Monash Educations’ Year in Review

As the year wraps up, Monash University’s Faculty of Education reflects upon its noteworthy successes.

Monash Education celebrates a wonderful and highly successful year, being recognised as the #1 University for Education and 18th Globally and hailed as the top research institution by the The Australian Research Magazine 2024 list, with the top spots for special education and Teacher education.

From welcoming over 5,000 students to a reimagined Krongold Clinic, from excellence in teaching to making change with research, 2023 was a year full of noteworthy successes.

We take a look back on some of our highlights.

1. Monash Faculty of Education takes top research spots

Monash Education continues its reign at the forefront of global university rankings, securing the top position in Australia and 18th worldwide, according to the 2023 Shanghai Ranking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

The Australian also recognizes Monash as Australia's leading research institution for 2023, with the Faculty of Education taking the lead in 'Special Education' and 'Teaching and Teacher Education.' Renowned researcher, Professor Umesh Sharma, spearheads these achievements, named lead researcher in both categories.

2. A popular choice for students

This year, Monash Education welcomed 5,250 students, showcasing its appeal as a top choice. A significant number of 4,500 students dove into practical experiences through placements, with 175 opting for rural settings in Australia and 55 exploring opportunities in Fiji, Italy, and Switzerland. Additionally, 200 international students found placements in Singapore.

On a high note, 48 students completed their PhDs, while another 110 enrolled in graduate research programs. Monash Education continues to attract students seeking a quality education with hands-on experiences, reinforcing its standing as a preferred place of study.

3. Memorandum of understanding with University of Kalba

2023 saw Monash Education and the University of Kalba in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) join forces in a significant partnership. Through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in September, both institutions committed to enhancing academic excellence and advancing global educational standards.

Together, they are set to create the UAE’s first Bachelor of Physical Education and Sports Science. With the breakthrough program set to empower students with access to cutting-edge knowledge and technologies, innovative pedagogies, and hands-on experiences, preparing them for success in physical education, sport science, sports coaching, and sports management.

4. The reimagined Krongold Clinic

Launched in November, the reimagined Monash Krongold Clinic, signifies a pivotal milestone in the Clinic’s mission to support children with disability to thrive in all aspects of life.

Focused on educational and developmental psychology services, the transformed Clinic elevates research and clinical work. Guided by a co-designed model, it aims to infuse 'more community into research' and 'more research into community,' ensuring children and their families receive ongoing tailored support.

This transformation is made possible by a substantial philanthropic investment from Monash University alumnus Adam Krongold, grandson of Dinah and Henry Krongold.

5. Discovering the powerful economic and social impact of informal sport

A landmark study investigating the economic and social benefits of informal sport participation has found that for every 10,000 people involved, informal sport can offer health savings of more than $3million a year.

Informal sport research, the first of its kind in Australia, explores the major impact of informal sports on diverse communities, offering insights into how governments, sport and health agencies can enhance their support. It marks a crucial milestone in understanding and maximising the potential of community-driven physical activities.

6. Minecraft helping kids build a ‘Future Healthy’

Our researchers are driving education innovation and exploring ways in which Minecraft can help teaching and learning in primary school Health and Physical Education (HPE). Supported by VicHealth as part of our Future Healthy initiative, the Kids building Future Healthy in Minecraft project is a new approach to health education.

Targeting personal, social, and community health, our researchers harness Minecraft's immersive platform to elevate student knowledge and literacy in health and health promotion. The project goes beyond the virtual realm, inspiring students to apply their newfound insights by constructing Future Healthy environments for themselves and their communities, bridging the gap between gaming and real-world health education.

7. Monash Virtual School improving educational equity

The Monash Virtual School was set up to improve educational equity and help young people in conflict zones who risked falling behind in their education.

In partnership with Canadian-based Classrooms without Walls, the Monash Virtual School has provided fundamental educational opportunities for 70,000 young people. Many of these young people live in war torn places including Ukraine and Myanmar.

15-year-old Margo from Kyiv remembers talking about literature and sharing favourite books over Zoom, huddled in homes across the world.

“I wasn’t able to see anyone – my classmates, even now, are abroad because of the war,” she says…”With the virtual school I found new people who I can talk to, and they understand me.”

And into the future…

Our 2023 achievements have been groundbreaking and impactful. Steadfast dedication and passion drive our commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and learners. As a faculty we will continue to deliver world-leading research and innovative approaches to education in 2024 and beyond.