Studio Brief Introductions– Before, During, and After.    

“Chen’s first language is Mandarin. She mostly understands texts when reading but at times struggles to understand and process what is being said in live events such as new course briefings. She finds that she often understands the words but is confused why some topics are mentioned during the briefing that don’t seem to be relevant.”

Before the brief introduction

• The written brief should be available in advance of its introduction. Spend time before the brief is introduced to become familiar with the context and vocabulary. You should be able to get from the brief all the information you need to engage effectively with the assignment. Write down any questions you have so you can ask during the briefing, or you could share these questions with other students or contact your tutor separately.
• Check the written brief for any specialist vocabulary, and definitions that would be good for you to engage with and research.
• Bring any written briefs to the weekly Speaking your Mind group to discuss and review.

During the brief introduction

• To improve understanding when listening to a tutor introduce a brief, listen for the same headings and subheadings that were used in the written brief.
• In a verbal introduction to the brief the tutor is likely to speak more generally, but will also introduce ‘target’ vocabulary or terms, and spend time explaining these. Expect tutors to refer to examples referred to in the written brief.

After the brief introduction

• Look for any examples or links to websites for self-study before and after the verbal introduction.
• It is very important that you fully understand the brief. If you have any doubts, make sure and contact your tutor as soon as possible.

Manage listening expectations at all times:

Similar to the sign posting found in academic writing, there should be few real surprises when listening to a brief being introduced. If the discussion appears to move away from the content of the written brief, and you are not sure what is being discussed, ensure you check with fellow students or speak to your tutor to make sure you have not missed something important.