With the tutorial method of learning there is an emphasis on independent study. During the tutorial you will be expected to think critically and engage in probing discussion with your tutor about your A level studies. You will need to plan ahead for tutorials. Your tutor will provide you with reading lists, specific essay questions problems to solve, etc. which you should complete in advance of the tutorial. This then forms the basis for debate and discussion, providing the opportunity to demonstrate how much you have learned – and also giving you an appreciation of what you have not really understood. You will find that it is the debate and discussion that takes place during the tutorial which consolidates your learning and understanding.
To get the best out of your tutor and your tutorial be well prepared. You should expect to complete about three hours of independent A level study for each hour of tuition. Work creatively, investigate and discuss your work and ideas with your colleagues. Spend time thinking about what you want to cover during the tutorial and send any completed homework to your tutor beforehand. The tutorial method of learning works best when the learning and understanding of A level topics is consolidated by probing discussion with the tutor. The more prepared you are the more you will get out of your tutorial. Tutors at Greene’s very much appreciate and enjoy students who arrive with a barrage of questions!
Between tutorials you are preparing for upcoming tutorials. Working on your A level studies by reading, researching ideas, writing essays, working through problems, taking notes, working with colleagues, going to guest lectures are all some of the things that you will be doing between tutorials.
Your tutors will be setting homework as part of this process but you should also be studying ahead without always being prompted by your tutor. Remember the more prepared you are for each tutorial the more you will benefit from the tutorial.
Whilst you will have an individual academic programme, your tutorials may not all be individual. Although groups will be small it is important that you have opportunities for collaborative work and can exchange ideas with your colleagues. As your programme at Greene’s is specific to you your tutoring arrangements are also tailored to meet your individual A level study requirements with a mix and variety of tutorial options.
Small group work is often collaborative, involves presentation work and can be more participatory. We find that collaborative group work will develop your skills to work with others and your ability to listen and contribute effectively in discussion.
Studying in a city like Oxford presents a vast amount of opportunity to participate in a wide range of academic, sporting and social events. Students at Greene’s join sports clubs, amateur dramatic societies, play their instrument in small orchestras or bands, sing in choirs and so on. Your Personal Tutor and the college Registrar will actively encourage you to become involved in a wider range of activities where you can meet others.
There are also regular events that we organise and an active student committee whose purpose it is to assist the scheduling, planning and promoting of a variety of social events for you and others at Greene’s to enjoy.
back to: Studying at Greene’s
Brian teaches English Literature and Government & Politics. He did his undergradaute, masters and doctorate degrees at Oxford and his academic research specialism is the Old Icelandic language. Brian frequently acts as an examiner for several of the major examination board and is passionate about education and the tutorial method of learning. Brian is also [...]
