Scientia Education Academy Lecture

Supporting students who are outside their comfort zone

Presented by Dr Leesa Sidhu, School of Science, UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy

This seminar will begin by discussing general approaches used at UNSW Canberra to support students for whom university study is “uncharted territory”. These strategies include: first-year lunches, a mentoring program and academic support programs (for students identified as requiring assistance in English, Maths or Physics).

It will then focus on curricular support strategies used in a compulsory data analysis course for Arts and Business students. This course is particularly challenging to teach – many students lack confidence or interest in maths and are well outside their comfort zones! Strategies used to help students overcome “maths phobia” and motivate them to engage with the course material include: establishing a supportive and encouraging classroom environment, catering for different approaches to learning, and making appropriate use of technology.

Register now to receive a link to the online event.