Monash creates a supportive academic environment in residences

12 May 2011

The opening of new residence study centres marks the beginning of a bold new step for Monash South Africa as it embarks on a strategy to bring residence and academic life together.

Debbie Lees, head of the Monash South Africa Foundation Programme said: “We believe that student success is not only limited to classroom teaching, and that learning can take place in a variety of venues, through a variety of instructional approaches.”

The new areas consist of two new learning spaces in the on-campus residences, which include a computer lab with 25 computers and photocopying facilities and a social learning space, which will allow students to work with their peers when reviewing course notes and doing class preparation, as well as to work with tutors and mentors.

Monash has also converted the clubhouses at its off-campus apartment complexes, known as Honeypark, into study areas. Lees says: “This forms part of a process of developing these complexes into what we call ‘living and learning student villages’.”

“With the provision of these new study areas, our hope is that students will experience the cohesiveness and intimacy of a smaller learning-centred space where unique approaches to teaching and learning are implemented.

“We are also offering students a familiar, comfortable environment where they can enjoy personal interaction with staff and exciting opportunities for academic and extracurricular exploration.

“Wednesday and Thursday evenings have now been designated as ‘Academic Support’ evenings as part of developing a culture where all students engage in learning either alone, with study partners, with groups or with tutors and mentors in the learning spaces.   A Learning Skills Adviser as well as tutors and mentors will be available during the upcoming study break before examinations and free hot chocolate, coffee and donuts will be served on study nights

“We also believe that taking part in social activities enhances students’ academic success. In order to grow the social aspect of residence life, several fun activities have been organised which will extend over the whole year. These include talent shows, movie nights, go-kart racing, visits to Zoo Lake, a ‘sixties’ party and ‘bring-and-braai’ get togethers. Inter-residence sports competitions will be held over a three-week period and will include volleyball, table tennis, pool, touch rugby, soccer, tennis, netball and basketball. 

Student development opportunities will be available in the form of workshops on positive living, responsible drinking and avoiding drugs, as well as career advice. There will also be many opportunities for students to take part in a range of community engagement initiatives.