Making References Work for You

Overview

Correct referencing is at the heart of all academic writing. It acknowledges your sources, gives your reader a chance to follow the same research journey, and situates your academic writing in a matrix of previous academic studies. Understanding the purpose of referencing, as well as the practicalities of formatting citations, can help you to get it right, and to make your references work effectively to enhance your discussion.

This day school aims to build your understanding of academic referencing and how it can work for you. It will include opportunities for guided practice in correct referencing and avoiding unintentional plagiarism.

Topics will include:

  • Finding bibliographic details
  • Formatting for your referencing style
  • Using citations in your writing
  • Compiling a bibliography
  • Avoiding unintentional plagiarism.

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £50.00

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit or are a full-time student in the UK you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees.

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Dr Kim Shahabudin

Kim has been teaching study skills to undergraduate and postgraduate students in a range of academic disciplines since 2016. Having studied as a mature student herself, she especially enjoys working with students who are returning to study. 

Course aims

To build student confidence in the correct and effective use of references to support their academic writing

Teaching methods

Teaching and learning will proceed through brief tutor presentations, short written exercises and activities, and class discussions.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will:

  • Understand the importance of referencing in academic practice.
  • Understand how to format and use references correctly.
  • Understand how references can support and strengthen academic writing.

Application

Please use the 'Book' or 'Apply' button on this page. Alternatively, please contact us to obtain an application form.

IT requirements

The University of Oxford uses Microsoft Teams for our learning environment, where students and tutors will discuss and interact in real time. Joining instructions will be sent out prior to the start date. We recommend that you join the session at least 10-15 minutes prior to the start time – just as you might arrive a bit early at our lecture theatre for an in-person event.

If you have not used the Microsoft Teams app before, once you click the joining link you will be invited to download it (this is free). Once you have downloaded the app, please test before the start of your course. If you are using a laptop or desktop computer, you will also be offered the option of connecting using a web browser. If you connect via a web browser, Chrome is recommended.