosystem Conservation

No change

MBIO341 Biological Oceanography No changeMBIO339 Ecology & Conservation of Marine Vertebrates

No change

OS309 Marine Pollution No changeOS306 Coastal Geomorphology and Estuaries

MBIO363 Fish & Fisheries

13. Mapping and Appendices:13.1. ILOs against Modules Mapping

Programme Learning Outcome Related Core (& option) Modules

Knowledge and understandingAn understanding of the physical properties and chemical processes of the oceans

MBIO120, OS102, OS201, MBIO341 (OS204, OS303, OS309)

An understanding of the interrelationships between marine organisms and the physical and chemical environment of the oceans

MBIO120, MBIO162, OS102, OS201, MBIO227, MBIO341 (MBIO217, BIOL311,MBIO327, OS304, MBIO363, OS309)

An understanding of the functioning of large-scale biological systems within the oceans

MBIO120, OS102, MBIO162, OS201, MBIO227, MBIO341 (MBIO217, MBIO327, OS304)

An appreciation of the complexity and diversity of life processes through the study of organisms, their physiological processes, their genetics and evolution

BIOL131, MBIO161, MBIO162, MBIO123, MBIO228 (MBIO221, MBIO217, MBIO327, OS304, MBIO229, MBIO363)

The ability to read and use appropriate literature with a full and critical understanding, while addressing such questions as content, aims, objectives, quality of information, and its interpretation and application

All modules

The capacity to give a clear and accurate account of a subject, marshal arguments in a mature way and engage in debate and dialogue both with specialists and non-specialists, using appropriate scientific language

All modules

Critical and analytical skills: a recognition that statements should be tested and that evidence is subject to assessment and critical evaluation

All modules

The ability to employ a variety of methods of study in investigating, recording and analysing material

MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO221, OS207, OS209, MBIO217, OS204)

The ability to think independently, set tasks and solve problems

All modules, but particularly MBIO313

The need for a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach in advancing knowledge and understanding of Earth systems

MBIO120, OS102, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO341 (OS207, OS209)

The processes which shape the natural world at different temporal and spatial scales and their influence on and by human activities.

MBIO120, MBIO162, OS201, MBIO341 (OS209, MBIO217, BIOL311, MBIO327, OS304, MBIO339, MBIO363, OS309)

The methods of acquiring, interpreting and analysing information with a critical understanding of the appropriate contexts for their use.

MBIO120, MBIO123, OS201 MBIO225, MBIO227 (MBIO221, OS207, OS209, MBIO217, OS204, OS303)

Intellectual skillsRecognise and apply subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts or principles

All modules, but particularly those at level 6

Analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically, including published research or reports

All modules

Obtain and integrate several lines of subject-specific evidence to formulate and test hypotheses

MBIO123, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313

Apply subject knowledge and understanding to address familiar and unfamiliar problems

MBIO123, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313

Recognise the moral and ethical issues of investigations and appreciate the need for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct

MBIO225

Practical skills

Undertake sufficient practical work to ensure competence in the basic experimental skills appropriate to the discipline under study

MBIO120, MBIO123, MBIO161, MBIO162, BIOL131, OS201, MBIO25, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO221, OS207, OS209, MBIO217, OS204, OS303)

Design, plan, conduct and report on investigations MBIO123, MBIO162, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313

Record, collate and analyse data using appropriate techniques in the field and/or laboratory, working individually or in a group

MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO221, OS207, OS209, MBIO217, OS204)

Undertake field and/or laboratory investigations of living systems in a responsible, safe and ethical manner

MBIO120, MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO217)

Numeracy skillsReceive and respond to a variety of sources of information: textual, numerical, verbal, graphical

All modules

Carry out sample selection; record and analyse data in the field and/or the laboratory; ensure validity, accuracy, calibration, precision, replicability and highlight uncertainty during collection

MBIO120, MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO221, OS207, OS209, MBIO217, OS204)

Prepare, process, interpret and present data, using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques, statistical programmes, spreadsheets and programs for presenting data visually

MBIO120, MBIO123, OS201 MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO221, OS209, MBIO217, OS204, OS303)

Solve problems by a variety of methods, including the use of computers

MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (MBIO221, OS209, MBIO217, OS204, OS303)

Communication, presentation and IT skillsCommunicate about their subject appropriately to a variety of audiences using a range of formats and approaches, using appropriate scientific language

All modules

Cite and reference work in an appropriate manner, including the avoidance of plagiarism

All modules

Use the internet and other electronic sources critically as a means of communication and a source of information

All modules

Understand field and/or laboratory investigations of living systems in a responsible, safe and ethical manner.

MBIO120, MBIO123, MBIO225, MBIO227 (MBIO217)

Interpersonal and teamwork skillsIdentify individual and collective goals and responsibilities and perform in a manner appropriate to these roles, in particular those being developed through practical, laboratory and/or field studies

MBIO120, MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (OS207)

Recognise and respect the views and opinions of other team members; negotiating skills

MBIO123, OS201, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (OS207)

Evaluate performance as an individual and a team member; evaluate the performance of others

MBIO123, MBIO225, MBIO227, MBIO313 (OS207)

Develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of science and of the validity of different points of view

All modules

Self-management and professional development skillsDevelop the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (e.g. working independently, time management, organisational, enterprise and knowledge transfer skills)

All modules, but particularly MBIO313

Identify and work towards targets for personal, academic and career development

All modules, but particularly MBIO120, MBIO123, MBIO225, & MBIO313

Develop an adaptable, flexible and effective approach to study and work

All modules, but particularly MBIO120, MBIO123, MBIO225, & MBIO313

13.2. Assessment against Modules MappingOral assessment and presentation Written exam

Module code

Assessed Practical

Dissertation Portfolio

Report or essay

Group Poster

Group Presentatio

n

Individual Presentation

Exam Test

Core modulesMBIO120BIOL131OS102MBIO123MBIO161MBIO162MBIO228OS201MBIO227MBIO225MBIO313MBIO341Option modulesMBIO221OS207OS209MBIO217OS204BIOL311

MBIO327MBIO339MBIO363OS303OS304OS309

13.4 ILS1005 Module Record

DMD ILS1005

Module Interactive Learning Skills and Communication Code ILS1005

FHEQ 4

Version Current Version 2.14 October 2014Prior Version/s 1.14 September 2014

1.13 October 20131.12 July 2012

This Definitive Module Document (DMD) is designed for all prospective, enrolled students, academic staff and potential employers. It provides a concise summary of the main features of the module and the Specific Learning Outcomes (LOs) that a typical student might reasonably expect to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities. Detailed information regarding the content and assessment criteria of this module should be considered alongside the appropriate Programme Specifications (PSs) and Module Guide (see MG ILS1005).Module Name Interactive Learning Skills and Communication (ILSC)Module Code ILS1005Module Duration (per semester) Thirteen (13) weeksContact Hours (per semester) 52Directed Study Hours (per semester) -Self-directed Study Hours (per semester) 98Notional Hours (per module) 150Teaching Rotation 01,03Teaching Body UPICArticulating Institution University of PlymouthArticulating Faculty Faculty of Science and Environment; Faculty of Arts and Humanities; Plymouth Business

SchoolUniversity Campus Drakes CircusPathways (on which this module is offered) All Integrated PathwaysCredit Points ZeroPathway Stage UPIC Stage 2 (University of Plymouth Stage 1)

Stage FHEQ Level 4Language of Delivery EnglishLanguage of Assessment EnglishE-Learning IT software packages (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), internet access; College Portal; University

Student Portal.Moderation See CPR QS9Standard Progression Criteria Summary: minimum overall pass mark of 65% (Grade C*) across all assessment events and a

minimum of 65% in assessments B, D and E. See CPR QS9.

Failure to Progress [Summary: a student may not fail a module assessment on more than one (1) occasion, failure of the module assessment once requires that a student re-sit the failed assessment thereafter re-take the entire module at full cost; failure of a student to complete a module on the re-take of that module will result in referral to the College Learning and Teaching Board for a student management decision. The University will not be incumbent to progress students who fail].

AimsThis module has been designed to be delivered in conjunction with the Integrated FHEQ Level 4 (equivalent) first year degree and associated programmes in order to benchmark and satisfy the transfer criteria with regard to student communication and learning skills competency. This module is part of a wider pedagogic approach taken by NAVITAS UK to ensure the preparedness of its students and graduates with a focus on the relevant transferable and portable skills of effective and professional communication to support further study at a variety of levels, whether it involves higher education or further post-degree vocational programmes and/or professional awards, as well as providing a basis to foster career and life-building skills. Utilising a number of practical activities to allow candidates to achieve these essential skills, students will be introduced to techniques and strategies to manage speech anxiety; enhance grammar and vocabulary; think critically under pressure; research, package and deliver logical and persuasive communication both orally and in a variety of written formats (inclusive of dissertation); summarise; become an effective

listener; understand cultural and gender differences; and work effectively in a team.

This module ensures that graduates have attained the prescribed level of inter-disciplinary communication competence described as Level B2 ‘Proficient User’ by the Council of Europe, see Common European Framework of Reference for languages: Learning, teaching assessment 2001, Council of Europe, CUP, Cambridge, p. 24, Table 1. Common Reference Levels: global scale. This module is ACL accredited and benchmarked: ACL is a leading provider of English language provision to students seeking entry to Australian HEIs and a variety of levels. ACL now forms part of Navitas English and carries dual accreditation by the Australian National ELT Accreditation Scheme (NEAS) and the NSW Government’s Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board (VETAB). Navitas English is also a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) under the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF).

Successful completion of this module indicates that students have obtained a good understanding of and ability to apply the requisite knowledge and skills to enable them for successful onward study at undergraduate degree level.

Topics Preparation for college and university programmes Personal development planning (PDP) Presentation skills Listening skills Skills for self-directed study Appropriateness Library induction Writing at university Analysing questions/titles Planning written work projects Teamwork Composition and style Summarising techniques Revision techniques Examination overview and techniques Critical analysis and use of evidence

Specific Learning OutcomesA Knowledge and Understanding

Upon completion of this module students will be able to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the following:1 The structure of the UNIVERSITY degree programmes and classification.2 UNIVERSITY undergraduate degree scheme structures and awards.3 UNIVERSITY laboratory, library and e-learning facilities; College resources and personal resources to support

study.4 Time management and its application to notional hours of study and assessment events.5 Public speaking techniques and managing communication apprehension.6 Non-verbal communication techniques.7 Listening skills and knowledge dissemination and retention techniques.8 The importance of ensuring a clear basic understanding of the history of scholarship with regard to certain

subject areas and/or the use of appropriate nomenclature to aid communication. 9 What language styles to employ in a variety of situations to ensure appropriateness and clarity of

communication. 10 A comprehensive set of clear writing techniques (plain English, factual and persuasive writing) that can be

applied to a variety of written formats. 11 How to create appropriate and effective document layouts.12 The importance and basic precepts of style when composing written work in a variety of forms.13 How to embed the concept of continuous improvement and objectivity in relation to an individual’s academic

performance.14 Professional communication and presentation.15 How to enhance personal creativity and lateral thought processes.16 Examination techniques and skills.17 Design and communicate effective messages to a variety of audiences.18 How to work effectively as a team member.19 How to work effectively as an individual.

20 How to apply basic research and referencing techniques to formulate reasoned academic opinion in a variety of forms so as to avoid plagiarism and collusion.

B Intellectual / Cognitive Skills1 Ability to employ appropriate nomenclature and terminologies across subject contexts.2 Ability to analyse various modes of information when delivered in different formats.3 Make full use of library and e-learning search (catalogue and bibliographic) resources.4 Ability to effectively retain and communicate knowledge and understanding of topics covered in the module

in a comprehensive manner under timed conditions without re-course to learning aids. C Practical Skills1 Develop organisational skills for deadline submission.2 Proficiently use techniques and technology in the collation, interpretation and presentation of data in oral

and written formats.3 Develop oral presentation skills.4 Develop written skills for a variety of formats and requirements.D Transferable Skills1 Select, read, digest, summarise and synthesise information material in a variety of forms, both qualitative and quantitative (text,

numerical data and diagrammatic) and in an appropriate manner to identify and determine key facts/themes, relevancy and assessment of problems and identification and implementation of solutions.

2 Use and clearly communicate discursive, numerical, statistical and diagrammatic ideas, concepts, results and conclusions using appropriate technical and non-technical language and language style, structure and form.

3 Apply basic research and referencing techniques to all aspects of study, information collation, information presentation and formulation of academic opinion.

4 Embedding the importance of self-study and reliance. This involves cultivating and developing a responsibility within each student to take cognizance for their own learning, initiative, effective time-management and self-discipline within the academic and professional environments.

Generic Learning Outcomes Key skills demonstrated: Key skills demonstrated by the ability to:

Personal organisation and time-management skills to achieve research goals and maintain solid performance levels;

Meet converging assessment deadlines – based on punctuality and organisation with reference to class, group and individual sessions within a dynamic and flexible learning environment with variable contact hours and forms of delivery.

Understanding of the importance of attaining in-depth knowledge of terminology as used in a given topic area, as a basis to further study;

Communicate clearly using appropriate nomenclature to enhance meaning in all oral and written assessments with no recourse to collusion or plagiarism.

Understanding, knowledge and application of appropriate and effective methods of communication to meet formal assessment measures;

Present clearly, coherently and logically in a variety of oral and written formats using a variety of appropriate qualitative and quantitative tools and evidence bases.

Understanding and knowledge as to the development of the industry and/or scholarship in relation to a given topic under study;

Demonstrate an understanding of the current themes of a given topic, the academic and practical foundation on which they are based – demonstrated by a lack of plagiarism and need for collusion in both individual and group work.

Understanding of the rules applying to plagiarism and collusion; Collate, summarise, reason and argue effectively on a given topic without reference to another’s work or ideas/concepts.

Ability to work as an individual, in a small team and in a larger group to effect data collation, discussion and presentation of evidence;

Meet and succeed in each of the varied assessments presented.

Assessment Type Duration Method Topic Schedule WeightingAssessment E 10 weeks efficacy of individual PDP Attendance and

participation in PDP NA 10%

Assessment A Nine (9) weeks

research project (1,500 – 2000 words)

Computing/engineering/biological or biomedical/environment studies

Set session 2.2Submission session 11.1

30%

Assessment B 1 session(1 hour)

Listening assessment Listen to a lecture (computing/engineering/biological or biomedical/environment studies) and answer

Session 10.2 10%

set questions. Assessment CIndividual presentation

1 session Presentation Project presentation and defence

Session 11.2 20%

Assessment DFinal Examination

Two (2) hour (closed-book) examination

Examination Final summative examination covering academic reading and writing skills; history of scholarship and academic debate and critical analysis

Week 13 30%

Total Weighting 100%

Standard Progression CriteriaFor the purposes of UPIC this module carries a standard minimum progression requirement: [grade C* / pass mark 65%]. For University of Plymouth this is a Pass/Fail zero credited module that the student must pass to progress into University Stage 2.

Grade Classification Mark

A* High Distinction 80% – 100%B* Distinction 70% - 79%C* Pass 65% - 69%

F Fail Less than 65%Bibliographic ResourcesEssential ReadingEssential Reading

Module Guide – see MG ILS1005

Recommended Reading

Cottrell, S., The Study Skills Handbook, 3rd ed., Macmillan, 2008.

Fry, R., How to Study, 6th ed., Delmar Learning, 2005.

Race, P., How to Get a Good Degree – Making the most of your time at university, 2nd ed., Open University Press, 2007.

Further SourcesBaker, E., Barrett, M., and Roberts, L., Working communication. Milton, 2002.Berko, R. M., Wolvin, A. D., and Wolvin, D. R., Communicating: A social and career focus, Boston, 8th ed., 2001.Blundel, R., Effective organisational communication: Perspectives, principles and practices, Essex, 2nd ed., 2004.Daly, J. A., and Engleberg, I. N., Presentations in everyday life: Strategies for effective speaking, Boston, 2001.O’Rouke, J. S. (2004). Management communication: A case-analysis approach, New Jersey, 2nd ed., 2004. Whalen, D. J., I see what you mean, Chicago, 1995.

Journals (general reading)Asian Journal of CommunicationCommunication EducationJournal of CommunicationRelevant computing/engineering/biological or biomedical/environment journals – supplied as focus by Instructor

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