RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
RMIT University Vietnam Information booklet
English for University Program
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Centre of English Language - English for University Program
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RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
Contents 1. GENERAL INFORMATION 1.1 Student card 1.2 RMIT email account 1.3 IT at RMIT 1.4 Studying outside of class 1.5 Food and drink 1.6 Printing 1.7 Smoking area 1.8 Health and safety guidelines 1.9 Health Centre 1.10 Counselling Centre 2. STUDYING IN CEL 2.1 English and study skills 2.2 What you should bring to class 2.3 Dictionaries 2.4 Speaking Vietnamese 2.5 Class expectations 2.6 Meeting with your teacher 2.7 Copying other people’s work 2.8 E - learning 2.9 Attendance 2.10 Academic English Manager 2.11 Feedback to CEL Management
3. INDEPENDENT LEARNING 3.1 Independent Learning (IL) 3.2 English Study Lab (ESL) 3.3 Advice on IL 3.4 Beanland Library 3.5 Blackboard 3.6 Student Support Workshops 4. ASSESSMENT 4.1 Assessment 4.2 How many assessments 4.3 Ongoing (OA) and End-of-course (EOC) assessment 4.4 Being late to an assessment 4.5 Missing an assessment 4.6 Talking about your results 5. ADDITIONAL SERVICES 5.1 5.2 5.3
Career Centre Sports & Recreation Centre Student Clubs
6. IT GUIDE FOR NEW STUDENTS 6.1 6.2
Logging into RMIT university computers and network Logging into Gmail
7. CONTACT GUIDE Refer to this page for all contact information.
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Centre of English Language - English for University Program
Welcome to the
English for University Program at RMIT University Vietnam Dear Student, Welcome to RMIT University! Welcome to the English for University Program! This booklet is your guide to help you adapt to the English for University Program at RMIT University Vietnam. You can use it to help you find your way around the campus, and it will give you an idea of what to expect both in and outside of your English classes. If you need anything, please ask. All the best with your studies, CEL Administrative and Student Engagement Officer
Centre of English Language - Saigon South 702 Nguyen Van Linh Blvd Tan Phong Ward District 7 Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam Fax: 3776 1399 www.rmit.edu.vn English for University Program Room: 1.5.30 (building 1) Tel: 08 3776 1338 For any questions, email CEL Administrative Team at: cel.admin@rmit.edu.vn
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GENERAL INFORMATION
RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
1.1 What is a student card? It is a card with your student number and photo on it. Use it to borrow books and take assessments. Your student number is used to log on to the RMIT computers and network. Pick up your card at Student Centre in room 8.1.01 during the first week of class.
1.2 Do I have an RMIT email account? Yes. Read the ITS Guide for New Students for instructions on how to log in to your email. You must check your email every day. Your EOC results will also be sent to you by email.
1.3 What if I have a problem with the network, email, Blackboard or wifi? IT services can help you with any problems you may have with the RMIT network, email, Blackboard or wifi. Visit room 1.4.18, call 08 3776 1313 or email response.centre@rmit.edu.vn
1.4 Where can I study outside of class? • • • •
English Study Lab (ESL) in room 1.3.23 Beanland Library in room 1.3.30 Computer Lab in room 8.2.08. The English Study Lab also has computers. Student work areas in rooms 1.2.21, 1.2.26, 1.3.20, 1.4.20
Please do not sit outside of classrooms as you may disturb classes.
1.5 Where can I get something to eat or drink? Restaurants are available in the food court outside of building 1 and in buildings 2, 9 and 10. No food or drink is allowed in the classrooms, English Study Lab, or library.
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Centre of English Language - English for University Program
1.6 Where can I print? A printer is available for use in the English Study Lab. When you enroll, you are given a certain number of pages for printing. Once this has been used up, go to Student Centre for more pages.
1.7 If I want to smoke, where should I go? RMIT has a designated smoking area outside of building 1. Smoking is prohibited in any other area.
1.8 What are the RMIT health and safety guidelines? Staying healthy and safe will help you get the most out of your university experience. Check out the website: http://www.rmit.edu.vn/health-and-safety or email Health & Safety at health.safety@ rmit.edu.vn for guidelines and tips on: • • • • • • •
Eating and sleeping habits Forming and maintaining healthy relationships Road safety Avoiding alcohol and drug misuse Playing sport and exercising safely Staying safe in the event of an emergency on campus Reporting accidents and hazards
1.9 What if I feel sick or miss class/assessment because I’m sick? Visit the RMIT Health Centre if you are not feeling well and/or if you need a medical certificate. No appointment is required and the service is free. The Health Centre is open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm. Visit room 10.1.03, call 08 3776 1360 or email HealthHCMC@rmit.edu.vn Remember! You need to provide a medical certificate if you miss more than 40 hours of class or miss any assessments.
1.10 Who can I talk to if I feel stressed in any way? Counsellors are available to help you with any personal problems such as stress, family or relationship problems or emotional difficulties. You can choose English or Vietnamese counseling and you can meet in private – no one will be told about your problems. The Counselling Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Visit room 10.2.3, call 08 3776 2026 or email counsellor@rmit.edu.vn. 6
RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
STUDYING CENTRE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE 2.1 What skills will I practice? You will practice reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as well as grammar and vocabulary at every level. You will also learn academic study skills for university.
2.2 What do I need to bring to class? Bring your course book with you to class every day. Your teachers will give you more information about what you need to bring to class.
2.3 What is the best dictionary to use? It is best to have an English-to-English dictionary to help you think in English and to build your vocabulary faster. CEL recommends: Small pocket-sized dictionary for class: • Oxford Learner’s Pocket Dictionary • Longman Mini English Dictionary with Illustrations A full-sized dictionary for Independent Learning: • Collins Cobuild Learner’s Dictionary • Oxford Wordpower/Advanced Learner’s Dictionary Online dictionaries: • http://www.yourdictionary.com/ • http://www.alphadictionary.com/index.shtml • http://dictionary.cambridge.org/ • http://dictionary.oed.com • http://www.dictionary.com
2.4 May I speak Vietnamese in class? RMIT is an English-only speaking campus so you are expected to speak English at all times. It may seem uncomfortable at first, but your speaking skills will improve more quickly.
2.5 What will be expected of me during English class? RMIT is a university. Classes may be very different from what you are used to. CEL expects all students to: • Arrive to class on time and attend all classes. • Speak English at all times in class and on campus. • Turn off your mobile phone in class. • Participate in class, ask questions, share ideas and work together with classmates. • Do your homework and 2 hours of Independent Learning every day. • Know the course requirements, due dates and assessment schedules. 7
Centre of English Language - English for University Program
2.6 Can I meet my teacher outside of class? Yes. Your teacher is available for one-on-one appointments. Use this time to ask questions, get feedback on your skills or talk about any issues affecting your learning. Make an appointment by asking your teacher in class, emailing your teacher or visiting room 1.5.30.
2.7 Can I copy work from the Internet or my classmates? No. Copying someone else’s work is called plagiarism. This is a very serious offense at RMIT and could lead to failure of an assessment or course.
2.8 What is e-learning? E-learning gives you online practice for your listening, reading, and writing skills. Every week, your class may work in a computer lab for e-learning.
2.9 What are the attendance guidelines? Good attendance ensures you don’t miss any important information. Attending class also gives your teacher the opportunity to check your progress and give you feedback. Attendance rules 1. Attendance is your responsibility. Attendance is calculated from Weeks 1 - 10 2. If you miss more than 10 minutes of a session, you will be marked absent for one hour
2.10 What is an Academic English Manager? There is an Academic English Manager for every level. Academic English Manager manages a level to ensure all students get the same experience. An Academic English Manager is also an extra person you can ask for help or talk to if you have a problem with your studies, attendance or class. To make an appointment, visit room 1.5.30 or call 08 3776 1338.
2.11 How can I give feedback to the CEL Management? Your feedback is important. Tell us what you like about the program and what needs to be improved. To give feedback: • Email your Academic English Manager. • Join the Staff-Student Consultative Committee (SSCC) or contribute your ideas to SSCC. • Complete a blue feedback form and drop it in the comment box in front of room 1.5.30.
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RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
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Centre of English Language - English for University Program
INDEPENDENT LEARNING 3.1 What is Independent Learning (IL) and why is it important? IL is studying alone or in a group outside of class instead of being taught by a teacher. You choose how and what you want to learn. You can watch TV, read books or use the computer. Visit the ESL Website or Blackboard for more ideas and be sure to join Student support workshops too. IL provides important extra English practice outside of class. It is also essential preparation for university study and your future career. Remember! You are responsible for your own IL. You should study at for least 2 hours outside of class every day.
3.2 What is the English Study Lab (ESL)? The ESL is a place you can go for IL on campus. There are computers with English language software and access to recommended internet sources. A library of e-books and a printer are also available. The ESL is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. Visit room 1.3.23 or check out the website at https://sites.google.com/a/rmit.edu.vn/ilc-hcmc
3.3 Can I get advice on Independent Learning? Yes! Same-Day Tutors are available to help you identify and achieve your learning goals. The tutors are all experienced RMIT teachers and are available for one-on-one sessions. You can make same-day appointments by calling 08 3776 1338 or simply drop by the English Study Lab (1.3.23) to see their availability.
3.4 What is the Beanland Library? The Beanland Library is the main RMIT library. You can borrow English language books and publications and it’s another place for independent learning. The entrance is located at 1.3.30. Check out the online library too at http://www.rmit.edu.vn/library
3.5 What is Blackboard? Blackboard is an online learning system, like a website. Each level has its own site that contains important course information, extra practice for each skill, and links to other websites. Blackboard is also another way you can communicate with your classmates and teacher outside of class. You can access Blackboard outside of RMIT by logging onto http://online.rmit.edu.vn
3.6 What are the Student Support Workshops? These are extra workshops designed especially for English language students. They will help you with your English language and study skills. There are workshops every week and will be held before or after class. The schedule of workshops will be emailed to you every week. Be sure you check your email every day! 10
RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
ASSESSMENT 4.1 What is assessment? Assessment is another word for exam or test.
4.2 How many assessments do I have to take? You will be tested on all four English language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You must pass all four skills to move on to the next level. Every level has different requirements and schedules. Your teacher will give you specific information about your level.
4.3 What is ongoing (OA) and end-of-course (EOC) assessment? There are two types of assessment. Ongoing assessment (OA) takes place during the course. Endof-course (EOC) assessment takes place at the end of the course. Both OA and EOC assessment contribute to your overall result for each skill.
4.4 What happens if I am late to an assessment? If you are late to a writing or reading assessment, you will be admitted late but you will not be given extra time. You will not be admitted to the listening assessment once the assessment has started. If you are late to the speaking assessment, you may have to wait until after everyone has finished.
4.5 What happens if I miss an assessment? You must provide documentation (eg. medical certificate) to be allowed to make up the assessment. If you miss an assessment, you must contact the Assessment Coordinator immediately. Visit room 1.5.30 or call 08 3776 1338 to make an appointment.
4.6 Who can I talk to about my assessment results? Your teacher will give you your OA results and counseling in weeks 5-6. This is an opportunity to discuss your skills and progress. Your EOC results will be sent to you by email. You cannot reply to this email. If you want to talk to someone about your EOC results, make an appointment to talk to your Academic English Manager. Visit room 1.5.30 or call 08 3776 1338.
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Centre of English Language - English for University Program
ADDITIONAL SERVICES 5.1 What is the Career Centre? The Career Centre is a place you can go to get advice on RMIT diploma and degree programs. For example, what’s the difference between CEP and Levels 6-7? Or Commerce and Finance? You can also ask them about getting a good job and future job prospects. For example, what kind of job can I get with a Bachelor of IT? The Career Centre can also help you to talk to your parents about your study plans. Visit room 1.1.07, call 08 3776 1362, email career.centre@rmit.edu.vn or check out the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/RMITVNCareerCentre
5.2 What is the Sports & Recreation Centre? The Sports & Rec Centre is your place to have fun, play sports and relax. There are indoor facilities: changing rooms, a fitness centre, a game room and a sports hall; and outdoor facilities: basketball and tennis courts and sports fields. You can borrow equipment and all of this is free! The Sports & Rec Centre is open Monday to Saturday from 6am to 9pm and on Sundays and public holidays from 9am to 6pm. Visit building 10, call 08 3776 1383 or email sports@rmit. edu.vn or check out the REC Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/sportrecrmitsg
5.3 How do I sign up for a Student Club? Clubs are a great way for you to practice your English, meet new people and have fun! There are 20+ student sports clubs e.g. basketball and badminton and sports events e.g. Fun Runs. Check out the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/sportrecrmitsg There are also 20+ non-sports clubs: academic clubs e.g. accounting and English, leisure clubs e.g. dance and photography, community clubs: e.g AIESEC and C.A.N, culture clubs: e.g Korean and Japanese. Check out the website at http://www.rmit.edu.vn/student-clubs
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RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GUIDE FOR NEW STUDENTS 6.1 How do I log into the RMIT University computers and RMIT network (www.online.rmit.edu.vn)? 1.
Log on to an RMIT University computer or log in to the RMIT network (www.online.rmit.edu.vn)
2.
Type in your username: S-number OR L-number (Example: s3321456 or l9912365)
3.
Type in your RMIT network password: pYYYYMMDD! YYYYMMDD is your Date of birth. Example: June 26 1994 = p19940626!
4.
Change your RMIT network password to a new password. You can do this in 2 ways: • If you are using an RMIT University computer or a public computer, push all 3 Ctrl+Alt+Del buttons at the same time. Then select “change password”. • If you are at home, log in to www.online.rmit.edu.vn. Then select “reset password” in the top right corner.
5.
Follow the password rules: • Your password must have at least 8 characters with 1 UPPER-CASE, 1 lower-case and 1 number. • Do not include your name or date of birth in your password.
6.2 How do I log into Google mail (Gmail)? 1.
Change your RMIT network password (see instructions above) before logging into RMIT Google mail.
2.
For more information about Gmail, • Click on the G-mail Widget on your Intranet homepage. Enter username and the new password that was changed. • Log on to www.mail.google.com. Enter username@rmit.edu.vn and new password.
Now you’re ready to go!
If you have any more issues, visit IT in room 1.4.18
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Centre of English Language - English for University Program
CONTACT GUIDE
Refer to the table below for all contact information Service
Location
Phone number
Email / website
Beanland Library
1.3.30
08 3776 1319
Email: library@rmit.edu.vn Website: http://www.rmit.edu.vn/library
Career Centre
1.1.07
08 3776 1362
Email: career.centre@rmit.edu.vn Website: https://www.facebook.com/ RMITVNCareerCentre
CEL Administration
1.5.30
08 3776 1338
Email: cel.admin@rmit.edu.vn
CEL Assessment Coordinator
1.5.30
08 3776 1338
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CEL Academic English Managers
1.5.30
08 3776 1338
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CEL Teachers
1.5.30
08 3776 1338
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Counselling Centre
10.2.3
08 3776 2026
Email: counsellor@rmit.edu.vn
Emergency contact
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08 3776 1300 or --08 3776 2023
Health and Safety
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Email: health.safety@rmit.edu.vn Website: http://www.rmit.edu.vn/health-and-safety
Health Centre
Building 10, Level 1
08 3776 1360
Email: HealthHCMC@rmit.edu.vn
English Study Lab (ESL)
1.3.23
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Email: esl.sgs@rmit.edu.vn Website: https://sites.google.com/a/rmit.edu.vn/ ilc-hcmc
IT Services
1.4.18
08 3776 1313
Email: response.centre@rmit.edu.vn
Sports & Rec Centre
Building 10
08 3776 1383
Email: sports@rmit.edu.vn Website: http://www.facebook.com/sportrecrmitsg
Student Clubs: Non-Sports
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Website: http://www.rmit.edu.vn/student-clubs
Student Clubs: Sports
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Email: sports@rmit.edu.vn Website: http://www.rmit.edu.vn/student-clubs
Student Centre
8.1.01
08 3776 1306
Email: student.centre@rmit.edu.vn
Student work areas
1.2.21 1.2.26 1.3.20 1.4.20
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If you need anything, just ask! 14
RMIT UNIVERSITY VIETNAM
NOTE Use this page to write down notes during the induction presentation.
Welcome to English for University Program! Study hard! Have fun! 15
Centre of English Language - English for University Program
www.rmit.edu.vn
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