1. Welcome to the University of Alberta
Luis Alberto D’Elia
Department of Educational Policy Studies
Faculty of EDUCATION, University of Alberta

2. This power point PRESENTATION was written (and shared) by:
Professor DOUGLAS OLSEN
Department of Marketing, Business Economics and Law
School of Business, University of Alberta
Title: “Doing University” in Canada

3. Classroom Learning In the Classroom Discussions Preparation for Class
Other Classroom Issues

4. Discussions In the Classroom Professors often use class discussion.
Professor will present an idea, example, or case and ask for opinions.
Generally, questions, observations, and insights are all acceptable.

5. In the Classroom
Do…
Stay on topic and defend your position without being hostile.
Be open to new ideas and ways of thinking about topics.
Ask the professor questions, and learn from each other.
Make your point reasonably brief so you do not monopolize the class time.

6. Small group discussions
In the Classroom
Small group discussions
A chance for you to break off and discuss a case, or example, with other students.
A chance to express your views/experiences.
Introduce yourself to others in your group.

7. Small Group Discussions
In the Classroom
Small Group Discussions
Often you will present your group’s idea(s) to the class after the discussion.
In your group…keep the discussion to the topic at hand. Get to know your group members better outside of class.

8. Come Prepared In the Classroom
Read the sections from the book ahead of time.
If your questions are not answered, ask at the beginning or end of class.

9. Other Classroom Notes In the Classroom Feel free to ask questions.
Ask for clarification on notes, words, spelling, etc.
Limit questions about assignments to the beginning or end of class, not the middle.

10. Professors Professors Professors are NOT gods.
Want to see you succeed.
If you have trouble with a concept meet or a professor with your question.
If the question is long, meet the professor during office hours.

11. Professors Professors
If you are unsure how to address a professor, use their formal title (Dr. Smith, Professor Smith).
You can question what is said in class … but always be polite.
Use the professor’s office hours.

12. Assignments Assignments
Try to get them done in advance of the deadline
Consult with the professor on issues of working in groups, or collaborating on assignments.
Try to find out what is required on the assignment.

13. Group Work
Group Work
Try to meet with your group on a regular basis -- well ahead of the due date.
Clearly define what each member of the group is going to do on the assignment.
If there are concerns about a group member not doing their work, talk to the professor.

14. Plagiarism Plagiarism
Representing another’s work as your own, whether it be from a book, magazine, the internet, or a fellow student.
Any time use someone else’s ideas you must site the source.

15. Plagiarism Plagiarism
Consult with the U of A code of student behavior at:
See the Truth in Education website:

16. Grading
Grades
There are usually many assignments and at least one mid-term during the semester.
If there are any questions about your grade, consult your professor to find out where you went wrong.

17. Grading
Grades
Grades are sometimes calculated based on your score relative to the rest of the class.
If the whole class has done extremely well you may not have as high a final grade as you thought.
This means that other students will take plagiarism and cheating very seriously, as it hurts their grade.

18. Effective Writing Resources
Academic Resources
Effective Writing Resources
Courses are available for improving your writing and communication skills.
For a schedule and fee list visit:

19. The U of A Library Academic Resources
One of the most extensive libraries in Canada.
Consult a librarian, if needed, on finding a book or using the library search system.
Book an appointment with a reference librarian for information on projects and databases.

20. Language Barriers Other Notes Ask for clarification.
Write down words you don’t understand and look up the translation, definition, and pronunciation.
You can ask a professor to speak slower… but it may not help.

21. Language Barriers Other Notes
If needed, take an ESL class and/or find a language tutor.
Try to make friends and work with Canadian students.
It may be tougher at first but in the long run it will make things easier for you.

22. Student Groups Other Notes
Student groups can be a great place to meet people and to work on learning a new culture.
Visit:

23. Other Notes
Studying
Read the sections of the text that the professor has assigned.
If lecture notes are provided ahead of time…read them ahead of time.
Reread notes from class later on that day.
Do not allow yourself to fall behind.

24. University Life Other Notes
Take some time out of your schedule to enjoy yourself – have some “you” time.
Take part in some of the many interesting things going on around campus.
Meet new people – they may be your next best friend.