Academic Skills for University Success: Capstone

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/academic-skills-project

Introduction

### Course Review: Academic Skills for University Success: Capstone on Coursera #### Overview The "Academic Skills for University Success: Capstone," available on Coursera, is a brilliant culmination of a comprehensive specialization aimed at preparing students for the rigors of undergraduate study in an English-speaking environment. This course is uniquely designed to create a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application, thus ensuring that students are fully equipped to engage with the academic culture of their institutions. #### Course Structure The course comprises a detailed syllabus divided into several modules that guide students through the development of a capstone project. Each module builds on the last, encouraging a deep dive into a real-world problem and the formulation of a structured solution. Here's a breakdown of the modules: 1. **Introduction to the Course & Identifying a Real-World Problem**: This opening module sets the tone. Students start with a project proposal, choosing a community significant to them and identifying a problem that resonates personally. This emphasis on personal connection fosters a genuine passion for the project. 2. **Researching the Current State**: In this module, learners utilize various resources to gather information regarding the chosen issue, focusing on understanding the current state and context. This step is essential, as it lays the groundwork for formulating an effective solution. 3. **Defining the Desired State**: Moving forward, students are tasked with synthesizing their research findings to visualize their ideal outcome, thus prompting critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. 4. **Generating and Refining Actions**: This module is dedicated to brainstorming actionable steps to reconcile the gap between the current state and the desired solutions. It encourages evaluation and refinement of ideas, emphasizing a strategic approach to problem-solving. 5. **Writing the Project Proposal**: Here, students compile their work into a detailed project proposal. They learn to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals, create a thorough action plan, and identify necessary resources and participants, which simulates real-world project management scenarios. 6. **Planning, Writing, and Producing the Video Presentation**: In the final module, students learn how to effectively communicate their findings through a video presentation, honing their public speaking and presentation skills—an invaluable asset in any academic or professional setting. 7. **Resources**: A compilation of earlier course materials serves as a reminder and reference for the knowledge gained, reinforcing the learned skills throughout the capstone experience. #### Review and Recommendation The "Academic Skills for University Success: Capstone" course is commendable for its structured approach and practical application of skills. This course does an exceptional job in enabling students to not just learn, but also apply academic concepts in a meaningful way. By focusing on real-world problem-solving, the course fosters critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills. Students will especially benefit from the emphasis on personal investment in their capstone projects, turning abstract academic concepts into tangible and impactful proposals. This endeavor not only prepares them for academic challenges but also seamlessly integrates into real-life scenarios, making it a must-have experience for any aspiring undergraduate. The skills cultivated through this course are essential, not just for academic success but also for future professional endeavors. Whether you are a current student, a recent graduate, or someone looking for a refreshing academic experience, I highly recommend this course. It equips you with necessary tools for success and empowers you to make meaningful contributions to your community, ultimately enhancing your university experience.

Syllabus

Introduction to the course & How to identify a real world problem

In this module, you will be introduced to the course and then begin your project proposal. You will do this firstly by choosing a community that means something to you and identifying a real world problem within that community you would like to solve. This will help you to create a project that means something to you and that you can be passionate about. Then you will brainstorm the causes and effects of that problem before finally writing out a problem statement!

This module relates to Stage 2 of your Capstone project. Use the resources here to help you search for information, collate and then use the information in order to assess and describe the current state of your issue.

This module relates to Stages 3 of your Capstone project. Use the resources here to help you generate ideas and then combine them with research for the desired state.

In this module, you will brainstorm possible actions you could do in order to bridge the gap between the current state of your issue, identified in Stage 2, and your desired states. You will also need to evaluate and refine those actions.

This module relates to Stages 6 and 7 of your Capstone project. Use the resources here to help you summarise your project, create SMART goals, a detailed action plan and a list of all the participants and resources your project will require. You will also find resources on polishing and refining your proposal for submission.

This module relates to Stage 8 of your Capstone project. Use the resources here to help you plan, develop and produce your video! Good luck!

This module is for the resources from the other courses you have studied. There is no new, or extra, material here. You do not have to watch any of this material.