What happens if you miss tutorials

One of the joys of being a uni student is participating in academic conversations. Many people are nervous when they first talk in front of others. Telling yourself that there are benefits to be gained from learning to speak up in tutorials will help you to get motivated. When you graduate, you will probably have to speak at meetings and give presentations.

Tutorials are a chance to develop these professional skills. Say something: Try to say something in the first tutorial, even if you only ask a simple administrative question, such as, how to contact your tutor after the tutorial.

Prepare questions or comments: Go to a tutorial with one or two comments or questions already prepared to contribute to the topic. As you become more confident you can be more spontaneous with your comments.

Tutorials are a great space for you to deepen your knowledge and communication skills, and make new friends. Get tailored advice from an Academic Skills adviser by booking an appointment or attending one of our drop-in sessions.

Get one-on-one advice. Students Academic Skills Explore our resources Speaking and presenting Participating in tutorials and discussions. Why should I participate in tutorials? They can save you study time and help you to prepare for assignments and exams as they provide an opportunity to: Clarify and develop your understanding of the course content, through readings, discussions and other activities.

Ask questions about your assessment tasks. Get to know your classmates and tutors. Practise applying analytical thinking and problem-solving strategies.

Develop important group work, presentation and speaking skills. Learn from hearing other perspectives. Get feedback on your ideas. How can I participate? You will get more out of a tutorial if you: Prepare well for the topic.

Actively participate in discussions. Honours courses especially the Dissertation challenge you to make practical use of the independence, confidence and initiative you have developed in your first two years. Staff also provide guidance in various ways, including:.

Online attendance at lectures is strongly encouraged, but is not considered compulsory, and may be prioritised or not as students feel best. Except where otherwise indicated in their course materials, students are not required to advise their tutor when they miss a lecture.

However, you must let your tutor know in advance if you cannot be present at a tutorial, including honours tutorial-like seminars. During Arrive on time, find a seat and unpack before discussion begins. Tutorials give you an opportunity to meet other students and interact with academic staff. Put your phone away and if you're using a laptop stay offline. Give the group the courtesy of your attention.

Listen carefully to the discussion. Make a contribution. Raise questions or seek clarification about points not understood. Ask polite questions and seek further discussion. Keep any contribution relevant. Is your comment related to the topic or the reading being discussed? Take notes. Jot down the main points, but concentrate on filling gaps in your knowledge. Note down what you find interesting, confusing, relevant. After Complete any unfinished reading.

Revise your tutorial notes. Note down any new words or concepts while they are still fresh in your mind. Note any thoughts and questions you have about the tutorial discussion. Identify gaps that remain in your understanding. Work out how you can clarify important points—would further reading help, or should you consult with your tutor? Percy, D , Study tactics, Macmillan, Melbourne.

See next: Discussion skills.