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Subjects

GAC Study and Communication Skills

Tips

This strand collects the modules that teach how to study and how to work with other people. GAC003 covers reflective learning, time management and the higher education study environment; GAC006 covers personality, teams and communication; and the newer modules add social emotional learning, education and career navigation, and project based learning with research methods.

The deliverables are documents, not answers. A reflective journal kept over the semester, a planner mapping every deadline, a curriculum vitae and personal statement, a team contract, a research proposal. Each one is produced once and marked once, so the work is the assessment.

The reflective journal usually carries the largest single weight in GAC003. Regular entries in English about your own learning are worth more than any test in that module, which surprises students who plan to revise for it at the end.

What is learned here is used everywhere else. The referencing habits, the group roles and the planning show up again in every other module's project, which is why the strand sits at the start of the programme.

Templates and prompts on this site are ours. The module outcomes are ACT's, and the marking happens at your teaching centre.

GAC Study and Communication Skills Study Materials

  • 1

    GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning
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    • 1.1 Reflective Learning

      Unit 1 of 6 in GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      Module purpose: On completion of this module, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the study skills required for effective independent learning in a higher education environment.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC003.1: Recognise different learning styles and intelligences, and analyse personally preferred learning styles and independent learning strategies.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 1.2 Time Management Skills I

      Unit 2 of 6 in GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC003.2: Plan a study workload to meet assignment deadlines over a course of study.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 1.3 Time Management Skills II

      Unit 3 of 6 in GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC003.2: Plan a study workload to meet assignment deadlines over a course of study.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 1.4 The Higher Education Study Environment

      Unit 4 of 6 in GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC003.5: Define the major elements of the higher education study environment.

      Learning Objective GAC003.6: Research and evaluate higher education options and create a personal profile and Curriculum Vitae/Resumé suitable for academic and vocational usage.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 1.5 Independent Learning

      Unit 5 of 6 in GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC003.1: Recognise different learning styles and intelligences, and analyse personally preferred learning styles and independent learning strategies.

      Learning Objective GAC003.3: Identify and utilise study skills and strategies that promote effective independent learning.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 1.6 Effective Study Strategies

      Unit 6 of 6 in GAC003 Study Skills for Independent Learning (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC003.3: Identify and utilise study skills and strategies that promote effective independent learning.

      Learning Objective GAC003.4: Identify and explain study problems and apply strategies for dealing with them.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

  • 2

    GAC006 Business, Science, Social Science and Psychology I: Communication Skills
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    • 2.1 Understand Self and Relationships with Others

      Unit 1 of 3 in GAC006 Business, Science, Social Science and Psychology I: Communication Skills (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      Module purpose: On completion of this module, students should be able to understand different personality traits in relation to self and others; recognise the influence that different personality types have on achieving personal and group goals; and be able to apply skills required for effective communication.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC006.1: Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of personality type differences, and the influences of personal factors on people’s behaviour.

      Learning Objective GAC006.2: Apply a range of social skills needed for effective communication with others.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 2.2 Understanding Groups and Teams

      Unit 2 of 3 in GAC006 Business, Science, Social Science and Psychology I: Communication Skills (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC006.3: Contribute to effective team relationships by demonstrating knowledge of key leadership styles and team skills and roles.

      Learning Objective GAC006.4: Reflect on and record insights from personal experiences and group discussions in the classroom.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 2.3 Life Skills

      Unit 3 of 3 in GAC006 Business, Science, Social Science and Psychology I: Communication Skills (Level I). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC006.5: Demonstrate how an understanding of cultural diversity promotes a healthy and harmonious society.

      Learning Objective GAC006.2: Apply a range of social skills needed for effective communication with others.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

  • 3

    GAC031 Social Emotional Learning through Project Based Learning
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    • 3.1 Introduction to Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

      Unit 1 of 5 in GAC031 Social Emotional Learning through Project Based Learning (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      Module purpose: On completion of this module, students will have had multiple opportunities to learn, explore and creatively apply different social and emotional learning (SEL) strategies to improve relationships with others, work more efficiently, persevere through challenges, and reflect on the outcomes as they complete a project to make a difference in their school communities.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC031.1: Describe the SEL competencies and how they positively impact school, work, and personal life.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 3.2 School Service Project Based Learning (PBL) Planning

      Unit 2 of 5 in GAC031 Social Emotional Learning through Project Based Learning (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC031.2: Apply and evaluate strategies to grow in each SEL competency.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 3.3 Design and Develop

      Unit 3 of 5 in GAC031 Social Emotional Learning through Project Based Learning (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC031.3: Collaborate with a group to create and share original products improving school culture.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 3.4 Revise and Update

      Unit 4 of 5 in GAC031 Social Emotional Learning through Project Based Learning (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC031.2: Apply and evaluate strategies to grow in each SEL competency.

      Learning Objective GAC031.3: Collaborate with a group to create and share original products improving school culture.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 3.5 Share, Present, and Reflect

      Unit 5 of 5 in GAC031 Social Emotional Learning through Project Based Learning (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC031.4: Reflect on the application of SEL strategies, including analyzing areas of growth and areas needing more practice.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

  • 4

    GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways
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    • 4.1 Create My Profile

      Unit 1 of 6 in GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      Module purpose: The purpose of this module is for students to engage in self-discovery as they design their college and career futures. The course aims to develop their ability to understand their interests, experiences, and the skills needed to make informed education and career choices that are right for them. Students will have the opportunity to build skills that will help them stand out when applying to college. They will also demonstrate how their personal profile and key action plans are a good fit for their education/career pathways. This course will prepare students to navigate the education and career journey with confidence and success.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC032.1: Demonstrate understanding of personal attributes (e.g., interests, strengths, values) important for college and career planning and create a personal profile of attributes.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 4.2 Build Up Your Supports and Knock Down Your Barriers

      Unit 2 of 6 in GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC032.2: Recognize education and career planning supports and barriers, and apply strategies to build up supports and knock down barriers.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 4.3 Connect Your Profile to Your Goals

      Unit 3 of 6 in GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC032.3: Choose informed education and career goals that best match personal attributes and preferences.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 4.4 Find Good Fit Colleges

      Unit 4 of 6 in GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC032.4: Find and evaluate colleges that are a good fit and demonstrate skills in responding to college interview topics.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 4.5 Develop Your College and Career Pathway

      Unit 5 of 6 in GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC032.5: Develop and evaluate actions on a personalized college and career pathway and evaluate the college application essay.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 4.6 Build Up Your Career Skills

      Unit 6 of 6 in GAC032 Education and Career Navigation: Finding Your Pathways (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC032.6: Explore and plan to build up career skills and demonstrate how to market skills and a personal brand.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

  • 5

    GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods
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    • 5.1 Introducing PBL: The Driving Question

      Unit 1 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      Module purpose: On completion of this module, students will collaborate with a team to apply foundational research skills to develop, present, and defend a quality research proposal.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.1: Create a clear driving question and research question on a topic of interest.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.2 Inquiry: The Research Methods

      Unit 2 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.3: Select research methods appropriate to their topic and design experiment or survey.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.3 Inquiry: Gathering Information

      Unit 3 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.2: Use online tools to search for existing body of research relevant to their topic and develop a literature review.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.4 Inquiry: The Research Question

      Unit 4 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.1: Create a clear driving question and research question on a topic of interest.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.5 Synthesis: Literature

      Unit 5 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.2: Use online tools to search for existing body of research relevant to their topic and develop a literature review.

      Learning Objective GAC033.4: Synthesize information from multiple sources and draft and revise the key elements of a research proposal.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.6 Synthesis: Proposal/Action Plan

      Unit 6 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.4: Synthesize information from multiple sources and draft and revise the key elements of a research proposal.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.7 Critique: Peer Review

      Unit 7 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.4: Synthesize information from multiple sources and draft and revise the key elements of a research proposal.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

    • 5.8 Finalize and Share: Final Proposal and Presentation

      Unit 8 of 8 in GAC033 Project Based Learning and Research Methods (cross-level). The module is taught over about 40 class hours plus 20 hours of independent study, and is assessed at the teaching centre and moderated by ACT — there is no external exam.

      The module outcomes this unit works towards:

      Learning Objective GAC033.5: Summarize research proposal and present it to an audience of peers and facilitators.

      Source: Cambridge International syllabus

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