Falling in love with learning, one subject at a time

Ruyi Jin says she has fallen in love with learning at Victoria University. “The units are informative and interesting. I always learn new concepts that challenge my previous assumptions and drive me to be an active learner. I have also benefited a lot from the Block Model.”

Ruyi is an international student from China and she is studying the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at VU. She had worked in early education in China and wanted to learn more about different teaching methods.

Ruyi says she chose VU because it offers a three-year course, compared to four years at some other universities, and because of the teaching facilities at the Footscray Park campus.

“The assessments have impressed me a lot,” she says. “During my previous study, an assessment meant an essay or a presentation. But at VU, the assessments are so much fun! So far, I have created a website, a video, a timeline, a virtual child’s profile for the case study and delivered a science lesson. The assessments are interesting and creative. Gradually, I have built self-confidence and fallen in love with learning.”

Ruyi says she has adapted easily to the Block Model of teaching, in which students study one unit, or subject, at a time.

I really appreciate the Block Model. It means students have the time to review content, reflect and do the assessment. The Block Model presents a clear learning schedule and there is a reasonable workload. The intensive learning helps me to develop a deep understanding of the content and to get good marks.

She adds: “I think the Block Model will become the trend around the world. I have heard from my previous teacher that Chinese universities are beginning to adopt it as well.”

Ruyi says the VU teachers have been supportive and inclusive. “They all have a lot of teaching experience so they can illustrate concepts with up-to-date cases and help us to understand the situation in practice. They are caring, approachable, kind, supportive and inspiring. When I am confused about something, they always patiently explain it in different ways until I understand it, or they show me a resource that will deepen my understanding. They are good listeners and we often laugh in the classroom. They provide a very pleasant and relaxed environment for learning.”