Studying in Australia

You might find that teachers and lecturers have quite a different approach to what you are used in your country. In Australia, autonomous thinking, an ability to solve problems practically are promoted in class. Class discussions and debates are common. It is not just about being provided the information needed for the exam, but more being equipped with the right tools to become independent in thought and action. Participation is important and will form part of your grade.


Lectures and tutorials

At university you will have both lectures and tutorials. Your lecture will attended by all people doing that subject in your year and your tutorials will be in much smaller groups. Here you will discuss and analyse what has been said in the lecture. It is crucial to attend all lectures so that you can both understand the course material and be prepared fort the tutorials. If you are at a VET institute, most likely your lectures and tutorials will be shared. VET classes are usually smaller.


Assessment

Your assessment will be formed all through the year and they will usually be judged by assignments and exams and or practical examinations. The good thing about this is that you don’t do too well on one assignment, you will have other chances to perform and do better.


High school and college grade (marks)

A - Outstanding Achievement
B - High Achievement
C - Satisfactory Achievement
D - Unsatisfactory Achievement
E - Fail


Vocational Education, Universities and other institutions

High Distinction             80% - 100%
Distinction                70% - 79%
Credit                    60% - 69%
Pass                    50% - 59%
Fail                    Under 50%


Plagiarism

Plagiarism is when you use someone else’s work and try to pass it off as your own. When you are quoting an author or paraphrasing there idea you must cite the source where it came from. You do not need to reference obvious well known facts such as the dates of WWII. Plagiarism is a very serious matter and is not taken lightly. Depending on the extent to which you have plagiarised, you mind instantly fail the course and be expelled from your institution, this may also have an effect on your visa. For some help on referencing and the styles you will be using contact your international office or check the university website


Supporting International students

Your institution must support you in getting accustomed to your new and making your studies and daily life easier. These include information on -

• Orientation (Getting your way around, using services such as the library and online database)
• Academic progress including working towards positive outcomes in your course
• Accommodation
• Further study

Grievances

If you have any problems with any thing related to your course you can have a chat with your education provider. The International Officer can help in working out what to do next.


What your International Office can do for you

Your International Office is an excellent place to help you both with course related things and more practical day to day matter like setting up a bank account or finding accomodation. They also have counsellors who will help in dealing with culture shock and preparing yourself for your new country. There are range of services at the International Office that are very helpful so take advantage of what your institution has to offer. Many students that have used they services have said that they found these very helpful in dealing with a range of problems and issues.


Orientation

International Student Advisors (ISAs) in your International Office will show you through orientation programs which will help you in areas such as the campus itself, the institutions style and structure, Australian life and many other issues related to your institution and day to day living.