Focus on one subject at a time
At other universities, you need to complete multiple subjects at once.
At VU, you’ll be fully focused on each subject. This allows you to focus, reinforce concepts through practical learning, and quickly implement feedback. It means that if you are fascinated by a subject, you can delve deeply and immerse yourself in it. And if you don’t enjoy it, you will be pleased to have it finished in only four weeks – rather than studying it across an entire semester.
Achieve better grades
With the VU Block Model, you have a better chance of achieving academic success.
Since its introduction to undergraduate courses in 2018, VU’s Block Model has seen our pass rate increase. In 2019, first-year pass rates were at 87% (up 13% on standard model) while for second year students, pass rates were at 90%.
Not only are you more likely to pass, you’re more likely to get better grades. Over 40% of students received distinctions and high distinctions, without a change to the assessments given.
Build confidence from day one
Block classes are interactive sessions where you are empowered to share ideas, debate concepts and explore learning opportunities. Learning in small, collaborative working groups with classmates and your teacher, you will feel more confident to speak up than in the standard lecture environment.
The progression of subjects in the Block Model will give you early feedback and success, which means you can build confidence in your studies from day one.
While we are temporarily teaching remotely, our Zoom classrooms allow for breakout rooms just like a campus classroom, where you work in small groups before coming back to the class to share your ideas.
Focused timetables = more free time
Block classes are available in multiple combinations of days and times (morning, mid-morning, afternoon and evening), allowing you to choose the combination that best suits you.
Each unit typically has three, three hour, face-to-face teaching sessions per week, scheduled over three days. In 2020, classes are running via Zoom and Webex.
This consistent and focused timetabling of three Block classes per week means that you have more time for work, social life, caring responsibilities, sport, and everything else that’s important to you.
Teachers get to know you
At VU, your teachers will know you by name. Because the Block class sizes are small, you get to know your classmates and teacher, and become a working team. It means that if you are having difficulty with a concept or a task, the teacher is there to provide 1:1 support and help you when you need it. It’s a true partnership.
Flexibility to start later in the year or fast-track your studies
Undergraduate students – you can choose to finish your studies faster with optional winter and summer blocks of study, or take time off for work or travel and still finish your year on schedule. Summer Block 1 is an early four-week study block for first year undergraduate students who want the option to start – and finish – their course earlier or substitute another block later in the year. You can also begin your course in Block 3 (around May) instead of waiting for mid-year, and catch up to your classmates by second year.
More time & support to adjust to study in Australia
International students perform particularly well under the Block Model. Two years after implementing the Block Model, our international students were achieving a pass rate of 93%, with 53% of those results a distinction or above.
Students can focus on a single unit at a time, in a small class with a high level of teacher support. Prompt assessments ensure students have the opportunity to address any issues, or seek support, before commencing the next unit.
Access to resources that prepare you for life after uni
In addition to the resources provided by your teachers, you’ll have access to all services and resources available in the Learning Hub, from writing and numeracy through to literature reviews and video skills. You can access workshops, drop-ins and resources by logging on to Learning Hub Online.
In first year (undergraduate students only), alongside coursework, you’ll complete Study Essentials – a program designed to help you gain skills, such as research and writing, required for success. In second, third and fourth year you’ll complete Course Essentials and Future Essentials, which offer customised support through practical learning activities, and assist you to find employment in your chosen field.
With all this additional support, it’s no surprise that more than 90% of Australian employers ranked our graduates highly for leadership, management, flexibility and initiative (2020 Employer Satisfaction Survey).
