Transition to academic life
Studying in Australia may be very different to what you are used to at home. Here are some tips to help you make a successful transition.
Learning methods
Many Australian education providers encourage independent learning. This means that students are responsible for completing the readings, undertaking research and making deadlines. In many cases, it is up to you to do the required work, and no one will chase you for late essays or assignments.
There are a variety of learning methods in Australian educational institutions. A mixture of lectures, tutorials (‘tutes’) and laboratory or practical sessions is the norm.
In general, Australian students:
• Have less contact hours and more self-directed study
• Learn independently or with minimal assistance
• Get less individualised attention
• Are more active and vocal in tutorial discussion
A casual approach
Australian students may seem to have a very casual and relaxed attitude toward their lecturers and tutors. Generally speaking, students are usually on a first-name basis with academics, and titles are not usually used. Australians believe they live in an ‘egalitarian’ country, which means that everyone is on the same level – even students and academics – and should be treated equally. This does not mean that students don’t have respect for academics, it just means that it is a more casual relationship than you may see in other countries. Students are encouraged to challenge their tutors and lecturers, and tutorial discussion and input often forms part of your final mark.
The Australian accent (‘strine)
If you are studying at an Australian Higher Education institution English is either your first language or you passed an English test, such as the Intensive English Language Test (IELTS). However, you may still struggle with your oral English in the first month or so of your time in Australia because of your unfamiliarity with the Australian accent. Australians use many slang and colloquial expressions in their speech.Australians also speak quite fast, so asking someone to slow down or repeat themselves may be necessary. Don’t worry – you will get the hang of it eventually. A good way to get accustomed to the Australian style of speaking is to watch Australian films and TV series, listen to the radio and talk to the locals. Browse a list of some common slang expressions and their definitions.
Services offered by universities
If you are having trouble making the transition, there are plenty of ways you can seek help. Most education providers have an international student office, where counsellors can direct you toward learning skills help. Many institutions run classes and seminars on conversational English, essay writing, note-taking and exam preparation. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – it is normal to fee a little bewildered at first.