FORK 1004 Course in Study Techniques

APPLIES TO ACADEMIC YEAR 2012/2013

FORK 1004 Course in Study Techniques

Responsible for the course
Gillian Warner-Søderholm

Department
Department of Communication - Culture and Languages

Term
According to study plan

ECTS Credits
0

Language of instruction
English

Introduction
The course is offered for new students at graduate level.

Learning outcome
The objective of this course is to help students to develop of their ways of learning and to look at how different study, reading and note-taking techniques can maximize success in studies at masters level. Various study tools and methods will be introduced to help students make the most of their demanding graduate studies and to help them be more structured and goal focused. These research skills will greatly assist students in completing assignments and projects as part of their masters degree programme. The course will also focus on the importance of using a proper reference system in term papers to avoid plagiarism (copying) in written exams, as copying is strictly illegal. The course also includes ideas for effective planning to help prepare masters students to manage the rigorous workload which a graduate programme entails . We will also work through examples of past exam questions to help students understand what is expected of them in exams at masters level.

Prerequisites
Under-graduate degree qualifying for admission to the MSc programmes

Compulsory reading

Collection of articles:
Warner-Søderholm, Gillian et. al.. 2007. Course book in study strategies. Oslo: Handelshøyskolen BI. Handed out in class

Recommended reading
Books:
Payne, Elaine and Lesley Whittaker. 2006. Developing essential study skills. 2nd ed. FT Prentice Hall

Course outline
Approaches to learning
Group forming and group dynamics
Motivation, recreation, self discipline and concentration
Effective planning
Repetition and effective revision
Speed reading techniques
How to make effective lecture notes
Learning in groups with others
Study ethics
Essay writing, search for literature and reference techniques
Exam formats

Computer-based tools


Learning process and workload
The course is offered at the start of the fall semester over 8 lecture hours.


Examination
There is no formal exam in this course, however the course will include a group project.

Examination code(s)
Not applicable

Examination support materials
Not applicable

Re-sit examination
Not applicable

Additional information
Honor Code
Academic honesty and trust are important to all of us as individuals, and represent values that are encouraged and promoted by the honor code system. This is a most significant university tradition. Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the ideals of the honor code system, to which the faculty are also deeply committed.

Any violation of the honor code will be dealt with in accordance with BI’s procedures for cheating. These issues are a serious matter to everyone associated with the programs at BI and are at the heart of the honor code and academic integrity. If you have any questions about your responsibilities under the honor code, please ask.