Academic Skills: Reading and Writing

When & Where

7 June 2024 - 28 June 2024 ( 8 hours, 4 weeks )
Afternoon, Friday
View course timetable
North Kensington Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Jonelle Hector
Course Code K23EHKC01A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

The Academic Skills course is designed to empower students with the essential skills and strategies needed to excel in their academic (higher education) pursuits. Through a dynamic blend of theory, practice, and interactive activities, students will develop their ability to critically engage with complex texts, effectively communicate ideas through writing, and navigate the intricacies of scholarly discourse. In today's information-rich world, the ability to critically analyse complex texts, synthesise ideas, and articulate thoughts cogently is of paramount importance. This course places a strong emphasis on enhancing students' reading comprehension skills. By engaging with a diverse range of texts, including academic articles, research papers, essays, and multimedia sources, students will learn to dissect arguments, identify main ideas, and evaluate evidence. Through interactive discussions and guided exercises, students will refine their ability to think critically and engage in meaningful discourse.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Learn techniques to analyse, interpret, and synthesise information from a variety of academic sources.
Refine writing skills, with a focus on developing clarity, coherence, cohesive, completeness and accuracy.
Evaluate sources for credibility and relevance, and how to integrate research seamlessly into writing to support argumentation.
Engage in thoughtful analysis and discussion of texts, promoting the development of independent and critical thinking skills.
Understand issues related to plagiarism, proper citation, and academic integrity.

Class format and activities

In-person lectures, interactive discussions, writing workshops, peer reviews. Formative assessment will consist of quizzes, class participation, writing assignment(s) and a final presentation.

Entry requirements

None

What you need to know before you enrol

Contact the course tutor to discuss your suitability for the course.

What you need

Access to Learning Materials: Students will require access to the course textbook, online readings, and instructional materials provided by the instructor. Computer and Internet Access: A reliable computer with internet connectivity is essential for accessing online resources, participating in discussions, and submitting assignments. Writing Tools: Students should have word processing software for drafting and editing assignments. Familiarity with referencing and citation tools is recommended. Active Participation: Engagement in discussions, peer review workshops, and collaborative activities is crucial for maximizing learning opportunities. Time Management Skills: Students should allocate sufficient time for reading, research, writing, and revision throughout the course duration. Open Mindset: A willingness to explore new ideas, engage in critical thinking, and provide constructive feedback to peers is essential for the collaborative learning environment.

What you can do next

By the end of this course, students will possess the skills and confidence needed to excel in their academic careers and beyond. They will be equipped to engage critically with complex texts, produce well-structured and persuasive academic writing, and contribute effectively to scholarly conversations within their chosen disciplines.