Approach to teaching and learning

We advocate an enquiry-based approach to learning, which means that we encourage you to become an independent and self-motivated learner. Through the programme of study we offer, we will develop the qualities that employers value in today's university graduates - qualities that will set you apart in your future career.

Teaching

To help you develop the above-mentioned skills, we adopt a range of teaching methods. They may include:

  • Lectures – listening to experts sharing their knowledge and discoveries in challenging and provocative ways. Students are expected to 'read-around' the subject matter of their lectures, adding to their understanding and developing their critical faculties and analytical skills.
  • Seminars – where you present and discuss your ideas and knowledge in smaller groups and debate interpretations and opinions with other students.
  • Tutorials – are your opportunity to discuss your work with your tutor, usually in small groups.
  • Workshops - are problem solving sessions facilitated by a member of academic staff; these sessions usually involve students working in groups.
  • Laboratory based work – this is your chance to get practical experience and apply knowledge you have learnt in a laboratory setting. This mainly applies to courses in science, technology and engineering.

Our lecturers and tutors will ensure you have all the resources you need to make the transition from A levels to the more rigorous demands of a degree.

Learning support

The transition to a new way of learning can be a challenge. We offer a comprehensive support system that will assist and encourage you at every stage of your undergraduate study:

  • You will be allocated a personal tutor who will provide help and advice with any study-related issues, and help you to monitor and reflect on your progress. It is your responsibility to organise regular meetings with your personal tutor.
  • Specialised learning support services are available for students with disabilities, please see Support if you have a disability.
  • Welfare tutors based in your school or department can help you with both academic and welfare problems.
  • International students can also contact the International Student Advisory Services (ISAS) to discuss their learning support needs.

 

 

Skills4uni

Get to grips with what it is like to study at a university such as Birmingham with our interactive study skills materials site, skills4uni.