IDM089-Personal and Professional Development Programme for International Students

Module Provider: School of Agriculture, Policy and Development
Number of credits: 0 [0 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Georgia Koromila
Email: georgia.koromila@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

GIIDAE is home to a large international learning community attracting students from around 40 countries each year – and as such is an outstanding example of a globalised educational experience. This module will provide specific support to international students for whom the masters course will be their first experience of living and studying in the UK. The course is designed primarily to further academic, personal and professional development in a friendly, relaxed and informal setting but also aims to ensure that international students learn about UK culture, develop a sense of ‘place’ by learning about Reading and its environs and provide support with the English language.

The module does not have any formal assessment but is recorded on student transcripts dependent on attendance / participation.

Aims:
The course provides support in academic writing, speaking and listening, which is delivered through an established in-sessional English programme. The module will also introduce students to the support available to them throughout the University, such as use of the library and ICT, and what provision is available to enhance their personal and professional development. In addition, it seeks to provide a group forum for discussion about student experience and the opportunity to further students' understanding of the British culture. The informal debates and discussions will further develop English speaking and listening skills.

Assessable learning outcomes:

This module is not assessed directly, but the skills students develop, particularly via the language sessions, will support their learning elsewhere.

Additional outcomes:
Assessable outcomes
At the end of the module, students should be able to:
' Apply English language skills to academic assignments
' Be more confident when speaking and listening in English
' Take a more active participatory role in lectures and seminars
' Access appropriate support systems within the University to support study and personal and professional development
' Develop a $£tool kit' of study skills to enhance their academic performance
' Have a raised awareness and understanding of UK culture



Additional outcomes
To ensure that students feel more supported whilst at University through the sharing of experiences and concerns in a reassuring and informal setting.

Outline content:
' Academic writing and language programme
' Introduction to University support systems
' Participating in debates and discussions
' Enhancing professional development including opportunities for volunteering
' Learning about Reading
' Raising cultural awareness

Global context:

The students will have the opportunity to interact and learn with peers from around the world, and develop their own global network(s) within the GIIDAE community.

Within the module context, intercultural communication and diversity awareness are emphasised as fundamental interpersonal and professional skills. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will be delivered over the Autumn and Spring terms, with introductory sessions during Welcome Week. The sessions will be interactive and may include work in small groups. Some sessions may require pre-reading and students should be prepared to contribute their views and ideas.

The hours listed below are indicative only and it is not expected that students who are not undertaking the in-session al English support strand of the programme utilise the full lecture a nd guided independent study hours.

Summative assessment- Examinations:
N/A

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

There may be some preparation work, particularly for the language sessions, and some optional, reflective tasks but there is no formal assessment process.

To pass the module attendance is required at all sessions, unless exemption has been granted for particular sessions or there is a valid, pre-agreed reason for absence.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

N/A

Assessment requirements for a pass:
To pass the module attendance is required at all sessions, unless exemption has been granted for particular sessions or there is a valid, pre-agreed reason for absence.

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-assessment is not possible; no additional sessions will be offered.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 22 September 2023