Media and Cultural Studies BA(Hons): Learning support

Classes

Media and Cultural Studies lectures are supported by smaller seminar groups and workshops.  Classes are no longer than an hour, often broken up with activities such as watching film clips and group discussions. 

You are encouraged to think about your views and put forward your ideas. This makes learning fun, interesting and easier. You're not only hearing different views but also taking part in the classes and thinking about how to apply what's being taught. Plus smaller seminar groups (usually between 10 and 15 people) ensure that you also individual attention from your tutor. 

Additional academic support

Tutors

Tutors have set office hours so it's easy to get one-to-one help and support if required. When you join the course you are assigned a personal tutor to help you throughout your time at the University. In addition, you can turn to individual module leaders or the overall course leaders. 

Academic Skills Centre

The Academic Skills Centre provides an invaluable support service. It can help you develop your academic skills and assist with any aspect of your studies. Students who attend the Academic Skills Centre tend to do better in their degree than those who don't.

Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)

We support a scheme called PAL (Peer Assisted Learning) where trained Year 3 students run support sessions. This gives you the chance to discuss any problems with someone close to your own age who may have recently overcome the same thing.

Web-based support

StudySpace

StudySpace is a web-based learning management system that provides access to a host of information and material to assist with your studies.

StudySpace resources vary from module to module.  For example, it might include:

• subject guides;
• lecture notes;
• presentations; and
• even sound and video clips.

Other useful features are online discussion forums (bulletin boards), a virtual classroom and a drop box (for online submission of coursework).

My Kingston

My Kingston is the University's comprehensive, user-friendly intranet site, providing you with everything you need to know about student life.

My Kingston will help you get your bearings in your first few weeks at Kingston and keep you plugged into the University community throughout your time here.