School Bells

[Helga]

School will start next week and I can't wait! I will be taking two english lit classes, one being just Tolkien,mainly Lord of the rings and the other one sci-fi! oh I can't wait

[Scheherazade]

Knew you wouldn't be able to resist the next stage, Scher! Good luck to you, also to Niamh and to everyone else starting new courses this term.Thank you, Kasie. I am a geek (actually, I think being a geek is cool, which makes a dork, I guess :conehead:)

Good luck with Welsh! You should teach us couple of phrases in Welsh!
School will start next week and I can't wait! I will be taking two english lit classes, one being just Tolkien,mainly Lord of the rings and the other one sci-fi! oh I can't waitI am glad finally these courses are available, Helga. Have fun! :)

All of a sudden, the seriousness of my commitment hit me today: The course I am taking ends in October 2011! And I need to take two more courses like this one.

[Niamh]

My current course ends in the end of October on the same date my next one starts :p
I'm going to fail miserably. :(
I also think i've lost my senses as i'm doing two courses at once as another one starts in November. *gulp*

[Scheherazade]

My current course ends in the end of October on the same date my next one starts :p
I'm going to fail miserably. :(Oh, don't say that!
I also think i've lost my senses as i'm doing two courses at once as another one starts in November. *gulp*How many credits are these courses? Try not to overload.

I have decided to tidy up and put my assignments from past two years away today. Looking at the number of pages gathered, I could have written a book (however dull it might have been).

[Beautifull]

Hi! Referred to by Scheherazade! Hi guys! First year in college and as a full time student. I'm aiming to get my associates in science, but I don't know if my major is science! All I know is that I want to be a veterinarian. Let the advisors handle the rest! haha. Well, I am in the honors program at my community college, so I have tuition paid for for two years...if I keep my grades up, which I really do mean to do! Let's see. After I get my AS(Associates in Science), I plan to transfer to a university with a 3.75 grade point average and a humanities class taken so that I can get into the honors program there and get two more years of paid tuition! :p So yeah, four years planned out already!

[Scheherazade]

So yeah, four years planned out already!Good luck with it all, Beautiful! You are going to have a really busy four years but it is great that you know what you want to do :)

What is an associate, by the way? Is it like a diploma as oppose to degree?

In the UK, you can get certificates (usually one year of study is required for this) or diplomas (2 years) and degrees are usually 3 or 4 years.

[Beautifull]

Good luck with it all, Beautiful! You are going to have a really busy four years but it is great that you know what you want to do :)

What is an associate, by the way? Is it like a diploma as oppose to degree?

In the UK, you can get certificates (usually one year of study is required for this) or diplomas (2 years) and degrees are usually 3 or 4 years.

Well, actually, associates is a degree. the process. is, Associates, Bachelors, Masters, then Doctors. Those are the four different degrees you can get. and they are respectively in the order i just listed off.
I will get my Associates in two years, then move to getting my bachelors after that.

but I really like learning about different school systems elsewhere. thanks for sharing Sche!

[Scheherazade]

My books have arrived! I am trying not to panic.

:yikes:

[Veho]

My books have arrived! I am trying not to panic.

:yikes:

Good luck, hope you enjoy your studies. And don't panic!

I'm doing two modules this year; one in English language and the other is literature. I'm looking forward to starting them.

[Niamh]

Oh, don't say that!How many credits are these courses? Try not to overload.

I am though. :( i'm so far behind its not even funny. Sniff Sniff.
The courses are a 15 pointer and a 30 pointer. One finishes at christmas and the other in May. I'll probably do another short course in feb, 10 pointer in Geology, Plate techtonics. My fav! :)


My books have arrived! I am trying not to panic.

:yikes:
I'm still waiting on mine. :(


Good luck, hope you enjoy your studies. And don't panic!

I'm doing two modules this year; one in English language and the other is literature. I'm looking forward to starting them.
Best of Luck Veho! :) How did the latin go?

[Veho]

I am though. :( i'm so far behind its not even funny. Sniff Sniff.
The courses are a 15 pointer and a 30 pointer. One finishes at christmas and the other in May. I'll probably do another short course in feb, 10 pointer in Geology, Plate techtonics. My fav! :)


I'm still waiting on mine. :(


Best of Luck Veho! :) How did the latin go?

Thank you! I changed back to a Literature degree as I decided that's what I'm most interested in, so I'm not doing the Latin anymore (at least not for a couple of years).

I hope you can catch up with your studies. I can sympathise as it's very difficult to keep on track and keep motivated sometimes. I'm sure you'll surprise yourself though, so don't give up heart!

[Scheherazade]

I am though. :( i'm so far behind its not even funny. Sniff Sniff.Don't give up, please, Niamh. Try to spare couple of days and put together as much as you can. Panic always acts as a good stimulant :)
The courses are a 15 pointer and a 30 pointer. One finishes at christmas and the other in May. I like the short courses but there are none any at MA level.

[Jazz_]

I'm about 3/4 of the way through my first year (it's gone very quickly!)

I'm on holidays for 2 weeks, followed by 4 weeks of classes (then exams ;))
Hopefully I can scrape through and get the minimum average I need (already planning my graduate degree :D)

So I finish in November, and don't start again until March - plenty of time for my trip to Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia :D

[Scheherazade]

Where are all the students??

My first assignment is due on 23/11. I should take advantage of the half term and start worrying about it but probably that won't happen.

[Scheherazade]

Again:
Where are all the students??
My first assignment is due on 23/11. I should take advantage of the half term and start worrying about it but probably that won't happen.Of course, it did not and here I am trying to put my assignment together without hyperventilating only three days before the due date... Hearing that some of my classmates have already sent theirs off is not helping either.

I will be very happy with 70%.

[Hurricane]

Again:Of course, it did not and here I am trying to put my assignment together without hyperventilating only three days before the due date... Hearing that some of my classmates have already sent theirs off is not helping either.

I will be very happy with 70%.

That sounds about right for where I am too...
I can take solace in that it'll all be done by Wednesday. Unfortunately, that means everything has to be completed by Wednesday.

[Scheherazade]

That sounds about right for where I am too...
I can take solace in that it'll all be done by Wednesday. Unfortunately, that means everything has to be completed by Wednesday.So, only 72 hours to go! :smilewinkgrin:

I have decided to submit mine tomorrow night without waiting for the final hour for a change. Hopefully, I will manage a C.

[Niamh]

Been a while since i posted in here! Finally finished the Archaeology course and submitted my ECA at the end of Oct. Result on 17th Dec. Fingerscrossed i pass. I'll be happy if i scrape 50%!
Just started two courses. A heritage one at the beginning of Oct. First assignment submitted on Friday Morning. My usual last minute panic :D I also started a course intitled Voices and Texts a couple of weeks back. so far its interesting.

[Scheherazade]

KitKats on the house!

Just submitted my first assignment and a full 24 hours ahead of the deadline! :banana:

The next one is in two months' time but considering the January laziness that will settle on me, I should try to get some work done before that!

(Yup, can see that happening! :sosp:)

[Niamh]

I just got my assignment back! Quickest assignment I've ever gotten back!
74% in TMA01 for A180. :D

[Scheherazade]

That's great, Niamh! :)

Do you submit your assignments electronically? If so, how do you "get them back"?

[Niamh]

Yes i submit mine electronically. You go to the EMA?ETA service link on the OU student Homepage, look at the list of TMA's for your relevant on and click on collect. Then you download the documents; your corrected TMA with tutor comments and the PT3 form which has your result and over all comment from the tutor. :) the mark shows up on my student homepage. Do you not get your electronically?

[Veho]

Hello fellow students :wave: Hope everyone's having a successful term/semester/year/what not, so far...

I just want to have a little moan because I have 1300 words of my assignment left to do for midnight and I don't know what to write... Uh oh... they're always left to the last minute... I'm sure I'm not the only one guilty of that..

[Nightshade]

Ok so I am seriously looking at doing teaching, as I can't currently do a PGCE or other teaching degree thought I would start with a TESOL/ TEFL but tell me does this not seem repetative?



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Phase Three B: is the writing of a 20,000 word dissertation 6 credits.

Completion of all three phases results in an MA. In TEFL



Especially concidering I am most likley to go for the advanced diploma staright off why would I then go and do repeative modules? It makes no sense....

Of course someone has offered me a job at a brand new school ( due to open in 2 and a half years ) if I go for Montessori Teaching method...but that is ex[ensive and not really a very marketable degree...oh what do I do?!

[Niamh]

Hello fellow students :wave: Hope everyone's having a successful term/semester/year/what not, so far...

I just want to have a little moan because I have 1300 words of my assignment left to do for midnight and I don't know what to write... Uh oh... they're always left to the last minute... I'm sure I'm not the only one guilty of that..

I'm also guilty as charged. :blush:

[Niamh]

I passed SA188! woohoo! now all i need is to get my result for TMA02 for A180 and i'll be happy!

[motherhubbard]

Way to go Niamh!!

[Hurricane]

Only one more final stands between me and being at home. Oh, that and an eight hour drive. Gah!

[Scheherazade]

I have decided to submit mine tomorrow night without waiting for the final hour for a change. Hopefully, I will manage a C.I did get the C I was expecting/aiming for though it does not make feel happy at all. :-/

Should try a little harder for the next assignment maybe.

[papayahed]

I did get the C I was expecting/aiming for though it does not make feel happy at all. :-/


You got a C?????

[Scheherazade]

Niamh>Congrats! :)
You got a C?????I know...

*hangs head*

[Niamh]

A C is still a good mark in my book. :) good on you Scher!

I've signed up for another course. Start Writing fiction. woot!

[motherhubbard]

Man- I'm thinking about starting a master's program in February. I don't know- I dread it but I want that degree. My work will pay for half.

[kasie]

Niamh, Scher, MotherH - you are Gluttons for Punishment! But good luck in your endeavours.

[Niamh]

Only a couple of weeks left of the heritage course and the panic of the final assignment is setting in! doesnt help I have an assignment for the Voices and Texts Course the week after. Waiting on the first of the assignments from that course to come back. worried would be the word i'd use.
However in saying that i'm looking forward to the Fiction writing course!

Hows school going for everyone else?

[JuniperWoolf]

I got a C this semester, too. It was my first one. And it was a C-.

:frown2:

[Niamh]

Just got my result back for TMA01 for my Voices and Texts course. 76% I'm quite pleased with the result, especially considering the big mess up at the end! :D Now i just got to get the final TMA for Heritage? Whose Heritage? out of the way for Friday Week. :willy_nilly:

[Big Dante]

Just got my result back for TMA01 for my Voices and Texts course. 76% I'm quite pleased with the result, especially considering the big mess up at the end! :D Now i just got to get the final TMA for Heritage? Whose Heritage? out of the way for Friday Week. :willy_nilly:

Well done :)

Ahhh, back to school next week :party: <------ :icon_bs:

[Scheherazade]

About to submit another assignment; aiming for another C, which seems to be the theme of the year.

:-/

[LitNetIsGreat]

Oh is this a school type/exam thread?

I just took a practice QTS skills test in maths and English. I passed the English (should hope so) but failed the maths quite dramatically. I can do maths though, I just need to recap things, but I'm not good with the timed mental arithmetic, too much like pain - I wouldn't even have bothered with it but Mrs Neely told me to have a go as she had just equally failed. The tests can be found on the TDA website, online tests. Have a go if you are really sad like me and Mrs Neely and do English and maths tests in our spare time for fun. I'm sure life was not meant to be like this...

Edit: do you believe in an alternative universe, for example whereby another Mr Neely can be found drifting around Paris with groups of good looking, intelligent people necking fine wine? I'm just joking, can't be having as much fun as this one...

[kasie]

I believe we may have bumped into each other there a few weeks back, Neely - we paused briefly to discuss the meaning of life but our good-looking, intelligent friends hurried us on to the next party.

[Scheherazade]

I passed the English (should hope so) but failed the maths quite dramatically. You know what this means, right? Had you been at student at my College, they would have sent you to one of my classes to "improve" your Numeracy!

Life is such fun at times!

:ihih:


Just submitted my assignment; happy that I managed to complete it without asking for an extension despite everything. I will be disappointed if I don't get a C.

And next assignment sounds even more interesting! :conehead:

[LitNetIsGreat]

Kasie, yes, didn't we meet just outside of the opera house - y'know by the fountain? We had a nice cool glass of something golden and then had to depart to do something dull (oh no, if it is an alternative universe that wouldn't have to happen of course, silly me).

Round 2 tonight - me Vs Mrs Neely. I'm going to win both today - that is, I'm going to try to fail with a higher mark in maths than her, maybe even try to pass it!! I'm not even going to have a drink before today, but after. I'll report back later with the exciting news of the results. Wish me luck...

Edit: Oh I wouldn't like to be in one of your classes, no offence of course, just would be scary. Are you sticking up for me or Mrs Neely in the second test? I assume that you will stick up for me, not one for supporting the girls eh??

[Niamh]

Best of luck with the assignment! I have one due friday. :(

But on another note my writing course is soon to start! :)

[LitNetIsGreat]

:arf: Beaten by one on both tests. Now got a headache with the stupid maths test. Need a beer before I go insane. Did much better though, but oh...

Postcard from alternative Neely:

Weather here in Rome is just fine. Currently sat outside the Piazza del Fancio with a group of intelligent, attractive people. Kasie is coming down in a bit fresh from a Wagner thing.

It's beautiful here. Ciao.

[kasie]

Hold that thought, Neely - I'm on my way, just have to drag myself away from yet another party. :Yawn:

But you still passed the Maths test, didn't you?

[paranoia]

School bells over 3 years and never did I think I would go.
They don't ring so bad after all. :)

[LitNetIsGreat]

Hold that thought, Neely - I'm on my way, just have to drag myself away from yet another party. :Yawn:

But you still passed the Maths test, didn't you?

No failed, but only by two. There not real or for anything though. What annoyed me, really annoyed me, is that Mrs Neely beat me by one on both the English and the Maths. I was not happy about that at all.:mad:

[Veho]

Just got two assignment results back: 74% and 68%. Not very pleased with myself :(

[LitNetIsGreat]

No failed, but only by two. There not real or for anything though. What annoyed me, really annoyed me, is that Mrs Neely beat me by one on both the English and the Maths. I was not happy about that at all.:mad:

Hee, hee, passed the maths!! 19/28, thrown the gauntlet down to Mrs Neely, ha, ha...

[OrphanPip]

I got 19/28 on my first try with the maths, but the mental arithmetic part is brutal, I don't think I've ever been able to do math that quickly in my head.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Yes it is nasty, you can use paper though to jot down the numbers, I didn't know that the first time.

If anybody else wants to join in the fun, :shocked: here are the tests:
http://www.tda.gov.uk/skillstestsonline/numeracy/assessment_engine.html

[OrphanPip]

Yes it is nasty, you can use paper though to jot down the numbers, I didn't know that the first time.

Oh ya I should have done that, there were a couple times that I just missed a number and couldn't answer.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Oh ya I should have done that, there were a couple times that I just missed a number and couldn't answer.

That would have knocked up your score a bit.

I'm too old for the maths. I could do all that 15 years ago, but I'm getting on for 33 now - still I passed though!!

[OrphanPip]

I'm just bad at multiplication in my head, I can do fractions and percentages, but multiplication is trickier.

Edit: I got 35/48 on the English test, I bombed the punctuation part.

[kasie]

Hee, hee, passed the maths!! 19/28, thrown the gauntlet down to Mrs Neely, ha, ha...

Congratulations! You'll be free for a beach party in St Tropez then?

[LitNetIsGreat]

I'm just bad at multiplication in my head, I can do fractions and percentages, but multiplication is trickier.

Edit: I got 35/48 on the English test, I bombed the punctuation part.

Yes I'm getting scores around that but some of the punctuation is subjective in places I feel. Also there are genuine mistakes/website errors later on in the English ones which makes it harder to score for sure.


Congratulations! You'll be free for a beach party in St Tropez then?

:lol:Yes yes Paris and Rome are sooo last week. The beach party in St Tropez is just the thing, could do with a little tan anyway, might as well take advantage of the free-vintage-champagne-exclusive beach party as well. Meet you there 'round five. Organic BBQ for 6/6.30.

Back in the other universe, beat Mrs Neely on the practice maths test...:)?:sosp:??:rolleyes:???:mad:...

[Veho]

I hate assignments!! If only we could study and learn but not have so many of these to write! This one is very difficult; don't know how to begin.

[Big Dante]

First day of college tomorrow, this should be interesting.

[kasie]

What are you studying, Big D?

[Niamh]

I hate assignments!! If only we could study and learn but not have so many of these to write! This one is very difficult; don't know how to begin.
What you doing at the moment?

[Veho]

What you doing at the moment?

That assignment was for U211 (Exploring the English Language). I've just sent it off, but it was the most difficult one I've had to do with the OU so far. Thank goodness it's done though, lol. Do you not get a great sense of achievement when you've sent them off? I'm doing A210 along side it as well. Got a Romantic poetry comparison coming up.

Are your modules going okay? What are your plans?

[LitNetIsGreat]

Got the exact same score as Mrs Neely on the last English, 33, damn!

My last ever uni modules start next week - 12 weeks and then I will have got my degree, finally. Seven years of part-time study! Let me tell you now, I am going to get so drunk on the final day, so drunk and will collect my BA like it is a crown of glory brought by the gods of Belgian beer and wild dance.

Alternative Neely is taking a short walking trip in the Lake District and drinking a lot of freshly prepared coffee in cute little coffee shops. He is also taking delight in browsing niche second-hand bookshops and leisurely sipping real ales by the fireside of quiet pubs. It is nearly spring there.

[Veho]

Got the exact same score as Mrs Neely on the last English, 33, damn!

My last ever uni modules start next week - 12 weeks and then I will have got my degree, finally. Seven years of part-time study! Let me tell you now, I am going to get so drunk on the final day, so drunk and will collect my BA like it is a crown of glory brought by the gods of Belgian beer and wild dance.

Alternative Neely is taking a short walking trip in the Lake District and drinking a lot of freshly prepared coffee in cute little coffee shops. He is also taking delight in browsing niche second-hand bookshops and leisurely sipping real ales by the fireside of quiet pubs. It is nearly spring there.

I bet you're eagerly anticipating that! I'm rather jealous. Are you going to do a Masters? I think I'll be tempted to, once I've got my degree. You might get withdrawal symptoms...

[Big Dante]

What are you studying, Big D?

Maths, English Writing, Religion - Philosophy, Sports Science and Athelete Development.
I'm happy with all my subjects, should be a good year.

[kasie]

Is that 'Things that have been written in English' or 'Things I write in English?' Either way it seems to me you will have your work cut out - Good Luck!


.....Alternative Neely is taking a short walking trip in the Lake District and drinking a lot of freshly prepared coffee in cute little coffee shops. He is also taking delight in browsing niche second-hand bookshops and leisurely sipping real ales by the fireside of quiet pubs. It is nearly spring there.

I know just the place - see you there. Last time I was in the Lake District, the daffodils were out, beside the lake, beneath the trees - really - and there was this chap wandering about on his own muttering 'What rhymes with "cloud"?' - no, not really....

[SilentMute]

If I can get financial aide, I'm thinking of returning to college to get my A.A. I'm only nine credits away from getting it, though six credits are math.:sick: Not my best subject, math. :nonod:

I went to vocational school because I was convinced that college was robbing me of my life precious. I thought vocational school would give me more applicable experience that could help me get a job. I got a certificate for medical coding. Unfortunately, employers want certified medical coders (I got a certifcate of completion--but there are certification tests to take). Many are asking for A.A.s too.

So, I've decided to put off job hunting and focus on my studies. I need my certification. I want to learn Spanish, since being bilingual is now almost a requirement. I'm thinking of changing my liberal arts degree to Accounting. Health INformation Management is more complimentary to coding, but I'm worried that an allergy to TB screens may keep me from getting most coding jobs. If I can't find a doctor that will sign off on me, I will never get a job in a hospital, nursing home, or home health agency. So I'm thinking of Accounting. It is a nice extra skill with coding, and it may not hurt to have a back-up career. :/

[Niamh]

That assignment was for U211 (Exploring the English Language). I've just sent it off, but it was the most difficult one I've had to do with the OU so far. Thank goodness it's done though, lol. Do you not get a great sense of achievement when you've sent them off? I'm doing A210 along side it as well. Got a Romantic poetry comparison coming up.

Are your modules going okay? What are your plans?

I know so many doing A210 at the moment and my facebook page is full of people cursing two poets in particular. :p
I've an assignment due for A150 (voices and Texts) on Thurs. Got to write a poem. Was fun.

On another note though.... I PASSED A180!!!!! WOOT!

[kasie]

Congratulations, Niamh.

Which two poets?

[Veho]

I know so many doing A210 at the moment and my facebook page is full of people cursing two poets in particular. :p
I've an assignment due for A150 (voices and Texts) on Thurs. Got to write a poem. Was fun.

On another note though.... I PASSED A180!!!!! WOOT!

Congrats!!! How chuffed are you!! :banana:

Writing a poem for an assignment does sound fun! Are you planning on doing the creative writing module?


Which two poets?

Wordsworth and Blake.

I haven't started it yet but I'm sure I'll be cursing by the end of the night, lol.

[Niamh]

Congrats!!! How chuffed are you!! :banana:
Delighted! It was by far the toughest assignment i've had to do so far. Two months worth of research. Didnt think i'd do so well! got 78% so definitely relieved.



Writing a poem for an assignment does sound fun! Are you planning on doing the creative writing module?

Sure am! Possibly in Sept/ Oct. You?


Wordsworth and Blake.

I haven't started it yet but I'm sure I'll be cursing by the end of the night, lol.
I know a few people who have been working on it for over a week and are still cursing it. :(

[Veho]

Delighted! It was by far the toughest assignment i've had to do so far. Two months worth of research. Didnt think i'd do so well! got 78% so definitely relieved.

Sure am! Possibly in Sept/ Oct. You?

I know a few people who have been working on it for over a week and are still cursing it. :(

I'm interested in it, but don't know if I can fit it in. I'll have to see... You'll have to let me know what you think of it when you start!

Sent my assignment off eventually, but I'm not happy with it really; could have done with a longer word limit. Onwards and upwards though.

[Niamh]

I finally got mine off too.

Have you joined in the Uni face off on Facebook?

[Veho]

I finally got mine off too.

Have you joined in the Uni face off on Facebook?

Nah, but only because I don't have Facebook! :)

Have you got your result yet? I haven't...

[Niamh]

Nah, but only because I don't have Facebook! :)

Have you got your result yet? I haven't...

Nope. No sign yet but its still early days. I just hope my poem gets a good reaction!

[Niamh]

Feuw! Another TMA result, and stress lifted! 71% for TMA02 for A150!
Just got TMA01 for A174 in two weeks time! :sick:

[*Classic*Charm*]

Is school over yet? :(

[Niamh]

No. :( I'm waiting for one assignment to come back and have one due on thursday. :(

[Veho]

I don't know if I should carry on with this degree if the best I can achieve in Lit. is 60%. I wasn't aiming for mediocrity.

[kasie]

Keep going, Veho - you'll regret it all your life if you fall by the wayside at this stage. Take a refreshing break - if you can - and start again with renewed determination. Ask for a review of your paper with a sympathetic tutor, if that's possible, he/she may be able to help you improve your exam technique. The very best of luck with the rest of your course.

[Veho]

Keep going, Veho - you'll regret it all your life if you fall by the wayside at this stage. Take a refreshing break - if you can - and start again with renewed determination. Ask for a review of your paper with a sympathetic tutor, if that's possible, he/she may be able to help you improve your exam technique. The very best of luck with the rest of your course.

Thank you, Kasie. Sometimes we need a good bit of positive advice - and you're right, I really would regret giving up now.

[Scheherazade]

I am not doing very well this year gradewise... I got two Ds :-/ But I am still enjoying the course material and feel that I am learning a lot... So, even though the grades do not indicate it, I think it is not a waste of time.

Keep going, Veho! :)

[Veho]

I am not doing very well this year gradewise... I got two Ds :-/ But I am still enjoying the course material and feel that I am learning a lot... So, even though the grades do not indicate it, I think it is not a waste of time.

Keep going, Veho! :)

I guess grades aren't the most important thing really, as long as it's enjoyable and new things are being learned (which seems to be true for both of us). Good luck to you for the rest of your course!

[Vonny]

You all are so lucky. I'm so envious of you.

[kasie]

I am not doing very well this year gradewise... I got two Ds :-/ But I am still enjoying the course material and feel that I am learning a lot... So, even though the grades do not indicate it, I think it is not a waste of time.

Keep going, Veho! :)

Glad you are enjoying the content at least, you course-crazy person, you - Will Ds get you a Pass? Hope so - good luck with the rest of it.

I went back to Welsh classes this morning, having not so much as opened the book since before I went away in March.... However, I thought I would get ahead of the game by preparing a few answers to the FAQ at the beginning of each term - so I went in with a prepared reply to What did you do last weekend? Did you go away in the holiday? and Did you watch the Royal Wedding? And sure enough, the tutor started with me - Did you go anywhere over Easter? He told the class that 'a lot of work' had gone into the preparation of my account of the trip to New York - little did he know of my last minute panic over breakfast!!

[Niamh]

Jeez its been a while! The last couple of months have been college stress stress stress. I'm never juggling two courses again. I could sleep for a decade!
However college is now over for the summer! Hurrah!! I'm free to waste hours of my days on litnet again! :cheers2:
Got TMA03 back from A150- Voices and Texts 64% disappointing but I couldn't stand Hard Times so I think it affected my grade. Oh well! Exam done and dusted for the course. Just have to wait for the result now! :S
Got TMA02 back from A174- Start Writing Fiction 73%. Could have done way better if I had the time to properly re-edit it and redraft it. Oh well!
Starting A215- Creative Writing in Oct. My first level 2 course.
The encouragement in this thread has been great and really kept me going, especially from you Scher!

[Scheherazade]

Glad you are enjoying the content at least, you course-crazy person, you - Will Ds get you a Pass? Hope so - good luck with the rest of it.
I managed to get some better grades later on and submitted my final assignment mid September. Will find out how I did in December.

And now, after four years, I do not have anything to study for at the moment. Decided to take a break till February as the last course I took was very heavy.

How is everyone else doing? Who is studying/taking courses this term?

[motherhubbard]

It looks like I'll be starting graduate school in February. I'm a little nervous. My under grad stuff was pretty consuming and I'm working full time now.

[Scheherazade]

It looks like I'll be starting graduate school in February. I'm a little nervous. My under grad stuff was pretty consuming and I'm working full time now.Good luck, MotherH! Been doing the same since last year and it is not an easy ride but even more rewarding for it.

Passed my course from last year and started a new one in February... Been informed by my tutor that I am supposed to dedicate at least 12 hours a week to my studies :goof: Considering that that is the amount of time I usually spare just before the assignments, wondering how it will turn out this term.

[OrphanPip]

I got accepted to grad school but I haven't confirmed the offer yet, I'm still procrastinating over whether I want to do it.

[kasie]

Many congratulations, Scher.:party:

I had been wondering about your courses - you seem to have so many reading challenges going on at the moment, I sort of suspected you didn't have any course work hanging over you!

Go for it, OrphanPip - you'll regret it if you don't.

Congrats to you too, Motherhubbard, it will all be worth it.

[Scheherazade]

Thank you, Kasie :)

Interestingly enough I find myself wanting to read more (and spending longer hours on the Forum as well) when I have to study!

Hope you decide to go ahead, Pip... I have always regretted not completing my MA right after getting my degree. When does it start if you decide to go ahead?

Anyone else studying this term?

[OrphanPip]

It would start in September, I've got until Friday to confirm.

[Paulclem]

I'm still doing my L5 Maths for teaching, which is really good. It's an online course where we meet every month with the others on the course and the lecturers.

[Scheherazade]

It would start in September, I've got until Friday to confirm.So, tell us then...
I'm still doing my L5 Maths for teaching, which is really good. It's an online course where we meet every month with the others on the course and the lecturers.Three cheers for online courses! They make life much easier and interesting!

I have an assignment due next week and I am finding it hard to concentrate. There is often a direct correlation between the number of my posts and urgency of my assignment.

:goof:

[Paulclem]

So, tell us then...Three cheers for online courses! They make life much easier and interesting!

I have an assignment due next week and I am finding it hard to concentrate. There is often a direct correlation between the number of my posts and urgency of my assignment.

:goof:

Me too. I'd do some tonight but I'm just too knackered.

[OrphanPip]

So, tell us then...

I got another offer on Thursday, from McGill, so I'm going to accept that one and stay in Montreal.

[Scheherazade]

I got another offer on Thursday, from McGill, so I'm going to accept that one and stay in Montreal.All the best, Pip! :)

What will you study?


Another assignment looming...

Why is it that while I am perfectly happy to do my course readings (actually love them), putting something on the paper is so very difficult?

[Scheherazade]

Bump!

Trying to work on my end-of-term project. No go.

I would like to take this opportunity to point out that I have not been impressed with this year's turn out. Hoping that there will be more of us studying and being miserable together next year.

If you haven't yet, there are two more months to enroll. Jus' sayin'.

*looks at Papaya's general direction in particular*

:toetap05:

[OrphanPip]

All the best, Pip! :)

What will you study?


My thesis proposal was on the incorporation of disguise as a theatrical technique into early prose narratives and how it was transformed gradually to fit the new form, with special attention paid to how these transformation reflect class and gender concerns of the times.

Edit: Well, one of my proposals, I also proposed looking at how stock characters were adapted and changed between the Jacobean period comedies and the Restoration.

[Scheherazade]

My thesis proposal was on the incorporation of disguise as a theatrical technique into early prose narratives and how it was transformed gradually to fit the new form, with special attention paid to how these transformation reflect class and gender concerns of the times.

Edit: Well, one of my proposals, I also proposed looking at how stock characters were adapted and changed between the Jacobean period comedies and the Restoration.I thought you would be studying Biology or something similar...

Those sound interesting topics to concentrate on... And a real change of direction for you. Will you still be working if you decide to go ahead with MA?

[OrphanPip]

I thought you would be studying Biology or something similar...

Those sound interesting topics to concentrate on... And a real change of direction for you. Will you still be working if you decide to go ahead with MA?

Haha, well I have both the BS and the BA now so I could have, but I don't have much interest in doing an MS

I'm probably going to do the MA full-time so I'll be working part-time. I did the BA part-time, but I don't think I want to spend that long doing the MA, also it would exclude me from a number of funding opportunities I get from being full-time.

[Scheherazade]

Haha, well I have both the BS and the BA now so I could have, but I don't have much interest in doing an MS

I'm probably going to do the MA full-time so I'll be working part-time. I did the BA part-time, but I don't think I want to spend that long doing the MA, also it would exclude me from a number of funding opportunities I get from being full-time.Oh, congratulations on BA! :)

It does take a long time to do your MA part-time. I am taking one module at a time and oh boy... However, I cannot opt for full-time so better than never getting it.

Hope you get a place at the university of your choice. Don't forget to come here and whine at assignment times - that's what I do :D

[Scheherazade]

Well, it is that time of the year... Again.

Classes are starting and I have been told I am taking a relatively easy class this term.

Here's to hoping!

[Pensive]

Starting university from 20th September hopefully (though it means I would probably be too late since classes have already started and there would be a lot to catch up with!). Apparently I am the only one in the class who is going to arrive so late. :(

Also a bit annoyed at having been offered a 50 percent tuition fee waiver (scholarship) for Middle East Technical University so late now when I have already got admission in a university (and actually got my visa/residence permit too). Too late to do anything about it, but it would probably have been easier to adjust in Turkey where weather is more favorable and culture more similar and easy to adjust into as compared to Eastern Europe! (not to mention people a lot more friendlier! :p) But no use regretting what's done and I must make the best of what I have already chosen!

[OrphanPip]

Well, it is that time of the year... Again.

Classes are starting and I have been told I am taking a relatively easy class this term.

Here's to hoping!

I returned to McGill on Wednesday for the first time in 4 years, and I had forgotten how horribly hilly and far away everything is on campus. The uphill walk to the graduate lounge today, combined with a case of pneumonia, nearly killed me. Blerg.

My courses don't seem to be too heavy from my perspective. One is a thesis preparation pass/fail thing that I just have to show up to in order to complete. I'm doing a course on Old English Language and Medieval Literature, which will probably be challenging, but I don't have the first lecture until Monday. My other course is on the Renaissance English epic, I have to have 2 topics chosen by Wednesday: one on Spenser and one on Milton. It doesn't seem like too much work though, it's only two 20 minute presentations and two 12 page papers.

[Paulclem]

Well, it is that time of the year... Again.

Classes are starting and I have been told I am taking a relatively easy class this term.

Here's to hoping!

I'm taking Maths for ESOL learners this year. It'll be a two session class - 5 hours a week. It should be interesting. It's also in the building I manage, so it will be easy to organise. We're wondering what effect the Functional Skills will have on the maths attainment. We predict that levels will drop - in particular for ex-ESOL learners.

[qimissung]

Scher, what class will you be taking?

Pensive, why will you be arriving late? Also, I'm not sure I understood what you were saying about going to Turkey as opposed to Eastern Europe? Can you transfer later if you think Turkey would be a better choice?

Good luck, OP. It sounds fun, except for the 12 page papers. :D

Enjoy, Paul Clem. What are Functional Skills? And Maths attainment? And why do they put an "s" on the end of Math in the UK? Thanks.

I may, may take some language classes. They are stand alone, I guess. In other words, not toward a degree. I've just wanted to study a couple of different languages for awhile now, so I may go forward with that idea. I'm not very good at self-discipline, so we'll see how it goes. Can I still come here and talk about class?

[Shevek]

I returned to McGill on Wednesday for the first time in 4 years, and I had forgotten how horribly hilly and far away everything is on campus. The uphill walk to the graduate lounge today, combined with a case of pneumonia, nearly killed me. Blerg.

My courses don't seem to be too heavy from my perspective. One is a thesis preparation pass/fail thing that I just have to show up to in order to complete. I'm doing a course on Old English Language and Medieval Literature, which will probably be challenging, but I don't have the first lecture until Monday. My other course is on the Renaissance English epic, I have to have 2 topics chosen by Wednesday: one on Spenser and one on Milton. It doesn't seem like too much work though, it's only two 20 minute presentations and two 12 page papers.

Are you in a one-year program or a two-year one, assuming you're doing an M.A.? I'm still looking into grad school and it seems one-year programs with a research essay component are the trend nowadays.

[OrphanPip]

Are you in a one-year program or a two-year one, assuming you're doing an M.A.? I'm still looking into grad school and it seems one-year programs with a research essay component are the trend nowadays.

One-year programs are pretty much the norm now, McGill is one of the last 2-year programs in the country as far as I know. McGill offers you the opportunity to do it in 1 or 2 years, keeping in mind that the 1 year programs are 3 semesters and the 2 just give you an extra semester for concentrating on thesis writing.

Some of the MA programs don't even have research paper options, UoT has gone to an entirely course based MA. I was also put off by UoT's large MA cohort size, and relatively high tuition in comparison to McGill.

From speaking with the graduate coordinator and a member of the admission committee, I've been told there is a lot of interest in doing away with MA theses, because they are increasingly viewed as redundant and less useful than a broader education at the MA level. The trend in the lit departments seems to be towards more rounded students and less specialization.

McGill's research paper option is relatively long at 50-60 pages, and involves a formal defence like a thesis. So, McGill remains slightly more demanding than some of the other MA programs in the country. It also has the benefit of smaller classes and good Graduate Student to faculty ratio. Although, UoT has fantastic faculty and the best library in the country, especially for Can. Lit.

The thesis option still being available at McGill is also an interesting attraction for those who want to really develop a complex argument at the MA level. McGill also offers a lot of support for conference submission and participation by MAs. I've heard McMaster is also very good about supporting their MAs. I chose not to attend McMaster, but the funding I was offered was very generous. Ottawa U also had surprisingly good fellowships and guaranteed TAship for applicants with 3.8/4.0 or higher GPAs. That was initially my fall-back application, but I was tempted by the money they offered me.

Edit: I haven't decided on whether I will do a RP or a full thesis yet, I want to secure a supervisor before I make that final decision.

[Shevek]

One-year programs are pretty much the norm now, McGill is one of the last 2-year programs in the country as far as I know. McGill offers you the opportunity to do it in 1 or 2 years, keeping in mind that the 1 year programs are 3 semesters and the 2 just give you an extra semester for concentrating on thesis writing.

Some of the MA programs don't even have research paper options, UoT has gone to an entirely course based MA. I was also put off by UoT's large MA cohort size, and relatively high tuition in comparison to McGill.

From speaking with the graduate coordinator and a member of the admission committee, I've been told there is a lot of interest in doing away with MA theses, because they are increasingly viewed as redundant and less useful than a broader education at the MA level. The trend in the lit departments seems to be towards more rounded students and less specialization.

McGill's research paper option is relatively long at 50-60 pages, and involves a formal defence like a thesis. So, McGill remains slightly more demanding than some of the other MA programs in the country. It also has the benefit of smaller classes and good Graduate Student to faculty ratio. Although, UoT has fantastic faculty and the best library in the country, especially for Can. Lit.

The thesis option still being available at McGill is also an interesting attraction for those who want to really develop a complex argument at the MA level. McGill also offers a lot of support for conference submission and participation by MAs. I've heard McMaster is also very good about supporting their MAs. I chose not to attend McMaster, but the funding I was offered was very generous. Ottawa U also had surprisingly good fellowships and guaranteed TAship for applicants with 3.8/4.0 or higher GPAs. That was initially my fall-back application, but I was tempted by the money they offered me.

Edit: I haven't decided on whether I will do a RP or a full thesis yet, I want to secure a supervisor before I make that final decision.

Thanks for this info, especially about funding. I will probably end up doing a one-year program, then.

I was told TAships are generally guaranteed to first-year M.A. students regardless of academic standing (at least in the history department at Carleton University). Is this incorrect?

[OrphanPip]

Thanks for this info, especially about funding. I will probably end up doing a one-year program, then.

I was told TAships are generally guaranteed to first-year M.A. students regardless of academic standing (at least in the history department at Carleton University). Is this incorrect?

Depends on the school many of the smaller but fairly well funded schools, like McMaster or York, guarantee. It's pretty difficult to get MA funding at UoT, unless you manage to secure a SSHRC grant the final year of your undergrad.

McGill guarantees you a fellowship, TAships aren't scarce but they are prioritized to PhD and 2nd year MAs. My fellowship covers my tuition comfortably, as a Quebec resident I pay less than the other students.

[JuniperWoolf]

McGill's research paper option is relatively long at 50-60 pages, and involves a formal defence like a thesis.

Jesus Christ. :sick:

[Paulclem]

Scher, what class will you be taking?

Pensive, why will you be arriving late? Also, I'm not sure I understood what you were saying about going to Turkey as opposed to Eastern Europe? Can you transfer later if you think Turkey would be a better choice?

Good luck, OP. It sounds fun, except for the 12 page papers. :D

Enjoy, Paul Clem. What are Functional Skills? And Maths attainment? And why do they put an "s" on the end of Math in the UK? Thanks.

I may, may take some language classes. They are stand alone, I guess. In other words, not toward a degree. I've just wanted to study a couple of different languages for awhile now, so I may go forward with that idea. I'm not very good at self-discipline, so we'll see how it goes. Can I still come here and talk about class?

Functional skills are a new set of qualifications designed to be taken as a preparation for our standard 16 year olds school qualification. It is used for adults and kids in school. The idea was to have qualifications that reflected everyday problems but which also tested metacognitive skills. We have them in Maths, English and ICT. I don't know why you don't put an s on maths. Perhaps you regard it as a count noun already.

Pardon the typos - just corrected. The phone is awkward when editing - or it may be another manifestation of my churlish fingers.

[Pensive]

Pensive, why will you be arriving late? Also, I'm not sure I understood what you were saying about going to Turkey as opposed to Eastern Europe? Can you transfer later if you think Turkey would be a better choice?

Actually I would have to reach my destination by traveling a long way (via Beijing and Helsinki) and appropriate flights are either full or irregular (plus I got to know the decision regarding the grant of my residence permit a bit late so there wasn't enough time to make proper travel arrangements at such a busy time of year).

That's always a possibility but the credit-transfer system is very complicated and I do not have the option of deferring this scholarship!

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

Thanks for this info, especially about funding. I will probably end up doing a one-year program, then.

I was told TAships are generally guaranteed to first-year M.A. students regardless of academic standing (at least in the history department at Carleton University). Is this incorrect?

At my university--Southern Illinois University Edwardsville--TAships (and I'm talking about Teaching Assistantships, just so we're talking about the same thing) are definitely not guaranteed. It's a pretty competitive application process, and first year MA students getting it our the exception, though it does happen. I didn't get my TAship the first year I applied, but I did this year, which is my seconding the MA program. When the committee is deciding who to hire, academic standing is a large part of their decision. My GPA isn't top notch, but I got in because I already had a background n education and most of the committee members knew me.

This is all just for the English department at my university. I don't know how other departments work--our English department is pretty picky, which is good.

Also, Canada's MA programs must not be as strenuous as the USA's. I've never heard of a one year MA program, and it's very difficult to complete an MA in two years--most elope take longer. I know I will.

[OrphanPip]

Also, Canada's MA programs must not be as strenuous as the USA's. I've never heard of a one year MA program, and it's very difficult to complete an MA in two years--most elope take longer. I know I will.

It's the standard British model. And it's also literally a 12 month program with no summer break that usually spills over into September to November, so like 13-15 months in all.

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

Well, the American model would be at least 18 months (and most students will take classes over the summer). Note that I'm not claiming ours is somehow better because it's a longer program--yours is probably more intensive than ours.

[OrphanPip]

Well I'm in a two year program so it doesn't really apply to me.

[qimissung]

Mutatis, you misspelled disappointing. I'm disappointed.

Thank you, Paul. I like how you turned my question around. What do you mean by a count noun? To me it's Math, like English is English. It's probably just what we're each used to.


http://www.dailywritingtips.com/math-or-maths/

I found this. It says there's a good argument for using it either way.

Thank you, Pensive, for explaining. It sounds very complicated, but completely understandable concerning the transfer of credits and the scholarship. I hope your journey there is not arduous.

I'm starting a Chinese class tomorrow! :banana: I'm so excited, I'm not sure why because even though I've always wanted to learn another language I'm really rotten at classes that require lots of memorization.

Good luck with school, OP, Mutatis and everyone!

[OrphanPip]

I won my uncontested election to the post of graduate representative on the curriculum committee. I got 6 votes! It feels less like a victory when no one runs against you.

[Madhuri]

I attended a trial class on Spanish. The teacher is Spanish and I liked how the class was conducted. I will most likely join the course on the basics in January. The diploma (DELE) exams are held in May every year and I think joining in Jan would be a better option. I am quite excited about it :)

[qimissung]

Uncontested! Congratulations are indeed in order, OrphanPip. :)

Hola, Maddie. I know you'll enjoy Spanish. It's a pretty language and not too hard. I can read some, but can't speak it.

[Scheherazade]

Scher, what class will you be taking?I have been concentrating on "Distance Learning" so there will be more of that in my future.

Re. Math vs Maths. To me "Maths" is natural because it is "Mathematics" as it is mentioned in the link you provided, Qimi.

I got 6 votes!Out of how many? :D

That'll learn ya to volunteer and give up your hours to do something to "benefit" all!

I attended a trial class on Spanish. The teacher is Spanish and I liked how the class was conducted. I will most likely join the course on the basics in January. The diploma (DELE) exams are held in May every year and I think joining in Jan would be a better option. I am quite excited about it :)Sounds exciting, Maddie :)

I promised myself to learn another language but not sure how or when. Why are only 24 hours in a day???

[OrphanPip]

That'll learn ya to volunteer and give up your hours to do something to "benefit" all!


It's not too heavy a commitment, but I figured it would be somewhat useful for gaining some connections with the faculty.

Luckily for me, voting for my non-existent competition was not allowed, and I don't know how many votes in all were cast, but 6 out of 35ish possible votes isn't so bad. Especially for a completely irrelevant bureaucratic position.

[JuniperWoolf]

Congrats Pip! I always knew you were destined for governance.


I returned to McGill on Wednesday for the first time in 4 years, and I had forgotten how horribly hilly and far away everything is on campus. The uphill walk to the graduate lounge today, combined with a case of pneumonia, nearly killed me. Blerg.

Mine is really hilly and spread out too - it's not horrible though, because of the altitude change. I was out of breath after walking to work in GC, but now I think I could literally run everywhere I go in Vancouver and be fine. It feels weird, because it seems like my body improved but I didn't have to work for it. Like I just did a quick 80's training montage or something.

[Madhuri]

Hola, Maddie. I know you'll enjoy Spanish. It's a pretty language and not too hard. I can read some, but can't speak it.

Hola, Qimi :) que tal? :)

I think my situation will be the same. Just imagine an Indian speaking Spanish! If those who know the language hear me, they'll be rolling on the floor laughing at my accent :p It will sound funny, I am sure :)

[Scheherazade]

It's not too heavy a commitment, but I figured it would be somewhat useful for gaining some connections with the faculty.

Luckily for me, voting for my non-existent competition was not allowed, and I don't know how many votes in all were cast, but 6 out of 35ish possible votes isn't so bad. Especially for a completely irrelevant bureaucratic position.I am involved in curriculum committees and it is always interesting how it all works. Rarely one gets to achieve anything ground-breaking but still it is an opportunity to have a say.


Congratulations and all the best :)

[The Comedian]

I'm goin' back to school. Actually, I started several weeks ago. Still workin' and all that, just going to school part-time -- trying to pick up my second MA, this new one being in philosophy.

[Sancho]

I listened to couple of podcasts by The Grammar Girl today. Does that count? Great podcasts, but I'm afraid her lessons haven't quite kicked in yet in El Sancho's brain.

[qimissung]

Hola, Qimi :) que tal? :)

I think my situation will be the same. Just imagine an Indian speaking Spanish! If those who know the language hear me, they'll be rolling on the floor laughing at my accent :p It will sound funny, I am sure :)

muy bien, gracias, Maddie! Well, as long as you can laugh at yourself, it's all good. Learning a language is hard work! Fortunately, we've got the rest of our lives to learn it/them. :p

Maybe we can practice together a bit. You can write in Spanish on my page, and I'll answer. It can be Dick and Jane type stuff-it will have to be in my case. :D

Congrats, Comedian. You have a gift for philosophy, I think. It's rigorous, and really requires logical thinking. I like to know bits and pieces of it, but going deeper scares me. :yikes:

Ah, Grammar Girl. She's a lot of fun, isn't she, Sancho? I always turn to her page when I can't remember how to use lay/lie. I read it, apply it, then forget it. :D

[Sancho]

Qimi, I can see that you’re more advanced than me (or is it, I?). I’m still wrestling with those fine distinctions between a noun and a verb. As for the langish Spanquage, have you tried the Coffee Break Spanish podcasts?

Is it too obvious that Sancho has just figured out how to play podcasts in his car?

[OrphanPip]

I went to the rare books collection at the school library today, I got to page through a Fourth Folio Shakespeare, which was kind of neat.

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

Every year, my university selects one grad student to be a representative on their literature committee, and guess who they picked? This guy! (Commence jokes now.)

[The Comedian]

Every year, my university selects one grad student to be a representative on their literature committee, and guess who they picked? This guy! (Commence jokes now.)

Moby-dick for one and all!

[qimissung]

I have heard of the Coffee Break podcasts, Sancho. I did the first one. :D Once. I'll give them a whirl. They have French and Chinese, too, in addition to other languages.

Here's the link, Maddie:


http://radiolingua.com/cbs-step-1/


The BBC also has an online course:


http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/spanish/


Congrats, Mutatis.

That's really cool, OP. What did it look like? Did you feel somewhat awed-I would, I admit it!

[Scheherazade]

I'm goin' back to school. Actually, I started several weeks ago. Still workin' and all that, just going to school part-time -- trying to pick up my second MA, this new one being in philosophy.good luck! :)


Every year, my university selects one grad student to be a representative on their literature committee, and guess who they picked? This guy! (Commence jokes now.)Congratulations, Mutatis.

Let us know if you need a reference.

[Sancho]

...Just imagine an Indian speaking Spanish! If those who know the language hear me, they'll be rolling on the floor laughing at my accent :p It will sound funny, I am sure :)

One thing found with Latinos is that they love to speak Spanish with a non-native speaker. I’ve had the exact opposite experience in Europe, regardless of the country, and regardles of the local lingo. So, Madurhi, if you come to Latin America, just jump right in. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how warm the people can be. And I reckon they’ll dig your accent. A few years ago, a co-worker and I had a chance to bomb around Quito for a day. She’s a Chinese woman with a pidgin Spanish that’s about as crappy as my pidgin Spanish. But she has an aggressive, take-no-prisoners type of personality. I can’t remember having so much fun in a long time. Ecuadorians tend to be overly polite, in my opinion, and now they’ve got this overly caffeinated Chinese woman jabbering away at them in a rapid-fire version of Spanish and Mandarin. What a hoot. We had a great time. I just stood back and watched the show, for the most part.

[OrphanPip]

That's really cool, OP. What did it look like? Did you feel somewhat awed-I would, I admit it!

They have them bound in newer leather binding, it was strangely ordinary. I got to handle some 16th century manuscripts on parchment too. Apparently the rarest thing in the University collection are some pages of the Gutenberg Bible, but the librarian didn't let me touch that.

[JBI]

They have them bound in newer leather binding, it was strangely ordinary. I got to handle some 16th century manuscripts on parchment too. Apparently the rarest thing in the University collection are some pages of the Gutenberg Bible, but the librarian didn't let me touch that.


Robarts has a first folio, but you cannot touch it.

[qimissung]

They have them bound in newer leather binding, it was strangely ordinary. I got to handle some 16th century manuscripts on parchment too. Apparently the rarest thing in the University collection are some pages of the Gutenberg Bible, but the librarian didn't let me touch that.

That's always a little disappointing. What about the text? Was it also ordinary? :(

[Madhuri]

I have heard of the Coffee Break podcasts, Sancho. I did the first one. :D Once. I'll give them a whirl. They have French and Chinese, too, in addition to other languages.

Here's the link, Maddie:


http://radiolingua.com/cbs-step-1/


The BBC also has an online course:


http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/spanish/



Thanks, Qimi. :)


One thing found with Latinos is that they love to speak Spanish with a non-native speaker. I’ve had the exact opposite experience in Europe, regardless of the country, and regardles of the local lingo. So, Madurhi, if you come to Latin America, just jump right in. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how warm the people can be. And I reckon they’ll dig your accent. A few years ago, a co-worker and I had a chance to bomb around Quito for a day. She’s a Chinese woman with a pidgin Spanish that’s about as crappy as my pidgin Spanish. But she has an aggressive, take-no-prisoners type of personality. I can’t remember having so much fun in a long time. Ecuadorians tend to be overly polite, in my opinion, and now they’ve got this overly caffeinated Chinese woman jabbering away at them in a rapid-fire version of Spanish and Mandarin. What a hoot. We had a great time. I just stood back and watched the show, for the most part.

The teacher at the institute is Spanish. He speaks English but with an accent; I can see some interesting conversation happening in the future. :D

[OrphanPip]

Grading papers today and feeling very frustrated by students who can't follow the simplest of format instructions.

[JBI]

Grading papers today and feeling very frustrated by students who can't follow the simplest of format instructions.

Could be worse. I just lectured on "World Literature" and these kids argued Western people are sexist because of Greek mythology. Here they abort and murder female babies because of their gender, but us "Westerners" are sexist because Aphrodite is an objectified sense of male desire. What?

The way literature is written here they see it as a continuous unbroken tradition, and think we are still in the times of aristotle, and they still in the times of Confucius. Nothing could be further from the truth, they call it history because things change.

Basically I told the girl, I do not care that you've read Virginia Woolf and imagine yourself something of a Feminist, you know nothing about Feminism, or history.

[Scheherazade]

Trying to finish my final assignment but due to factors that were out of my control, it's left till very last minute... Just trying to throw things together and hope that my Prof will be able to make sense of it all :D

Someone remind me not to take anymore courses.

I mean the one after this one... Next course will start in February :svengo:

[cacian]

Good luck Scher I hope it all goes well.

[Scheherazade]

Thank you, Cacian.

Phew. Another assignment (and course) out of the way. Next one starts in February, which gives me two whole weeks of freedom.

Luckily, I have got student assignments to mark to keep me busy; don't know what I would have done with all this free time, otherwise.

[kasie]

Scher - I've said it before and I'll say it again - you are a glutton for punishment. Oh and by the way, you really ought to think about not doing any more courses....after the one in February, that is.....

[papayahed]

Thanks guys! I was waffling between an MBA and Spanish. Spanish won over because I really wanted to start this semester and I haven't taken the GMAT yet.

This semester I'm taking Spanish and Intro to Fiction. Both should be pretty decent, except one of the books for the fiction class is Possession by Byatt. I really really disliked that book!!

I ditched Spanish a while back because the school didn't offer any night classes and it started getting difficult to fit them in with work and all. (I talked to the dean about it but she pretty much told me that I needed to make school a priority.)

And Viola! 5 years later I'm starting the MBA program in March. yeah!! It won't be as much fun as spanish but it works with my schedule AND I can get work to pay for it.

[qimissung]

That last night be the best part! Congrats, papaya, on getting accepted. What will you be getting your degree in?

[Scheherazade]

Congratulations! I am glad once again you are joining me in suffering... I mean studying!

I will take a break in September - after 6 years of studying straight, though - and learn another language.

[papayahed]

That last night be the best part! Congrats, papaya, on getting accepted. What will you be getting your degree in?


Master of Business Administration. It couldn't hurt, right?

Hey Scher, I start March 10! (Just in time for our annual shutdown - timing has never been my strong suit)

[qimissung]

It surely couldn't! Hope it goes well.

What other language are you planning to study, Scher?

[Scheherazade]

Hey Scher, I start March 10! (Just in time for our annual shutdown - timing has never been my strong suit)Oh, I can't wait to see that! What is the mode of study?



What other language are you planning to study, Scher?I am inclined towards improving my meagre French.

[papayahed]

Oh, I can't wait to see that! What is the mode of study?


It's online. I've never done a fully online class before.

[qimissung]

Let us know how you enjoy it, papaya.

And Scher, how exactly do you fit study into your days? I know you wear several hats. Les esprits curieux veulent savoir (thanks, google translate :D).

[Scheherazade]

It's online. I've never done a fully online class before.It's fun! I have been doing for a few years now - as you know - and it is liberating.




And Scher, how exactly do you fit study into your days? I know you wear several hats. Les esprits curieux veulent savoir (thanks, google translate :D).I am like a plate-spinner... Running from one plate to the next and ever so often, they end up on the floor, needless to say.

I am only happy that my studies will come to an end in September (for now). Just remind me not to pursue two MAs simultaneously next time :-/

Cannot wait to be able to do some guilt-free reading after 5 years!

Are you studying anything these days, Qimi?

[qimissung]

I'm still taking a Chinese language class. But I don't really study for it. I wish I would, but when life gets stressful, study is the first thing to go for me. I can read a few things and I'm learning the pronunciation, sort of. I know a number of the words in pinyin.

[Scheherazade]

Chinese must be very challenging! Do you chat with JBI to practice? :D

I am hoping to take a language class as well once I am done in September... Nothing ambitious, though... French or German for Tourists or something! Don't want to learn yet another alphabet!

[Lykren]

I'm still taking a Chinese language class. But I don't really study for it. I wish I would, but when life gets stressful, study is the first thing to go for me. I can read a few things and I'm learning the pronunciation, sort of. I know a number of the words in pinyin.

I'm studying Japanese and I have the same difficulty. It's something I really, really want to learn and am actually interested in, but do I listen to the dialogues when it's not required for homework? Nope. Do I practice writing kanji on my own? Nope. And I feel terrible about it, but I keep on (not) doing it.

[qimissung]

Chinese must be very challenging! Do you chat with JBI to practice? :D

I am hoping to take a language class as well once I am done in September... Nothing ambitious, though... French or German for Tourists or something! Don't want to learn yet another alphabet!

Lol. No.

Yeah, no one in the class but me wants to learn the Chinese characters, although they are doing so. It is rather daunting.I figure at some point, I will figure out the pattern and it will all fall into place. I hope.

[qimissung]

I'm studying Japanese and I have the same difficulty. It's something I really, really want to learn and am actually interested in, but do I listen to the dialogues when it's not required for homework? Nope. Do I practice writing kanji on my own? Nope. And I feel terrible about it, but I keep on (not) doing it.

I know. I even bought some more CD's after not listening to the first set I bought. And I keep thinking I'll watch some movies in Chinese (which there are several I love), but no.

I did move the CD case from the back seat of the car to the front seat. Maybe tomorrow I'll turn over a new leaf.

[Lykren]

Not to derail the thread, but have you seen Raise the Red Lantern by Zhang Yimou, Qimi? I recently saw it and it was fabulous! It even made me enjoy hearing Chinese opera.

[qimissung]

Saw it. Loved it. Maybe I should watch it again. It's been years.

[JBI]

I'm still taking a Chinese language class. But I don't really study for it. I wish I would, but when life gets stressful, study is the first thing to go for me. I can read a few things and I'm learning the pronunciation, sort of. I know a number of the words in pinyin.

The only way to learn Chinese is literally to write every character out as many times as you need for it to stick in your head. Most people who come here to study seem to get nothing out of 2 years of constant classes (20+ hours a week).

Generally you need to forgo Pinyin as soon as possible if you want to move onward with your studies.

[JBI]

Not to derail the thread, but have you seen Raise the Red Lantern by Zhang Yimou, Qimi? I recently saw it and it was fabulous! It even made me enjoy hearing Chinese opera.

Try watching 12 hours straight of it - it will drive you insane, especially traditional productions that are usually performed in no-longer-existent dialects. Reading Chinese opera is far more pleasureful than watching it, I'm afraid - it is rather sad, but that is probably why the operas that seem to be most studied now are known for their literary quality rather than their theatrical quality.

Not saying Chinese opera is good or not (though you would need to specify which kind, as Chinese opera is different by tradition in every city) but that 99% of Chinese people under 50 would probably agree that they will never desire, or be able to sit and watch a whole opera from head to tail. in addition to this, most would go insane in 5 minutes.

The general form Chinese opera takes now on the mainland is various programs broadcast for mostly old people on TV (in various languages) as well as school trips or short videos showing the most famous 5 minutes of any opera (which most people cannot even stand).

That being said, I will say the reason is simple - people don't like the music, and the emphasis has traditionally not been on the music, but more on the performance. In a world with cinema and developed effects, a juggler is no longer a ticket seller like it used to be.

[Lykren]

Yep, I'm pretty sure the fact that the music was set within a film whose visuals were beautifully developed helped me take in the little that was served. The actress He Caifei's beauty didn't hurt either.

[qimissung]

The only way to learn Chinese is literally to write every character out as many times as you need for it to stick in your head. Most people who come here to study seem to get nothing out of 2 years of constant classes (20+ hours a week).

Generally you need to forgo Pinyin as soon as possible if you want to move onward with your studies.

Thank you for the good advice. I actually do write out many characters. I just need to do it much more often. That and practice the dialogue in the text so that I can learn how to use the words themselves. I just don't spend enough hours on it, although I have reached a place where I can see that if I only would, I could make some actual progress.

I also find Quizlet somewhat helpful in learning the vocabulary.

[papayahed]

Ha! For the past three weeks I've been in turnaround and still managed to do all my homework assignments.

[papayahed]

1 class down 15 to go. New semester starts today.

[OrphanPip]

Well, I finished my MA last week. I have an interview at a college for a teaching position Wednesday.

[papayahed]

Well, I finished my MA last week. I have an interview at a college for a teaching position Wednesday.



Allllll Riiigghhttt! Congratulations!

[qimissung]

1 class down 15 to go. New semester starts today.

I like your positive attitude. How is it going to school while working full time? Because I could not do it. How do you do it, anyway?

[qimissung]

Well, I finished my MA last week. I have an interview at a college for a teaching position Wednesday.

Well, well, well, congratulations! It seems like just yesterday you were telling us you had applied.

[OrphanPip]

Well I will be teaching one course in the Fall. It won't be enough to live off of, but it is a start of building a teaching resume. Now I just need to find something to fill another 30 hours of my week so I can eat.

[papayahed]

I start back in October.

[Scheherazade]

1 class down 15 to go. New semester starts today.


Well, I finished my MA last week. I have an interview at a college for a teaching position Wednesday.Congratulations to both of you!

As of yesterday, I am done. Been studying non-stop for the past six years and I'm done! I don't have to write another report or complete another project.

Well, till the time I decide I should gain another qualification...

[papayahed]

As of yesterday, I am done. Been studying non-stop for the past six years and I'm done! I don't have to write another report or complete another project.

Well, till the time I decide I should gain another qualification...

OMG!!!! Congratulations!!!

It's been 4 hours, which new qualification did you decide on?

[Scheherazade]

OMG!!!! Congratulations!!!

It's been 4 hours, which new qualification did you decide on?

Thank you. Actually, right after posting that it occurred to me that having one in Technology Management wouldn't be too bad... But not right now. Too exhausted for words and I want to read!

How are you enjoying your course?

[papayahed]

3 down, 12 to go!!

[Gilliatt Gurgle]

Well, I finished my MA last week. I have an interview at a college for a teaching position Wednesday.


Congratulations to both of you!

As of yesterday, I am done. Been studying non-stop for the past six years and I'm done! I don't have to write another report or complete another project.

Well, till the time I decide I should gain another qualification...


3 down, 12 to go!!

Congratulations to all, keep the peddle down papayahed.

[Scheherazade]

3 down, 12 to go!!Excellent!

This calls for Margaritas - as I am sure it is 5 o'clock somewhere!

http://www.miss-charming.com/recipes/margaritabanner.jpg



PS: Admittedly, I know very few things that would not call for Margaritas...

[papayahed]

Tasty!

Sadly it's time to put down the margaritas and go back to class. I start back tomorrow.

[Scheherazade]

How did the first day back go?

[papayahed]

awful! Class started on monday and we have a test in two weeks. This weekend is the annual work banquest then I have to go out of town until monday night then I have to move on thursday. I'm going to have to fit studying in there somewhere. Why must everything happen all at once.

[Scheherazade]

Anyone studying this term?

I am taking Italian for Beginners but all very casual.

[Maximilianus]

I'm doing an elementary course on Spanish discourse.

[OrphanPip]

Well I've spent a year teaching English to primary school children in Chinese school in Malaysia and it's been an unusual experience. I enjoy teaching the kids, though the little ones are exhausting and the few secondary school students I've taught are largely indifferent. I'll soon be back in Canada and maybe I'll return back to teaching at the college level, but I'm considering whether to pursue teaching certification to teach in the public schools in Canada. I enjoyed it more than I thought I ever would. I enjoyed teaching literature in colleges much more, but sadly the jobs are just not available. Oh well.

[Helga]

I will get my MA next spring if all goes as planned. I have started work on my thesis and for the month or so left of this semester I have 9 deadlines and three of them are big essays. My search for evil is not a priority at the moment but evil lurks everywhere so I fit it in where I can. I have a workspace at school now so most of my days are spent there ticking away at the computer.

[Scheherazade]

So great to hear from both of you, Pip and Helga.

Pip ~ You might consider teaching ESOL or EFL maybe, which offers different challenges and the learners are usually quite different from the usual crowd.

Helga ~ What is your thesis on?

[Helga]

Well I decided long ago to write about Shakespeare, I know there is so much on him out there already, but I am sticking with my man. It is about how men's honour is tied to the female body. I am going to look at "The Rape of Lucrece", "Much Ado About Nothing" and Titus Andronicus maybe. I chose the poem cause it doesn't get a lot of attention and it the theme I am thinking of is clear. MAAN is just one of my favourite comedies and the theme is in that one too, the song "sigh no more" in part and of course the way Hero is treated. My teacher mentioned Titus too and I think it would be fun to add it into the mix, just been years since I read it.

[Scheherazade]

That sounds interesting, Helga. Honour and female body would make an interesting coupling and, as you mentioned, there are many examples in Shakespeare's work. Good luck with it all and do keep us updated. :)

[Pensive]

Finished bachelor in June. Was doing an internship as a market researcher for last four months and now offered contract in the same company. Work starts on Monday and I feel like school bells as they expect us to do a lot of self-learning/self-education...

[papayahed]

Sounds exciting Pen!!

I am about to start another semester, only 6 more classes to go.

[Helga]

I graduated yesterday so I have formally gotten my MA degree now. Will study translations next fall... and hopefully translate my thesis

[Danik 2016]

Congrats, Helga! And on Shakespeare!That´s an great achievment!

I am still trying to come to terms with my postdoc.

[Pompey Bum]

I graduated yesterday so I have formally gotten my MA degree now. Will study translations next fall... and hopefully translate my thesis

Congratulations indeed! That is cause for celebration. :party:

[Scheherazade]

Congratulations, Helga 😊

[Helga]

Yes celebration time indeed, my son made rice porridge and I bought some candy. Can't say I don't know how to have fun!

[Pompey Bum]

Yes celebration time indeed, my son made rice porridge and I bought some candy. Can't say I don't know how to have fun!

Put some of the candy in the porridge and it will taste sweeter. Fun's where you find it. :)

[Calidore]

Congratulations, Helga!

[papayahed]

Congrats Helga!