MSc Computing distance learning - Staffordshire University

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Mid May / June – Early September Module Study (2 modules) September / October – Late December Module Study (2 modules) January – Mid June Dissertation Includes supervisor online ‘meetings’ Late June Dissertation viva voce – date arranged with supervisor and second assessor 10
2 Specifics of e-learning awards How will the award be delivered? Students studying the MSc via online delivery are expected to take a self-motivated, proactive approach and work as an effective individual to utilise the Faculty’s resource-centred teaching mechanisms. Many of the modules studied will have different teaching and learning methods. For each module, material designed to help individuals meet its learning outcomes will be available in an electronic form, currently through the Blackboard VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). The nature of the material will differ according to the requirements of the module. Some of the modules will also require students to have access to additional resources such as books, computing hardware or software. The requirements for each module are shown in a separate section (Appendix 6) of this handbook. What is student centred learning? Student centred learning gives people much freedom to plan and carry out their own study. For a student to succeed with this learning approach it is essential that they are self motivated and able to plan their studies effectively. They will need to be able set clear targets for when to study, and have sufficient dedication and independence in order to complete successfully each module on the award. Typically the 150 hours study for each module taken will not only include time to read pre-prepared material, but also to research and read around the subject. There will be two main approaches used in guiding a student’s learning. Firstly ‘instructional’ approaches such as those activities where the tutor takes the lead and facilitates activities. Alternatively, ‘reflective’ learning where students are given advice on what to study and then have to complete this to come to their own conclusions and insights. For any given module, some of the following approaches may typically be used: • Independent resource based learning where students are expected to achieve specific goals using their own personal efforts. This approach will help to build up research skills and develop personal study approaches and strategies whilst using resources. This brings benefits not only on the award, but should also help in developing transferable skills for lifelong learning after completing the course; • Independent reading where students will be set passages of text or research papers to read in their own time; • Staff-directed learning where, through individual or group contact (e.g. in an on-line discussion forum), a member of staff directs the learning experience. Such an approach mixes students with diverse backgrounds, and enables different perspectives to be put forward in learning activities; • Problem based learning where students will be set a specific problem that requires a solution to be found. To solve this problem they will need to think, and reason towards a good final solution. This approach to learning will be used both within groups and as individuals; • Dissertation applies to all students at the MSc. stage of the award when they are required to write a dissertation. A major factor related to this is learning how to work independently, while being guided by an academic supervisor; 11
Page 1 and 2: Faculty of Computing, Engineering &
Page 3 and 4: 7 Contacts and communication How ar
Page 5 and 6: 1 Award details and overview How to
Page 7 and 8: See the Staffordshire University Po
Page 9: L M (7) Teaching Block 2 (12 weeks)
Page 13 and 14: What is ‘module material’? A co
Page 15 and 16: CE01066-7 Software and hardware app
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Page 21 and 22: the UK Disability Discrimination Ac
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Page 29 and 30: Is there a counselling service? Yes
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Page 33 and 34: 11 Appendices Appendix 1: Internet,
Page 35 and 36: Appendix 2: Assessment criteria Ass
Page 37 and 38: Appendix 4: EXTRACT FROM CPHC MASTE
Page 39 and 40: Appendix 6: Learning Outcomes shown

MSc Computing distance learning - Staffordshire University

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