Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Students must have passed Stage 2 of their programme. Permission of the DPD is required for all students undertaking this module.

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The work placement aims to:
- provide students with the experience of seeking and securing a position with an employer,
- demonstrate how skills gained through academic study can be applied in work situations,
- provide a period of practical work experience which will benefit subsequent academic studies,
- assist with developing longer term career plans,
- provide the opportunity to recognise and record the development of work place skills, and
- facilitate personal development in a non-university setting.

Outline Of Syllabus

Students themselves will search and apply for a work placement during stage 2 of their degree programme. The Combined Honours Centre and the Careers Service will arrange for support and guidance. On the completion of stage 2 they will then undertake a period of employment (normally 9-12 months; but of at least 7 months) between stage 2 and final year (normally between July and September); during this time there is no taught content from the University. The work placement provider will provide induction and training activities as appropriate to the role. Students may choose to divide their work placement between two employers. The employment may be in the UK or abroad (if abroad it must be organised in accordance with work permit regulations of that country as required). All placements must be approved by the Module Leader. The Module Leader will monitor students’ progress through the placement period.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The specific knowledge outcomes depend on the work placement conducted, but would normally
include:
a) to demonstrate an understanding of the nature of work undertaken in the chosen sector,
b) to demonstrate an understanding of the specific role and relevant technologies in the chosen sector, and
c) to demonstrate how their undergraduate studies can be applied in a professional context.

Intended Skill Outcomes

The specific skills outcomes depend on the work placement conducted, but would normally
include:
i) Team working,
ii) Problem-solving,
iii) Time management and personal organisation,
iv) Communication and presentation skills, and
v) Reflective evaluation of own progress and performance objectively.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

A series of online individual consultations and tutorials will be provided to support students during the application process and in preparation for work. As students are away from the University, Employer-based learning and Guided Independent study are used for all learning activities. The Module Leader is available for consultation throughout the work placement and will be in contact with the student and the placement provider to monitor progress; contact will be by email, phone, and if necessary (and feasible), by an on-site visit.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The module is pass / fail based on the completion of the above components which are designed to encourage the students to reflect upon their own learning and development throughout their work placement.

General Notes

N/A