Online learning at VU: how our students are thriving

Our VU community is a positive bunch, and although studying online can have its challenges our students have a secret weapon: the VU Block Model.

VU established its award-winning Block Model to support student success in many ways and its single unit study focus gives students great results, whether they are learning online or face-to-face.

We reached out to some of our students to find out how they’re doing and get their great tips on maintaining success in their studies.

The VU Block Model - transcript

Why is the Block better?

Other universities teaching in the traditional model require students to juggle four subjects (or units) at once over 12 weeks, whereas students in the Block Model complete one unit at a time over four weeks before moving on to the next.

Reducing the workload and keeping confusion to a minimum has been key to students settling in well and staying focused on their courses.

VU students are further supported while studying remotely, because the Block Model class sizes are smaller (typically 15-30) than traditional model classes. This means that students still have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get involved in their learning.

Students experience the benefits

Jeremy

First-year Bachelor of Education (P-12) student Jeremy said that he doesn't struggle with remote learning like some of his friends at other unis, so he can focus on his studies and adjust to student life.

It’s much less overwhelming only having to worry about completing one unit and one assessment at a time,

"The small online classrooms at VU provide an authentic experience, the closest thing to a real life classroom. Going into our different breakout rooms in Zoom allows for small-group collaborations as if we were in a real classroom environment.

"Massive shout out to Keo, my teacher for unit EEC1107. He is a very friendly, outgoing and most importantly helpful person."

Toolsika

This was affirmed by second year Criminal Justice/Psychology student, Toolsika. "I think VU has approached remote learning beautifully and quickly," she says.

The Block Model has made it better as there’s not the pressure of learning several subjects at once. I’m not worried about exams as I only have assignments and small tests.