Academic Expectations and Success

US students may initially find it challenging to adjust to the way UNSW courses are delivered. This is partly due to cultural differences and also due to differing academic expectations. Within the Australian academic system, more independent study is expected of students and assessment may be based on 1-2 heavily-weighted, comprehensive assessments. To prepare for success, students should review their course syllabi carefully and plan ahead, especially the section on assessment methods and ask questions where they require clarity. While ASU courses are typically structured in a way that outlines the tasks (readings, discussions, activities, assessments, etc.) to be completed in a weekly format, the pacing of UNSW courses may not be as prescribed. Students in UNSW courses are often expected to act with more autonomy in how they plan for and interact with the course materials leading up to assessments. Because of the emphasis on the independent student, as opposed to regular assignments, quizzes and test, ASU students may fall into the trap of feeling they do not have a have a lot to “do” throughout the semester, although they need to be studying consistently and working independently to understand the material for the duration of the course.