Doing coursework/computer labs for courses you're not enrolled in?

[Simfish]

I know that it's technically not allowed. But some professors allow (and even encourage) motivated individuals to do it anyways.

In any case, has anyone else done this? I'm considering doing this after I graduate, as there are some labs I really want to take (they're mostly computer labs). Of course, I'll do it only with permission.

 

[mal4mac]

Speak to the professor! Think of a way that you could help him, then he's more likely to help you. For instance you could volunteer to help as a teaching assistant. For example, you could volunteer to (i) go through the examples before the class starts to highlight any errors/sticking points (ii) help out in class. After that you will *really* know the course, gain some teaching experience, and have something that stands out on your CV.

 

[Simfish]

Hm okay. But do professors really allow students to do those if they've never even heard of them? It seems very uncommon for students (except for those who are actually paid as TAs) to do this, and these students are usually students who are already in the department. Meanwhile, I'd do those for courses outside the department once I fully graduate.

 

[flemmyd]

its called auditing a class, and why can't you just do it?

with lab classes, there are issues (if you're using chemicals, is your tuition paying for it? what about a seat at a computer?).
but for normal lecture classes, what's to stop you from going in, sitting down, and paying attention? go home and do the work like a normal student and don't turn it in i guess.

 

[Simfish]

Well, I don't learn from listening to lectures. I learn from physically doing things like simulations. I'd rather read a textbook than listen to lectures, but I'd most like to physically do things on the computer.