The aim of this module is to equip students with study and effective study skills as well as provide for career development, which are necessary to participate fully in, and derive maximum benefit from, third-level experience. The syllabus for this module will provide the learner with the necessary tools to become effective and confident learners. The principle focus will be on study skills, personal development and reflecting on issues in both areas of the module.

The student will be supported to apply the skills-set acquired, which will include writing skills; oral presentation skills; Creating a portfolio, Preparing for PowerPoint presentations, Profiling different learning styles e.g. mind mapping, reflective logs; Learning to read academically i.e. scanning/skimming. The student will learn academic reading; note-taking; effective use of lectures and tutorials; basic research skills; using sources of information. Students will learn about the conventions for writing academic assignments: argumentation, planning an essay, referencing as well as reflecting on the learning experience. Personal development will include career decision-making and preparation; the Job Search Process; Identifying and securing employment opportunities, CV Preparation including online job-hunting, Interview Preparation & Interview Techniques, Guidelines on CV applications & Cover Letters, Introduction to Interview skills. Managing finances, financial planning and budgeting.

Demonstrate an understanding of the different learning styles Examine the processes in preparing for career opportunities. Review progress against identified personal goals Allocate appropriate time to identified personal goals Judge progress according to SMART criteria

Demonstrate a commitment and proactive approach to lifelong development of skills and learning in informing personal and professional development. Reflect on own personal development to include goal or objective-setting and action planning. Demonstrate confidence to take action and initiative around personal learning needs Embrace reflection and self-evaluation as part of the learning process

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The teaching style will be interactive and problem-focussed. Students will participate in the learning environment through engagement in teaching learning and assessment strategies for example, lectures, discussions, group work, self-directed learning, recommended reading, reflection, enquiry/problem-based learning and case scenarios. Demonstrate the ability to undertake independent and creative learning activities. Demonstrate an appreciation of current literature and how it relates to study skills and personal development.