Everyone learns differently. But whether we’re a bookish student or more hands-on and interactive, one thing is always true: we do better with support.
A core theme of the research conducted at Monash University’s Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health is what it calls “developing well”. Recognising the complexity of learning experiences, the institute applies advanced genetics, developmental neuroscience and psychological methods to better understand our brains.
Monash’s School of Psychological Sciences applies this knowledge to develop tech innovations that promote education, resilience and mental wellbeing for their students.
Dr Lilani Arulkadacham, is the acting Director of Online Education with the School of Psychological Sciences at Monash University, and is an expert in online learning. She knows the potential such an approach has to encourage students from every background to thrive.
We all learn in complex, dynamic ways
Human learning is complex. “It’s a dynamic process involving interactions between perception, attention, memory, reinforcement and adaptation,” Arulkadacham says.
“Essentially, humans learn by taking in information from their surroundings and we remember it by repeating it or thinking about it. When we need to, we can remember what we’ve learned in the past and use it in different contexts and situations. So, learning is a cycle where we keep building on what we know to get better at things.”
In a university setting, she says, students are able to learn in different ways, through reading, group and solo projects, and feedback from teachers. But an online learning environment goes even further, offering the potential for teaching staff to respond to individual needs and break down access barriers by creating flexible spaces for students juggling time and geographical constraints, and other commitments.
The right support has the power to transform learning
Tertiary students are in the midst of a serious mental health challenge. As a cohort, they experience greater levels of mental distress than the general population and their peers who are not in tertiary education. Arulkadacham says a supportive environment that prioritises health and wellbeing has a positive impact on everything from a student’s academic confidence to the bonds they form.
“We know that students who experience high levels of university support experience lower levels of psychological distress,” she says. “[Support] can transform a student’s learning experience by reducing stress, anxiety. Students can focus better on their studies and engage more actively in class discussions.”
At Monash, Arulkadacham says, support includes easy access to resources such as counselling services and wellness programs, which can provide tools to manage stress and stop students feeling overwhelmed. “As a result, [students are] more resilient, they’re more productive, they’re motivated, which leads to improved academic performance and overall satisfaction with their learning journey.”
Online study is flexible enough to support every student
Monash University offers fully online study programs across a range of disciplines, including business, computer science, health and psychology.
Arulkadacham says that as a result, online learning environments can open new doors for those who might not previously have had access to higher education. “Students can really learn at their own pace from anywhere,” she says. “It presents an alternative to face-to-face learning by offering flexibility and accessibility, so it allows students to access course materials at their convenience, enabling students to balance their education with other commitments – work, family responsibilities.”
Having that level of flexibility has other benefits. “It cultivates self-discipline, and autonomy, preparing students for success both academically and professionally,” she says. “The autonomy and continuous access to resources can really empower students to take ownership of their education and pursue their learning goals.”
Online courses can improve access to tertiary education for students from diverse backgrounds and locations.
“That inclusivity promotes diversity in our programs. It allows individuals who may not have access to traditional educational institutions to pursue their studies – and their dreams.”
Despite the distance, online students can be equally supported
“There may be perceptions that online study can be a lonely experience,” Arulkadacham says. “We really challenge that.”
But it’s not without its difficulties, and she stresses the importance of recognising that online study is different to being on campus. “On campus, you do have access to physical mental health support. You can easily turn to a peer in class if there’s something on your mind. For our online tertiary students, there may be the added stress of juggling other roles.”
To overcome these challenges, Monash has created a supportive environment specifically for online education, rather than trying to simply mimic the on-campus experience. “In an online setting, course administrators need to be mindful of ensuring that students can easily access mental health resources,” Arulkadacham says.
Arulkadacham’s own research has shown – “time and again” – that one of the greatest predictors of student success is the opportunity to practise self-care. “So, with the help of our students and some of our practising therapists, is an online self-care toolbox for our students. Something that students can turn to whenever they feel like they need some mental help or assistance.”
Within the toolbox are various strategies, including mindfulness and breathing techniques, all guided by mental health professionals and designed for students studying online.
“Then, they can take it out into the real world. It’s helping them with that lifelong learning journey that we want to instill in them.”
