A university education is vastly different from that of secondary or high school education. University studies feature problem-based learning and independent study - with assignments, tests, examinations and group projects forming a bulk of your learning experience. Knowing what is expected of you will enable you to manage your time and studies better.
Lectures
Lectures help you to understand the main focal areas of your courses, enabling you to pick up notes for self-study. Lecturers also share tips on projects and tests during lectures. If you are unable to attend a lecture, check if your lecturer uploads his presentation slides or podcast online.
Tutorials
Tutorials are a follow-up to lectures, where you discuss subjects covered during the lecture, as well as interact with your tutor and fellow classmates. In most universities, tutorial participation forms a part of your course's grades, where you are expected to maintain a minimum class attendance of 75%. International students who miss tutorials excessively may be reported to the immigration department.
Workshops/seminars
Seminar and workshops are similar to tutorials, except that they are held in larger groups and aim to facilitate specific discussions and conduct presentations.
Web-based assignments/Blackboard
Online quizzes and assignments using virtual Blackboards are used by most universities to complement lectures and tutorials.
Laboratory-based/practical learning
Depending on your university course, laboratory learning enables you to pick up practical skills to complement the theoretical component of your course.
Presentations
During presentations, you are required to articulate your research or work using audio-visual aids. You will also learn how to express yourself, and pick up notes on public speaking.
Essays
Essays are the most common form of assignments in universities, where you are required to develop an argument (within a word limit) in response to a posed topic, backed with scholarly research and proper citations. Academic writing is required for essays and plagiarism is strictly prohibited.
Projects
Project work tests your research and problem solving skills. Some projects may also involve working with a real life client. You may be required to conduct presentations and churn reports to complete your project.
Examinations
Often the final requirement to completing a module, examinations can be in the form of an open book test, multiple choice questions or essay writing.
Find graduate degree courses at leading Australian universities.