Key Skills Exemplified

• Learning to Learn
  
• Communication - written and verbal

Description

This is a negotiated study module which aims to use the students' work environment or previous study environment as a learning resource. The module described is one of four, designed for part-time students to facilitate study away from the classroom and lessen the length of time it takes to attain their qualification. The emphasis of the module is study skills rather than subject specific skills.

Rationale

Part-time day release students have considerable constraints on their learning time due to the dual commitments of work and study. This limits the student in the amount of contact time they may have with the institution and the length of course they are permitted to take by their companies. By developing good practice in learning methods, the students can use their time more effectively.

Learning Outcomes

• To encourage independent learning.
  
• To develop the students' key skills.
  
• To develop the ability to reflect on course material.
  
• To understand the learning experience on a deeper level.
  
• To give confidence in group discussion about complex issues.
  
• To consider personal and career plans.

Implementation

• Through small group tutorials, previously studied topics were reviewed.
  
• Different approaches to study were discussed.
  
• Students were required to devise a plan of study focusing on a topic of their choice.
  
• An initial plan of study was required after week three.
  
• The plan was further considered and developed in tutorials over the subsequent four weeks.
  
• Students were then encouraged to describe their learning experiences.
  
• Students established their own assessment criteria and critically appraised the value of the assessment.
  
• A 15 minute oral presentation of the topic reviewed was required in week twelve.
  
• A 4000 word written report of their evaluation was required in week thirteen.

Benefits for:

The Student

• Became used to discussing issues within a small group.
  
• Became aware of critical thinking in decision-making.
  
• Practiced independent study and thinking.
  
• Developed their writing and presentation skills.
  
• Developed personal confidence.

The Lecturer

• Students became more focused in their study.

The Institution

• Companies have a wealth of learning resources, which can be harnessed.

Drawbacks for:

The Student

• Study for the Appraisal of Prior Learning module remained very time consuming.
  
• Had difficulty in equating the value of the Appraisal of Prior Learning module compared to traditional modules.
  
• Underestimated time needed to complete assignments.
  
• Found employers unsupportive at times.

The Lecturer

• Students initially require a lot of input to get them under way satisfactorily.
  
• Staff colleagues need to be aware of the demands of the Appraisal of Prior Learning module.

The Institution

• Liaison needs to take place with employers to help the students' learning process.

Evaluation

Generally successful review of prior learning, which enabled the student to capitalise on and maximise its value in terms of subject knowledge at a higher level. Although study time remained high for the Appraisal of Prior Learning module, it provided a foundation on which to build more effective study methods. To further the success of the module more liaisons need to take place with employers to help the students' learning process. Students require more advice on report and presentation methods and help with study time management.

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