Compulsory Modules
UPCSE students study two compulsory modules
1. Science and Society
This unit consists of lectures, seminar discussions and whole group
research classes. These are designed to help students become more scientifically
literate and to appreciate and understand the impact of science on everyday
life. Lectures introduce students to ethical, social, economic, environmental
and technological implications and applications of science. Topics include:
History of Science and Society; Space Colonisation; Global Warming; Super Bugs;
Nuclear Power; Science and Crime. Through practical research skills classes,
students become familiar with academic practice and conventions. In addition,
research initiative is developed to help students become independent and
confident about presenting information in both oral and written form.
More
information on Science and Society
2. Academic English
The ability to communicate effectively in English is essential in
order to be successful both on the UPCSE and your future degree course.
Successful communication involves being able to write and understand good
scientific English as well as speak fluently and listen and process correctly
the information conveyed in lectures, seminars and tutorials. A fundamental
aspect of the Academic English unit is the need for students to develop their
reading abilities and extend their existing vocabulary strategies to cope with
the amount of new information which is given over the year.
More information on Academic English
Personal Tutorial
This is a one-to-one weekly
meeting between yourself and one of the Academic English tutors on the course.
It is an opportunity for you and your tutor to discuss the progress you are
making, to concentrate on any language learning difficulties you may be facing,
and to go through corrected homework tasks or through other work that you have
completed as part of your self-study. This regular contact with your personal
tutor means that they can build up a clear picture of your language learning and
the progress you are making, and they can guide you much more closely in your
studies.
