The Australian Education System
Most International students find the Australian teaching style to be quite different to what they are used to. In the Australian education system, focus is on practical learning that encourages creative, independent thought and debate. Teachers aim to provide you with a thorough understanding of a topic rather than just teaching you the right words to remember for exams.
Lectures and Tutorials
Classes at university will be a mixture of lectures and tutorials. A lecture might be attended by up to 200 students from different courses within your discipline. A tutorial is much smaller, with only about 30 students in attendance. You will discuss the information provided in your lecture with other students and your teacher during the tutorial.
Assessment
Your final grade for a unit will be based on your performance in assignments (written or practical), exams, class participation, attendance and group exercises. Depending on your course, you may be continually assessed throughout the semester, rather than in just the last few weeks or on the final exam.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is when you take someone else's work and submit it for assessment as your own. This can include copying blocks of text from reference books into your own assignment and neglecting to 'reference' or 'credit' the original source. Plagiarism is a very serious offence in Australia and there are harsh penalties for the practice that may include an automatic fail of your unit.
Consumer Protection
Australia is committed to provide quality education and training to International students. The Australian Government has enacted a number of laws to ensure you are protected, grouped together under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) legislative framework.
You can find more information on your rights under this framework at www.studyinaustralia.gov.au.
Grievances
If you have any concerns about your course or institution you should first try to discuss them with your education provider. The International Office at your institution can advise you on the best way to handle your concerns.