Seminars are designed to foster discussion and develop learning and understanding of key topics, which take place in smaller seminar rooms and last around 50 minutes in length (or longer depending on the module set-up).
You will be expected to prepare work for each seminar and give feedback or present information on a certain subject. Preparation varies between readings, research, writing presentations, creating posters to name just a few.
You are expected to talk in groups and voice your opinions within seminars; the emphasis is on student contribution. Don’t worry if you are shy or don’t like talking in big groups, as soon as you make friends and meet the tutors you will feel more comfortable.
Adapted from My Academic Student Survival Guide, written by Dr. Hanya Pielichaty – Senior Lecturer/Programme Leader, Department of Marketing and Tourism Lincoln International Business School
Online seminars
It is important that you engage in online seminars as much as you would in an in-person session. This will help you to get the most out of them. Make sure that you are well-prepared by completing set reading or any other tasks set in advance, and, during the seminar, always try and engage with the materials posted in the chat.
It is likely that you will be asked to contribute and interact throughout your online seminars so be prepared to split off into break-out groups where you will discuss a topic or theme and then feedback to the rest of the group.
You may be reluctant to un-mute your mic and turn on your camera, but doing so will greatly improve your seminar experience and engagement with the topics covered. The more you engage with these sessions the more you will develop your critical thinking & critical engagement skills.
Everyone will have different preferences and your choice of interaction is up to you, but continued participation in online learning sessions will make you feel more comfortable with online communication and can build your confidence and help you find your voice. You can start by simply using the text chat to contribute, but, once you feel more confident, try using video and vocal interaction. The more you do this, the more comfortable you will feel.
If any teaching event (in Panopto, Collaborate, or MS Teams) is recorded, you do not need to share your camera or audio if you choose not to. Participation is voluntary, but we recommend engaging with the teaching as much as you can to make sure you get the most out of the learning experience. The videos created are made for and shared with your module cohort to benefit your studies.
Getting the most from online lectures and seminars
Make sure that you are getting the most out of your online learning.
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