Overview

The Introduction to Academic Skills module is designed to support students transitioning into higher education by equipping them with the foundational academic skills necessary for success throughout their studies. Covering key areas such as effective communication, critical thinking, and research, this module ensures students develop the ability to cite and reference correctly, structure scientific arguments, design accurate figures, and present research appropriately. With a focus on both academic and employability skills, students will be well-prepared for the challenges of their chosen fields.

Throughout the module, students will explore topics such as navigating university systems, mastering time management, and developing critical thinking. They will learn to evaluate information, understand academic integrity, and conduct effective research using library resources. Students will also focus on writing coherent essays, designing accurate scientific figures, and presenting their work clearly. The module includes practical exercises and emphasizes the development of reflective thinking and communication skills crucial for academic success.

Assessment Strategy

EXCELLENT - Category A (70%-100%). Students in this category will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the module. Their work will be thorough, well-structured, and supported by wider reading and additional research. Excellent students will produce high-quality, accurately referenced essays, design scientifically precise figures, and present well-organized posters that reflect critical thinking, creativity, and a deep engagement with the material. They will show originality in their approach, clarity in their arguments, and excellent attention to detail. Evidence of critical thinking and wider reading is essential for A+ and A* marks.

GOOD - Category B (60%-69%): Good students will have a strong grasp of the core concepts and skills introduced in the module. Their work will be well-organized and supported by examples, showing a clear understanding of the material. They will demonstrate accurate citation and referencing, clear presentation of scientific information, and a logical structure in their essays and posters. While lacking the depth or breadth of additional reading seen in Excellent work, the output will be consistently solid and effective.

Satisfactory - Category C (50-59%): Students at this level will show a reasonable understanding of the essential facts and key concepts of the module. Their work may have some lapses in detail or clarity, and there may be minor errors in referencing or presentation. While their assignments will cover the required material, the arguments may not be fully supported, and their critical thinking may be underdeveloped. Students in this category will still demonstrate the ability to complete tasks but may struggle to apply advanced academic skills consistently.

THRESHOLD - Category D (40-49%): Threshold students will show basic knowledge of the module content but may present incomplete or poorly structured work. There may be significant gaps in referencing, scientific presentation, or argumentation. Essays may be descriptive rather than analytical, and posters may lack coherence or depth. While they meet the minimum requirements, students in this category will demonstrate limited engagement with the material and may not fully apply the academic skills introduced during the module.

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to appropriately present a piece of work.

• Be able to design appropriate scientific figures and illustrations.

• Be able to reference and cite a piece of work appropriately.

• Be able to structure an effective scientific argument.