Towards a New Generation of Engaged Universities:
The Need to Act, Adapt and Transform

16th – 18thApril, 2024 | Kempinski Central Avenue (Formerly the Address Dubai Mall), Dubai, UAE

Workshop 2 :

Fostering belonging in Higher Education: Services and support to build competence, confidence and resilience

Facilitator: Dr. Catherine Hack, Principal Adviser, Learning and Teaching, AdvanceHE, UK
Sponsored by:

Aims
The aim of this workshop is to explore the factors that help students feel more included, engaged, and capable of succeeding in higher education.

Context
Engaging, inclusive and effective learning environments that support student success in higher education, require learning experiences that foster both social and academic belonging. Group work, problem and inquiry-based learning can be effective approaches for developing a sense of belonging, as well as the skills and attributes that students’ need and employers value. However many students will not be familiar with this mode of learning, so faculty and institutions need to consider how they can support students competence, confidence and resilience allowing them to engage effectively in their learning community. This may include:

  • Advice and challenge on personal development
  • Accessible information about their course and the wider university
  • Support in becoming independent and gaining agency
  • Clear expectations
  • Sign posting to specialist support where required

Outcomes
This workshop will provide you with the opportunity to discuss and categorise student needs with your peers from across the HE sector. At the end of the workshop, you will have:

  • Explored the Advance HE Student Needs Framework
  • Discussed the service provision required to meet their students’ needs, considering your own institutional context and priorities
  • Reflected on the professional development required to support student needs at your institution

Why join this workshop?
Join this workshop if you want to explore how you can help student’s feel like they truly belong in the university environment.