Partnering to enhance the postgraduate student experience

Abstract

The learning and teaching team at Edith Cowan University's School of Nursing and Midwifery has partnered with postgraduate students to enhance their experience and success. Targeted initiatives throughout the curricula, including online and multimodal learning activities and resources, were co-developed in response to anecdotal evidence that some commencing students in this diverse cohort were lacking essential digital and academic literacy skills. The team is improving learning opportunities for all students by leveraging online platforms and fostering constructive relationships between staff and students to enhance self-engagement and motivation. A self-evaluation has been developed and implemented for students to gain a clear understanding of their academic and digital literacies. It is also providing important data about students' preparedness for their studies. This paper will share early findings from the research project, including scalable approaches and strategies to promote agency and empower students and staff.