Did you hear a word or read an acronym and have no idea what it means? 

You're definitely not alone! University comes with a lot of new language and abbreviations, and it's completely normal to feel lost at first. That's why this glossary exists! 

Take a look, learn something new, and never be afraid to ask questions along the way. 

A

• asynchronous or asynchronously: Taking place outside of regularly scheduled class meetings, on your own time.
  Example: Your instructor will ask you to review certain materials or complete a learning task asynchronously before coming to class. 

E

• EDST: Abbreviation of Educational Studies. 

O

• OCT: Ontario College of Teachers; the organization responsible for regulating public education in Ontario. The OCT is most commonly known for (a) reviewing and accrediting teacher education programs, and (b) providing certification enabling individuals to teach in the province of Ontario. 

S

• synchronous or synchronously: Taking place together, at the same time. Often refers to your regularly scheduled class meeting time.
  Example: Every EDST course meets synchronously online for up to 90 minutes per week.