We will discuss American academic culture
Posted Date – 12:45 AM, Sun – 12/11/22
Hello readers! Last week, we discussed culture shock and helpful resources to help students transition more easily to a new place. In this week’s column, we discuss American academic culture.
New international students should be aware of certain features of the US master’s education system, such as learning methods and teaching systems, student-centered pedagogy, continuous assessment, and academic integrity.
Once enrolled, students will be assigned an academic advisor. The Academic Advisor is the person who will contact and subsequently meet with the student to discuss the student’s intended program of study and its associated major/minor. These meetings are a priority as they help guide students through course registration and course-related requirements.
If an academic advisor is not assigned to the student, the student may contact their department to resolve the issue. Students should remain in touch with their academic advisor throughout their higher education experience and should discuss their meeting frequency with their advisor during their first meeting.
Given the US approach to practice-based learning, the curriculum will require a significant commitment. In such circumstances, students are not advised to take significantly more credits than are required to maintain “full-time” status.
When selecting courses, it is also recommended that students and their tutors see fit to mix advanced and introductory courses.
Registration for classes is the responsibility of the student and is rarely, if ever, undertaken by the student’s department. After selecting a course listing, be sure to complete your institution’s course registration process. If you’re not sure what the process entails, ask your advisor during your first meeting.
When it comes to coursework, students are responsible for their own learning. Students will be trusted to attend classes regularly, participate in discussions, meet assignment deadlines and ask questions when appropriate.
At the beginning of each semester or term, each professor provides information about the syllabus, reading lists, textbook requirements, and more. After receiving this information, students must purchase or borrow their books/textbooks. If the institution’s library does not have sufficient copies of the desired text, there should be a campus bookstore where new or used copies can be purchased.
Most importantly, every American college and university has an honor code. These are also known as “codes of conduct” and are strict rules about academic honesty, plagiarism and cheating.
Before beginning a project, students should read and understand the applicable honor code. These can be found on the program/university website.
Next week, we’ll be discussing mental and physical health!
— US Consulate General in Hyderabad
