Welcome
Distance Learning Year 1
We're looking forward to welcoming you to join our vibrant, supportive and friendly student community at Arts University Plymouth.
<p>The community at Arts University Plymouth is vibrant, supportive and friendly, and we’re proud to be located in a city that plays host to a wealth of creative, inventive independent businesses and forward-thinking cultural organisations.</p>
<p dir="ltr">As a distance-learning student, you’ll be remotely joining a diverse community of learners from the UK and further afield, to study together in real-time through our online connected-campus. Together we are redefining the art school experience for a digital landscape, future-proofing students for success in a rapidly-changing society and workplace.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Your time at university is so much more than learning new skills and laying the groundwork for your creative career; it’s a chance to meet new people, expand your horizons, and create unforgettable moments.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To get you ready for joining us, we recommend you check out all the information about starting with us below.<br /></p>
<p>There are two key steps you need to complete ahead of joining your course here at Arts University Plymouth. The first step is to activate your online account, and then the second step is to enrol online. Please follow the instructions below.</p>
<p>Your student reference number is in your enrolment email, if you haven't had your enrolment email please contact us:<br /><br />Email <a href="mailto:admissions@aup.ac.uk">admissions@aup.ac.uk</a>, call +44 (0)1752 203434 or message us via WhatsApp +44 (0)7722 744184.</p>
<p>Click here for our '<a href="https://pca.objects.frb.io/production/files/Admissions/Enrolment_2023_FAQs.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enrolment Frequently Asked Questions</a>'.</p>
<p><strong>First Step:</strong></p>
<p>To activate your online account, you need to set up your username and password. Your login details are as follows:</p><ol><li>Open an incognito window or private window in your browser and then go to webmail.aup.ac.uk.</li><li>Enter your username - First initial of your first name, first initial of your surname and your student reference number (see above).</li><li>Enter your password - First initial of your first name, first initial of your surname, a full stop and your date of birth. (If you are a returning student with us, use your existing password.)</li></ol>
<p>E.g. if your name is Alex Smith, your date of birth is 01/01/2001, and your student reference number is 12345678; your username would be AS12345678 and your password would be AS.01012001</p>
<p><strong>Second Step:</strong></p><ol><li>You will receive an email in your university email account with instructions on accessing and completing your online enrolment.</li><li>Click the link in the email and complete your enrolment. You will need a profile photo for your student card and National Insurance number (if you have one) at the ready.</li><li>Remember to click submit once you have completed all of the sections!</li></ol>
<p><strong>You must complete this process by Wednesday 3 January.</strong></p>
<p>If you have any problems with logging in to your account, please contact our IT Help Desk on +44 (0)1752 203 449 or email <a href="mailto:ithelpdesk@aup.ac.uk">ithelpdesk@aup.ac.uk</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To get you ready for joining us, we recommend you check out all the information about starting with us below.<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Your first day will be on Monday 8 January 2024. Below you will find a list of links for Google Meet sessions, where you will meet some of our academic staff, and be guided through accessing everything you need to get started.<br /><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Monday 8 January</strong><br />8:30am to 11:30am (GMT - UK Time)<br />Jack Viant & Jason Hirons - Welcome to Distance Learning! <br /><a href="http://meet.google.com/woq-nzpy-zpr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to join</a><br /><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Tuesday 9 January</strong><br />8:30am to 10:00am (GMT - UK Time)<br />Adam Levi - Learning Technologies introduction<br /><a href="https://meet.google.com/yqh-crdi-ryj" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to join</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">10:15am to 11:30am (GMT - UK Time)<br />Karen Welton - Academic Skills introduction<br /><a href="http://meet.google.com/cmy-qvfd-jio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to join</a><br /><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Wednesday 10 January<br /></strong>Self Directed Study <br /><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Thursday 11 January<br /></strong>8:30am to 10:00am (GMT - UK Time)<br />Donna Gundry - Library introduction<br /><a href="http://meet.google.com/nsf-huzw-nji" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to join</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">10:15am to 11:30am (GMT - UK Time)<br />Susanna Wain (Student Support introduction)<br /><a href="https://meet.google.com/ykm-eeko-dts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to join</a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><br /><strong>Friday 12 January<br /></strong>8:30am to 11:30am (GMT - UK Time)<br />Jason Hirons - Lecture<br /><a href="https://meet.google.com/ydo-izdd-waj" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to join</a><br /><br /></p>
<table><tbody><tr><td colspan="6"><p dir="ltr"><strong>Trimester 2</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Time</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Monday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Tuesday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Wednesday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Thursday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Friday</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">8:30am - 11:30am</p>
<p dir="ltr">(GMT - UK Time)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">401 - Methods and Materials with Jack</p>
<strong><br /></strong></td><td><p dir="ltr">Technical workshops, academic support, Library, student support etc</p>
</td><td><p dir="ltr">Self-initiated study</p>
<br /></td><td><p dir="ltr">Technical workshops, academic support, Library, student support etc</p>
<br /><br /></td><td><p dir="ltr">402 - Encountering Place with Jason</p>
<br /></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Afternoon</p></td><td colspan="5"><p dir="ltr">Self initiated work - workshops, demonstrations, coursework, idea development, group work, research and development, creative experimentation.</p></td></tr><tr><td colspan="6"><p dir="ltr"><strong><br />Trimester 3</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Time</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Monday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Tuesday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Wednesday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Thursday</strong></p></td><td><p dir="ltr"><strong>Friday</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">8:30am - 11:30am</p>
<p dir="ltr">(GMT - UK Time)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">403 - Exploring Subject with Jack</p>
<br /><br /></td><td><p dir="ltr">Technical workshops, academic support, Library, student support etc</p>
<br /><br /></td><td><p dir="ltr">Self-initiated study</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Technical workshops, academic support, Library, student support etc</p>
<br /><br /><br /><br /></td><td><br /><p dir="ltr">404 - Platforms of Exchange with Jason</p>
<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Afternoon</p></td><td colspan="5"><p dir="ltr">Self initiated work - workshops, demonstrations, coursework, idea development, group work, research and development, creative experimentation.</p></td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Please note, this timetable is subject to change.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Students' Union is here to represent you and make sure your voice is heard during your time as an Arts University Plymouth student. They support student-led clubs and societies and run events throughout the year too.<br /><br />Find out more about their support and services on their <a href="http://artsuniplymsu.co.uk">website</a>, and keep up to date with the Students' Union on <a href="http://instagram.com/artsuniplymsu">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://facebook.com/artsuniplymsu">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/artsuniplymsu">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://tiktok.com/@artsuniplymsu">Tik Tok</a>. We also recommend checking out <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/blog" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the AUP SU blog</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://artsuniplymsu.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a><strong>Student Discounts</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">TOTUM brings you over 200 UK student discounts and comes with 1-year FREE ISIC, unlocking over 42,000 international discounts. <a href="https://www.totum.com/">Get your TOTUM card now</a>. You can choose from a range of cards that last either one, two or three years. Simply select "Arts University Plymouth Students' Union" when you sign up!<br /><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Getting to know your new home</strong><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">You may have begun your studies with us remotely, but it’s never too early to start learning about the city of Plymouth if you’re not already familiar with it, as you’ll be coming onto campus in the Autumn to begin your second year of studies. Check out our <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/student-life/discover-plymouth">Discover Plymouth</a> page to find out more about the best bits of our city.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/disability-support-and-reasonable-adjustments"></a><a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/disability-support-and-reasonable-adjustments">Student Support</a> have a broad reach regarding the level of guidance they can offer. Some of the areas include: Registering with a G.P when you move to Plymouth, Wellbeing and Welfare, Mental Health Support, Ear Acupuncture and Mindfulness and Disability and Inclusivity.</p>
<p dir="ltr">You will be able to speak to councillors in private, but they also offer group sessions around wellbeing and mindfulness, we always encourage our students to reach out and access this support whenever needed; we are here to help.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/disability-support-and-reasonable-adjustments">Find out more about the support services we offer.</a><br /><a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/disability-support-and-reasonable-adjustments"></a><br /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Registering with a doctor</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">In terms of doctors, you won’t need to change your GP until you move to Plymouth for your second year (unless you already live near enough to commute to campus). </p>
<p dir="ltr">If you are moving away from your usual place of residence to come to Arts University Plymouth, you can register at most general practitioner surgeries in Plymouth by searching the <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/LocationSearch/4">NHS Choices website</a>, so this is something to bear in mind for later in 2024 when you are preparing to move.</p>
<p dir="ltr">You will need to remember to:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Contact the nearest surgery to your new home and register prior to arrival if possible.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Try to stock up on any of your regular medication before you leave home.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Have your usual remedies to hand, such as cold and flu relief.</p></li></ul><div><a href="mailto:studentfinance@aup.ac.uk"></a></div>
<p dir="ltr">More information for International students can be found <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/international/arrivals">here</a>.</p>
<p>You won’t need to worry about getting a UK Visa until you are actually preparing to move to the UK when you start studying in person in Autumn 2023, however please note that you will need to allow enough time to apply for your student visa. The standard waiting time is usually around 3 weeks. <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-decision-waiting-times-applications-outside-the-uk">Find out more.</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">At Arts University Plymouth, we use a host of technologies to support your learning and creative development. While you are with us, you will have access to a collection of Google productivity, collaboration and sharing tools collectively known as “G Suite”, but commonly referred to as “Google Apps”.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Below you will find descriptions of commonly used apps in the Google Suite. We recommend viewing the videos and reading the guides prior to your arrival as you will be using some of the programmes in your first few days with us.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://support.google.com/edu/classroom/answer/9582544?hl=en&ref_topic=9049890#zippy=%2Ccommunicate-with-your-teacher-or-classmates%2Cjoin-a-video-meeting%2Cstart-or-turn-in-your-classwork%2Csee-your-feedback-or-grade%2Cmanage-your-account-classes-or-notifications%2Cexplore-the-classes-page%2Cexplore-the-stream-page%2Cexplore-the-classwork-page%2Cexplore-the-people-page" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Google Classroom</strong></a> - Classroom is our online learning environment where you will be able to access your teaching material such as module briefs, course information and updates from your lecturers. It also has a built-in chat forum so that you can communicate with your peers and tutors. Download the Google Classrooms app on <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.classroom&hl=en_GB&gl=US" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Play</a> or the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/google-classroom/id924620788" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">App Store</a>.<a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/9282720" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><br /></a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/9282720" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Google Meet</strong></a> - Google Meet is used for video conferencing. You can have quick meetings on a 1 to 1 basis with your peers/tutors or attend a group video call, allowing for open discussions and debate.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/9247501" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Google Calendar</strong></a> - A fully integrated Calendar to keep track of your tutorials, lectures and 1 to 1 sessions. Get notifications and reminders of events - ensuring you don't miss a thing.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/9259748" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Gmail</strong></a> - Gmail is our email system. Access your emails anywhere on your computer or mobile device.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/9282958" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Google Drive</strong></a> - Google Drive is a cloud-based storage system that allows you to work, access and share your documents online... anywhere, anytime.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/10005650?visit_id=637582261775558899-1671463286&hl=en&rd=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a><strong><a href="https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/10005650?visit_id=637582261775558899-1671463286&hl=en&rd=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets</a></strong> - These are the basic programmes to support you with your studies and operate in a similar way to that of their Microsoft equivalent e.g. Word, Powerpoint and Excel.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you need any further help and support with any of these apps then please contact our Learning Technologist, Adam Levi via email at <a href="mailto:alevi@aup.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alevi@aup.ac.uk</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Library</strong></p>
<p>The Library is a treasure trove of information and resources, with over 25,000 items comprising physical and digital resources including <strong>books and journals </strong>(both print and online), <strong>DVDs, computer games, a digital video collection and subscriptions to over 130 renowned print publications</strong>, our team have you covered. We are on hand to offer you support and advice, online and in-person, at our help-desk on topics such as researching, finding books, referencing, digital literacy and academic practice.</p>
<p><strong>Study Guides and Reading Lists</strong> - the Library study guides have all of the resources you will need to succeed on your course, as well as your reading lists, all in one place.</p>
<p><strong>Journals</strong> - On this page you will find a list of all the journals that the library subscribes to, plus online access where available.</p>
<p><strong>Academic Skills</strong></p>
<p>Our friendly and experienced Academic Skills team delivers a range of advice, guidance and skills development to support you with your studies. They offer one to one or group support with things like time management and procrastination, essay writing, dissertations, creative writing, referencing, confidence and presentation skills. The team also offer help for students with Dyslexia and can work with other academic staff members to ensure you are fully supported and have confidence in your writing.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Re-framing learning as a creative process in itself, our range of short courses not only provide students with the opportunity to build essential skills and confidence, but also ask participants to reflect on their relationship with these practices and develop approaches and processes that feel authentic, empowering and exciting. <br /></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The Art of Writing</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The Art of Research</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The Art of Time Management</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The Art of Presenting</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The Art of Learning</p></li></ul>
<p>Students can find course dates, content information and book their place via Smarthub under ‘Workshops’. </p>
<p><strong>Careers & Employability</strong></p>
<p>The Careers team are here to help you strengthen your employability skills and help you discover more about your chosen creative industry. The team can help you with CV's and cover letters, applications, industry experience, work placements and business advice.</p>
<p>MyAUP is our campus app, which pulls together all the data and information held across the separate systems at AUP and presents in one easy to use place.</p>
<p>It allows you to see a bespoke selection of news, information and updates, tailored specifically to your level of study.</p>
<p>MyAUP gives you the ability to manage your academic life by having access to all relevant information at any given time, from any location. The app is designed to reduce the number of emails you are sent.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Download it for free for your mobile or tablet, from:<br /></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.apple.com/uk/app-store/">App Store</a> (Apple version)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps?gl=GB&utm_source=emea_Med&utm_medium=hasem&utm_content=Oct2020&utm_campaign=Evergreen&pcampaignid=MKT-EDR-emea-gb-1001280-Med-hasem-ap-Evergreen-Oct2020-Text_Search_SKWS%7CONSEM_kwid_43700007011863914&gclid=Cj0KCQjw94WZBhDtARIsAKxWG--sSZA96IQVrWgQlOzRjxE6KQAzz1_t3QB4uxeAz8TeLOLopzPLCaYaAtnHEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Google Play</a> (Android version)</p></li></ul><p>Or, if you don’t have a smartphone, you can visit the <a href="https://aup.myday.cloud/dashboard/">browser version of MyAUP</a> on a computer.</p>
<p><strong>Please note:</strong> you won't be able to access MyAUP until you have fully completed your enrolment and our IT teams have ensured that all new students are added to the correct user groups, so please don't worry if you can't access our campus app straight away. If you need any help with enrolment, please please email <strong><a href="mailto:enquiries@aup.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enquiries@aup.ac.uk</a></strong><strong><a href="mailto:enquiries@aup.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Plymouth is among the top 20 safest cities in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland</strong>, with one recent study ranking Plymouth as the <a href="https://www.insulationexpress.co.uk/blog/revealed-safest-cities-in-england-and-wales-according-to-crime-data.html">safest major city in England and Wales</a>. Overall <strong>Devon and Cornwall remain one of the safest areas in the UK</strong> according to crime statistics, making Plymouth an excellent place to study and enjoy everything the city has to offer safely.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://sites.google.com/aup.ac.uk/student-portal/home?authuser=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Student Portal</strong></a> is home to all of Arts University Plymouth’s online resources for students.<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">The content is organised into easy to navigate sections, such as the Library, Student Support and Registry. Each section has a description so you know where to go for the information you need. <br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Most students access the Student Portal using the Student Login button near the bottom right of the website. You cannot access the Student Portal until you have fully completed your enrolment. If you think that you have completed your enrolment, but you still can’t access the Student Portal, please email <a href="mailto:enquiries@aup.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enquiries@aup.ac.uk</a></p>
<p>Have a question? Check out our FAQs below.</p>
<p>If you can't find the answer you're looking for just click the 'Ask Us Anything' button.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: I can’t log in to my university gmail account?<br /></strong>A: It’s best if you use an incognito/private window on a laptop or desktop to log in to your university gmail account, especially if you have a personal gmail account. Go to your browser settings or tools (to the right of the address bar) and click on the new incognito/private window option. This will open a private browsing web page which you should be able to log in on. If you have any additional issues, please contact our IT Help Desk on +44 (0)1752 203 449 or email <a href="mailto:ithelpdesk@aup.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ithelpdesk@aup.ac.uk</a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: I’ve logged into my university gmail account, now what?<br /></strong>A: Please check your university inbox for an email from AUP’s registry team. This will contain a link to complete your enrolment. You will need a profile photo for your student card and national insurance number (if you have one) at the ready.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: I’m experiencing issues enrolling onto my course. E.g. uploading my profile photo<br /></strong>A: Please contact mis@aup.ac.uk if you have any issues enrolling and they will be able to assist you.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: I need additional support to login to my university gmail account and/or enrolling.<br /></strong>A: Please contact studentsupport@aup.ac.uk if you’d like any 1-1 help completing the enrolment process.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: I’m having problems with my WIFI. What should I do?<br /></strong>A: You need to be enrolled to be able to access our systems on your first day, so you can keep trying on your WIFI. Or we recommend visiting your local library to access your university account and enrol. If you live locally in Plymouth, you can also drop into Arts University Plymouth and we will help in person.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Welcome to the creative community at Arts University Plymouth. We are delighted you have chosen to study with us and look forward to working with you.</p>
<p dir="ltr">There are lots of ways you can stay in touch with your creativity over the summer - why not have a look at our launchpad for creative inspiration below. (<strong>Password: AUP</strong>)<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">If you are out and about over the summer, making creative work, taking photographs, or visiting exhibitions and events, we would love to see what you have been up to. You can share your work and ideas on social media with us using the hashtag <strong>#KeepCreating </strong>and by tagging us <strong>@artsuniplym</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Don’t worry! You won’t be assessed on <em>any</em> of this as part of your degree, we just wanted to start sharing some inspirational resources with you as you start your journey with us.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Please note, the password for the below padlet is AUP, and this works best viewed on desktop browsers.</strong></p>
<p>Click here to see the AUP Launchpad</p>
<p>Find out about life at our independent arts university from the people who know us best — our real students. From finding the best cafes in Plymouth to course content and employability, our approachable student ambassadors are available to answer your questions on live chat.</p>