.1 Independent project work
Students will be given published papers to read and evaluate for discussion in group tutorial sessions. The tutorials will encourage group interaction and will also allow individuals to demonstrate knowledge gained through independent reading around the set papers.

.2 IT and information handling
Students will need to use library catalogues, the external loan system and computerised catalogues such as Libertas and the Web to retrieve information on lecture topics and for the assessed tutorials.

.3 Use and analysis of numerical information
A good working knowledge of experimental statistics will be required for a comprehensive analysis of research papers for tutorials.

.4 Writing in an academic context
Critical evaluation of research writing will be encouraged in the tutorials. Students? own academic writing skills will be assessed by the end of semester examination.

.5 Oral discussion and presentation
This skill will be developed via the tutorial session as students will be encouraged to discuss ideas and present them in an organised and articulate manner.

.6 Careers need awareness
Students will receive a talk/visit by a nutritionist from a commercial company on 'Careers and Development in the Equine Nutrition Industry'. In addition, lectures will continually review nutritional research and development thereby increasing awareness of the many aspects of the nutrition industry.


.7 Self-management
Preparation for tutorial sessions will require self motivation and good time management. References accompany all lectures and students are strongly encouraged to read around the subject in their own time.

.8 Group activity
In tutorials students will have to interact effectively to develop an interesting and valuable discussion. This will develop mental alacrity and assess their ability to be pro-active in discussions.