On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1 - Define the key terminologies and concepts used in the world of business
2 - Describe the structure, culture and governance in business organisations
3 - Explain the business practices and environments
4 - Demonstrate an understanding of ethics, sustainability and responsible business practices.
This module serves as the cornerstone of the foundation year, offering students an extensive overview of how businesses operate and are managed. It is designed to build a broad understanding necessary for specialised study in subsequent years. The main aim of this foundation year “Essentials of Business” module is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of the key terminologies and concepts used in business. It covers structure, culture and governance in the business organisation. You will develop your knowledge of the business environments and issues around ethics, sustainability and responsible business practices. Topics will include:
1. Overview of business functions (marketing, accounting, finance, HR, operations)
2. Basic management theories and practices
3. The global economic environment and its impact on business
4. Business ethics and corporate social responsibility.
A variety of learning and teaching methods are employed in this module, including lectures, workshops and student-led activities. There is a balance of the different modes of learning and teaching to engage the foundation year students effectively. This includes using the technology (presentation software, poster design websites, social media, etc.) to effectively communicate with the target audience. As well as interactive Q&A sessions where students can engage with the module leader and peers to clarify concepts and discuss topics in-depth, these forums can foster a deeper understanding and allow students to explore their interests within the subject matter.
Learning is supported with materials posted on Moodle prepared by the module tutor. Social media is used to communicate regularly with the students to bolster the feeling that the study of business can be part of everyday life, thus addressing some of the concerns of the target student audience. Moreover, the module is structured to encourage the exploration of research within the field, guiding students to delve into existing knowledge while also contributing new insights. This research exploration is supported by creative co-creation, where students are encouraged to collaborate on projects, leveraging collective wisdom to address business topics creatively.
Additional support sessions will be made available closer to the assignment deadlines, in case of furtherquestions.
Furthermore, the programme is designed to ensure that students receive 10 weeks of comprehensive teaching followed by 2 weeks dedicated to assessments. The module is aligned with Leeds Trinity University's commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, adhering to the 'Pre-Live-Post' pedagogical structure that underpins all programmes within the University's academic portfolio. This structured approach to learning ensures a coherent and comprehensive educational experience for our students, facilitating deeper engagement with the subject matter and promoting a more effective learning process.
- Pre: Prior to each class, students will engage with preparatory materials and activities
- Live: During class, concepts and information are formally introduced through a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussion and interactive sessions
- Post: Following the class, students are encouraged to consolidate their learning through post-class activities and assignments.
Lectures
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: Cohort
Workshops
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: 20
Support Sessions
Hours: 10
Intended Group Size: Cohort
Interactive Q&A and Discussion Forums
Hours: 10
Intended Group Size: Cohort
Guided independent study
Hours: 240
Further Details Relating to Assessment
Infographic Poster: the poster will be group assessed. Student groups of 3-4 students will create an infographic poster that communicates key concepts, findings and insights related to a critical area of business studies of their choice (for example: Ethical Marketing, Financial Principles, Organisational Behaviour...etc.). Topics will be approved by the tutor to ensure a wide coverage of the Essentials of Business curriculum.
Group Presentation of the above Infographic Poster, which will receive individual assessments: The groups of 3-4 students will present the above poster at a showcase event, providing an opportunity for feedback from peers and tutors. Each member will present as part of a 10-minute team presentation.
Formative feedback on development of their assessments is provided to students during the workshop sessions, as well as on post class activities. Opportunities to gain more practice and feedback through formative assessments are built into in-class activities, as well as pre and post activities where applicable.
Full details are available within the Module Handbook.
Module Coordinator - Efan Johnson
Level - 0
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 3S1