Skills & Elective Modules
Skills 4 Success ModulesAs a University, we recognise the importance of students developing generic transferable skills and currently offer a portfolio of skills modules and employability / career oriented projects at Levels 1, 2 and 3, which can complement your area of study. New modules are under development so please check the notice boards during your time here to avail yourself of further opportunities.
All Levels
Independent Study
Module Leader Maria Dawson Tel 0191 515 3303
Have you found yourself fascinated by a topic within a module, but not had time to further develop your interest? Has an aspect of your employment ever made you think you would like to undertake some academic research into an area? If so, the Independent Study module could provide you with the opportunity to pursue your own academic research in the subject.
These modules require students to be self-motivated responsible and enthusiastic about their subject. It would also be a good introduction to self directed study for those considering post-graduate work.
If you don't have an idea for a topic, worry not as the Module Leader will be able to introduce you to a number of projects, such as:
- Building your Employability Skills Profile
- Engaging in Critical thinking, Learning and writing
- Becoming an Effective Learner
- Etc
If you would like to learn more about this module, please contact, Maria on the above telephone number or e-mail maria.dawson@sunderland.ac.uk
Level 1
Fundamental IT & Information Skills A
Module Leader Freda Cook Tel: 0191 515 3895
The rapid pace of growth of technology has made it easier than ever to access information about almost anything at the click of a mouse. In particular, Virtual Learning Environments (VLE's) that harness the power of Internet technology are becoming commonplace in schools, colleges and universities. In order to make effective use of the learning resources available via the Internet and a VLE, students need to learn a new set of study skills which incorporate effective online communication and using word processing and presentation software successfully.
Students will be able to gain or enhance these sets of study skills by taking this module which will be delivered via a blend of methods: the use of online based materials and support (e.g. Online Tutorial & the University's VLE) plus face to face sessions and self study. Students will also be required to work closely with library staff through scheduled sessions to support their understanding of the module aspects and therefore their learning in general.
Fundamental IT & Information Skills B
Module Leader Freda Cook Tel: 0191 515 3895
The rapid pace of growth of technology has made it easier than ever to access information about almost anything at the click of a mouse. In particular, Virtual Learning Environments (VLE's) that harness the power of Internet technology are becoming commonplace in schools, colleges and universities. In order to make effective use of the learning resources available via the Internet and a VLE, students need to learn a new set of study skills which incorporate using spreadsheet software successfully, an understanding of plagiarism, collusion and how to determine whether information, available via the Internet or library, is reliable.
Students will be able to gain or enhance these sets of study skills by taking this module which will be delivered via a blend of methods: the use of online based materials and support (e.g. Online Tutorial & the University's VLE) plus face to face sessions and self study. Students will also be required to work closely with library staff through scheduled sessions to support their understanding of the module aspects and therefore their learning in general.
Level 2
Students as Tutors
Module Leader Anne Lambton Tel: 0191 515 3898
Students can elect to study a 10 or 20 credits Student as Tutors module at Level 2. Working alongside teachers in local schools or colleges, the student tutor would support the learning of groups of pupils in subject areas relevant to their degree course. In addition to sharing their subject knowledge and enthusiasm, students will be helping to raise the pupils' aspirations and to develop their own personal skills.
Students studying the 20 credit module will also have the opportunity to develop and demonstrate key project management skills, including negotiation and liaison skills. They will negotiate a suitable topic with the class teacher and take responsibility for developing, organising and helping to deliver an educational project, which demonstrates how classroom based work, relates to `real life'. The student will seek to incorporate local business, industry, community or local government links in this work.
These are not modules for teacher training students they are for anyone who wants to:
- Develop their social and interpersonal skills
- Gain work experience in a classroom situation
- Develop managerial, organisational, communication, leadership and problem solving skills
- Help a range of school children in their learning
- Enjoy a hard working but rewarding experience
Intermediate Information Skills (LLS212) TBC
Module Leader Maria Dawson Tel 0191 515 3303
Students can gain 10 credits at Level 2 by undertaking this module which complements undergraduate Level 2 modules and can be offered as a supplement to any subject or area of study.
It offers students the opportunity to familiarise themselves with important aspects of research and prepares the ground work for the undertaking of their subject specific project in Level 3 of their undergraduate program of study.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will have demonstrated:
- the ability to evaluate the most commonly used research tools and methods in order to identify the most appropriate for their field of study
- an understanding of key issues related to writing up research
- skills in critical analysis
- the ability to plan and articulate a piece of research in their chosen study area
Languages for All, The University Language Scheme
A second language is another skill that is very useful to have. The university offers you the opportunity to study a range of languages from beginners level to advance.
French (beginners, elementary, intermediate, advanced)
German (beginners)
Spanish (beginners,elementary, intermediate)
Japanese (beginners)
Chinese (beginners)
These modules are worth 10 credits (20 credits for Advanced French) and can count towards your degree programme.
For further details please refer to the University Languages Scheme leaflet available from reception in Forster Building or contact 0191 515 3192
Within this area
