FH
Yo FH,
Some subjects use textbooks, but in my experience, most don't. It might depend on what you study, I think health and business subjects use them more. You might be able to find them second hand on some school supply websites, I found some on Bookshelf. Otherwise, your lecturer might have tips on how to get them cheap. If your lucky, your lecturer might even have an online version of the textbook, which is free
You know those lecture halls in American College movies, where there's theatre-like seating, those little tables that fold out, and the whiteboard and lectern at the front? Most unis have a couple of them, and if you're doing a popular course with many, many students, it's easier to teach in these. Your lecture hall could have about a hundred students, maybe many more, depending on its size. Your lecturer will present, usually PowerPoints, videos, diagrams, etc. They go on for 1-2 hours, but they give you a break in the middle. There may be question time at the end, where you can ask the lecturer questions about the content.
It mostly reminded me of assemblies, where there's little student-to-student discussion, and more about explicit learning. Just remember, not all of your classes will be like this. Some classes will be similar to high school, with smaller numbers, and more discussion with lecturers and students, other classes might be practical labs
An important thing to remember is that university is a lot different to high school. You don't have to attend every lecture, and you don't have to stay for the whole thing. I recommend sitting with friends, so you can bounce ideas, help each other out, and work on group assignments too
There isn't any proper way to take notes in uni, it's just how you write, read and understand the content best. One of my classes taught me the Cornell Notetaking Method, involving key points and questions, note taking areas and summaries. I didn't like it personally, I just write down any information I think I can use later, including diagrams, questions and reminders for assignments. Most people take notes on their computers, but I prefer my pen and paper
The important thing about university, is that you'll always be changing how you learn and study. The first few weeks might be a bit shaky, but you'll refine yourself, and figure out what works best for you. It's very rewarding trying something new too and realising how it benefits your learning
I wish you, and all Year 12s the absolute best of luck for tomorrow's ATAR Results release, and a wonderful summer break
