Teaching approaches and delivery modes

Different teaching approaches mean you will experience many different activities and ways of learning. You can see your unit's teaching approaches in the handbook and on Moodle. Below is a summary of some of the most common teaching approaches and what to expect in a class using these approaches.

Common teaching approaches

Learning approaches at Monash, with a description and possible activities for each.
Approach Description Possible activities
Active learning Active learning involves you being engaged in the learning process. Active learning involves participating in activities and discussions.
  • Discussions
  • Collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Brainstorming.
Assessments Assessments are not just testing your knowledge. Assessments also help you learn by cementing your skills and knowledge, using them to complete the task.
  • Essays
  • Quizzes
  • Lab reports
  • ePortfolio.
Inquiry-based teaching Find and analyse evidence to create informed solutions for problems.
  • Collecting evidence
  • Analysing evidence
  • Identifying solutions to issues.
Independent learning Self-directed learning means you are responsible for deciding when you will complete certain tasks. It also involves trying to find answers to your questions on your own before seeking help.
  • Readings
  • Completing assessments
  • Online activities.
Field trips Visiting a location to gain firsthand experience and knowledge about a particular subject.
  • Site visits.
Peer learning Sharing and creating knowledge with your peers.
  • Peer panels and presentations
  • Peer reviews
  • Think Pair Share.
Problem-based learning Learning takes place by solving real-world problems.
  • Identifying issues
  • Researching solutions
  • Proposing possible solutions.
Professional experience and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Learning that takes place in a professional environment.
Research Learning takes place through actively identifying knowledge gaps and collecting evidence and data to help address this.
  • Identifying research gaps
  • Collecting data
  • Analysing data
  • Sharing findings.

Delivery mode

Different classes and units have different modes of delivery. You might find you have in person, online, hybrid and immersive classes depending on the degree you are enrolled in.

Facts and figures

  • In-person

    These classes take place on campus in a timetabled classroom. Remember to bring a device, as activities may require you to use learning technologies such as Moodle.

  • Online

    Your classes take place on an online platform, usually Zoom. Your units may also have online activities for you to complete before or after class.

  • Hybrid

    Classes are taught online and in person at the same time. Even if you're attending in person, it's still a good idea to bring your own device. class activities are often digital, and it lets you engage with the students who are online.

  • Immersive

    Immersive learning takes place at a specific location, giving you the chance to experience the environment you're learning about firsthand. This might be a unit study abroad, a placement or an internship.

Learning with and through technology

During your studies, you will use lots of different educational technologies to support and enhance your learning. This might be interactive material on Moodle or other technologies specific to your discipline. Technology helps you learn by supporting collaboration with peers, allowing you to access further or different information, and receiving feedback on your learning. Learning how to use different technologies is important so you can engage fully in your studies.

Two of the most common technologies you will hear discussed during your studies are Moodle and generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI)

Moodle

Moodle is Monash’s Learning Management System (LMS). This is where you will find all the information you need for your classes and assessments. Each module or week in your unit will be divided into three sections; own time, real time, and wrap up. These can be useful to help plan your week and understand what weekly tasks you need to complete.

AI

AI is also another tool to help you learn. It is important to remember that while AI can help you learn and test your knowledge, it is not a substitute for creating your own human skills and understanding of topics. Remember to explore how you can use it in your units to support your learning, but also take note of when it is not allowed.

A final thought

If you are new to Monash and the approaches to teaching differ substantially from your previous learning experiences, consider meeting a Learning Adviser on Zoom for personalised advice on how to learn most effectively during your time here.

Taking it further