Where to get help

If you need support or have questions, this is the place to look. Below, you will find resources that will support your learning while on this course and find answers to the most commonly asked questions. 


Course FAQs

Do I need to buy a textbook before starting this course?

No. Weekly readings will provided electronically, with links posted within the weekly modules here on Canvas (required readings are attached to mini-assignments).

 

Is this an in-person or an online class?

This is a blended learning course, which means there will be a combination of in-person and online teaching. Further details about this will be posted on our 'Course Schedule' page.

 

I have a question or concern about the course e.g. unsure about something we're learning, assignments etc. What should I do?

If your question is about any aspect of the course itself, and does not involve details of your own personal situation or private information, then these are the best options in order of priority:

  1. First, please read through the course information on Canvas (including this FAQ list) to see if it's already been covered.
  2. If you can't find the info you need on Canvas, check our Piazza forum to see if the question has already been asked/answered there. If it hasn't, then you can post your question on Piazza. (Note: **The Piazza forum for this class will go live nearer the start of semester.**)
  3. If you think the question is easier to discuss in person, you can drop in to one of the scheduled staff office hours (in-person or online): these are advertised on our 'Meet the Team' page.
  4. If you're unable to attend an office hour, you can email your tutor/GTA (email addresses are also advertised on our our 'Meet the Team' page). 

If your question does relate to your own individual or personal circumstances, you should contact your tutor/GTA in the first instance, either during their office hour or via email. If you are unable to resolve the issue with your tutor/GTA, your next port of call is to contact the course convenor.

 

I need to request an extension on the due date for an assignment due to extenuating personal circumstances. Who do I contact?

Please refer to our policies on deadlines and extensions [add link] or contact the course convenor.

 

What are student class reps? Who is the rep for this class and how do I contact them?

A class representative is a student enrolled in a course who is elected by the students in that course. Class reps act as a liaison to support communication and feedback between staff and students. Reps typically deal with issues of general interest and are not expected to get involved in any individual or private student issues. Find out more about class reps here.

 

Where can I find the course readings?

Links to required readings will be provided within the weekly modules here on Canvas {coming soon}.

 

I would like to attend an office hour via Zoom instead of coming to campus. Is that ok?

Yes, office hours may be attended either in-person or via Zoom; you'll find details of staff office hours here.

See this guide if you need some assistance with Zoom.

 

What even IS an office hour?! What are they for? And how do they work?

An office hour is an opportunity to talk individually or in small groups with a member of course staff.

You can use them to extend your discussions and understanding of course content. Or you can use them to ask questions about assignments.

Contrary to popular belief, office hours aren't only for those who have a specific problem or concern. We're also happy (in fact, very happy!) just to have a general chat about course-related topics.

It's a drop-in session. So you don't need to turn up right at the start or stay the whole hour. Just be aware that if you turn up right near the end, the staff member may not have time to talk to you at length because they may have another commitment right afterwards.

You don't need to pre-book an appointment time either. Just be aware that during busy times, staff may have limited time to talk to one individual if others are waiting. Unless the issue you wish to discuss is confidential, we would also encourage you to chat in pairs or threes etc. if others are also present.

If you attend via Zoom, be aware you may be held in the "waiting room" for a short time if the staff member is currently working with someone else.

Office hours are not:

 

Are the classes recorded? What if I miss a class?

This is a blended learning course, which means there will be a combination of in-person and online teaching. Further details about this will be posted here soon.

While lectures will be recorded, tutorials are in-person only. There will be no tutorial recordings because these are interactive discussions and workshops. If you are concerned about missing a tutorial, you can email your GTA for advice. However, please note it is your responsibility to catch up on any missed content or activities. GTAs are not responsible for summarising missed classes for absent students.


Wellbeing always comes first

We all go through tough times during the semester or see our friends struggling. There is lots of help out there - for more information, please take a look at the Faculty of Arts Equity Information page and the university's Be well website, which offers a range of tools and information to help you care for your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing so that you can thrive.


Inclusive Learning 


Support for New University Students

If you are transitioning from school, another university, from a work environment, or maybe you are a maturing student returning to study, the university's Learning Essentials website has some great resources, workshops and support ready and waiting for you. 


Finding classrooms on campus

Interactive Campus Map

The room number gives information about its location:


Support with academic learning, writing, English language support, and library


Technology FAQs

Is there any IT support available for students?

Yes, view the university's Student IT Hub page to learn more about IT workshops, student email, printing, copying and scanning, and safe computing. Students can also get Microsoft Office 365, device recommendations, and long-term loan laptops if needed. Find out how to access unlimited, free and high-speed access on campus. 

 

I have question about Canvas (the Learning Management System).  Where do I go for help?

Canvas support for students. Access the 24/7 support available by clicking the Help button on the main menu on the left.

 

How do I use Panopto?

Panopto is the tool used for accessing lecture recordings. For help, view this guide for using Panopto videos.

 

How do I use Zoom?

Zoom is used for any online meetings or classes where applicable. For help, view this guide for using Zoom at UoA.

 

How do I use Piazza?

Piazza is an online forum used in this course for discussions and Q&As. If you're stuck, please visit the Piazza Support Centre.

 

How do I use Microsoft 365?

Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based suite of applications that includes Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Teams. More details can be found at Microsoft 365 Apps. You can find a wide range of training at Microsoft 365 Training