Abstract:

Proper management of bibliographic citations is an essential skill in academic writing. This can be particularly challenging in specialized fields like architecture and heritage, where unconventional sources, such as specialized journals, graphic materials, and archival documents, are commonly used. This study evaluates the effectiveness of targeted learning sessions aimed at improving students' citation skills at two academic levels: undergraduate and postgraduate.

Two pilot studies were conducted as case studies. The undergraduate group received introductory training on identifying types of references and citing them correctly, while the postgraduate group participated in advanced sessions focusing on citation styles and the practical application of a reference management tool. Surveys were conducted, and results were analyzed both before and after the sessions to assess students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practical skills. The findings demonstrate that targeted learning sessions significantly improved students’ citation abilities and highlight the importance of discipline-specific approaches in citation training.

Keywords:

Academic writing, generic skills, citation, reference management, undergraduate, postgraduate, Mendeley.