Gateways Modules

Writing for Academic Purposes

This module introduces students to the skills required to complete effective university assignments. Students learn to write accurate sentences and to construct logical paragraphs for different types of essays. They work with their tutors to recognise the various styles required in writing essays, and they develop skills in accurate methods for the referencing of material from other sources.

Reading for Academic Purposes

As well giving students the particular skills required for reading English texts, this module introduces them to an understanding of the society and culture of English-speaking countries. Students learn to read for comprehension and to develop effective skimming and scanning techniques. They improve speed and accuracy in reading English on the page and online. They learn to recognise the differences between facts and opinions, and to understand how evidence in written form is used to support ideas. As well, the module assists students to interpret diagrams and graphs when used in academic writing.

Speaking for Academic Purposes

This module assists students in developing the skills required to plan, structure, and deliver formal presentations in academic settings. Students learn to develop written materials, based on their own research. They gain awareness of the need for appropriate language and style in formal presentations, and learn to use audio-visual equipment to enhance the effectiveness of their spoken delivery. Students practise participating in class discussions and giving presentations to tutorial groups.

Listening for Academic Purposes

This module assists students to develop the skills required to understand talks, presentations and lectures at university. Students learn to recognise the structure of lectures. They listen to tutorials and to lectures for main points, for ideas, and for illustration of concepts. Students develop note-taking skills, including methods of abbreviation. They learn how to review their lecture notes for use in assignments, and to use these notes for exam preparation.

Logic and Clear Thinking

This module enables students to acquire a basic understanding of how reason and logic work. Students develop skills in the use of deduction, induction and inference in argument, and to recognise the difference between fact and opinion. They learn to structure well-organized, persuasive arguments of their own, and to use these important skills in order to write clear, coherent essays and reports. The module encourages students to take a balanced, thoughtful approach to their academic studies, and to apply sound methods of analysis to assignment topics and to examination questions.

Library Skills

Students are introduced to the efficient use of libraries, digital databases, and internet search engines. They learn to locate books through library classification systems, and to accurately record reference details for essays and reports. Students develop skills in analysing essay topics in order to determine the academic information they need for effective study. They learn how to evaluate library materials and online data. By studying this module, students will gain a clear understanding of the need to cite sources and to avoid plagiarism when they write assignments. The modules practical exercises and activities greatly assist them to become independent learners.

Academic Referencing

Students are introduced to the skills required to keep accurate academic records and to follow appropriate conventions in referencing. The module emphasises the importance of acknowledging sources of information accurately and honestly to avoid plagiarism. Students learn to paraphrase from other materials effectively and to write text citations correctly. They also learn to write bibliographies and to include relevant details in reference lists.

Report Writing

This module is designed to teach students how to write general, business and scientific reports. Students learn how the structure of reports varies according to the type of report being written, and the importance of deadlines. They develop skills in effective research and in organising information using headings and numbering systems. Students learn about the lay-out of text, and the use of charts, tables and graphs. They gain skills in editing, summarising findings, coming to conclusions, and making recommendations based on information provided in their reports.

Independent Learning

This module is designed to assist students to become independent learners. Students are introduced to the study and thinking skills their lecturers and tutors expect of them. They become familiar with different university teaching situations such as lectures, tutorials, and workshops. Students develop time management skills and prepare study timetables. They are introduced to a variety of academic assessment tasks, and gain confidence in their abilities to learn in an English-speaking environment.

Advanced Library Skills

This module is tailored to the needs of student groups from specific disciplines, who require training in advanced research, referencing and record-keeping skills. The module can be developed at either undergraduate or post graduate levels. Gateways librarians work with institutions to design programs of study. Students work closely with Gateways online librarians to upgrade their academic library skills to an advanced level of proficiency.

Cross-cultural Communication

In this course, we will look at how people from different cultures communicate. We will focus especially on good communication within Australia.

The course includes topics on non-verbal behaviour, stress management, negotiation skills, listening skills and conflict management. It will also discuss verbal communication, such as how to address people in Australia and common Australian language issues, and how to contribute to tutorials.