Everyone learns differently. But whether we’re a bookish student or more hands-on and interactive, one thing is always true: we do better with support. A core theme of the research conducted at Monash University’s Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health is what it calls “developing well”. Recognising the complexity of learning experiences, the institute applies advanced genetics, developmental neuroscience and psychological methods to better understand our brains. The institute’s work is also being used to help university students. For Dr Lilani Arulkadacham, the acting director of online education with the School of Psychological Sciences at Monash University, the approach forms the basis of her school’s inclusive, supportive and diverse environment. As an expert in online learning, she knows the potential such an approach has to encourage students from every background to thrive.
