Experience in University of Porto, Portugal by samath

Source

Generally, what is University of Porto like?

As I know, the University of Porto is currently the largest institution of teaching and research institution in Portugal. Close to 31, 000 students, 2, 300 teachers and researchers and 1, 700 non-teaching staff attend its 15 schools and 69 research units, distributed by three university centers located in the city of Porto. With 14 faculties and a business school, the University of Porto provides an exceptional variety of courses, covering the whole range of study areas and all levels of higher education. In fact, offering over 700 training programmes per year (from degrees to continuous professional training), the University of Porto has teaching solutions for everyone.

What are the facilities like?

Facilities are modern. University provides computers and printing and copy machine to students. Students can use those equipment for their study purpose. Classroom also has overhead projectors to show the slide presentation and it is big enough for short sight students. In library, there are varieties of books and new version ones. They are available for students to borrow. There are also computers in library for students to do research or do their assignment. It is comfortable enough during the winter.

What are the tutors like?

Teaching staff comprising 1, 860 full-time equivalent teachers (71% of which PhDs).

Tutors in University of Porto focus on practice rather than theory. Students have to apply theory in to practice. While the professors are the facilitators. Students can approach them when they have doubts or need some helps. Students are required to do self-study and research since they have to do presentation and demonstration to other students.

Are the lessons easy in University of Porto?

The lessons are a bit difficult because classes are taught in Portuguese. However, professors also provide English materials for international students and take time to explain them in English. Education in University of Porto focus on practice and it is technical. This is a bit hard for students who are computer or technology illiteracy.

Does the University organise activities? If so, what are they like?

University organizes many activities such as tour trips, exhibitions, Eramus meeting and national events such as magusto. Students can meet new and different students from other countries. Most students can make friends with new people. International students can learn and know more about the culture in their host university and vice-versa.

Do you think there is a good quality of teaching?

I think that teaching in University in Porto is high quality since students have more chance to apply what they have learnt into practice. Teachers are professional and expert in their subject. Students have to put more effort to do self-study and research for school work. University also provides modern facilities to students.

Are there any stories you can share?

I notice that few professors are not strict with student attendance. Students attend class or not is not big deal. The big deal is that they can do school work and submit it on time and catch up with the lessons. So some students busy with their job have to do self study and research.