Participation
Your participation in tutorial discussions, group work activities and student presentation feedback sessions is an effective method of active learning and, moreover, usually part of the assessment for many subjects. To participate effectively in academic circles you must be suitably prepared for the discussion session (e.g. have done the required reading and formulated relevant questions) and you must be able to interact competently and respectfully. This section provides advice on:
- Presenting an argument or opinion
- Interrupting, disagreeing and clarifying
Presenting an Argument or Opinion
Whether you are participating in a group work activity, a tutorial discussion, a feedback session, delivering an oral presentation or engaging in debate, it is important that you present your argument logically and coherently. University students are encouraged and expected to voice their opinions because it is an effective method of engaging with the subject material and developing your knowledge through interaction with others. As with any spoken interaction, it is important to be respectful of the opinions of others and the etiquette of spoken interaction (e.g. turn-taking). The following website provides you with tips on how to participate effectively in tutorials and seminars.
www.lc.unsw.edu.au/onlib/disc.html
Interrupting, Disagreeing and Clarifying
If you want to interrupt someone to add your opinion; disagree with something that someone has said; or seek clarification on a point someone has made, you should first establish eye contact with the person. You can usually indicate that you have something to say by making eye contact. The speaker may then pause to signal that it is your turn to speak and you would make a suitable comment to indicate your intention like:
- ‘I would just like to add a point here.’
- ‘I’m afraid I disagree with your point about …’
- ‘I wonder if I could ask you to clarify the meaning of …’
There are many different ways of interrupting, disagreeing and clarifying effectively and respectfully and the following links provide some good examples.
www.sonnerct.com/English_Phrases/3_Business_Meetings_and_Discussions.htm
www.theenglishweb.com/articles/getting-the-most-out-of-an-english-business-meeting.php
http://download.microsoft.com/documents/italy/SBP/aulapmi/businessenglish/EffectiveMeetings2.doc
On the other hand, if you are an International student looking for more opportunities to chat, make friends and learn about Australian culture or a local student student interested in global cultures and meeting international friends then the University of Melbourne's Let's Talk Conversation Group is perfect for you. It's free, fun and running five days a week. Contact the Student Ambassador Leadership Program (SALP) for more information.