Unit information: Study Skills in Physics in 2017/18

Unit name	Study Skills in Physics
Unit code	PHYS00200
Credit points	20
Level of study	QCA-3
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Vasiljevic
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	Normally at least Grade C in GCSE Mathematics; Physics or Science containing Physics.
Co-requisites	none
School/department	School of Physics
Faculty	Faculty of Science

Description including Unit Aims

The unit is mandatory (TB1 -20 CP) for Physics Preliminary Year students and is focused on enquiry-based learning and independent study. The unit aims are to enable students to:

• develop investigative skills
• develop communication (written and presentation) skills
• develop/improve analytical and IT skills
• experience collaborative, independent learning and group work.

The students will be given three assignments expected to be undertaken independently or in a group. The students' research will include: 1) literature and a web search for relevant information; 2) analysis and selection of information and 3) communication of their findings in written or oral form.

The students' research will include: 1) literature and a web search for relevant information; 2) analysis and selection of information and 3) communication of their findings in written or oral form.

The students will present their findings and produce the report for each assignment that will be a part of their electronic portfolio that will be submitted and assessed at the end of the unit.

Intended Learning Outcomes

The students will be able to

• Search and use scientific literature databases (electronic journals, reputable websites) to find and select relevant information;
• Communicate effectively their findings to their peers and general audience – in written or presentation format
• Create, edit and organise wiki page
• Work in a small group
• Work independently

Teaching Information

Weekly tutorial discussions and guided learning.

Assessment Information

To pass the unit students will be required to attend weekly tutorials and to complete satisfactorily all assignments. The unit mark will be based on the evaluation of the electronic portfolio submitted at the end of the term.

Tutorial sessions would be used for the feedback on the progress and the elements of the portfolio (formative assessment) which could include an element of peer review, addressing of particular topics – e.g. library skills, time management and general discussion.

Reading and References

To be decided in consultation with the tutor