Core Module Information
Module title: Independent Study (20 credits)

SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: SES11106
Module leader: Ian Cunningham
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Sport Exercise and Health Science
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

The independent study module is a personalised study package tailored to suit your individual learning requirements. The syllabus entails a flexible approach to learning comprising of a negotiated programme of study designed by you in conjunction with a member of academic staff. The module takes place over the course of a single trimester. The flexible approach to learning enables a ‘made to measure' course which will engage you in areas of academic interest that encourage you to reflect on your professional knowledge and the practical application of underpinning/relevant theory with the aim of developing the knowledge, skills and attitudes which promote professional development.The work undertaken may include but is not limited to development of research skills (literature review), pilot study (collating data and feedback in a setting friendly manner) or understanding governing body accreditation pathways. The content can include a learning agreement, exploration of the concept of reflection, a variety of different frameworks and models; activities to facilitate a deeper understanding of the processes involved in thinking more critically. With your academic tutor you will be required to negotiate a learning agreement equivalent to 200 hours of study.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Construct an Independent Learning Agreement commensurate with SCQF Level 11.

LO2: Demonstrate critical thinking and reflection in relation to academic, intellectual, personal and professional needs.

LO3: Present a portfolio of learning activity reflecting upon learning experiences related to the independent study topic.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 1, In Person, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Ian Cunningham
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Project Supervision 12 You will be supported in this process of developing and implementing your learning objectives by an academic supervisor who will have knowledge and expertise in the area of study.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 8 Following the course introduction you will take part in two 2-hour face-to-face workshops (developing ideas and refining ideas), supporting the rapid early development of your project.
Online Guided independent study 180 You will take ownership of your guided independent study learning, progressing your ideas through project planning, research, and critical analysis. Your project may take the form of a research study, literature review, or applied/upskilling project, tailored to your academic or professional interests. The module is highly individualised, with activities shaped by your project needs.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Portfolio 80 2~3 Exam Period , WORDS= 4000 words The second assessment task is a portfolio or report on your project. This should reflect the nature of the project type you chose, and is your opportunity to present what you did, why you did it, what you found and what impact this had on you. If you chose a research project, it won’t be a full typical original article format, but will closely represent that type of paper. If it was more upskilling you decided upon, the writing style will likely be less scientific, and will be more reflective in nature.
Oral Presentation 20 1 Week 4 HOURS= 15 minutes The first assessment task is an oral presentation of your project proposal and plan. The work undertaken in this assessment task may include but is not limited to development of research skills (literature review), pilot study (collating data and feedback in a setting friendly manner) or understanding governing body accreditation pathways. The form in which this project is structured can be individually tailored to suit your professional development.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
SES11106 Independent Study