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4.1 Teaching and Study Methods

Students from outside the United Kingdom may have experienced teaching methods, which are different from those commonly used in British universities. Some international students may find that they are expected to participate in discussions and debates and to study more independently than they did in their home country.

Teaching at Royal Holloway takes place mainly in the first and second terms and takes the form of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical work. Field studies are also included when studying Biology, Earth Sciences, and Geography.

Lectures

At Royal Holloway there will usually be between 20 and 100 students in a lecture. The lecturer is normally a permanent, full-time member of the academic staff who is an expert on the subject area being taught. Lectures are usually formal occasions where students listen to the views of the lecturer and take notes. However, lack of active participation does not make for an undemanding learning situation. Following the argument of an expert will require close attention as well as a good understanding of the English language.

Seminars

Seminars take the form of group discussions. They are usually led by an academic member of staff and are normally attended by between eight and twenty students. Students participate by asking questions and putting forward their views. You might also be asked to make presentations.

Tutorials

Most departments offer tutorials, which are meetings with a small number of students providing an opportunity to discuss academic work in detail with a member of staff.

Private Study

Learning does not finish when the student leaves the classroom and each student will be expected to do many hours of private study in reading, researching and writing essays or projects.

Assessment

Assessment varies with programmes of study. In some cases assessment is by course work. In other cases it is by examinations, or sometimes it can be a combination of both. Students will normally be informed about the assessment methods of their course during the departmental orientation sessions.

Examinations take place in the third (Summer) term. Students are only permitted to sit examinations if they have fulfilled all course work and attendance requirements. Therefore it is important for you to understand what you must attend and what coursework you must complete. If you have any questions or concerns about the requirements of your course you should speak to your Personal Advisor in your department. Students are not permitted to progress if they do not successfully complete all end of year assessments.

Departmental and College Notice Boards

Students are responsible for keeping themselves informed of events, activities, changes to lecture schedules etc. that are posted on departmental or College notice boards. You are strongly advised to check regularly your College email account and the information displayed on notice boards; the details they provide may be helpful and important.

Academic Expectations

An information session for Overseas students on Academic Expectations in the UK will be held on Thursday 25th September in the Auditorium of the Windsor Building at 1.30 - 2.30pm.

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