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General University Preparation

As a complement to your language studies, we provide several ‘short courses’ on topics of interest to the new university student. We believe these courses will help you adapt more quickly to the expectations and pace of university life. The ‘short courses’ are split into two core areas:

• Academic study skills
• Information technology skills

In addition to the university preparation ‘short courses’, as a future Spanish university student, we believe it is essential for you to become familiar with Spanish culture and society. The Introduction to Spanish culture and society courses will give you that opportunity and are provided during all three terms of the Spanish University Preparation Program.

Examples of specific topics offered in each area are provided below.


Academic study skills:

• Organizing your work: papers, computer files, notes
• Research and how to find information: library systems, indexes, skim reading
• How to learn effectively: Different learning styles and keeping a Learner Diary
• Essays and assignments: brainstorming – structure - planning – writing
• How to prepare and give a seminar/presentation
• Exam-taking techniques
• Bibliographies and references

Information technology skills:

• Using ‘Word' to write up an assignment or project
• Use of the Internet for e-mails and research
• How to create a database
• How to use spreadsheets for complex calculations
• How to create a presentation and use a projector
• Creating bibliographies, tables, figures and other useful things

Introduction to Spanish culture and society:

• The Spanish Civil War
• Guided visits to the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen Museums
• Cañas and tapas evenings at typical Spanish cafés and restaurants
• Spanish film tutorials (Pedro Almodóvar, Vicente Aranda, Alejandro Amenábar, etc.)
• Spanish literature discussions (Cervantes, Lorca, etc.)
• Typical Spanish expressions
• The social culture in Spain, behavior and the usage of slang

There will be a 1000 word essay assigned during Term 2 on the cultural topic of your choice.