Tutorials

Before each tutorial, we're asked to prepare in advance. We usually give a reading lists, which we have to complete before each tutorial. We are given Web sites to look at E-journals to look at. And we have to prepare by writing our notes down. In every tutorial, there's about 5 to 15 students and these are led by the tutors, which are usually masters or PhD students. And then when we come into the tutorial, we put into small groups and we are asked to discuss our ideas, generate new ideas, and give feedback to the class. During art tutorials, there is a lot of support given our tutors are there so that we can ask questions at any time. We also have our peers there, which we can also ask questions to. If we need help before the tutorial, we can email any of the tutors and they will provide you with help. The difference between lectures and tutorials is that in lectures you usually have about 200 to 300 students, whereas in tutorials is about five to 15 students, which allows you to discuss matters, put your hand up and talk to your tutors about any difficulties you may have with the subject. The skills that I have developed through participating in these tutorials is time management, critical thinking, being able to work better in a group and improving my confidence to speak up in a group. At the end of a tutorial, each group will have to give feedback on what they've been discussing throughout the tutorial. So this may consist of having to present to the rest of the students in the class and it allows me to improve my group working skills and also working in a group allows us to generate more ideas and discuss the topic in more depth. The advice I have for potential University of Edinburgh students to make the most out of your tutorial sessions is to complete the reading that you're given by your tutors beforehand. This will enable you to discuss more in groups and generate more ideas. It's also beneficial to raise your hand and develop your confidence so that you can have better discussions in class.