The Positive Impact of College Engagement

Living on a university campus provides unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in university life. Whether you’re living at college or at student accommodation they all allow you to find friends for life as well as connect with different people from different backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures and degrees. Having this social network allows students to engage with others through participating in different activities like sports, recreational activities and clubs. Participation in such events fosters deep bonds among peers, as well as for interactions between staff and students to occur, creating a massive support network around every student.

According to the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), a survey conducted in 2008 revealed an increasing trend in the number of students choosing to live on campus. This upward trajectory indicates a growing preference for the on-campus lifestyle among university students.

The research has also shown that living at accommodation on campus has increased levels of engagement with students as it provides many activities, social events and academic support. Based on the ACER article, there are 6 points that have helped engagement for students living on campus; academic challenge, active learning, student and staff interactions, enriching educational experiences, supportive learning environment and a work integrated learning.

Overall, the data in the ACER article suggests that living on campus has a modestly positive impact on student engagement. However, when specifically considering the Supportive Learning Environment scale, the influence of living on campus emerges as the third most significant variable. This finding underscores the substantial contribution of on-campus living to students' perceptions of engagement and satisfaction with the university's learning environment.

Furthermore, many studies have found that living on university grounds has allowed for more learning opportunities, which has increased individual academic success rates. According to the survey conducted, many residential students report greater levels of individually focused study networks. Living on-site is extremely beneficial when aiming for high academic achievement, as you can access the libraries and tutors easily. At Tommy More, our residents have the opportunity to form study groups and network with their friends and peers. One standout event is Nerd Night, held every Tuesday evening. During this time, students gather in the dining hall to study together and receive support from tutors, enhancing their academic success. It's a fantastic blend of productive study sessions and friendly camaraderie, effectively alleviating stress. The academic assistance provided through living on campus is immensely beneficial and comes highly recommended.

Overall, living on campus is highly recommended amongst most residential students as it has helped improve their own engagement and has helped them to achieve academic goals, whist creating new relationships, finding new friends, and enriching their university experience. For more information on these areas, have a look at the ACER article for more information: Engaging College Communities: The impact of residential colleges in Australian higher education (acer.edu.au)

Reference:

Coates, Hamish and Edwards, Daniel 'Engaging College Communities: The impact of residential colleges in Australian higher education', AUSSE Research Briefings, v.4 June 2009