Embedding information skills training on student learning: making a difference

This article was first published in the Wolverhampton Intellectual Repository and E-Theses (WIRE). There is no printed version.This embedding project builds on one that was delivered in 2001, headed by Oliver Pritchard, Dudley Learning Centre Manager, leading a research team with staff working from different Learning Centres in the University. In the 2001 project, sessions on information skills were run in three differing subject areas for second and third years and their impact on student learning was assessed using questionnaires and focus groups for students and in-depth interviews with academic staff. Findings were encouraging. Skills and experience gained within the sessions were taken on and applied within assignment work to good effect. Within this small study there is evidence of a progression in student awareness, confidence and skills and Information Skills sessions bring a longer-term, practical and tangible element to the learning experience and are a valuable part of helping students to become more effective learners

Developing Student Writing in the First Year

CETL Briefing Paper - HEFCE CETL- HEFCE WebsiteHEFC

Third Annual European First Year Experience Conference, May 7–9 2008, University of Wolverhampton, UK

Conference paper. Powerpoint available at http://www2.wlv.ac.uk/celt/events/Findinganewvoice.pptWith the globalisation of education, European universities are accepting increasing numbers of students from outside the EU. Some of these have experienced very different academic cultures from that of their host university, and may face difficulties in adapting to the requirements of their new institution. Even within Europe, academic cultures may vary enormously. One challenge which faces all those studying outside their home country is the task of writing academic essays: often in a foreign language and according to unfamiliar criteria. This paper draws on students’ reflections about the academic writing process in their first year at a UK university, exploring areas where the transition from their previous learning environment presents a challenge. It compares the previous experience of home and international students with respect to length and frequency of written assignments, research and organisation of ideas, language and referencing of sources. What is the best way to support them through the transition, and are we doing enough

Conference Proceedings of the 3rd European First Year Experience (EFYE) Conference

Conference Proceedings of the 3rd European First Year Experience (EFYE) Conference from 3rd European First Year Experience (EFYE) ConferenceCentre of Excellence in Teaching and Learning: Critical Interventions to Enhance Learnin