Society of Cosmetic Scientists

Studying the Units

 

   
Each unit that constituted the SCS Distance Learning Course is based on a printed booklet; this will contain the majority of teaching material and will direct you to all other components of the unit. These printed booklets (units) are now reproduced on CD Rom for easy storage. Students may either study from their computer screens or print out each section, as it is required. The audio and video tapes are also included on the CD Rom. Also the course is completely cross referenced now it is in this format.
     
On the first double-page spread, you will find information on the content of the unit, our estimate of how the study time is likely to be allocated, a diagrammatic representation of the structure and sequence of the content, as well as notes on a suggested working order. Each section of the unit will typically start with a clear statement of its aim, while a series of checklist items (objectives) will be positioned at the end of the section and be flagged in the margin by a large tick just like the one illustrated here.
You can refer to the checklist at any time in your study. You may decide to look at it before you even begin studying the section in case your background and experience is such that you do not need to study this material. Alternatively, you could complete your study of the section and use the checklist to assess your understanding before you continue your study. Of course, if after studying the material you find you are unable to satisfactorily complete the checklist items, you would be advised to return to the unit and repeat the section.
   
   
The Diploma/Certificate in Cosmetic Science has been designed so that self-assessment is a central and integral part of the course. The objectives and competences on which the teaching material is based have been realised in a series of specially designed self-assessment questions allowing you to check your understanding and monitor your progress. They are identified by two bold lines across the page: one to denote its start and the other its end. In the margin you will see a series of question marks as illustrated here.

In other sections you will be asked to read extracts from books, articles or technical reports. In every case, you will be provided with the published material you need. This provision will be flagged by the representation of a book just like the one here. If your study of a section of the unit involves using an audio cassette tape, which will be supplied as part of the course, the picture of a cassette tape will appear in the margin as illustrated.
The material is completely self-instructional and you should have no problem learning from it.

During the course you will be asked to perform various experiments, at times and places of your choice, by using a specially designed Practical Activity Kit (PAK). The experiments are designed to illustrate certain principles that are central to your understanding of particular concepts and reactions. They will enable you to practice certain techniques, procedures and skills that you will meet and use within the industry.

Any experiment involves an element of risk. However each of the experiments has been tested. Provided the instructions are followed precisely, there is no risk whatsoever. COSHH regulations require that a full assessment of the PAK be carried out before participation in learning of this type, and this has been conducted. Furthermore, information supplied with the PAK provides guidelines for action in case of accident - from spilling to ingesting. It also provides information on storage and disposal of materials.