GSC1611

Understanding university learning

Daryl Nation

6 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Gippsland and distance

Objectives After successfully completing this subject students will understand the centrality of critical thinking in university scholarship, and be able to employ relevant theoretical and practical knowledge to maintain their capabilities in reading, writing, oral presentation, critical thinking, techniques for learning from classroom teaching and teaching materials and the use of libraries and other information systems. Specifically, they will be able to produce essays and reports which present a critical argument and adhere to the standard conventions of academic presentation in the humanities and social sciences.

Synopsis The subject is designed to introduce students to the different forms of knowledge and genres which are fundamental to the humanities and social sciences and it encourages students to demystify them. It provides students with a range of specific identifiable capabilities which are essential for successful undergraduate study in arts. This thematic content is unified around a consideration of the relationship between the learner and the university's requirements and expectations of students. Students are introduced to the traditions of university scholarship and the changing culture of scholarship with the adoption of new technologies, especially computer based technologies. Particular emphasis is given to the importance of independent learning in university studies.

Assessment Assignment (500 words): 10%
* Library assignment (750 words): 20%
* Major essay (1250 words): 40%
* Examination (2 hours): 30%

Prescribed texts

Marshall L and Rowland F A guide to learning independently 2nd edn, Longman Cheshire, 1993
Marshall L A learning companion Academic Services Unit, Murdoch University, 1995 (sold via the Distance Education Centre)
Nation D Becoming an independent learner Distance Education Centre, Monash University, 1995 (sold via the Distance Education Centre)