Questions
What is the Learning Centre?
The Centres are specifically set up to support students in their studies and have made a real difference to the success of our users. In a friendly, relaxed atmosphere you will find books, reference materials and up-to-the-minute computer facilities, plus expert guidance to help you with all your study and computer needs. The Learning Centre offers you all the help and resources you need to make a real success of your time with WAES.
What is the job of Learning Resources Assistants?
The team of Learning Resource Assistants are always on hand to offer help and guidance. Not only are they skilled computer users, but they are also trained and qualified tutors. They can help you with a whole range of tasks such as writing a letter, checking an essay, formatting text on the computer and finding something on the Internet.
Can anyone use the computers in the LC?
The computers are for anyone currently studying on a course with WAES, regardless of the subject they are studying. There are 18 multimedia PCs, running MS Office 2000 software, including word processing, spreadsheets and database programs. There are also two G4 Apple Macs at the Amberley Road LC that run graphic design and desk top publishing packages. Computers can be booked for 2 hours per day at the Help Desk and by calling 020 7641 8161 (Amberley Road LC) or 020 7641 7856 (Ebury Bridge LC ). Advance bookings are recommended. Floppy disks for saving your work can be bought at the help desk for 60p.
How do I start using (Log On) the computer?
You will need to type in your student number (printed on your receipt) as the username and again as your password. If you have trouble, ask our friendly staff for help.
I have never used a computer before, who can help me?
A range of computer books, interactive learning programs and training materials are available to increase your computer skills. The Centre staff can help you make a study plan to help you find the materials you need. There are also computer tutorials for beginners which will take you through the basics and some other useful programmes. Please ask at the Centre Help Desk for further information.
Can I access the Internet in the Learning Centre?
The Internet can be accessed from all computer terminals and is free for current WAES students to use for their studies. The Learning Centre also has a list of website addresses so that you can access information quickly and simply.
Can I send and receive emails?
You can use your Internet based email account (like Hotmail or Yahoo) if you have one. The Centre staff will be happy to help you set one up if you don't already have an email account.
Does the LC have a library?
A stock of curriculum books and other reference materials including dictionaries, atlases and encyclopaedias can be found on the LC shelves. All books are for use in the LC only and can't be taken out.
What other resources are there to help me with my course?
There are interactive CD- ROM's which are kept at the Help Desk. There is also a stock of video and audio cassettes which can be played on audio-visual equipment on the first floor. A tape recorder is available for those who find it difficult to get up the stairs.
How do I find the books and other materials I need?
You look for a book using the LC database by clicking on the following web address www.waes.ac.uk/lc/search.html. You can also use our book lists which have subjects and their shelf number. These are found in the Learning Centre. If you have any questions or need some help finding a book ask our friendly Learning Centre Staff.
Are there facilities for printing and scanning?
All PCs print directly to the black and white printer. There is a charge of 4p per printout which you must pay when you pick up your prints. All printing must be paid for, including mistakes and unwanted copies. Colour printing is also available and costs 50p or £1.00, depending on paper quality. A scanner is available on the Apple Macs (Amberley Road) and PC number 2. When booking your computer, please specify whether you wish to have access to the colour printer or scanner. Advanced bookings are recommended. There are also facilities for laminating and binding your work. Please ask at the Help Desk for details.
Is there a photocopying machine for students to use?
Black and white photocopiers are located in the Learning Centres for general use. To use the photocopiers, ask at the Help Desk. To operate the machine follow the instructions on the top of the photocopier and pay for your copies before you leave the Learning Centre. A4 copies cost 4p per side and A3 are 8p per side. Please observe the copyright regulations displayed on the wall by the photocopier when making copies of books and other printed materials.
Is there a place where I can study or do assignments?
The Learning Centre has study areas where you can work by yourself, study in small groups, or access the open learning materials in a quiet environment.
Can I get help with my studies?
You can receive extra support for your studies from the Learning Support Tutors in the Learning Centre through workshops each term. Help is available for essay writing, maths, study skills, UCAS applications and job search skills. One-to-one help is also available with coursework, assignments and projects. For further details pick up a copy of the Learning Support Programme, or speak to a member of the staff.
Are there resources to help me develop my language skills?
Audio, visual and interactive materials to help you practice your language skills are available to be viewed or listened to in the Centre. Whether it is English or foreign language videos, interactive CD-ROM's or language tapes you want to use, the LC staff will help you find the most suitable resources.
