University Makes a Difference

Experience university-level study while still at school

The University Makes a Difference outreach short course is a partnership with students in non-mainstream schools. Through the Pathways College, students in Tailored Learning Programs are enrolled in a fee-free short course titled "Understanding the Social World of Generation Z". Throughout the course, students investigate topics that matter to their communities, with support from their school and Adelaide University staff. Depending on the school, participation can contribute towards students’ SACE.

How it works

Working alongside university academics and mentors, students take on a piece of research from start to finish. This includes:

• Identifying a problem that matters to them and their community
• Developing research and academic skills through workshops with university staff
• Spending time on Adelaide University campuses, accessing university facilities for a genuine experience of university life
• Interviewing a researcher working in their area of interest
• Synthesising their findings into an academic poster
• Presenting their work at a dedicated showcase event, alongside students from other schools.

Bring university level study into the classroom

University Makes a Difference is delivered in partnership with schools that offer a Tailored Learning Program. University staff work alongside teachers to bring the University Makes a Difference short course into the classroom in a way that suits the students and fits within each school's existing curriculum.

Partner schools receive:

• A series of workshops led by university staff
• One-to-one and small-group mentoring for students
• Time on campus and access to university facilities
• A place for every student at the UMaDOP Showcase
• Learning materials and resources. 

Schools nominate a teacher as the main contact, help embed the project within an existing subject, and support students through to the showcase event.

Interested in a partnership? Get in touch with the Pathways College to discuss bringing University Makes a Difference to your students.