CONTENTS 1. Introduction 1.1 Course Outline 1 1.2 Introduction ...

Indicative syllabus content:
• Self assessment reflective learning, theories of learning, learning styles
• Skills awareness in context of the labour market; motivations, personality
• Making the most of work and other experience
• CVs (suitable for applying for work experience)
• Action planning
• Re-assessment of skills
• Opportunity Awareness (thorough research of the graduate labour market, customised for
subject discipline) - An opportunity for departments to invite relevant employers to talk to
students.
• Decision making theories vocational choice and developing strategies for effective and rational
decision making. Linking of opportunity and self awareness.
• CV and covering letters.
• Theories career development.
• Transition skills theories of making transitions
• Self awareness but a more critical analysis, re-assessment of skills and motivations
• Positive self marketing in the context of job/further study applications, again, with the
participation of employers.
Teaching and Learning Methods:
The module is equivalent to 15 credits over 12 weeks assuming a 3 hour session per week. The
module is actually scheduled every other week over two semesters. It is assessed as part of the
course core module against learning outcomes Students will also develop useful employability
skills.
Face to face workshops: 6 hours in total
Self-directed study including directed study through the virtual learning environment, Blackboard:
144 hours
Assessment Rationale:
Assessment is by portfolio and a series of assignments.
The portfolio will provide a structured and supported process that allows students to reflect on
their learning and achievements, and to plan their future personal, educational and career
development, for example, module choice, further development of skills (HE as well as
employability skills), or other training needs.
It is an active learning process that will encourage students to take responsibility for their own
learning.
The following will form part of the portfolio but assessed separately:
1. Statements about themselves and their plans for the future will encourage self reflection and
a more considered approach to the choices they must make. These will be required to make
students explicitly aware of the development process they are going through. (Learning
outcomes 1,2,7)
2. A job study demonstrates to students the benefits of thorough preparation for choosing a
career (Learning outcomes 4,5,6,8,11)
3. CVs will encourage students to self market in a positive way, and to make the most of what
they have to offer through written communication (Learning outcomes 2,3,7,9,13)
4. A critique of an interview aims to improve their performance by asking them to reflect on a
real interview and to look at their weaknesses as well as their strengths (Learning outcomes
2,3,7,9,10,12)
Assessment criteria:
The learning outcomes will have been achieved when:
• The student is aware of their learning style
• The student describes their personal skills and determined their relevance to a future career
• A CV that positively markets their current transferable skills has been produced
DPI_Hbook 59 ©University of Westminster