# How to Think Like a Social Scientist ## Course Introduction September 10, 2025 --- ## How to survive university --- ## About - goal-setting - planning - learning strategies - thinking - learnign management - research management --- ### Course Essentials - emokymai.vu.lt - tutorials/workshops - attendance: mandatory - assignments --- ### Course Essentials: Assessment - seminars: 40 % - homework assignments: 30 % - final test: 30 % --- #### Questions? --- ## Understanding university ---  --- #### Get familiar! :arrow_forward: campus :arrow_forward:library :arrow_forward:councellor :arrow_forward:administrative staff :arrow_forward:information system (@stud.vu.tspmi.lt) --- University as an Institution Rules and Traditions --- ### Not only students Advancement of knowledge through research Extension of knowledge through teaching Diffusion of knowledge through publishing Duties to society --- ### Understanding Culture (of Higher Education) :book: ---  --- ### Culture: > the collective programming of the mind that distinguishes the members of one human group from another > -- Geert Hofstede ---  --- ### The Surface of Higher education #### Group Exercise: :question: What differences do you see between High School vs University? :question: What is the reason for this difference? :arrow_forward: describe at least 3 --- ### Surface: Study Process - syllabus - moodle - lecture vs seminar - written assignments - deadlines - exams --- ### Surface: Setup - disciplines and faculties - scholars - academic rankings - research - bureaucracy --- ### Deep Culture of Higher Education, or <br> What do Professors expect from you? --- #### 1. Be responsible for your education :muscle: --- #### 2. Be motivated to succeed :rainbow: --- #### 3. Attend classes and complete all assignments (to the best of your ability) :heavy_check_mark: --- #### 4. Collaborate and seek help :flipper: --- #### 5. Change if something is not working :hammer_and_wrench: --- #### 6. Passion for learning :palm_tree: --- #### 7. Manage emotions :smiley_cat: --- #### 8. Have (realistic) self-confidence about yourself and your ability to succeed :fireworks: --- You define your meaning of your success