Students’ experience
The valued diversity of the more inclusive university education and the growing dynamism of the educational context generate varied experiences and subsequent consequences. We explore the nuanced experiences of students regarding planned and unplanned changes they face and how they cope with these changes.
This theme acknowledges the value of inclusive and diverse educational environments and recognises the consequential effects on students. By examining the intersection of factors such as anxiety, self-efficacy, cultural influences, and language barriers, we gain insights into the challenges and opportunities students face. Through qualitative research, we explore the complex journey of academic adjustment, the role of language and culture, and the potential for enhancing students' academic success.
By delving into students' experiences and coping strategies, this theme sheds light on the multi-faceted aspects of student life in higher education. It seeks to inform educational practices, support mechanisms, and pedagogical approaches that promote student well-being, resilience, and academic achievement. Ultimately, this research contributes to creating an enriching and empowering educational environment that meets the diverse needs of students in management education and learning.
Our researchers
Our partners
We are taking the lead with a number of partner institutions to enhance the university student experience Australia-wide. This includes: Deakin University, LaTrobe University, Federation University, and Holmesglen TAFE.
Featured publications
- Croy, G., Garvey, L., Willetts, G., Wheelahan, J., & Hood, K. (2020). Anxiety, flipped approach and self-efficacy: Exploring nursing student outcomes. Nurse Education Today, 93, 104534.
- Co, M. J., Hamadeh Kerbage, S., Willetts, G., Harvey, L., Bhattacharya, A., Croy, G., & Mitchell, B. (2023). Students coping with change in higher education: an overview. Educational Research Review, 38, 100508.
- Singh, J. K. N., & Jack, G. (2022). The role of language and culture in postgraduate international students’ academic adjustment and academic success: qualitative insights from Malaysia. Journal of International Students, 12(2), 444-466.
Ongoing projects
- Gaining an understanding of the student experience of diversity in teams. By investigating students’ on-the-team experiences and outcomes, we explore utilitarian levers. More importantly, we explore how to prioritise teams and diversity and how to recognise this through team assessment programs best.
- During the pandemic, students needed to transition to online learning. For many, this was an isolating experience; their main interaction was through online/virtual teams. However, much of the understanding of teams is based on in-person interactions, not accounting for the mediating effect of the online technological context. This research explores the main contributing characteristics to maximise the team experience and outcomes.
- With a major focus on academic achievement, we often do not pay attention to the strain and drain this places on students across a semester. In this research, we investigate students’ wellbeing and thriving, and importantly how this changes across a semester. We explore how different groups of students cope better than others and look to identify interventions to enhance student wellbeing and help them thrive.