Education

An endowment is a large sum of money or assets donated to an institution, such as a university or charity, that is intended to be invested to generate income. The income from the endowment is used to support the institution's ongoing activities, such as scholarships, research, and other programs. The principal amount of the endowment is usually kept intact, while the earnings are spent. Endowments help ensure the long-term financial stability of an organization by providing a reliable source of funding over time.

A dean is an academic leader at a university or college who oversees a specific department, faculty, or school within the institution. They are responsible for managing faculty members, coordinating academic programs, and ensuring that students receive a high-quality education in their area of study. Deans make decisions about curriculum development, student affairs, and departmental budgets. They also represent their department or school in meetings with other university leaders and work to improve the academic reputation and success of their area.

Grade point average (GPA) is a numerical measurement of a student's academic performance, calculated by assigning a point value to each grade earned and averaging them over a period of time, such as a semester or year. GPA is often used by schools, colleges, and universities to assess overall achievement. Typically, a scale is used where higher grades, such as an "A," are assigned more points, and lower grades, such as a "C," are given fewer points. The GPA provides a simple way to summarize a student's academic success and is often used in decisions related to admissions or awards.

A valedictorian is the student who has achieved the highest academic standing in their graduating class. This individual typically earns the title by having the best grades or overall academic performance throughout their time in school. The valedictorian is often chosen to deliver the farewell speech, known as the valedictory address, at graduation ceremonies, where they may reflect on the experiences of the class and offer words of encouragement for the future.

An exeat is a permission granted, typically in schools or universities, allowing a student to leave the premises for a specific period. It is often used for short-term absences, such as leaving for a weekend or a break, and may require approval from the school authorities. The term is commonly used in British schools, particularly in boarding schools, where students need official permission to leave during term time.

A demerit is a mark or penalty given to someone for a violation of rules or misconduct, often within a school or organizational setting. It is used as a way to track and record behavior that is not in line with expected standards. Accumulating demerits can lead to further consequences, such as suspension or loss of privileges. The purpose of demerits is to encourage good behavior and to provide a system for addressing misbehavior, often as part of a broader disciplinary policy.

A colloquium is a formal meeting or conference where experts or scholars come together to discuss and share ideas on a specific topic. It often involves presentations, lectures, or discussions, and allows participants to exchange knowledge, research findings, or perspectives in a focused setting. Colloquia are common in academic settings, such as universities or research institutions, and typically aim to foster intellectual dialogue and collaboration among professionals in a particular field. They can vary in size, ranging from small groups to larger gatherings, depending on the subject and purpose.

A resit is an opportunity for a student to retake an exam or assessment that they initially failed. It allows the student to attempt the exam again, often after additional study or preparation, to improve their grade. Resits are typically offered for major exams or final assessments and are usually scheduled at a later date. While the content and format of a resit may be similar to the original exam, it provides a chance for the student to demonstrate their knowledge and improve their academic performance.

A practicum is a type of hands-on learning experience that allows students to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained in a real-world setting. It typically involves working under supervision in a professional or practical environment related to the student's field of study. Practicums are commonly part of educational programs in fields such as education, healthcare, social work, or business. The goal of a practicum is to provide students with practical experience, helping them develop skills that are necessary for their future careers. It can be a required component of a course or degree program.

A bursary is a type of financial aid given to students to help cover their educational expenses, such as tuition fees or living costs. Unlike loans, bursaries do not need to be repaid. They are typically awarded based on financial need, although some may also consider academic performance or other factors. Bursaries can be provided by schools, universities, charities, or government organizations to make education more affordable for students who require assistance.