What am I expected to do in a tutorial and what about practical sessions? - Student Equity Unit

Tutorials (or tutes as they are usually called) are held in small classrooms. For each tutorial there is a tutor and a group of around 10 to 20 students.

Tutorials enable you to talk with teachers and other students about the work you need to learn.

Tutorials are held at a number of different times. You will be able to select a time that suits your timetable. For some units you will be required to attend two (or even three) tute sessions each week.

You need to put your name down for the tute session (or sessions) that suits you. Usually the tute lists are posted in an easy-to-find place in the department building for your unit. It is your responsibility to schedule your sessions so that they fit into your timetable. Good advice: be early in arranging your tute times. The early bird gets the best times!

Expect to sign an attendance sheet at each tutorial.

Keep focused!

The purpose of a tutorial is to focus on key areas of the work so that your understanding might be enhanced.

Take advantage of the learning opportunities available to you by being well prepared for the tutorial. You may have to do some reading or problem exercises in preparation for the tute.

Tutorials give you the perfect opportunity to ask questions. Come with your questions written down so that you don't forget them at the last minute. Make sure that time is allowed for your questions to be heard. And don't pretend to understand when you don't. Speak up!

Tutors are at tutorials to help you to learn and understand the work. Make sure this happens!

What about 'pracs'?

Before you enrol in a unit that includes practical sessions, check the information on requirements such as any additional costs involved, special clothing or equipment that is needed, or the expectation of going on a field trip.

Practical sessions ('pracs') are compulsory in subjects such as those in which you are required to conduct experiments, perform problem tasks, and/or practise skills that you are expected to attain.

Practical sessions might be held in a science laboratory, in an engineering workshop, at a computer, at a workplace site, or in a special environment, possibly out-of-doors.

The purpose of a prac is to learn through hands-on experience. Learn from your activities.

On-campus practical sessions are timetabled in a similar way to tutes: you will become part of a student group that meets at a scheduled time and is a suitable size for easy interaction and practical learning. You will find that it is easy to get to know people.

In pracs there is a demonstrator-probably a senior or postgraduate student-for each small group to give you guidance.

Ask questions. Don't ever think your question is stupid, it is your right to have things clarified.

You may be asked to put your name down for the practical session (or sessions) that suits you. It is your responsibility to schedule your sessions so that they fit into your timetable. You may be placed in a group by the coordinator of the unit. If this is the case, you'll need a good reason if you want to make a change to your time.

Off-Campus pracs

Some units require you to participate in practical sessions (practical or clinical placements) off-campus. You will be informed in plenty of time about off-campus sessions you are required to attend. You will need to travel to a site and, in the case of field trips, probably stay one or more nights at the site. It is likely that some costs will be involved.

Clinical or practical placements

With certain courses eg teaching, medicine, nursing, you may need to spend time in a workplace such as a school, hospital or medical clinic. Find out when and how often a placement may take place.