This module is one of a new suite of Transferable and Applied Skills modules being developed as part of the new applied BA Arts (Professional Pathways) Degree. This new degree blends subjects and modules traditionally available on Arts, Humanities and Social Science programmes with modules that respond to the increased demand in the workplace for transferable and applied skills. The particular aim of this module is to ensure that students have a strong foundation in applied digital skills. The module will introduce students to digital devices, software and applications relevant to their academic and professional careers. Later modules on the degree will focus on information and data literacy, technical communications and digital creation, collaboration and problem solving. This module builds on Semester 1, introductory Academic and Digital Skills module taken by students on the BA Arts (Professional Pathways).

This module will have four main component parts. Following an initial introduction the module will focus on: - Device familiarity aimed at understanding the core functions and features of commonly used digital devices and platforms - Using digital tools to enable written communication and expression, including building capacity in commonly used software, including MS Word to enable written communication and expression and MS Excel to generate and manipulate data. - Basic data generation and manipulation to enable more effective communication with digital tools , including creating presentations, poster production, storyboarding, video and podcasting - Emerging trends in the digital world - introducing podcasts and video production, including critical assessment of evolving trends in the digital world

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of digital tools, platforms, and technologies commonly used in professional settings - Proficiently organize, store, and manage digital data, files, and documents, including cloud-based storage and file-sharing systems - Undertake basic level data management and manipulation - Create digital content in a range of digital media and in a range of different formats - Stay up-to-date with evolving technologies and adapt to new digital tools and platforms - Situate the role and relevance of digital competencies in the 21st Century workplace and society

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - display a greater understanding of the current and emerging digital landscape - use digital tools to more effectively represent and communicate ideas, concepts and data messages - locate and critique emerging trends in the digital landscape - Identify and evaluate what digital tools are most relevant in their personal and professional lives. - develop confidence in using digital tools, reducing anxiety about technology use

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The module follows on from a semester 1 module on Academic and Digital Foundations. These two modules align with the UK JISC digital capabilities framework, in particular with its first element of digital proficiency i.e. 'the ability to use digital devices, networks, applications software and services' (Jisc is the UK digital, data and technology not-for-profit agency focused on tertiary education, research and innovation and widely seen as a market leader in the field of digital capabilities https://beta.jisc.ac.uk/about-us). They are also designed to take account of the EU Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027). This module will be taught using a combination of synchronous and asynchronous content. Synchronous, weekly lab-based sessions will be used to ensure that all students are introduced to the module content in an accessible and inclusive fashion and to ensure a 'levelling up' of skills amongst students. In parallel, students will be expected to participate in weekly asynchronous sessions, designed both to meet the module learning outcomes but to do so in a way that requires students to experience learning in the digital, online space. This module will make a contribution across the range of graduate attributes.