Foundation · Computing
Research and Study Skills for University Study
Unit 03 — Core — Semester 1 (Route B: Semester 2)
Unit 03 — Core — Semester 1 (Route B: Semester 2)
Builds the independent-research and academic-integrity skills required for degree-level study, including evaluating technical sources, referencing correctly, and planning a simple research project.
To develop the study and research skills required for a successful transition to undergraduate computing study.
| Week | Topic & Activity |
|---|---|
| 3 | Finding Reliable Sources AC1.1 Distinguish between primary and secondary sources. AC1.2 Evaluate the credibility of a technical source (CRAAP test). Library/Database Workshop: Using the Digital Library & IEEE/ACM Databases. |
| 6 | Referencing & Academic Integrity AC2.1 Apply Harvard referencing to in-text citations and a reference list. AC2.2 Explain the consequences of plagiarism, including code plagiarism. Workshop: Referencing Clinic (Turnitin walkthrough). |
| 9 | Formative Assessment Midterm assessment: draft assignment reviewed with tutor feedback. 1-to-1 feedback sessions with tutors. |
| 10 | Planning a Study Project AC3.1 Formulate a clear research question. AC3.2 Produce a simple project timeline/plan. Tutorial: Scoping a Mini Research Project. |
| Final exam week | Final Assessment Submission Final submission of all units of the semester. Portfolio finalisation and semester review. |
Assessed by coursework (no written examination) — an assignment, report or presentation set at the start of the semester in which you take the unit (Semester 1 on Route A, Semester 2 on Route B). A formative draft is reviewed with tutor feedback as the unit’s midterm assessment during the teaching weeks, and the final version is submitted in the final exam week at the end of the semester. Graded Pass, Merit or Distinction, with plagiarism-checked submissions (Turnitin) and a signed Learner Declaration Form.