research student development programme · 09:30-10:00 : walton library . 10 : 29.09.09 . managing...
TRANSCRIPT
1
2009-2010
Faculty of Medical Sciences
Research Student
Development Programme
2
Event Diary
Recommended for International Students
Mandatory for 1st Year Students if not attended previously For students intending to teach or demonstrate
Of interest to Social Researchers Recommended for new researchers but useful to researchers at any stage
Mandatory for researchers with clinical aspects to their research
Recommended for research students at any stage
Strongly Recommended for research students at any stage Recommended for established research students
Date Title Time Venue Pg 21.09.09 Solvers I (Biotechnology YES support) 14:00-16:00 MED Boardroom 10
24.09.09 Solvers II (Biotechnology YES support) 14:00-16:00 MED Boardroom 10
23.09.08 Humanities & Social Science Induction -1st year 16:00-18:00 HaSS training suite 22
24.09.08 Humanities & Social Science Induction -2nd & 3rd year 16:00-18:00 HaSS training suite 22
28.09.09 Graduate School Induction 11:00-13:00 DENT LTF 9
28.09.09 Research Student Reception 17:00-19:00 David Shaw LT 9 29.09.09 Introduction to Library Facilities 09:30-10:00 Walton Library 10
29.09.09 Managing Your Research Degree 10:00-12:00 DENT LTF 10
29.09.09 International Student’s Welcome 14:00-14:30 MED L4.3 10
29.09.09 University English Language Assessment 17:00-19:00 Merz Court, Rm 101 21
30.09.09 ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning 10:00-11:00 or 11:00-12:00 DENE Cluster 10
30.09.09 Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students 13:00-14:00 DENT LTC 10
30.09.09 Solvers III (Biotechnology YES Support) 14:30-16:30 MED L2.2 10
01.10.09 Experiment Design & Efficient Research 15:00-16:30 DENT LTF 11
05.10.09 Solvers IV (Biotechnology YES Support) 14:00-16:00 MED Boardroom 10
08.10.09 English for Academic Purposes (1st in series of 12) 09:00-11:00 Claremont Bridge 235 21
21.10.09 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Workshop 09:30-12:30 Bamburgh Rm, Kings Rd Centre 11
23.10.09 Postgraduate Research Conference 09:00-17:00 Kings Road Centre 11
30.10.09 Library Databases 09:00-10:30 GLEN Cluster 11
02.11.09 Recording Your Research (Lab books, diaries & more) 10:00-11:00 DENT LTD 12
02.11.09 SDI and Alerting Services 14:00-15:00 GLEN Cluster 12
03.11.09 Very Basic Statistics 11:00-11:45 Med L2.2 12
03.11.09 In Conversation With… 12:00-14:00 Beehive 2.21 12
04.11.09 Endnote 09:00-10:00 GLEN Cluster 12
04.11.09 Academic Integrity and Plagiarism 12:00-13:30 DENT LTF 13
04.11.09 Introduction to Bioethics 14:00-15:30 DENT LTF 13
06.11.09 Further Endnote 09:00-10:00 GLEN Cluster 13
09.11.09 Evaluating Electronic Resources 12:00-13:00 GLEN Cluster 13
09.11.09 Document Management 01 14:00-16:00 DENE Cluster 13
10.11.09 Research Governance 15:00-17:00 DENT LTF 14
12.11.09 Building Robust Search Strategies 12:00-13:00 GLEN Cluster 14
16.11.09 Advanced Medline 12:00-13:30 GLEN Cluster 14
18.11.09 Overview of Statistical Packages 14:00-16:00 MED L2.6 14
23.11.09 Basic Statistics 10:00-13:00 MED L2.2 14
24.11.09 Myer-Briggs Type Indicator Workshop 09:30-13:00 MED L2.3 11
26.11.09 SPSS for Beginners 09:00-16:30 DENE Cluster 14
30.11.09 Presentations Using Powerpoint 14:00-16:00 MED L2.3 15
02.12.09 Introduction to Intellectual Property (IP) 10:00-12:00 Ridley Bld.Rm.158 15
03.12.09 Advanced SPSS 09:00-16:30 LINN Cluster 15
07 & 08.12.09 MatLab 10:00-16:00 LINN Cluster 15
09.12.09 Document Management 02 14:00-16:00 DENE Cluster 15
15.12.09 In Conversation With… 12:00-14:00 HaSS Training Suite 12
11.01.10 Data Handling & Spreadsheet Skills 14:00-16:00 DENE Cluster 16
12.01.10 Preparing CV’s for Academia or Industry 10:00-11:30 MED Boardroom 16
12.01.10 Introduction to Databases Lecture (MS Access) 12:00-13:00 MED L3.1 16
13.01.10 Academic Writing 10:00-12:00 DENT LTD 16
15.01.10 Introduction to Databases Practical (MS Access) 13:00-15:00 LINN Cluster 16
3
Date Title Time Venue Pg 18.01.10 Graduate School Induction 10:00-12:00 MED L2.2 9
18.01.10 Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students 13:00-14:00 MED L2.5 10
19.01.10 ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning 10:00-11:00 DENE Cluster 10
19.01.10 Managing your Research Degree 14:00-16:00 MED L2.5 10
20.01.10 Promoting the Public Understanding of Research 12:00-13:00 Ridley Bld. Rm. 157 16
20.01.10 Science and the Media 13:00-14:30 Ridley Bld. Rm. 158 17
02.01.10 Recording Your Research (Lab books, diaries & more) 10:00-11:00 Ridley Bld. Rm. 158 12
25.01.10 Introduction to Critical Appraisal 14:00-16:00 MED L2.6 17
25.01.10 Qualitative Methods Modules starts 16:00-18:00 HaSS training suite 22
26.01.10 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Workshop 09:30-12:30 MED Boardroom 11
26.01.10 Poster Presentations – What Makes a Good Poster? 15:00-17:00 MED Boardroom 17
27.01.10 Poster Presentations – What Makes a Good Poster? 09:00-11:00 MED Boardroom 17
27.01.10 In conversation With…. 12:00-14:00 Lindisfarne Rm. KRC
28.01.10 Academic Integrity and Plagiarism 10:00-11.30 MED L2.6 13
05.02.10 Webspace 13:00-17:00 LINN Cluster 17
05.02.10 Thesis Writing 13:00-14:00 DENT LTD 18
08.02.10 Library Databases 09:00-10:30 GLEN Cluster 11
10.02.10 SDI and Alerting Services 14:00-15:30 GLEN Cluster 12
15.02.10 Endnote 09:00-10:00 GLEN Cluster 12
15.02.10 Poster Presentations – Practical Advice 11:00-12:00 DENE Cluster 18
16.02.10 Further Endnote 09:00-10:00 GLEN Cluster 13
16.02.10 Electronic Information Sharing 12:00-13:00 DENE Cluster 18
17.02.10 Basic Statistics 10:00-13:00 MED L2.6 14
17.02.10 Marketing Yourself 13:00-17:00 HaSS Training Suite 14
23.02.10 Evaluating Electronic Resources 13:00-14:00 GLEN Cluster 13
24.02.10 In Conversation With… 12:00-14:00 Lindisfarne Room 12
24.02.10 Integrated Library and IT Skills 14:00-16:00 GLEN Cluster 18
25.02.10 Research Environment 12:00-13:00 MED L3.2 18
25.02.10 Building Robust Search Strategies 13:00-14:00 GLEN Cluster 14
01.03.10 Advanced Medline 09:00-10:30 GLEN Cluster 14
01.03.10 Personal Development Plan (PDP): Preparing for your Progress Review Panel 12:00-13:30 DENT LTD 18
02.03.10 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Workshop 09:30-12:30 HaSS Training Suite 11
09.03.10 Achieving Career Success 10:00-12:00 MED Boardroom 19
16.03.10 Careers Outside of Research 10:00-12:00 MED Boardroom 19
18.03.09 Grant Writing – Travel Grants 10:00-12:00 MED L2.3 19
24.03.10 Marketing Yourself 13:00-17:00 HaSS Training Suite 18
31.03.10 In Conversation With…… 12:00-14:00 Bamburgh Rm, Kings Rd Centre 12
20.04.10 An Introduction to Scientific Computing (Python) 10:00-13:00 LINN Cluster 19
21.04.10 In Conversation With…. 12:00-14:00 Beehive 2.20 12
26.04.10 Literature Reviews and First Year Reports 10:00-12:00 DENT LTD 19
28.04.10 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Workshop 09:30-12:30 HaSS Training Suite 11
12.05.10 Managing Longer Documents 10:00-16:00 GLEN Cluster 19
18.05.10 SPSS for Beginners 09:00-16:30 DENE Cluster 14
19.05.10 In Conversation With… 12:00-14:00 Bamburgh Rm, Kings Rd Centre 12
21.05.10 Scientific Writing 10:00-12:00 DENT LTD 20
25.05.10 Advanced SPSS 09:00-16:30 LINN Cluster 15
26.05.10 Communication and Presentation Skills 14:00-15:00 DENT LTD 20
02.06.10 Marketing Yourself 13:00-17:00 Beehive 2.21 18
08.07.10 Accessible Abstracts 11:00-12:30 MED Boardroom 20
15.09.10 IT Demonstrator training TBC TBC 20
TBC Biomedical Sciences Demonstrator Training TBC TBC 20
Various Introduction to Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (ITLHE)
09:00-16:30 & 09:00-16:00
Staff Development Unit 21
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Graduate School Policy on Training.......................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Online Registration/ Booking..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Confirmation ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Lateness......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Cancellation.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Evaluation....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Access............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
Blackboard ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6 ePortfolio (Research Training Portfolio) .................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Certificate of Attendance in IT & Information Management............................................................................................................................ 7 Range of Training and Development Opportunities .................................................................................................................................................. 7
Taught Programme Modules.......................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Graduate Schools........................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 One to One Statistical Support ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Maths-Aid ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Open Access Centre ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Information Systems & Services (ISS) ........................................................................................................................................................... 7 Writing Development Centre .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Business Development Directorate (BDD) ..................................................................................................................................................... 8 Careers Support for Research Students ........................................................................................................................................................ 8 Researchers in Residence ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Netskills .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Policy, Ethics and Life Sciences Research Centre ........................................................................................................................................ 8 Research Information at Newcastle (Resin)................................................................................................................................................... 9 Staff Development Unit .................................................................................................................................................................................. 9 Research Staff Support .................................................................................................................................................................................. 9 Biotechnology YES (Young Entrepreneurs Scheme)..................................................................................................................................... 9 Information Technology Support .................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Development Programme: Scheduled Events .......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Graduate School Induction............................................................................................................................................................................. 9 Research Student Reception ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Solvers (Biotechnology YES support) .......................................................................................................................................................... 10 Introduction to Library Facilities.................................................................................................................................................................... 10 Managing Your Research Degree................................................................................................................................................................ 10 International Student’s Welcome.................................................................................................................................................................. 10 ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning........................................................................................................................................... 10 Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students............................................................................................................................. 10 Experimental Design and Efficient Research ............................................................................................................................................... 11 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in Work and Career Choice ............................................................................................................................ 11 Postgraduate Conference ............................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Library Databases ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Recording Your Research, Lab Books, Research Diaries & more............................................................................................................... 12 SDI and Alerting Services ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Very Basic Statistics..................................................................................................................................................................................... 12 In Conversation with…. ................................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Endnote ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Academic Integrity and Plagiarism ............................................................................................................................................................... 13 Introduction to Bioethics ............................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Further Endnote ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Evaluating Electronic Resources.................................................................................................................................................................. 13 Document Management 1 ............................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Research Governance ................................................................................................................................................................................. 14 Building Robust Research Strategies........................................................................................................................................................... 14 Advanced Medline........................................................................................................................................................................................ 14 Overview of Statistical Packages ................................................................................................................................................................. 14 Basic Statistics ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 14 SPSS for Beginners ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Presentation Using PowerPoint.................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Introduction to Intellectual Property.............................................................................................................................................................. 15 Advanced SPSS........................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Matlab........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Document Management 02 .......................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills......................................................................................................................................................... 16 Preparing CV’s for Academia or Industry ..................................................................................................................................................... 16 Introduction to Databases (MS Access) - Lecture........................................................................................................................................ 16 Academic Writing.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Introduction to Databases - Practical ........................................................................................................................................................... 16 Promoting the Public Understanding of Research ....................................................................................................................................... 16 Science and the Media................................................................................................................................................................................. 17 Introduction to Critical Appraisal................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Poster Presentations – What Makes a Good Poster?.................................................................................................................................. 17 Webspace – Webpage Design..................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Thesis Writing............................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Poster Presentations – Practical Advice ...................................................................................................................................................... 17 Electronic Information Sharing (Web 2.0) .................................................................................................................................................... 18 Marketing Yourself ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Integrated Library and IT Skills..................................................................................................................................................................... 18 The Research Environment – Research Funding in the UK ........................................................................................................................ 18 Your Personal Development Plan (PDP) – Preparing for the Progress Review Panel ................................................................................ 18
5
Achieving Career Success ........................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Careers outside of Research........................................................................................................................................................................ 19 Grant Writing – Travel Grants ...................................................................................................................................................................... 19 An Introduction to Scientific Computation .................................................................................................................................................... 19 Literature Reviews and First Year Reports .................................................................................................................................................. 19 Managing Longer Documents ...................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Scientific Writing........................................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Communication and Presentation Skills....................................................................................................................................................... 20 Academic Writing – Accessible Abstracts .................................................................................................................................................... 20 Training for IT Demonstrators ...................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Training for Biomedical Sciences Demonstrators ........................................................................................................................................ 20
Associated Development Opportunities .................................................................................................................................................................. 21 Developing Areas Research Network .......................................................................................................................................................... 21 University English Language Assessment (UELA) ...................................................................................................................................... 21 English for Academic Purposes ................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Demonstrating and Practical Class Teaching .............................................................................................................................................. 21 Seminars and Discussion Based Teaching.................................................................................................................................................. 21 Research Ethics in a Wider Context............................................................................................................................................................. 22 Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Faculty Induction ......................................................................................................................... 22 Qualitative Methodology in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS8004) ..................................................................................... 22 Vitae ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 22
MAP......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Introduction The Graduate School has a continued commitment to providing postgraduate researchers with access to a comprehensive range of professional development opportunities. The Research Student Development Programme supports and complements your research as well as providing activities that will build generic skills and confidence in your own abilities. We endeavour to take a holistic approach to training and development, so the scheduled events on the training programme are only a part of how we envisage researchers can develop their skills and gain experience. Students are required to make an ongoing assessment of their own development and training needs through personal development planning (PDP) in the ePortfolio system. The external events the Graduate School supports, and the scheduled development programme, have been mapped against the Joint Skills Statement of the Quality Assurance Agency’s Code of Practice and the UK Research Councils (Appendix A). This should help you identify how best to meet your training and development needs with everything that is on offer. Within the programme there are a few mandatory sessions for students beginning their degrees. These include an induction event, an introduction to safety and governance of your research, helping you to work in a legal, safe and ethical manner. There are also sessions to promote good research practice, with instruction in research management and academic integrity. Students’ backgrounds and experience will vary, therefore we have developed a flexible programme that will allow you to tailor learning to your own development needs and to manage your time most effectively to minimise disruption to your research work. You are strongly encouraged to discuss ways of meeting your training requirements with your Supervisory Team, who will advise you on appropriate training. There are many ways of developing your skills, of which attending training sessions is just one. The University provides a fantastic array of opportunities for development and training, which are highlighted in this booklet and on the Graduate School’s website http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad We hope that you will find many events on offer of interest to you. To ensure we continue to provide valuable and relevant material, you will be asked to complete short electronic evaluations after each event. This information is very important and helps us develop the material on offer. If you have any ideas for other courses which you would like to see offered in the future, we would be delighted to hear from you. Contact for the Development Programme is Dr Richard Hetherington, [email protected] In this booklet, the development programme events are listed with an outline of the event, where possible a snapshot of evaluations from the previous year and details of where events are to be held. It should be noted that we work continually to improve the programme on offer so new events are likely to be added throughout the year and changes to the timetable in this booklet may take place. We recognise that some researchers find it difficult to attend all the workshops they would like to so some online materials are available and are being developed. Though not always a direct replacement, online materials provide a means for all students to find out about those subjects. The online sessions can also be used to supplement or reinforce any events that have been attended. We also endeavour to advertise and promote events and materials outside the
programme that might assist with your development. Links to some of these events will be provided within the booking system. Graduate School Policy on Training You will be offered the opportunity to develop a relevant range of knowledge and skills, including skills for employment. The Graduate School will make appropriate arrangements to: • identify your development needs and skills gaps • provide opportunities for development • record the development of skills in your ePortfolio • ensure that you are introduced to relevant academic networks • advise on opportunities to attend seminars and conferences • encourage you to present academic papers • support career development Some of the training will be delivered via a formal Research Development Programme at Faculty level, whilst other knowledge and skills will be acquired as you conduct your research and through training provided by your supervisory team or through your institute. The aim is to offer training and development opportunities in a flexible multi-dimensional way which allows you to tailor learning to your own development needs, and to manage your time most effectively to minimise disruption to your research project. You need to take responsibility for ensuring you complete the equivalent of at least 10 days of training or development activities each year. This can be through attendance at the Graduate School Research Student Development Programme, training courses offered at University level, external training courses, Faculty Research Seminars and professional development learnt activities linked to your research project. This list is not exhaustive and you are encouraged to discuss appropriate ways of meeting your development requirements with your Supervisory Team. You will be required to attend a minimum of 10 research seminars per year on offer in the Faculty (see Graduate School Handbook for Research Students). Attempts are made to keep the Graduate School website up to date with all relevant opportunities for research students. These can be found on the Graduate School Events Calendar page.
• http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad/calendar.htm Each research institute and seminar groups will also have seminar timetable; see
• http://www.ncl.ac.uk/biomedicine/news/seminars • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/camb/about/events • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/icm/news/seminars • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/ihs/news/seminar • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/iah/about/seminars • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/ion/news/events/eventlist • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/dental/about/seminars • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/ihg/about/seminars/ • http://www.ncl.ac.uk/nicr/news/seminars.htm
You will record completion of the training requirements in your ePortfolio, which will be monitored at annually by progress review panels. Courses on how to teach and demonstrate will be available
every year and need to be completed before undertaking such employment.
Online Registration/ Booking The 2009/2010 development programme sessions presented in this booklet are a guide to the coming year’s events. The flexible nature of the programme and its continuous enhancement means that accurate details of the available development sessions will be advertised on the Faculty training website:
http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad/skills Visit these web pages regularly as there may be additions or alterations to the programme. The electronic booking of training and development workshops is essential so that we can monitor availability, send evaluations, populate ePortfolio and inform those booked on events of any changes. Early booking is advised as the number of places on a course may be limited and certain sessions have early cut off points for booking. Development workshops are free to all postgraduate researchers studying at the University. Prerequisites: certain events require you to have attended other events first. This is clearly stated in the course description. Please ensure you have the necessary experience before commencing with a booking. Previous or equivalent experience will be taken into account. Please contact the course provider for advice. To book a session, click on the ‘book now’ button. The screen will give details about the session and then ask you to complete details about yourself.
• Name • Type of researcher – postgraduate student • e-mail address – IS ESSENTIAL and should be your
Newcastle address @ncl.ac.uk, • Telephone no. (if available) • Faculty
This information is important so that individuals can be contacted if a cancellation or change of date, time or venue occurs. There may also be the option to register your interest if you wish to attend a session but not on the day advertised. Some sessions although advertised may not be run by the Graduate School and we can register your interest in these but a booking must be made separately. After you have registered your interest you will be sent an email with further details of how to book. Please note you will only be able to book sessions using the online booking system. The electronic booking system provides vital attendance information; this is used by course providers to ensure adequate staffing and supplementary information is provided. Information about the interest in a course can be used to ensure sessions are advertised appropriately or so additional sessions can be arranged. If a session is under-subscribed (less than 10 people for a typical lecture course) then the course will be rescheduled or cancelled.
Confirmation After you have registered, you will receive confirmation of your booking. If you do not receive confirmation within 48 hours, it may mean that you have typed your e-mail address incorrectly and you should contact Dr Richard Hetherington ([email protected]) for advice. You will also receive a reminder before the training session; this may not always be
possible, so please keep a diary of training sessions that you have booked.
Lateness Late arrival to sessions is very disruptive, particularly for course facilitators and participants of small groups. Please ensure you manage your time effectively and be punctual when attending sessions. If you are not present at the start of a session, your ePortfolio will not be updated with your attendance.
Cancellation Please only book sessions you are able to attend, as cancellation can only be done manually. Considerable cost and effort is made to prepare development sessions, and resources such as handouts and support staff are allocated dependent on the numbers attending. Also it is extremely frustrating for facilitators if students don’t attend their appointments. Development sessions are often oversubscribed, which means opportunities are wasted if participants book a place, but then do not arrive. Ideally, cancellations should be made at least 5 days before the start of a session. It is however appreciated that unforeseen circumstances may result in a late cancellation. A late cancellation is better than just not turning up so please inform the skills coordinator [email protected] and the course facilitator as soon as you know you can’t attend. If you fail to attend a session and do not cancel your booking please email [email protected] to explain the circumstances. If no email is received your supervisor may be contacted. Repeat offenders will be brought to the attention of the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, this may lead students being suspended from booking any further courses and will be taken into account when travel grants are being distributed.
Evaluation Following course attendance you will be sent an evaluation form. It is important that you complete this form. Your feedback is processed anonymously. Your comments and feedback are used to inform the course facilitators, who can then adapt and improve their sessions. This information can also be used to help develop the programme by scheduling sessions that we think you would find useful. Evaluation forms now relate more closely to the Joint Skills Statement and Skills Map used in the ePortfolio and Personal Development Plan. This will help us assess whether the sessions offered are providing the development opportunities and guidance we expect. We also hope this will help act as a reminder of what skills the sessions have helped you develop, making completing your ePortfolio easier and more productive.
Access Materials such as handouts can be provided in large print or alternative formats if required, please contact [email protected] or come to the Graduate School office at least one week in advance of the development session required.
Blackboard
Blackboard is an online teaching aid, which has been used to support the development programme. Materials such as handouts and course information from development session of previous years are stored at http://bb.ncl.ac.uk/ To login use your ISS username and password. If you experience any technical difficulties, please contact [email protected] Graduate School Training is located under the Community Title of “FMS Postgraduate Training”. More recent and current materials are stored on the Graduate School website or can be accessed by going to http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad/skills
ePortfolio (Research Training Portfolio) The paper based Research Training Portfolio (RTP) was introduced in 2004 to support the continuing professional and career development of postgraduate students. The RTP has now been replaced by its electronic equivalent the ePortfolio, which is designed to allow you to plan, record and reflect on your research and transferable skills development. When you attend one of the Graduate School’s training courses your ePortfolio will be updated automatically. All students are required use their ePortfolio to record the progress which is made in their research. Supervisors will use the ePortfolio to assess student progress. To access your ePortfolio go to https://pf-postgrad.ncl.ac.uk/eportfolio and login with your University username and password.
6
7
Certificate of Attendance in IT & Information Management Postgraduate students will be able to apply for a certificate that will show they have attended a complete training course in Information Technology and Information Management. Sponsors and future employers may be keen to see subjects you have received training in. Certificates will only be issued if students have attended all of the following sessions: Building Robust Research Strategies, Endnote, Library databases, Document Management 01 and 02, Information Skills Assimilation, Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills and Managing Long Documents.
Range of Training and Development Opportunities The Graduate School endeavours to provide a holistic and none prescriptive development programme allowing students to choose to develop skills, and receive training from, whichever source is most appropriate for their needs. The following training and development resources are all there for students to use. The Graduate School is happy to facilitate and assist students to take part in any of the following: Taught Programme Modules With agreement of the Module Leader and Degree Programme Director, we are very happy for research students to attend any lecture courses delivered within the faculty. Attendance would be on a non-credit bearing basis and examinations would not be included. Practical classes would only be available under circumstances of being significant benefit for the student’s research. There would also be some logistical limitations on attendance of practical classes. The following is a non-exhaustive list of taught modules
Advanced Medical Genetics; Advanced Neuropharmacology Advanced Pharmacogenetics; Analysis and Manipulation of Animal Genome; Biochemistry; Biochemistry and Drug Targets; Biochemistry and Immunology; Biochemistry of Chronic Diseases; Body Structure and Clinical Skills; Business for the Bioscientist; Cancer Biology and Therapy; Carcinogenesis and Anticancer Drugs; Cell & Molecular Biosciences; Cell Biology; Chronic and Nutrition-related Disease; Clinical Pharmacology; Clinical Skills; Diseases of the Human Nervous System; Cytogenetics and Human Evolution; Drug Disposition and Pharmacokinetics; Experimental Design and the Process of Research; Genes and Development; Genetics; Genetics and Evolution; Human Anatomy; Human Genome Organisation and Function; Immune Recognition; Industrial Applications of Micro-Organisms; Infectious Disease: the Immune Response; Integrated Biochemistry and Genetics; Integrated Biomedical Sciences; Integrated Microbiology and Immunology; Integrated Pharmacology; Integrated Physiology; Medical Biotechnology; Microbes and Man; Microbial Production of Proteins; Microbiology and Immunology; Molecular Medicine; Molecular Physiology & Pathophysiology; Pharmacological Techniques; Pharmacology; Pharmacology for Medicinal Chemists; Physiological Research Module; Physiology; Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract; Physiology of the Nervous System; Plant and Animal Biotechnology; Protein structure and function; Protein-DNA Interactions; Reproductive & Developmental Physiology; Research in Biochemistry & Genetics; Research in Pharmacological Sciences; Research: Med Microbiology & Immunology; Respiratory Diseases and Viral Pathogens; RNA, Genetic Disease & Development; Systems Pharmacology; The Molecular Basis of Cancer; The Nervous and Immune Systems; Toxicology; Xenobiotic Metabolism To search the complete list of taught programme modules go to http://www.ncl.ac.uk/internal/module-catalogue/ If you do wish to attend a taught module you should contact the Module Leader and Degree Programme Director of the course on which the module takes place. If requesting a place ask well in advance of the module starting, and be prepared to be notified of acceptance of a place a short time before the module commences. The availability of places on taught modules is often not known until the course is about to commence.
Graduate Schools The Faculty of Medical Sciences attempts to deliver a development programme that is most suitable for its postgraduates however we recognise that our researchers work in a wide variety of fields and may well have aspirations outside of their current field of study. The Graduate Schools of the University’s other two faculties, Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) and Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE) also offer training and development programmes. Postgraduate students are free to attend any of the sessions that are delivered by any faculty subject to availability and
with priority going to the students of that faculty; Details of the HaSS and SaGE programmes can be found at http://www.ncl.ac.uk/hss/postgrad/training/ http://www.ncl.ac.uk/sage/postgrad/research/training Certain workshops and modules will appear as items in the Medical Sciences development programme; it will then be possible to read further about these sessions and register your interest in attending. Having registered an interest you will be directed to the appropriate contact who will inform you if a place is available.
One to One Statistical Support The Faculty is very pleased to offer weekly one to one advice sessions with an experienced statistician from the Industrial Statistics Research Unit (ISRU). These sessions provide an excellent opportunity for students to discuss how best to set up experiments as well as how to analyse results. These sessions will not provide training in basic statistics so students should only attend once they have basic stats knowledge. Attending the Experiment Design and Efficient Research workshop will help you assess what stats training you may need; the basic stats course will provide enough background to make use of the one to one sessions.
Maths-Aid The Maths-Aid service is a drop-in centre in Room 325 of the Robinson Library is manned by tutors from 11am to 3pm weekdays during term time. All students from any discipline are welcomed and the tutors are mathematicians able to assist in complex problems as well as basic issues. There are also leaflets and booklets on relevant topics that can be taken away. Help with a research project is available but also help with the content of employers’ aptitude tests and calculus can be received.
Open Access Centre To improve your English or learn a foreign language register with the Open Access Centre and you will have access to materials for over 50 different language and multimedia resources to aid English language learning. The Centre also has computers, satellite TV, audio equipment and video. The Open Access Centre is located on level 2 of the Old Library Building. For more information go to http://www.ncl.ac.uk/langcen/
Information Systems & Services (ISS) ISS provide useful information covering a variety of topics including e-mail, web publishing, SPSS, databases and much more. Documents are available from the following website, http://www.ncl.ac.uk/iss/support/information
Writing Development Centre Location: Level 2, Robinson Library Website: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/wdc/ E-mail: [email protected] Telephone: 0191 222 5650 The Writing Development Centre offers guidance and tuition for students who wish to improve their writing skills for study or employment purposes. Help is available with the following:
• planning, structuring and revising reports • learning from feedback on previous reports • using reading sources without plagiarism • developing an argument • writing critically • using an appropriate authorial voice • writing different types of assignment (e.g. reports, reviews,
reflective pieces) • writing theses and dissertations • answering examination questions • using grammar and punctuation accurately and effectively • using appropriate vocabulary and style • writing CVs and cover letters
We run a series of lectures and workshops throughout the academic year. Some are open to all students, while others have been developed for specific degree programmes or modules. To find out more about these sessions, please visit the Group Teaching pages of our website: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/wdc/group We also offer a one-to-one support service. You can have an individual consultation with an academic writing tutor to discuss any difficulties you may have with writing, seek feedback on your written work or gain a better understanding of academic writing conventions and the standards expected at University. We recommend that you
book a session in advance via our online booking system: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/wdc/support/. A limited drop-in service is also available. For more information, see Opening hours below.
8
International students please note: You can use the Writing Development Centre one-to-one support service if you meet one of the following requirements:
• You are a native speaker of English • You have been exempted from language testing and/or
the UELA assessment • You have attained a mark of 70 or over in the UELA
writing assessment • You are a continuing student who has attended INTO In-
Sessional writing classes in the past If you are a new international student with a UELA writing score of less than 70, you will be supported by the INTO In-Sessional provision in the first instance. Opening hours
The Centre is open from 1:00 to 4:30pm Monday to Thursday and from 10:00am to 12:00 noon on Friday. Bookable sessions are available from 1:00 to 4:00pm Monday to Thursday. We also offer a limited drop-in service from 4:00 to 4:30pm Monday to Thursday and 10:00am to 12:00 noon on Friday. In addition, if a bookable slot is free, you may drop in at the appropriate time. A timetable showing free slots will be displayed at the entrance to the Centre
Online resources
You will find a collection of learning resources for academic writing and general writing skills at http://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/wdc/learning/
Business Development Directorate (BDD) The BDD, Newcastle University, hold events and seminars and are aimed at helping individuals find funding for their research. In addition they provide information on IP management and commercialisation and official policies and procedures. To find out more see http://www.ncl.ac.uk/business-directorate/ Careers Support for Research Students
Impartial and Confidential Career Discussions
An experienced team of qualified careers advisers, information staff and business advisers are available to provide impartial and confidential careers support to all postgraduate research students.
Dr Lorna Dargan is the link Careers Adviser for postgraduate research students in the faculty of Medical Sciences and has specific responsibility for providing advice and support for researchers in FMS.
You can call into the Careers Service, without an appointment, for an initial one-to-one discussion with Lorna or another member of our team to discuss any aspect of your career, whether you want to stay in academia, explore other options in research, consider using your expertise in other ways or are thinking of an entirely new direction.
We recommend you make contact at an early stage in your research to take full advantage of the support available. There are no pre-requisites for using the service and you are not expected to arrive with a detailed career plan. A longer appointment can be booked if you require more time.
We can work with you to discuss;
• your career direction and progression
• making the most of the opportunities available to you
• thoughts on a change of direction or environment
• identifying career alternatives
• evaluating your options and making decisions
• job seeking strategies
• developing networks and contacts
• improving your skills and experience
• making job applications
• interview preparation and practice
Check the Careers Service website www.ncl.ac.uk/careers for further information or email Lorna at [email protected]
What else does the Careers Service offer to postgraduate research students?
• Detailed website with extensive resources • Graduate Connections – an online networking tool • North East Graduate Directory – a database of over 600
North East employers • Access to a diverse range of events, fairs, workshops and
employer presentations • Vacancies Online – opportunities in the North East, UK
and overseas • Make it fly – advice and facilities to support self
employment Check the Careers Service website www.ncl.ac.uk/careers for further information. In October 2009, we will be moving into the new King’s Gate Building which will be open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri (except on Wed: 10am-5pm) Tel: 0191 222 7748 Careers advisers and information staff are available without an appointment for short consultations Monday to Friday.
Researchers in Residence
Could you inspire secondary school pupils about your research subject? Researchers in Residence gives you the opportunity to share your unique skills and expertise with secondary school pupils and teachers, whilst at the same time gain valuable skills and experience for yourself. You can help to demystify research by encouraging pupils to engage with you as a ‘real-life’ researcher. By taking cutting-edge research into the classroom, you can make subjects more relevant and exciting. Could you support pupils to:
• Solve a crime using plant pollen? • Discover relatives who served in the First World War using
genealogy web resources? • Explore the impact of text messaging on language and
communication? • Examine the use of digital technology in the music
industry? • Investigate the impact of climate change on the River
Ouse using GIS? The scheme gives you scope to undertake a variety of activities within the school environment, encouraging you to think creatively about how to communicate your research and engage others. “The scheme provided an excellent opportunity to share my enthusiasm for academic research and inquiry with a young and open-minded audience.” Full training and support is provided. For more information visit www.researchersinresidence.ac.uk
Netskills Netskills (http://www.netskills.ac.uk) provides quality Internet training services to facilitate the effective use of Internet and Intranet technologies for teaching and learning, research, administration, marketing and other activities. University students may download and use any of the materials There are two types of material: 1. On-line versions of Netskills paper-based materials. Training Kits range from WWW introductory to WWW publishing, and include Word documents, PowerPoint slides with notes, and facts sheets. They can be previewed on-line, downloaded and used easily. 2. On-line Netskills WWW-based tutorials: TONIC (The Online Netskills Interactive Course). This provides individual self-paced learning about the Internet via simulation and self-assessment quizzes. It is accessed from the Netskills Home Page.
Policy, Ethics and Life Sciences Research Centre The Policy, Ethics and Life Sciences (PEALS) Research Centre was established in 1999 as a partnership between the Universities of Durham and Newcastle and the Centre for Life. They run many
events including conferences and seminars and have many continuing professional development opportunities. They also organise the successful Cafe Scientifique and Café Philosophique sessions. For more information about their events go to http://www.ncl.ac.uk/peals/news/events/
Research Information at Newcastle (Resin) A wide range of resources and services in support of research are offered by Newcastle University Library. The RESIN site is very useful and has links to books, internet resources for finding and managing information and writing up. Through this site you can gain access to StaN (Study skills at Newcastle), which includes managing learning, communication, IT Skills, library & Internet, maths and statistics resources. Go to http://www.ncl.ac.uk/library/resin/
Staff Development Unit The Staff Development Unit runs a variety of training sessions. Research students who are members of staff are encouraged to take advantage of events on offer. Research students who are not members of staff are not able to attend SDU workshops. If there is something which the SDU offer that you are interested in please contact Dr Richy Hetherington ([email protected]) to see if any equivalent courses are available for research students.
9
See http://www.ncl.ac.uk/staffdev/
Research Staff Support Research students who are members of staff can attend research staff support training workshops and are encouraged to take the opportunity to do so. Some events offered for research staff are available to research students; these workshops will normally appear on the Postgraduate website training pages. It may be possible for students to attend other staff workshops this would need to be arranged with Richy Hetherington, [email protected] Details at http://researchstaff.ncl.ac.uk/
Biotechnology YES (Young Entrepreneurs Scheme) The Biotechnology Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (Biotechnology YES) provides training in entrepreneurship and commercial awareness for bioscientists in a competition format. It was launched in 1995 and is organised jointly by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the University of Nottingham Institute for Enterprise and Innovation (UNIEI). Biotechnology YES entrants work in a team, each assuming a different role, to develop business plans for hypothetical biotechnology companies bidding for funding to commercialise their ideas. They receive training from entrepreneurs, patent lawyers, financiers and industry representatives in the business skills necessary to recognise, protect and harness the commercial potential of scientific research outputs. In 2008 Newcastle and six teams from the university entered in the competition two of which won through to the national finals. Entries for this year’s competition are complete but all researchers are encouraged to enter the 2010 competition. Elements of the Research Student Development Programme have been organised to provide support for the seven teams who have entered this year. We hope that the region’s association with the competition will continue to grow. For more details see http://www.biotechnologyyes.co.uk/
Information Technology Support Throughout the year lunchtime cluster support is provided by a small team of advisors between 12noon and 2pm during term time. Mrs Rebecca McCready will provide an IT skills support clinic every Wednesday afternoon from 2pm to 4pm during term time, where students can obtain one-to-one assistance with academic IT skills queries. Full cluster support will be provided by Learning Technologies for Medical Sciences, in addition to the ISS support provided. Learning Technologies for Medical Sciences will cover from 10am to 12noon, and from 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday for the weeks beginning 21st Sept (Fresher's week), 28th Sept (teaching week 1) and 5th Oct (teaching week 2). This may be extended for one further week, beginning 12th Oct (teaching week 3), depending on demand.
Development Programme: Scheduled Events
The following events and workshops should occur as timetabled, but are subject to change and should be confirmed by booking on the graduate school webpage. Skills relate to the Joint Skills Statement which can be found in Appendix A. Previous attendee’s feedback and comments are provided. Online materials are available at
http://ww.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad/skills/workshops
Booking is essential, for ePortfolio updates and attendance monitoring; attendance without booking cannot be guaranteed. To make bookings Please go to:
http://faculty-tools.ncl.ac.uk/training
________________________________________ Graduate School Induction This is a mandatory session for all new postgraduate students. An introduction to the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the Graduate School are delivered by Prof. Barry Hirst, the Dean of Postgraduate Studies. Prof. John Kirby, Faculty Postgraduate Tutor, gives an overview of the support services and help researchers can rely upon. Skills Development Coordinator Dr. Richy Hetherington provides details of the
research student development programme and ePortfolio.
Skills: B 1 2 3 5 7 C1 D1 5 6 7F1 2G1 2 71% rated good or very good
75% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time
‘The presentations were well delivered and gave me good information on where I need to go if I have problems or need help during my PhD’
‘A good overview of who's who, the research training programme and opportunities, and progression requirements – a good introduction.’
Mon 28th September 2009 11:00 – 13:00 Dent LTF Mon 18th January 2009 10:00 – 12:00 Med L2.2 _____________________________________________________
Research Student Reception
All new and current research students are requested to attend this new event. The reception will start with two short presentations from the Director of the Institute of Cell and Molecular Bioscience Professor Jeff Errington and the Faculty Vice Chancellor, Professor Chris Day. This will be followed by drinks in the foyer area. This will provide a great opportunity for new research students to meet academic staff and current research students and research staff. A formal reception for research students is a new element to induction and the Development Programme so we have no feedback from previous years. We hope you will provide feedback about this event for the benefit of future research students. Mon 28th September 2009 17:00 – 19:00 David Shaw LT ______________________________________________________
Solvers (Biotechnology YES support)
10
A significant role in research is developing creative solutions to critical problems. This series of interactive workshops employs the support of innovation experts and multidisciplinary researchers to develop participant’s teamwork, innovation, creativity, commercial acumen and professional presentation skills. Participants will form a multidisciplinary team and will be tasked with finding a viable solution to a real problem and understanding how that solution to could be taken forward to have
competition. Ses
d business plannin
ssions are intended as a series so please attend all four if
1 2 4 5 6 1 2 5 7 C1 2 3 D1 2 3 6 E 2 F1 2 3 G 3
and innovative, demonstrating flexibility and open
tive on idea protection’
‘Taught you to work and think as a team’
Med B:30
___________________
University Libraries, but anyone wishing for a refresher is welcome.
in their research area
so it was good to get to know the
ems with iate literature
re will be an opportunity for individual questions to be answered.
ork independently to assess their own
oved their skills in
how to set
what I had to d
__________________
welcome you to the FacGrad
Skills: B 3 5 F 1 2 3
y to assess their
new international students’
_____________
ently. This research students.
5 6 B 1 C 1 2 3 D 1 4 5 7 G 1 2 3 4
ded and ck’
___
s; safety policies; rissafety systems.
s: B 1 2 3 5 7 C1 D1 5 6 7F1 2G1 2
an impact in the real world. The solvers programme is early in the calendar as it will also provide support for those involved in this year’s Biotechnology YES competition, helping those competing develop their own ideas and understand better how they could be commercialised. The sessions will be led by Dr. Ciara Kennedy, who was a finalist and prize winner in last year’s Biotechnology YES sions focusing on:
g
• problem analysis • idea generation and innovation • commercialisation an• pitching the solution
The sessions use problem-based learning to develop essential skills that are increasingly important to academic, industrial and entrepreneurial careers alike. Se
booking.
Skills: A B
85% rated workshop as good or very good 100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills inbeing creativemindedness ‘Ideas of IP protection and other strategies such as copyright seemimportant to me. It gave me a new perspec
Mon 21st September 2009 14:00 – 16:00 Med Boardroom Thu 24th September 2009 14:00 – 16:00 oardroom Wed 30th September 2009 14:30 – 16 Med L2.2 Mon 5th October 2009 14:00 – 16:00 Med Boardroom ___________________________________
Introduction to Library Facilities
This half hour session provides students with an insight into the University library’s many and varied facilities. Strongly recommended for students who are new to the University it provides advice and information on general issues such as opening hours and smartcard admissions, as well as a brief introduction to accessing e-journals, databases and the library catalogue. This session is not intended for those who have previously used Newcastle
Skills: A B C
67% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in
3 4 1 2 2 3
keeping abreast of techniques and advances
100% rated workshop as good or very good
‘It was quite a broad introduction, resources available in the library’
‘Good explanation about where to go if we have problspecific research areas to find appropr ’
Tues 29th September 09:30 – 10:00 Walton Library ________________________________________Managing Your Research Degree
The Faculty Postgraduate Tutor Prof. John Kirby delivers this mandatory session for all new research students, examining the basis tenets of what is involved in achieving a research degree. This session provides straightforward advice on what is required of a research student at each stage, with advice on how to avoid problems that can occasionally arise. The formal session will last for just over an hour after which the
Skills: A 1 5 6 D 1 5 7
95% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to be self-motivated and windividual development needs
98% said the session increased awareness or imprhow to manage their project and their time
‘Advice on how to manage your time and supervisors and realistic milestones / goals. Really useful and informative’
‘I was feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of my PhD, but this workshop made me feel more in control of o’
Tue 29th September 2009 10:00 – 11:30 Tue 19th January 2009 14:00 – 15:30 Med L2.5
Dent LTF
______________________International Student’s Welcome The Faculty of Medical Sciences has over 300 postgraduate students from over 50 countries. As part of the induction programme the Graduate School provides this session to welcome international students to the University, offering an opportunity to ask any questions that you may have about living and studying in a new country. This session is hosted by Prof. Steve Yeaman, the Director of International Studies. For students who arrive throughout the year and aren’t able to attend Prof. Yeaman or his representative will be happy to meet with you to ulty, just ask at the
uate School Office.
83% rated workshop as good or very good
83% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to be self-motivated and work independentlown individual development needs
‘It was good to get the opportunity to meet the director of international studies and
‘Interesting and helpful’”
Tue 29th September 2009 14:00 – 14:30 Med L4.3 _________________________________________
ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning
ePortfolio (Research Training Portfolio) is used to help all research students monitor and evaluate their progress. Mr. Simon Cottrill gives practical hands on advice on using ePortfolio. Dr. Richy Hetherington will describe the long term goals of personal development planning (PDP) and how to complete the PDP effectively and effici session is mandatory for all new
Skills: A83% rated workshop as good/very good 97% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time ‘It gave me a good introduction to the features of ePortfolio and some practice in using them. I think the ePortfolio system will be helpful to me in my PhD so it was good to get introduced to all of its features’ ‘Useful to catalogue workshops, conferences attenarticles/papers written and also for feedba
Wed 30th September 2009 10:00–11:00 DENE Cluster Wed 30th September 2009 11:00–12:00 Tue 19th January 2010 10:00 – 11:00 DENE Cluster
DENE Cluster
_____________________________________Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students
This is a mandatory session for all who have not received a University safety lecture previously. The University Safety Office provides a general overview of health and safety, including roles and responsibilities of the university, safety officers, employees and research student k assessments; and University
Skill
91% found the workshop well
11
structured
get further safety information relating to
made us ’
0
______________
provide guidance on where to get the appropriate statistics s
3 D 6
as problem solving, developing concepts and
and innovative, demonstrating flexibility and open
ith the students during the
__
personal and career satisfaction whatever your
and professional relationships and
he MBTI questionnaire an of
of preferenc
ults for the MBTI questionnaire (Level 1)
eflect on the possible applications of knowing
the workshop. Early booking is recommended as plac
Skills: D 1 4 G 1 2 3 4
teams and in listening and ve feedback
Bamburgh R
Wed 28 April 2009 09:30 – 12:30 HASS training suite ________________________________________
85% said met training needs ‘Clear advice on where tomy project and institute’ ‘The lecturer was keen on his subject, knowledgeable and very aware of the importance of health and safety
Wed 30th September 2009 13:00 – 14:0 Dent LTC Mon 18th January 2009 13:00 – 14:00 Med L2.5 _______________________________________Experimental Design and Efficient Research
This interactive workshop is strongly recommended for all inexperienced researchers, particularly those likely to use quantitative analysis as part of their research. Dr. Richy Hetherington will offer advice on how to plan and organise a research project, with strategies that can be employed to make sure your research yields noteworthy results. Using a live experiment Dr. Tom Chadwick will demonstrate the use of straightforward but effective statistical analysis. This session will also
upport. Skills: A 1 4 5 6 B 6 C 1 2
72% said session increased their awareness or improved their research skills suchevaluating results 78% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in being creativemindedness
‘Excellent workshop and well organised’
‘Straight forward, short experiment wclass was good and very practical’
Thurs 1st October 2009 15:00 – 16:30 Dent LTF
____________________________________________________
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in Work and Career Choice
As a researcher it is all too easy to become immersed in your work and neglect crucial relationships with other people who could potentially help you in your research and other areas in your life. Forming and maintaining effective relationships with others will help you achieveaspirations. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a personality questionnaire that is designed to help the user gain a better understanding of themselves and others in order to work more productively, improve personalfacilitate career development. In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to explore the impact of personality preferences on personal effectiveness, communication, team working and career management. There will be an introduction to the theory of personality type, a description of MBTI dimensions and types, self assessment exercises, feedback on your results from t d a discussion
e and the theory of
possible applications. By the end of the workshop, you will have
an understandingpersonality type
explored your own type received your res
in a small group started to r
your type Please note that participants are required to visit the Careers Service and complete the questionnaire at least one week in advance of
es are limited.
100% rated this workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to work perceptively in groups/providing/receiving effecti‘Very useful information’
‘Good explanation of different personality types anwork best in a team’
d how they could
Wed 21st October 2009 09:30 – 12:30 m, KRC
Tue 24th November 2009 09:30 - 12:30 Med L2.3
Tue 26th January 2009 09:30 – 12:30 Med Boardroom
Tue 2nd March 2009 09:30 – 12:30 HASS training suite th
Postgraduate Conference
Each year a group of research students form the conference organising committee. The committee then organises a conference in which research students can present talks and posters in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. The conference has been a tremendous success, attracting sponsorship and providing a fantastic opportunity for researchers to share ideas and communicate their work to a broad and appreciative audience. For the first time last year research students from the other local universities also presented their work, this was a great success and students from the five North East Universities will again take part. The conference is an amazing success story not only for the presenters but for organisers. A fantastic list of presenters has now been selected for the 2009 conference so we hope you will attend. We will also be looking for a team of organisers and presente s fthe 2010 conference so if you a
evelop and maintain good working relationships with and other
nal, environment’
___________________________
saving and printing articles and references. T
ss or improved their skills in
‘Very good workshop with comprehensive and well-written exercises’ ncluded lots of
Postgraduate Conference 2007
r or re interested please contact the
Graduate School. Skills: A 5 6 B 1 2 6 C 3 E 1 2 3 4 F 1 2 3
96% said session contributed to the broader understanding of their research
96% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to dcolleagues and in the broader research communities networks ‘The opportunity to present in a friendly, yet professio
‘Good practice in preparing a poster or presentation’
rd 0 – 17:00 Kings Road Centre Fri 23 October 2009 09:0_____________Library Databases
This session is recommended for all inexperienced researchers wishing to increase their knowledge and awareness of databases such as Medline, Embase and Scopus. Ms Erika Gavillet offers advice on signing into databases, carrying out citation searches, searching using combined and limited searches, checking reference availability in the library catalogue and electronic journals, and selecting, emailing,
his session is also useful for experienced researchers requiring a refresher course.
Skills: A 3 4 B 1 C 2 3
91% said the session increased awareneusing appropriate bibliographical resources and archive to collect and collate relevant information sources
91% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time
‘Could work at own pace and lecturer i helpful details’
Fri 30th October 2009 09:00 – 10:30 Glen Cluster
Mon 8th February 2010 09:00 – 10:30 Glen Cluster
12
Recording Your Research, Lab Books, Research Diaries & more
For the benefit of your research group, the University and for yourself it is essential you are able to record your research effectively. In order to maintain high standards of the records taken the Faculty will be issuing all laboratory researchers with a standard lab book. Dr Richy Hetherington will provide some guidance on good practice when recording your work inresearchers are more likely to use a research diary. Guidance on keeping records in this format will be provided by Dr Catherine Exley. There are a growing number of ways to record research electronically. Dr Dan Swan will provide guidance on what means are appropriate and under what circumstances. In many fields there is also an increasing requirement to share data and be open about research Dr Swan will also briefly explain requirements for this. This
a lab book. Some
session is mandatory for all n6 7 C 1 2 3 D 5 7 E 1 F 1 2
ples to demonstrate that lab book recording is very
:00
_______________________
you when reseayour desired subject area.
Skills: A 3 4 B 1 C 2 3
archive to collect
nt’ pful’
__________________________
Industrial Statistical Research Unit (ISRU).
will t out after the session
______________________________________________________
ew research students.
Skills: A 4 5 6 B 2 3
83% rated this workshop as good or very good said session increased their awareness 98% or improved their skills
in how to manage their project and their time ‘It was great that it spoke to students who would be lab-based as well as those of us who are doing more social science type research’ ‘Vivid examimportant’
Mon 2nd November 2009 10:00 – 11 Dent LTD
Thurs 21st Jan 2010 10:00 – 11:00 Ridley Build 1.58
_________________SDI and Alerting Services
In this session Erika Gavillet combines a presentation and workshop and will show you the best ways to receive information about resources and research in your subject area without leaving the comfort of your chair. Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI) and alerting services inform rch is published in
100% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased their awareness or improved their skills in using appropriate bibliographical resources andand collate relevant information sources
‘I really liked the opportunity to work independently and decide which exercise is useful to me personally’
ches in a very ‘It was concise but I was able to set up lots of searshort space of time and the handout was excelle‘Very good, tutor was very friendly and hel
Mon 2nd November 2009 14:00 – 15:30 Glen Cluster Wed 10th February 2010 14:00 – 15:30 Glen Cluster ______________Very Basic Statistics
This session is provided in support of the Basic Statistic and Clinical Statistics sessions. The session starts from the basics of means and medians and on to how to understand statistical notation such as confidence intervals. The session will consist of a forty minute presentation. There will then be twenty minutes for individual questions. The session is presented by David McGeeney of the
Skills: A 1 4 5 6 C 1 2 3
This is a new addition to the programme, so there are no stats or comments from previous years. We hope all of those attending complete the evaluation forms sen
Wed 3rd Nov 2009 11:00 – 11:45 Med L2.2
In Conversation with….
What is the true value of a research degree? How might your research experience impact on your
career path? What are the career options and challenges facing
researchers? Where do PhD graduates find work in the North East?
'In conversation with.....' is a series of informal lunchtime discussions with experienced PhD graduates on career development issues facing research students and staff. Our guest speakers will provide an insight into the challenges they have faced in their work and career choices and share their advice on making the most of research skills and experience for career-building followed by a 'questions and answers' discussion. The programme will explore a range of subjects from achieving success in academic research, opportunities and sectors outside research to changing approaches to work and offer a forum for the discussion of some of the current challenges facing PhD graduates in their career development. To date, our speakers have come from a range of sectors and career paths and shared their experiences on subjects ranging from the contrasting demands of industrial and academic research, non-research careers in Higher Education, the wider job market for higher level research skills, the commercial exploitation of academic research and new business creation.
Skills: B1 F1 G 1 2 3
71% rated workshop as good or very good 86% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their career and set realistic goals ‘Broadened my thinking about academic and industrial opportunities’ ‘The speaker was very easy to talk to and very forthcoming with advice’
Tue 3rd November 2009 12:15 – 14:00 Beehive 2.21
Tue 15th December 2009 12:15 – 14:00 Hass Training Suite
Wed 27th January 2010 12:15 – 14:00 Lindisfarne Rm. KRC
Wed 24th February 2010 12:15 – 14:00 Lindisfarne Rm. KRC
Wed 31st March 2009 12:15 – 14:00 Bamburgh Rm. KRC
Wed 21st April – 12:15 – 14:00 Beehive 2.20
Wed 19th May – 12:15 – 14:00 Bamburgh Rm. KRC
________________________________________ Endnote
Using a Reference Manager is a vital skill for all researchers and all researchers wishing to use MS Endnote should take the first possible opportunity to attend this workshop. Ms Erika Gavillet shows how to create a personal library of references, how to add references to that library and how to search within that library. Students will also be advised of ways of importing references and adding citations to a Word document, producing an automatic bibliography in any chosen style. This comprehensive workshop can be worked through at the student’s own pace and is geared to the needs of all students not fully conversant in the use of reference manager software.
Skills: A 6 C 2 3 E 1
89% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time 97% rated workshop as good or very good ‘The handouts were easy to work through and the facilitator was very approachable and helpful’ ‘Very helpful. I only had a vague notion of how to use Endnote before this course. Was good to have booklet to take away with me’
Wed 4th November 2009 09:00 – 10:00 Glen Cluster
Mon 15th February 2010 09:00 – 10:00 Glen Cluster ______________________________________________________
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
Research students have a number of responsibilities to maintain accepted standards of any professional independent researcher. In this session Dr Richy Hetherington covers broad aspects of academic integrity and where to get further advice on research ethics and governance relating to your field of research. One key aspect of a researcher’s integrity is to be fully aware of plagiarism. It is quite easy to unintentionally be plagiarising someone else's work. Despite its significance in academia, many research students still do not know what plagiarism is. Ms Erika Gavillet advises on the issues surrounding plagiarism and the methods being used to detect it in a thought provoking and concise manner, while also offering suggestions as to how plagiarism (and its often devastating consequences) may be avoided. This workshop is compulsory for all new research students.
Skills: A B C D
13
4 5 6 2 3 6 3 6 7
th
3 1 2 3 6 2
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
ter :00 Glen Cluster
______________________________________________________
wheat from the chaff? In this
100% said session increased awareness or improvusing appropriate bibliographical resources and ar
o get the most
and throughout. Self-dents through every
d online (Document
t and their time
96% said session increased awareness or im
of and
86% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in using appropriate bibliographical resources and archive to collect and collate relevant information resources
87% rated workshop as good or very good
‘Good descriptions and examples as to what constitutes plagiarism’ ‘Very useful in clarifying what is expected in academic writing. There were many useful practical tips. The game show style to the lecture was a nice change and made it more interesting’ ‘High level of quality and content of information’
Wed 4 Nov 2009 12:00 – 13:30 th
Dent LTF Thurs 28 Jan 2010 10:00 – 11:30 Med L2.6
________________________________________ Introduction to Bioethics
Dr Jan Deckers presents this mandatory session for all research students who have not completed the MRes in Medical and Molecular Biosciences. The session comprises a discussion of the concept of bioethics and what the implications of bioethics are for the individual, society and for the professional working within the context of research into the life sciences. Areas that will be covered include the ethical aspects of genetics, embryonic stem cell research, cloning, ethics related to early human life, environmental ethics and the ethics of animal experimentation. The final half hour of the session is dedicated to a group discussion.
Skills: A B E
80% rated workshop as good or very good
80% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in being creative and innovative, demonstrating flexibility and open mindedness
‘Improved and widened my knowledge on this subject. The speaker has volunteered his willingness to help us with our individual research problems’ ‘This was an interesting lecture, particularly the section that covered controversy in research. It helped to clarify what is expected. It was also useful to discuss our research projects and find out what others are doing’ Wed 4th Nov 2009 14:00 – 15:30 ____________________________
Dent LTF _________ _________________
Further Endnote
Ms Erika Gavillet explains the more advanced features of Endnote including: importing tables, images or formulae into Word documents from Endnote; Locating full text with Open URL (the Find it button); Making notes about references and using them to keep track of your research; Producing a bibliography or reading list; Inserting websites into references; Inserting footnotes into a Word document and Merging libraries
Skills: A6 C 2 3 E1
100% rated workshop as good or very good
‘The instructor is superb and very patient, simply excellent’
‘Very useful handouts for reference’
Fri 6th November 2009 09:00 – 10:00 Glen ClusTues 16th February 2010 09:00 – 10
Evaluat g Electronic Resources inWith the myriad of useful and useless information available now through the internet and electronic media, how do you know what is useful and how can you sift the presentation Ms Erika Gavillet looks at methods for evaluating electronic resources, showing the invisible web, giving criteria for evaluating websites and providing some examples of good medical/bioscientific sites.
Skills: A3 4 C 2 3
100% rated workshop as good or very good
ed their skills in chive to collect
and collate relevant information sources
‘Identifying of different techniques of using electronic resources’
‘Learnt new sites, about metasearch engines and about how Google works’
Mon 9 November 2009 12:00 – 13:00 Glen Cluster Tue 23rd February 2010 13:00 – 14:00 Glen Cluster
th
________________________________________
Document Management 1
Mrs Rebecca McCready organises this self-directed study workshop, which offers an invaluable insight into how tout of MS Word. Styles, tables, graphics, captions and charts are among some of the tools that are covered in this session which is highly recommended, not just for students who are new to the University, but also for those who have already completed the workshop and may need a refresher in their basic MS Word skills. Students can complete the workshop at their own pace and help is on hhelp video files are also provided to guide stustep. This course can also be completeManagement 01 Online).
Skills: A 6 C 3 E 1 G 4
92% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their projec
proved their skills inwriting clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications
‘There were many tools that I was previously unawarealthough I have managed so far with smaller documents the skills taught in today’s session will be invaluable when writing my thesis’ ‘Very suitable for individual learning about using Word documents. Learnt many things I hadn’t known before. Very nice and helpful staff’
Mon 9th November 2009 14:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster ______________________________________________________
Research Governance
NHS trust Research Governance Manager, Dr Lesley Hall, delivers this introductory seminar. Research students are advised of the necessary approvals required for their research projects and any implications of getting this approval. This session is compulsory for researchers who have clinical aspects to their work. It is recommended that all postgraduate research students attend this workshop, which aims to present an overview of the NHS Research Governance framework, clinical trials regulations, the role of the ethics committee and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA). The session will be split into a talk followed by time for individual advice on research projects.
2 3 4 6
14
Skills: B D 6 E 2 F 2
83% rated workshop as good or very good
98% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time ‘It covered a lot which I needed to know to go ahead with my project’ ‘Gave a broad overview of data handling, ethics approval, device and drug relations, etc.’ ‘Lesley was a very good speaker and stayed to answer people’s questions at the end which was very helpful’
Tue 10 November 2009 15:00 – 17:00 th
2 3
th
3 4 1 2 3
th
Dent LTF ______________________________________________________
Building Robust Research Strategies Do you worry that you might be missing vital research or papers? In this presentation Ms Erika Gavillet provides advice on improving your search strategies. Areas covered include: defining your topic; tips for narrowing and broadening your search; sensitivity v specificity; selecting appropriate sources; search engines and databases; Boolean logic and good practice for keeping records.
3 4 Skills: A C
100% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in using appropriate bibliographical resources and archive to collect and collate relevant information sources
‘Liked that a small group of participants had interaction with Erika’
Thurs 12 November 2009 12:00 – 13:00 th
Glen Cluster Thurs 25 February 2010 13:00 – 14:00 Glen Cluster ______________________________________________________
Advanced Medline
This hands-on workshop, delivered by Ms Erika Gavillet, will take you through some of the more advanced features of the Medline database. To get the best from this workshop you should have some previous experience of searching Medline. The workshop will cover: using the ‘Tools’ functions – the tree, permuted index and scope notes, fully understanding the ‘explode’ function, using sub-headings and pre-exploded sub-headings, utilising ‘field’ searching adjacency, nesting and truncation, use of post-qualification, quality filters, Ovid Medline personal accounts, including saving and re-running searches and the SDI/alerting services
Skills: A B C 100% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in using appropriate bibliographical resources and archive to collect and collate relevant information sources
‘Excellent session. Clear workbook which helps to guide you through the session and provides reference material to refer back to’
‘All of these library led sessions have had an excellent format and Erika Gavillet delivers the sessions well’
‘Excellently structured. Very well delivered’
Mon 16 November 2009 12:00 – 13:30 st
Glen Cluster Mon 1 March 2010 09:00 – 10:30 Glen Cluster ________________________________________________
Overview of Statistical Packages
In this session, Dr Simon Kometa discusses the advantages and disadvantages of various statistical and spreadsheet software packages. These include Minitab, SPSS, SAS, and Excel. It is recommended that any student who is unsure which package is most appropriate for their research attends this workshop. Packages are assessed in terms of their ease of use, their popularity in academia and industry, their graphical display qualities, how they handle basic and advanced statistical analyses, their availability on different operating systems, and frequency of upgrades.
Skills: A 3 4 6 B 3 6 C 2 3 D 2 3 5 7
87% rated workshop as good or very good
87% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results
‘Made me aware how I can choose the best method for my data analysis’ ‘This workshop answered several questions that I had in mind on appropriate use of several different statistical packages for different specific uses’
Wed 18th November 2009 14:00 – 16:00 Med L2.6 ______________________________________________________
Basic Statistics
The Industrial Statistics Research Unit offer research students a succinct tour of contemporary statistical tools and techniques used to support research. Topics covered include basic summary statistics, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), correlation and regression. This session will provide a good basic knowledge of statistics which can then be used when discussing specific issues of a project in one to one advice sessions.
Skills: A 1 4 5 6 C 1 2 3
73% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results
77% rated workshop as good or very good ‘A phenomenally good introduction to basic statistics. Very well presented. Interesting, varied. Due to the excellent explanations, the statistical concepts were clear to follow and logical to understand’ ‘Exercises were well prepared and backed up theory well. Facilitator was very well informed and answered all questions clearly’ ‘The pace was great, concepts were really well explained but in a basic fashion so that you could understand’
Mon 23rd November 2009 10:00 – 13:00 Med L2.2
Wed 17th February 2010 10:00 – 13:00 Med L2.6 ______________________________________________________
SPSS for Beginners
Dr Simon Kometa, provides researchers with guidance on the use of the statistical package SPSS and the variety of statistical methods for which it can be used. A basic knowledge of statistics is required to be able to effectively participate in this session. The workshop covers the functions of SPSS such as: the basics of statistical sampling; population vs. samples; normal distribution; standard scores and z scores; hypothesis testing; one and two tailed tests; and student's t-test for independent samples and for matched samples. There will also be a discussion of the various tools SPSS has to offer. It is recommended that students read "SPSS for Windows Made Simple" by Paul R Kinnear and Colin D Gray for more information on SPSS. Please note this workshop does not teach statistics only how to use the SPSS software, students requiring statistics training should first attend the Basic Statistics or Clinical Statistics sessions.
Skills: A 4 5 6 C 2 E 1
95% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results
15
100% rated workshop as good or very good
‘Clear session which covers a great deal. Knowledgeable tutor with a clear style’ ‘Excellent teaching on SPSS, step by step handout was very helpful’ Interactive aspect of course was very good’
Thurs 26th November 2009 09:00 – 16:30
Tues 18th May 2010 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster
______________________________________________________
Presentation Using PowerPoint
At some point in your academic life, most research students will be required to make a presentation using PowerPoint. Mrs Rebecca McCready takes you through the stages of creating a good presentation, from researching and knowing your audience, using PowerPoint and some handy features to liven up your presentation, to delivery in front of your audience. It fuses practical skills using PowerPoint with good practice regarding presentations generally.
Skills: A 6 C 3 E 2 4 5
83% would recommend to a colleague *
83% said it met their training needs *
‘The delivery of the workshop was excellent and it's good to have the handout to refer back to’ * ‘Very good tips and advice for making good presentation’ * * Evaluation data from 2007/8
Mon 30th November 2009 14:00 – 16:00 Med L2.3 _____________________________________________________
Introduction to Intellectual Property
How do you create value from your ideas? How can you protect your ideas from being used by others? What can you do to turn your research into reality? This short workshop will introduce you to the key aspects of intellectual property, how it is generated and how it can be protected. Being aware of your intellectual property rights is essential if your ideas are to generate value. Many innovations have been turned into commercial reality with the help of patents, trademarks and copyright, but these are the only options. Understanding intellectual property from the early stages of your research will help you make informed decisions about the direction your project takes, how you communicate it to others and how to get support should you wish to exploit it.
Skills: A 3 4 B 1 2 3 5 7 D 2 3 5 6 F 2 G 2 3
71% rated workshop as good or very good 71% said session contributed to the broader understanding of their research
‘Didn’t realise all the implications IP had, very interesting workshop’ ‘Exposed me to how IP’s are valued and commercially exploited and on the potentials of fruitful collaborations with the industry in a win-win situation’ ‘I gained an understanding of how to gain commercial benefits from research’
Wed 2nd December 2009 10:00 – 12:00 Ridley Build 1.58 ______________________________________________________
Advanced SPSS
Building on SPSS for Beginners, in this session Dr Simon Kometa explores the features of SPSS including: regression; 2-way ANOVA; randomised complete block design; analysis of covariance; online analytical processing (OLAP); cluster analysis; multiple response analysis; and cross tabulation. To attend this session it is necessary for students to have attended SPSS for Beginners. This session does not teach statistics but how to use SPSS to perform these tasks. An understanding of the statistics methods being discussed is required prior to attending.
Skills: A 4 5 6 C 2 E 1
83% rated session a good or very good
83% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results
‘The exercises were very good in enhancing the understanding of what was taught’ ‘Simon made it easy, handouts with questions & answer were given during the session, students can apply the analysis on their own, and discussion throughout the whole session was really beneficial’ Thurs 3rd December 2009 09:00 – 16:30
Tue 25th May 2010 09:00 – 16:30 LINN Cluster
________________________________________ Matlab
Dr Chris Woodford offers this two day interactive workshop to advise postgraduates on developing mathematical methods using Matlab. Detailed mathematical knowledge or experience is not a prerequisite for this course. Day One introduces Matlab as a powerful desktop calculator and high level programming language and will include evaluation of mathematical expressions; reading and plotting of data; constructs, functions and subroutines; vector and matrix operations; solving systems of linear equations and using graphical capabilities for Plotting and Visualization. Day Two will concentrate on special applications: Toolboxes; creating additional data; data format and transfer; programming considerations; best practice and code efficiency.
Skills: A 3 4 B 1 2 3 5 7 D 2 3 5 6 F 2 G 2 3
83% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results
83% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in keeping abreast of techniques and advances in your research area
‘It was a good introduction to MatLab’
Mon 7th December 2009 10:00-16.00 &
Tue 8th December 2009 10.00-16.00 LINN cluster
________________________________________ Document Management 02
This is a supervised, self-directed workshop which aims to further develop the skills and techniques covered in Document Management 01, which is a prerequisite of attendance. Topics include; managing style sets in Word, using PowerPoint to create good graphics for use in Word, managing images properly, dealing with advanced referencing and navigating a document. When putting together reports and thesis having a full understanding of the functions of MS Word can save hours of frustration. These sessions are highly recommended for all research students. This workshop can also be complete online where feedback is provided see Online DM 02 on the booking website.
Skills: A 6 C 3 E 1 G 3
85% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time
92% said session increased their awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
‘Understanding how to create and apply a document template will be very useful in thesis writing but also for other documents’ ‘Well planned electronic tutorial’
Wed 9th December 2009 14:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster _____________________________________________________
Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills
This workshop is recommended for all research students likely to use MS Excel. Mrs Rebecca McCready covers topics including analysis, formatting and manipulation of data in MS Excel, as well as the production and formatting of charts and graphs. It also covers an introduction to essential statistics using Excel. This is a hands on session and students will be encouraged to problem solve and utilise self-help strategies. A booklet will be provided for future reference.
4 5 6 2 3 1
16
Skills: A C E
79% rated workshop as good or very good
79% said session increased awareness or improved skills in how to manage their project and their time
‘Step by step guide and examples of how to use spreadsheets for data handling. ‘The spreadsheet use with various functions of excel was helpful to understand’
Mon 11 January 2010 14:00 – 16:00 th
1 5 2 3 4
th
th
th
DENE Cluster ______________________________________________________
Preparing CV’s for Academia or Industry
Dr Lorna Dargan of the careers service explains some of the key differences and similarities when applying for academic research opportunities or jobs in the private sector. Tailoring the information you provide to grab the attention of selection panels can be crucial and this session will help you to highlight the specific skills each type of employer will be interested in. The initial hour of this session will be a presentation; this will then be followed by an optional discussion of specific CVs and applications.
Skills: B G
This is a new addition to the programme, so there are no stats or comments from previous years. We hope all of those attending will complete the evaluation forms sent out after the session.
Tue 12 January 2010, 10:00-11:30 _______________________________
Med Boardroom _______________ ________
Introduction to Databases (MS Access) - Lecture
Mrs Rebecca McCready discusses when it is best to use databases instead of spreadsheets and the respective benefits of each. Some simple insights are given into what is involved in constructing an MS Access database and how an MS Access database would benefit those handling large amounts of data. This is a compulsory workshop for those wishing to take the Introduction to Databases practical session.
Skills: A C 4 5 2 3
92% rated workshop as good or very good
92% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results
‘Lecturer was good at explaining when the different types of database would be useful’ ‘This was a very useful session that highlighted the pros and cons of XL and access databases and helped to clarify the most appropriate for me. Thank you’
Tue 12 January 2010 12:00 – 13:00 ________________________________
Med 3.1 ________ ______________
Academic Writing
Mrs Alicia Cresswell, the University's Head of Writing Development, delivers this workshop. The session will give general guidance on academic language and style. The workshop will show some of the common problems and errors in inexperienced researchers’ writing.
2 Skills: A 6 B 6 C 3 E 1
83% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased their awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
‘The online resources that were shown to us are very useful. The session leader was really great and the fact that the session was interactive helped. The whole session was very useful’ ‘I would thoroughly recommend this training event to anyone thinking of writing an academic paper or project/thesis. I only wish I had attended earlier as it provided great tips’
Wed 13th January 2010 10:00 – 12:00 Dent LTD ________________________________________ Introduction to Databases - Practical This supervised self-directed session, facilitated by Mrs Rebecca McCready, follows on from the lecture on databases, giving some hands-on experience of creating a database and performing database queries. Students must attend the Introduction to Databases lecture before attending the practical session.
Skills: A 4 5 C 2 3
100% would recommend this session to a colleague*
100% found the session useful for their work*
‘The course was well delivered and was a good introduction to databases’ * ‘I liked using an existing database to create queries’ * *Data from 2007/8
Fri 15 January 2010 13:00 - 15:00 LINN Cluster
________________________________________
Promoting the Public Understanding of Research
This session provides students with an insight into the world of the media by drawing on the experiences of Prof Mark Birch-Machin. This includes his experiences of making the headlines in four national and international television programmes (including Sky News and BBC News), live news reports, radio interviews (e.g. BBC, USA, Canada), newspaper articles and a popular beauty magazines. The workshop, which is useful for students at any stage in their research, will look at the advantages of making your findings public and broadening the appeal of your research and yourself by working with the media. This session is presented in tandem with the Science and the Media session, which takes place following a break for complimentary lunch.
Skills: A 6 B 1 E 2 4 G 2 3
100% said session contributed to the broader understanding of their research
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc ‘Very interesting session that gave the opportunity to look at research from a different angle and see how involvement with the media can work to your advantage in many different ways’
thWed 20 January 2010 12:00 – 13:00 Ridley 1.58
Science and the Media
This workshop aims to show how media publicity can work in favour of your research by attracting funding, offers of collaboration, and achieving a higher profile for both researcher and employer. The workshop outlines how to attract journalists’ attention and how to handle them when breaking news. Researchers with an interest in making a press release of their work are asked to submit a summary of their work before attending.
Skills: A 6 B 1-7 D 3 6 E 1 2 4 F 2 3 4
80% rated the workshop as good or very good
100% said session contributed to the broader understanding of their research
‘This was a really interesting workshop that made me much more aware of the potential advantages of making the public aware of the results of your research. There were many practical examples that illustrated this well’ ‘Opportunity to hear how media involvement works in real life’
Wed 20th January 2010 13:00 – 14:30 Ridley Building 1.58 ________________________________________ Introduction to Critical Appraisal
17
There are a vast number of academic papers and books published each year. Working out which are useful for your research is a vital skill. Once you have narrowed down the articles that are genuinely pertinent to your research, you must then consider which contain robust results and valid conclusions. Recent studies have shown that only a proportion of those papers containing significant discrepancies are retracted, the retractions often happen years after the publication has gone to press and retractions often go unheeded with retracted papers continuing to collect positive citations. Taking an open-minded and even sceptical approach is important when reviewing the literature. Prof. Bob Lightowlers will refer to his own experience to help make you aware of non-reproducible results, poor experimental design, incorrect analysis, conflict of interests and even outright fraud; all factors which have led to papers being retracted and are still lurking within the literature
Skills: A 1 2 3 4 5 B 1 2 3 6 F 2
65% rated workshop as good or very good
86% said session increased awareness or improved their research skills such as problem solving, developing concepts and evaluating results ‘A clear presentation giving good advice about how to critically review a paper’ ‘Good overview of the process of critical appraisal and the difficulties you may be faced with in ensuring you have covered the literature and appraised it appropriately’
Mon 25th January 2010 14:00 – 16:00 Med L2.6 ______________________________________________________
Poster Presentations – What Makes a Good Poster?
This interactive workshop uses existing posters to examine what makes a good poster, providing practical advice on layout,
title, figures, use of colour and other design features. For any student thinking about presenting a poster this session provides a fantastic insight into what will make their poster easy to read and memorable. Dr. Anthony Moorman and Dr. Elizabeta Mukaetova-Ladinska provide the benefit of their experience
in this area. Skills: A 6 B 2 6 C 3 E 1 2 4
87% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
100% rated workshop as good or very good
‘Practical, specific advice on what makes a good vs a bad poster. Very useful workshop’ ‘Would highly recommend attendance for anyone planning to make a poster’ ‘Very experienced and mature tutor who had prepared elaborately and carefully’
Tue 26th January 2010 15:00 – 17:00 Med Board Room Wed 27th January 2010 09:00 – 11:00 Med Board Room ______________________________________________________
Webspace – Webpage Design
It is increasingly important for researchers to display their research activity in a number of ways. Having a webpage is one of the most obvious and easy ways for others to find out about you and your work. You may also want to create a website for your personal use. This workshop is the express guide to web publishing. During the session students are given guidance on how to access their own bit of the university’s server space. Mrs Rebecca McCready shows how to create and publish a simple website using HTML. There will also be guidance on how to publish these pages.
Skills: A 6 C 3 E 4
100% rated this workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
‘I liked that I could see the fruit of my work immediately after the workshop. I made my first website’
Fri 5th Feb 2010 13:00 – 17:00 LINN Cluster ________________________________________ Thesis Writing
Prof John Kirby aims to provide students with a clear overview of the regulations governing thesis preparation and submission. Tips will be offered and suggestions made for structuring and approaching writing. This session is strongly recommended for all students in their final year.
Skills: A 5 6 B 6 C 1 3 E 1 2
100% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time
‘The workshop gave great tips on how to write your thesis and some tricks to make it easier and more organised’ ‘Very useful session that helped to put the whole project into context and enabled you to think ahead in order to manage your time and writing effectively. Lots of good practical tips, thank you’
Fri 5th February 2010 13:00 – 14:00 Dent LTD ______________________________________________________
Poster Presentations – Practical Advice
Dr. Anthony Moorman and Dr. Elizabeta Mukaetova-Ladinska oversee this supervised self-directed study session, which gives researchers the chance to evaluate poster templates, as well as offering tips on how they can improve their own poster designs. This is a particularly valuable session for students with a partly designed poster or who have a poster they would like to improve.
Skills: A 6 B 2 6 C 3 E 1 2 4
100% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
‘Samples of previous posters to revise in this session helped us to spot the mistakes ourselves and avoid them in our posters’ ‘Richard Hetherington was very helpful’
Mon 15th February 2010 11:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster ______________________________________________________
Electronic Information Sharing (Web 2.0)
18
In the Recording Your Research session Dr Dan Swan introduces the concept of electronic lab books and data sharing. This workshop will expand on the use of Web 2 technologies for sharing research methods and results. The fear of being scooped is a common one but this fear is largely unfounded, and the benefits of sharing methods and results can take work on at a much greater pace. Obviously care should be taken in case there is direct commercial potential in the information you share but the use of online communities, blogs and wikis are fast and effective ways of sharing information and sharing information in this way is being increasingly monitored when assessing research outcomes. Dr Swan will make you aware of the technologies available to you, the many benefits they can have and any risks that sharing does entail.
Skills: A 3 5 B 1 2 6 7C 2 3 D1 2 3 E 2 4 5F1 2 3
This session is new to the programme so no evaluation information is available. Please complete the evaluation if attending this session for the benefit of future researchers.
Tue 16th February 2010 12:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster
____________________________________________________________ Marketing Yourself
Are you thinking of applying for opportunities in the near future?
Have you recently updated your CV or attended an interview?
Do you know how to convince an employer you have what they are looking for?
If you are currently applying for new opportunities or just want to learn how to give yourself an advantage in an increasingly competitive job market, this session will show you how to market your research experience effectively. Developed by the Careers Service in partnership with employers of PhD graduates both within and outside academic research, the session aims to provide an insight into the recruitment process and selection criteria
provide information and advice on producing effective CVs and achieving success at interview
demonstrate ways to convey the relevance and value of your research experience to a range of different employers
provide an opportunity to practise your interview skills with an experienced interviewer
increase your confidence when applying for opportunities with a PhD
During the session, participants will undertake a CV selection exercise based on a real case study and have the opportunity to gain interview practise and feedback from an experienced interviewer where possible, for a position of their choice. In order to achieve maximum benefit from the session, we require participants to select a job advertisement that interests them prior to the session and bring along a tailored version of their CV. Early booking is recommended are places are limited.
Skills: G1 2 3 4
89% rated the workshop as good or very good 100% said session improved their awareness of transferable nature of skills and attributes gained and expressing this in effective CVs and applications ‘The experience of practising interviews and getting individual feedback was very useful’
Wed 17th February 1-5pm HASS Training Suite
Wed 24th March 1-5pm HASS Training Suite
Wed 2 June 1-5pm Beehive 2.21________________________________________
nd
Integrated Library and IT Skills
Mrs Rebecca McCready and Ms Linda Simpson run this supervised, self-directed, multifaceted study session that draws together different strands in research and document management. Students can practise previously learnt skills in database research, bibliographic management, and word processing techniques on an actual document typical of a scientific journal. Those which are finished in-session will be assessed and feedback provided. Please note, students must have completed Document Management 01 & 02, Endnote, and Information Databases prior to attending this session. This material is also available as online ISA.
Skills: A C E 6 2 3 1
1 2 5 7 1 2 1 2 3
th
had different and useful points. There were useful pointers that can be put into practice and examples of documentation’
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in using appropriate bibliographical resources and archive to collect and collate relevant information resources ‘Really beneficial because you simulated working on an assignment. This brought together and allowed you to further practise skills gained during different sessions. A good session for preparing for real assignments/projects’ ‘These sessions are really excellent and I’m appreciative of the opportunity to attend them’
Wed 24th February 2010 14:00 – 16:00 Glen Cluster
____________________________________________________________
The Research Environment – Research Funding in the UK
Dr Gwen Averley presents this session to give a picture of how research funds are distributed and of key features of funding in higher education in the UK. Issues related to regulation, ethics and governance of research are introduced. This presentation is of particular interest for anyone considering a career in academia. It gives vital insights into how funding is distributed and what universities look for in their researchers.
Skills: B F G
75% rated workshop as good or very good
75% said session contributed to the broader understanding of their research ‘Broad overview and wealth of information about different funding opportunities potentially available’ ‘Shows what type of funding is out there and who we should be applying to. Explained the background to the wider research environment’
Thurs 25 Feb 2010 13:00 – 14:00 Med L3.2 ________________________________________ Your Personal Development Plan (PDP) – Preparing for the Progress Review Panel
As a researcher, you’ll already know the value of accurate records and regular reflection for high quality research output. The same is true for meaningful self-development and successful career progression. The early stages of a PhD are a steep learning curve for most so how do you ensure that you capture this learning and get the most from this experience and the opportunities on offer? Chaired by the Graduate School, a panel of academic staff, careers staff and a research student who has been through progression will offer short perspectives on getting the most from your PDP and an insight into the expectations of the Progress Review Panel for the PDP element of your E-Portfolio.
5 6 1 1 2 3Skills: A B C D 1 4 5 7 G 1 2 3 4
94% rated workshop as good or very good 94% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time ‘I found that the number of different speakers
‘The verbal explanation of the way in which the assessment process in the 1st year of a PhD is structured was helpful, along with the perspective of the assessors and what they
19
ex ’
confidence and a bit of forward postdoctoral positions without really
nding will complete the evaluation forms sent out after the se
_____
ferable skills with lots of
rld. Yet few jobs outside academia
n forms sent out after the session.
__________________________________
y provides advice on the many for laboratory visits or conferences.
100% said session increased awareness os and publications
friendly workshop leaders’
2:00 Med L2.3
5 6 4 2 3 1 2 4
th
pect from the student
_
‘This was probably one of the most useful sessions to me so far’
Mon 1st March 2010 – 12:00-13.30pm Dent LTD _______________________________________Achieving Career Success
Ensuring that you are in demand and your next move is the right one takes knowledge, experience, planning. It’s easy to fall intothinking through whether they're right for you. This session will outline strategies that will help you to make proactive career decisions. You will discover ways to work out where you are now, recognise what you have to offer and take steps to boost your employability within and beyond the world of academia.
Skills: D4 5 G1 2 3 4
This is a new addition to the programme, so there are no stats or comments from previous years. We hope all of those atte
ssion.
Tues 9th March 2010 10:00 – 12:00 Med Board Room
___________________________________Careers outside of Research
Along with expert knowledge and intellectual curiosity, accomplishedresearchers possess high level transapplications in the working wospecifically seek higher qualifications and research shows that many opportunities are never advertised, so how do you make a career transition? In this session, you will start to explore some of the alternative career options for researchers. We will look at how to develop and use your own network of contacts alongside established resources, as well as practical suggestions for overcoming some of the barriers you might face to working outside academia. This session will interest those researchers who want to consider career options outside of academic research.
Skills: G 1 2 3
This session has been revised this year so we hope all of those attending will complete the evaluatio
Tue 16th March 2010 10:00 – 11:30 Med Boardroom
______Grant Writing – Travel Grants
Research Funding Development Manager and expert in grant application, Dr Gwen Averleopportunities to receive funding Discussion will centre on ways of being notified about new grants and strategies that work best for getting these grants. Academic writing expert, Mrs Alicia Cresswell offers guidance on the appropriate style of writing to make your applications successful. Those attending will be encouraged to make grant applications, rather than just treating the session as practice. It is hoped that the workshop will also act as an introduction to grant application writing for higher level awards.
Skills: A 6 B 1 6 E 1 2 4 F 1
100% rated the workshop as good or very good
r improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reportetc ‘I really liked the first part which was very informative and covered everything we needed to know in a very short time’ ‘Very‘I liked the websites that were given for further funding resources’
Thurs 18th March 2010 10:00 – 1______________________________________________________
An Introduction to Scientific Computation
Many areas of current biological research can benefit from automated repetition of tasks and algorithmic manipulation and analysis of electronic data. A basic familiarity with a powerful, flexible, easy-to-use and freely available programming language such as Python can open up a wide range of possibilities for new avenues of research, as well as providing opportunities to speed up current workflows. Open-source software such as Python and R provide a perfect framework for collaborative research. In this session Dr Conor Lawless will demonstrate setting up a working Python environment and writing some simple research-oriented example code to get started with programming. This will include using Python together with the statistical programming language R.
Skills: A 4 C 2 3 D1 2 E1
This session is a new addition to the programme, so there are no stats or comments from previous years. We hope all of those attending will complete the evaluation forms sent out after the session.
Tue 20th April 2010 10:00 – 13:00 LINN Cluster ______________________________________________________
Literature Reviews and First Year Reports
This workshop, run by the Faculty Postgraduate Tutor, Prof John Kirby and Head of Writing Development, Mrs Alicia Cresswell, offers strategic and technical advice on writing literature reviews and first year reports. Though not compulsory, it is strongly recommended that all students approaching their first year report write-up attend this session. It is also useful as a refresher course for anyone writing a review paper or the introduction to a thesis or paper.
Skills: A B C E
76% rated the workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc ‘Excellent workshop – would recommend it as essential to all PhD students, particularly those coming up to 1st annual assessment’ ‘Made me aware of the reasons why the assessment was taking place and gave me a clear idea as to what is expected from me’
Mon 26th April 2010 10:00 – 12:00 Dent LTD ______________________________________________________
Managing Longer Documents
Mrs Rebecca McCready and Ms Linda Simpson organise this session, which aims to train students in using information technology to produce a thesis or similar piece of lengthy work. It represents the culmination of previous document management and library skills sessions, providing all the information needed to ensure that research work is the focus of your later stages, rather than learning to fully understand bibliographic and word processing software. This session is useful at any stage, but should definitely be attended before writing up. Students must attend Document Management 01 & 02, Endnote, Library databases and Integrated Library and IT skills before attending this session.
Skills: A 6 C 2 3 E 1 2
100% rated this workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in how to manage their project and their time
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in using appropriate bibliographical resources and archive to collect and collate relevant information resources ‘Opportunity to use essential advanced document management skills’
Wed 12 May 2010 10:00 – 16:00 _____________________________
Glen Cluster ____________ _____________
20
Scientific Writing
Prof John Kirby, the Faculty Postgraduate Tutor, and Mrs Alicia Cresswell, the Head of Writing Development, offer postgraduates advice and guidance on scientific writing, particularly for academic publication. Prof Kirby draws on his extensive experience in this area, suggesting strategies for successful writing and tips on how to avoid making errors, Mrs Cresswell provides technical advice on effective writing, including how to abridge thesis chapters to make good journal articles.
Skills: A 5 6 B 1 2 6 C 3 E 1 F 2
82% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc ‘Excellent review of requirements for publication of journal articles’ ‘I liked the part led by Alicia Cresswell. She spoke to the point and gave specific, precise advice’ ‘Prof Kirby was an excellent speaker/presenter. He broke down the process into simple questions and gave excellent examples’
Fri 21st May 2010 10:00 – 12:00 Dent LTD ______________________________________________________
Communication and Presentation Skills
Postgraduate researchers are offered strategic advice from the Faculty Postgraduate Tutor, Prof John Kirby that will enable them to better understand and develop their professional communication skills. Basic oral skills will be discussed in conjunction with a range of methods that can be used for communicating scientific material effectively. This is a useful session for all students, but particularly for those who are preparing to give an oral presentation.
Skills: A 5 B 6
100% rated workshop as good or very good
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in developing and maintaining good working relationships with colleagues and in the broader research communities and other networks
‘Clear outline of success and pitfalls of presenting. Some useful and practical tips’ ‘I would suggest this to anyone thinking about giving a presentation in the future’
Wed 26th May 2010 14:00 – 15:00 Dent LTD ______________________________________________________
Academic Writing – Accessible Abstracts
The postgraduate research conference is an ideal opportunity for research students to advertise their work to a broader audience. Unfortunately it is not uncommon for researchers, including postgraduates, to write texts that are only accessible to those with advanced knowledge of their field. This session offers guidance and advice on how to write clear, accessible and engaging abstracts. Common problems affecting the accessibility of abstracts are identified, and the features of successful abstracts are examined. This session is recommended for all students who require a better understanding of good practice in academic writing, especially those who are planning to submit abstracts for the annual postgraduate conference.
Skills: A 6 E 1 2 4 5 F 1 3
80% rated workshop as good or very good
92% said session contributed to the broader understanding of their research
100% said session increased awareness or improved their skills in writing clearly with an appropriate style for reports and publications etc ‘Interesting to critically appraise abstracts for their clarity and style’ ‘Discussion and comparison about different abstracts made me more aware of potential weaknesses of abstracts’
Thurs 8th July 2010 11:00 – 12:30 Med Boardroom ________________________________________
Training for IT Demonstrators
Teaching develops a variety of important skills and is financially rewarding. Students wishing to teach on the IT skills sessions for undergraduates and postgraduates must attend this session. Mrs Rebecca McCready leads this training session, which aims to familiarise students with the duties and responsibilities of an IT Demonstrator. The session introduces the main teaching techniques to be employed by Demonstrators in the classroom, and provides the opportunity to practise and gain awareness of these skills prior to teaching. Demonstrators will understand how courses are linked and how key skills are developed through the courses. Students attending will develop core teaching skills, including listening, questioning, explaining and summarising skills. Students will also gain practical problem-solving skills and be encouraged to provide feedback and reflect on materials covered.
Skills: D 4 6 E 2 5 F 3 No evaluation feedback has been collected for this session.
Wed 15th Sept 2010 time TBC TBC ________________________________________ Training for Biomedical Sciences Demonstrators
Research Students who wish to demonstrate in practical classes for Biomedical Sciences should book a place on this course. Dr Nick Morris organises this training. The session introduces the main teaching techniques to be employed by Demonstrators, and covers the relevant health and safety information. The session provides the opportunity to gain awareness of teaching skills prior to teaching. Demonstrators attending will develop core teaching skills, including listening, questioning, explaining and summarising skills. Students will also gain practical problem-solving skills and be encouraged to provide feedback and reflect on materials covered.
Skills: D 4 6 E 2 5 F 3 No evaluation feedback has been collected for this session.
Dates and venues to be confirmed ______________________________________________________
Associated Development Opportunities Where possible, training and development events occurring throughout the university and beyond will be advertised on the programme booking pages. It will not always be possible to book places. However it will be possible to register your interest in these events. This will allow you to be sent further information, be able to provide feedback on those events and have your ePortfolio updated with your participation. The following are some such events. ______________________________________________________
Developing Areas Research Network
21
DARN aims to bring together development experts from across all Faculties of Durham, Newcastle and Northumbria Universities in order to foster greater interdisciplinary collaboration on research, postgraduate teaching and learning on international development. The interdisciplinary vision is to encourage the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS), the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE) and the Medical School, as well as all schools and faculties at Northumbria and Durham universities, to work together. DARN runs a number of events for Postgraduate researchers the next of which takes place at Durham University on 17th Sept 2009. In 2008 DARN organised the Fieldwork in Developing Countries postgraduate training module this may be repeated in the future. Researchers should contact DARN to express their interest in this details of the events can be found on the DARN website.
Skills: A 4 5 C 2 3
_____________________________________________________
University English Language Assessment (UELA)
All new students whose native language is not English will be provided with a free University English Language Assessment (UELA), unless they are specifically exempted by INTO Centre staff. The assessment is not something to worry about just a way for the university to work out the sort of help which is most appropriate for you. The results will determine who is in most need of the insessional English for academic purposes classes.
Skills: A 4 5 C 2 3
Wed 16th September 2009
15:00-17:00 or 17:00-19:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Thu 17th September 2009 10:00-12:00 or 13:00-15:00 15:00-17:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Fri 18th September 2009 10:00-12:00 or 13:00-15:00 15:00-17:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Mon 21st September 2009 13:00-15:00 or 15:00-17:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Tue 22nd September 2009
10:00-12:00 or 13:00-15:00 15:00-17:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Wed 23rd September 2009
10:00-12:00 or 13:00-15:00 15:00-17:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Thu 24th September 2009 10:00-12:00 or 13:00-15:00 15:00-17:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Fri 25th September 2009 10:00-12:00 or 13:00-15:00
Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
Mon 28th September 2009 17:00-19:00
Lecture Theatre 101 Merz Court
Tue 29th September 2009 17:00-19:00 Lecture Theatre 101 Merz Court
And Then…Every Wed from 30th September to 9th December 2009
13:00-15:00 Lecture Theatre 3, Herschel Building
English for Academic Purposes
This 12 week course is specifically intended for students who have been assessed as level 1 or 2 in the University English Language Assessment (UELA.) and is compulsory for those students, unless dispensation is given by the Graduate School. Sessions are designed to help students familiarise themselves with Scientific English and to develop their English Language skills. Students who are assessed to be at level 3 in the UELA should seek assistance from the Writing Development Centre. Once students have completed this course they are welcome to seek advice from the Writing Development Centre.
Skills: A 4 5 C 2 3
Thu 8th October 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 15th October 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 22nd October 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 29th October 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 5th November 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 12th November 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 19th November 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 26th November 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 3rd December 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 10th December 2009 09:00-11:00 Thu 7th January 2010 09:00-11:00 Thu 14th January 2010 09:00-11:00
Claremont Bridge 235
_____________________________________________________
Introduction to Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (ITLHE)
Demonstrating and Practical Class Teaching
This programme is compulsory for all postgraduates who are intending to teach practical classes or provide practical class demonstrations. The programme spans two days and provides prospective educators with interactive training in practical skills that will help them get the most from their students. ‘Demonstrating and Practical Class Teaching’ can also be used as a platform to attend a further course leading to an accredited teaching qualification. Students only need to attend either this session or seminar and discussion based teaching class, before commencing teaching.
Skills: D 4 6 E 2 5 F 3 G 1
“This was a fantastic course. It really increased my confidence about teaching.” Links are provided through the graduate school booking page however booking is through the staff development unit at http://data.ncl.ac.uk/staffdev/
________________________________________ Seminars and Discussion Based Teaching This two day training programme is a requirement for any postgraduates who have started or are intending to teach in small groups. Inspiring and interactive training covering all the practical skills you will need to help students to learn in seminar and discussion based environment. This course can also be followed by a further course leading to accredited teaching qualification. Students should only attend this or the demonstration practical sessions, as some of the material will be duplicated.
Skills: D 4 6 E 2 5 F 3 G 1
“Very worthwhile use of my valuable time as a researcher”
Links are provided through the graduate school booking page however booking is through the staff development unit at http://data.ncl.ac.uk/staffdev/ Students who wish to teach should obtain details of these opportunities from the
School of Biomedical Sciences Lisa Dimmick - [email protected]
School of Medical Sciences Education Development Rebecca McCready - [email protected]
School of Psychology Prof Vicki Bruce - [email protected] Having arranged an opportunity to teach the appropriate training will be offered.
Research Ethics in a Wider Context Prof Colin Chandler of Northumbria University leads this collaborative training initiative in Research Ethics starting with two days of teaching workshops. The module is open to second and third year PhD students; post docs and contract researchers in the regional universities. Each faculty will have a quota so early application is advised if ethics has a high priority in your project. You will get the chance to work with researchers from many disciplines and fields across Newcastle University and the four others in the North East.
Skills: B 1 2 3 6 E 2 F1 2
“A lot of assumptions that I had made were challenged, and my thesis will be much better for the experience” Details to be confirmed ______________________________________________________
Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Faculty Induction
The Faculty of Medical Sciences Research Student Development Programme has been organised to provide support and guidance tailored for research students doing research work in bioscience and medicine. We recognise that putting this context on the programme may make the context less suitable for some of our research students, particularly some of those in the Institute of Health and Society. These researchers may find the development programme offered by HaSS more suitable for them. Researchers are welcome to attend this programme, it is suggested that you also attend the HaSS PGR induction event if you think their programme may be of use to you.
1st Year- Wed 23rd Sept 2009 2nd& 3rd Year- Thu 24th Sept 2009
HaSS training suite HaSS training suite
______________________________________________________
Qualitative Methodology in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS8004)
This is a formally taught module with assessment in delivered by Dr Robin Humphrey and Dr Steph Lawler. Options cover a wide range of qualitative approaches, outlining their strengths and weaknesses. The module is only suitable for those who require a comprehensive training in qualitative research methods. It is expected that any research students wishing to take this module should first contact the HaSS Graduate School to see if places are available and attend HaSS induction programme.
Mon 25th Jan 2010 HaSS training suite ______________________________________________________
Vitae was launched on 25 June 2008 the new programme will extend the work of the UK GRAD Programme to create one organisation that champions the careers of doctoral researchers and research staff. For Postgraduate researchers the www.vitae.ac.uk/pgr WebPages aim to help you manage your PhD effectively with our advice on common research management challenges, overcoming hurdles and links to the best resources. Also for tips and information to help you during your PhD and when planning your career why not sign up for PGR tips, a monthly email bulletin designed specifically for postgraduate researchers. PGR tips cover topics such as evaluating skills, writing up, support and funding, and launching an academic career. The GRADschools programme delivered at national level is being reduced however Vitae will run a small programme of provision direct for researchers. GRAD Britain, a magazine written by and for postgraduate researchers, is published triannually and contains articles that allow research students to share experiences and advice. The Vitae Yorkshire and North East regional hub also organise a poster competition, which will take place in April.
Vitae Events In the coming months there are a variety of sessions run for Postgraduate researchers
Freedom of Information: what’s in it for researchers? Location: The Lighthouse,11 Mitchell Lane,Glasgow,G1 3NU 14 September 2009
The Source event Location: Business Design Centre, London 25 September 2009
Research Management Training Workshop Location: Hamburg, Germany 28 September 2009 - 29 September 2009
An introduction to project management Location: Marriott Airport Hotel, Hale Road, Hale Barns, Manchester WA15 8XW 29 September 2009
Careers in focus: Careers in academia Location: Bristol 12 October 2009
Bangor GRADschool Location: University of Wales, Bangor 20 October 2009 - 22 October 2009
The future for part time and distance study Location: Barbican Centre, London EC2 22 October 2009
Turbocharge your writing: Getting your research Published Manchester University 23 October 2009
National GRADschool Location: Windermere 27 October 2009 - 30 October 2009
PRISM 2009: Postgraduate Researchers In Science Medicine conference Location: University of Manchester 30 October 2009
National postgraduate training days - Social sciences Location: The British Library 03 November 2009
Making a successful research grant proposal Location: The Missenden Centre 05 November 2009 - 06 November 2009
Professional doctorates: design and effective supervision Location: The Missenden Centre 19 November 2009 - 20 November 2009
National GRADschool Location: Windermere 24 November 2009 - 27 November 2009
How to be an effective researcher for postgraduate researchers Location: University of Salford 24 November 2009 - 25 November 2009
Creativity in research Location: London 07 December 2009 For the details of all coming Vitae events and support that is provided visit www.vitae.ac.uk/pgr
22
Appendix A: RCUK Joint Skills Statement: Skills Headings F Networking and Teamworking - to be able to: 1. develop and maintain co-operative networks and working
relationships with supervisors, colleagues and peers, within the institution and the wider research community
The following list of skills headings has been mapped onto all of the scheduled training and development events in the programme in order that students can easily identify what they can do to meet their training and development needs. 2. understand one's behaviours and impact on others when
working in and contributing to the success of formal and informal teams A Research Skills and Techniques - to be able to demonstrate:
3. listen, give and receive feedback and respond perceptively to others
1. the ability to recognise and validate problems and to formulate and test hypotheses
2. original, independent and critical thinking, and the ability to develop theoretical concepts
G Career Management - to be able to: 1. appreciate the need for and show commitment to
continued professional development 3. a knowledge of recent advances within one's field and in related areas 2. take ownership for and manage one's career progression,
set realistic and achievable career goals, and identify and develop ways to improve employability
4. an understanding of relevant research methodologies and techniques and their appropriate application within one's research field 3. demonstrate an insight into the transferable nature of
research skills to other work environments and the range of career opportunities within and outside academia
5. the ability to critically analyse and evaluate one's findings and those of others
6. an ability to summarise, document, report and reflect on progress
4. present one's skills, personal attributes and experiences through effective CVs, applications and interviews
B Research Environment - to be able to: 1. show a broad understanding of the context, at the national
and international level, in which research takes place MAP
2. demonstrate awareness of issues relating to the rights of other researchers, of research subjects, and of others who may be affected by the research, e.g. confidentiality, ethical issues, attribution, copyright, malpractice, ownership of data and the requirements of the Data Protection Act
3. demonstrate appreciation of standards of good research practice in their institution and/or discipline
4. understand relevant health and safety issues and demonstrate responsible working practices
5. understand the processes for funding and evaluation of research
6. justify the principles and experimental techniques used in one's own research
7. understand the process of academic or commercial exploitation of research results
C Research Management - to be able to: 1. apply effective project management through the setting of
research goals, intermediate milestones and prioritisation of activities
2. design and execute systems for the acquisition and collation of information through the effective use of appropriate resources and equipment
3. identify and access appropriate bibliographical resources, archives, and other sources of relevant information use information technology appropriately for database management, recording and presenting information
A Medical School Catherine Cookson Building B Dental School
D Personal Effectiveness - to be able to: C Leech Building D Ridley Building 1. demonstrate a willingness and ability to learn and acquire
knowledge E Old Library Building 2. be creative, innovative and original in one's approach to
research 1 Medical School main entrance 2 Dental Lecture theatres DENT LTC, LTD, LTE, LTF, RB Green
3. demonstrate flexibility and open-mindedness 3 Medical School Boardroom 4. demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to identify own training needs 4 Fell and Pass computer clusters
5 Lift and stairs to Walton Library 5th floor, DENE, LINN and GLEN Clusters
5. demonstrate self-discipline, motivation, and thoroughness 6. recognise boundaries and draw upon/use sources of
support as appropriate 6 Lift and stairs to Leech Building rooms, 2nd Floor L2.2 - L2.6, 4th floor L4.2 and L4.4 7. show initiative, work independently and be self-reliant 7 Ridley Building Lecture theatre 1.63 seminar rooms 1.58, 1.59 etc E Communication Skills - to be able to: 8 Research Beehive 2.20, 2.21 and 2.22 1. write clearly and in a style appropriate to purpose, e.g.
progress reports, published documents, thesis 9 Daysh Building, HaSS training Suite, 10 Netskills suite, Herschel building 2. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas clearly
to a range of audiences, formally and informally through a variety of techniques
11 Alnwick and Bamburgh rooms, Kings Road Centre 12 POOL Cluster
3. constructively defend research outcomes at seminars and viva examination 13 Robert Boyle lecture theatre, Armstrong Building
4. contribute to promoting the public understanding of one's research field
5. effectively support the learning of others when involved in teaching, mentoring or demonstrating activities
23
24
Medical Sciences Graduate School, Newcastle University, NE2 4HH email [email protected] or
[email protected] Telephone 0191 222 7002