‘Virtual Halls’ Vladimir Prpich, Executive Director Campus Community Division, Monash University. • Virtual halls provide an on-campus supportive collegiate ‘residential’ experience opportunity to all students: • Limited on-campus housing; • Not all students can afford to live on-campus; • Not all students can live on campus [for a variety of reasons] What difference will it make? 1. MRS exit survey results highlight a very high degree of satisfaction with their on-campus experience coupled with enhanced performance and retention. 2. That experience is based on the pastoral support, community and programs which are part of the MRS culture – but do not necessarily require a student to live within the residences. 3. The ‘virtual hall’ concept provides students with a formal community and social structure and support; leadership and mentoring from senior students and dedicated pastoral care staff; access to a range of social programs including sports, academic and cultural programs. Campus Community Division find us at www.campuscommunity.monash.edu.au 2 How will we know if we have made that difference? 1. Annual survey results, e.g. in 2011 MRS surveyed 1,800 residents [73.6% response rate]: a. 85% residents participated in social / cultural and academic programs; b. 90% feel that their residential experience has enhanced their learning experience; c. 96% feel accepted by other residents. d. 96% feel that their res experience has enhanced their ability to improve interpersonal relationships; 2. Tracking academic performance and retention rates. 3. Demand for membership of a ‘virtual hall’. Campus Community Division find us at www.campuscommunity.monash.edu.au 3