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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Critical Thinking & Independent Learning
Module Code SBS1001 (ITS: CM153)
Faculty Communications School Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Description

This course introduces first year undergraduate students to the conventions of academic study. It highlights differences between the secondary school process and university expectations in terms of intellectual application. It places emphasis on developing, for the student, an approach to study and research based upon critical analysis, engagement and understanding with/of concepts and ideas fundamental to aspects of human communication, both interpersonal and mediated. The module is aimed at fostering the student’s ability to bridge the transition to independent learning and cultivating their creativity and talents. Throughout this module, a strong emphasis is placed on learning as a co-operative endeavour and partnership relationship.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain the difference between secondary school and third level approaches to teaching and learning
2. Demonstrate competence in academic writing techniques such as the development of logical argument and of appropriate referencing
3. Develop techniques aimed at the successful negotiation of individual and group work situations.
4. Identify and critically engage with appropriate research resources.
5. Reflect on the learning experience and draw conclusions from such reflection
6. Analyse problems and effectively communicate their analysis to their peers
7. Engage with the concepts of critical thinking and practice these


WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Lecture22No Description
Independent Study70No Description
Assignment Completion22No Description
Seminars11No Description
Total Workload: 125
Section Breakdown
CRN11544Part of TermSemester 1
Coursework0%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale40PASSPass Both ElementsY
Resit CategoryRC1Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorJim RogersModule TeacherJane Suiter
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
AssignmentSeminar and lecture participation - including class presentations and debates50%n/a
ParticipationMoodle quiz based on library skills workshop10%n/a
ParticipationProduction of an essay plan and individual annotated bibliography20%n/a
AssignmentCompletion of citing & referencing exercises10%n/a
AssignmentMaintaining a media & communications diary10%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

To enhance the student’s ability to conceptualise clear, coherent and logical arguments

Creative and interactive approaches to group work.

Developing skills relevant to critical reading, and clear written communication skills appropriate to an academic context. Furthermore, to enhance confidence and competency in the planning and delivery of oral presentations and written reports.

Introduction to research skills, library skills and effective planning of essays and projects.

Approaches to independent learning and reflection upon various learning styles and techniques appropriate to academic study and research.

Critical thinking and key concepts

Thinking about "common sense"

Indicative Reading List

Books:
  • M. Neil Browne, Stuart M. Keeley: 0, Asking the right questions : a guide to critical thinking, 10th, Allyn & Bacon ; Pearson Education, Boston, Mass. : London :,
  • Gerald Graff, Cathy Birkenstein: 2010, "They Say / I Say", 2nd, W W Norton,
  • Stella Cottrell: 2003, Study Skills Handbook, 2nd ed., Palgrave Macmillan, New York, 1403911355


Articles:
None
Other Resources

None

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