Module: BIO5102-20 Biology Work Placement

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Samantha Lane

Module Tutor Contact Details: s.lane@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

In today’s competitive labour market employers are looking for more than a good degree, they want graduates with the skills and experiences to succeed in the workplace. This module gives you the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the workplace of an appropriate organisation. Evidence shows that structured work experience is a key determinant in gaining graduate level employment at the end of your studies. You will carry out the normal duties associated with an employee or volunteer at your workplace and, if appropriate, be responsible for a particular aspect of the employer’s activities as a basis for the assessed report.

This module aims to provide you with an opportunity to develop skills which will be valuable in your future careers. Many of these skills and experience can be developed by undertaking work experience, but to make the most of these opportunities you need to play an active role in planning your own personal development.

The placement normally consists of a total of 80 hrs work with your host organisation. This may be over an extended period of time or in shorter blocks of time. This and details of whether the work experience will be paid or not will be negotiated by you and your work placement organisation'.

There are two written assignments that you submit at the end of the module. 1. A placement journal to include an assessment of skills and abilities,employability and personal development plan (PDP). Linked to this, you will also submit 2. A formal topic paper based on an aspect of your placement organisation (e.g. a particular project in which you were involved or an aspect of the placement that interested you)'.

2. Outline syllabus

In the Level 4 core module BIO4000-20 you will have carried out a skills audit and developed many skills that are useful for job acquisition. You will have the opportunity to build on this experience and develop your CV and job application skills in your Level 5 core module, when you undertake a CV and job application exercise.

The BSU Careers Service covers top tips on how to find a placement, shows you the resources available to help you, and provides some advice on writing CVs and cover letters.

You should start looking for a suitable work placement organisation as early as possible to secure an appropriate position. We will take all reasonable steps to help you secure a placement and you will be supported by a university tutor for help and advice on your placement. This help and support is available throughout the year, including after you have finished your placement and are writing up your report. For example, the Careers Service runs workshops throughout the year on how to find yourself a placement, where you’ll be given some information about reflecting on skills you have learnt and how to use these when applying for jobs when you graduate.

The placement normally consists of a total of 80 hrs work with your host organisation. This may be over an extended period of time or in shorter blocks of time. This and details of whether the work experience will be paid or not will be negotiated by you and your work placement organisation;.

There are two written assignments that you submit at the end of the module. 1. A placement journal to include an assessment of skills and abilities, employability and personal development plan (PDP). Linked to this, you will also submit 2. A formal topic paper based on an aspect of your placement organisation (e.g. a particular project in which you were involved or an aspect of the placement that interested you).

3. Teaching and learning activities

• Lecture: Introduction to the module, expectations and procedures.

• Workshop: BSU Careers Service on employability, job-hunting, opportunities and resources with Q & A session.

• Workshop: Progress or problems?

• Individual tutorial time with ML

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Placement journal (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Placement related formal topic paper (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%