The number of Brazilians interested in higher education grows daily. Even if you understand the language, attending university is no easy task. In order to adapt to the Australian teaching culture, many students invest in language classes. English for Academic Purposes (EAP).
A School EAP 2 Coordinator ELSIS, Alberta Nodenhe explains. "Studying in another country is always different. With the course, students acquire knowledge and academic techniques in the best possible way." A major difference between Australian and Brazilian educational methods is the amount of activities. "Our role is to give the student information and say 'look, this is what you'll find at university'. That way, they can prepare themselves better," says Noden.
For the student Sofia LimaThe difference in teaching is great. "In Brazil, the method applied in universities is very different from the Australian one. Here, you have to understand how to develop and format your work and presentations," says the Brazilian. "Here, you are often assessed by activities rather than tests. In addition, learning to write about a topic in English is a challenge," concludes Sofia.
The EAP is basically divided into twelve weeks and a total of eight works during the course period. In addition, there are four activities where passing is essential to receive the certificate - two dissertations e two presentations. According to Noden, "the lessons are also very interactive", giving students the chance to take part in "discussions and debates where the topic is often chosen by the students themselves".
Professors, writers and other guests visit the universities and give lectures about their research and work to the students - a common practice in Australian academic culture. "As well as presentations, we also use videos so that students can learn about different topics," she says.
According to Assistant Director of Studies at the Rima Ibrahim School"Many of the Brazilians who attend the course have some difficulty with specific EAP subjects. "Many consider summarize, paraphrase authors and use references in research activities and dissertations is a difficult task," he says.
But the classes aren't just for those interested in getting a degree. Part of the students choose the course because of the challenge: "The classes are more difficult than those in General English" says Noden. "We have a lot of courses aimed at testing - IELTS, Cambridge - which some students simply don't want to do at the moment. With what they learn at the EAP, they are better prepared for any other future activity," he adds.
Even with an academic focus, many professionals who need to learn to write English correctly come to the classes. "We receive many journalists. As the profession requires mastery of the language, many opt for the EAP because it is a course that focuses a lot on writing," he adds.
For Sofia, the classes also served to develop her public speaking skills. "My biggest challenge was the oral presentation, because I'm shy," she says. For the Brazilian, overcoming the difficulties was synonymous with dedication. "I practiced for hours in front of the mirror," she laughs.
Overcoming this has brought benefits in the professional environment. "When I presented projects at the company I work for here in Australia, I felt very confident. I owe it to the course and to my teacher who corrected me down to the smallest detail," she concludes.
For those interested in attending classes, a tip from the student. "Study and speak a lot, even if you're wrong. The teacher is there to help. Play, do the presentation, practise, write. English comes naturally, but for that we need to be open to learning," she says.
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