Belong - academic journey

Belong - Academic Journey

In your tutorials you'll probably be asked to work in small groups of 4-5 students. This form of cooperative learning is very effective. When you work together it's easier to understand tasks. Cooperative learning enables you to join in, share your knowledge, listen to different perspectives and pool resources. You can help one another learn.

Student comments

"I felt really anxious on my first day at uni and about my first lecture in the Griffith Duncan Theatre; there were so many students, it was scary."

"I felt better attending my first tutorial because it was more familiar to me; it was more like the classroom setting."

"In my first two weeks I couldn't understand a word of it. But the more you go through the work, and then discuss it with other students; it sort of sinks in more. I think just having other people's ideas is good."

Be organised. Make a good timetable.

Student Tip: Get to know Blackboard

"Learn how to work blackboard, student mail, turn it in. Ask friends to help so you don't feel behind."

"Check blackboard and student mail regularly. Do a bit each night."

Student Tip: Be organised

"Download a copy of semester dates to help you get organised."

"Be organised. Make a good timetable."

I'm super organised. Have a colour for each course. E.g. folders, highlighters for your calendar."

"Start reading ASAP."

"Get on top of things early. Don't skip lectures."

"Keep up to date. Do your homework. Otherwise it builds up and you get left behind."

"Write up a big wall chart when everything's due."

"Put what needs to be done on a list and focus on one thing at a time."

"Get into assignments as soon as possible."

"Put info on different topics into folders in your computer."

Tip: Maintain a positive attitude

"Keep a good attitude. Stick at it. Stay on top."

"Be confident. Don't be afraid to ask older students."

"Make the effort. Excuses don't fly."

Lecturer comments

"Use the academic survival skills outlined in your university toolbox and you will achieve more than just survival."

University Toolbox of Academic Survival Skills

Many students don't know how to make the best use of lectures. This requires being familiar with Blackboard, good pre-lecture preparation, and reading, listening and taking notes effectively.

Newie
  • Step 1 - Mastering Blackboard
  • Step 2 - Effective pre-lecture preparation
  • Step 3 - Effective Reading
  • Step 4 - Effective Listening
  • Step 5 - Effective Note Taking