Abstract:

This paper will describe the development of an innovative online website for international graduate students studying at universities in Australia. In 2008, an Australian university identified as a key goal to develop its profile as a research intensive university. One of the performance indicators in realising this goal is to increase the proportion of international graduate students from 20% to 50% over a five year period. To support these students, the University’s Research Students Centre (RSC) decided to develop a website to help prepare students before their arrival in Australia, by delivering information and support to students between the period of their acceptance to their graduate programs and their arrival into the country.

The goal of the Doorway to Research website is to enhance and support research and research training by developing student understanding of Australian popular culture and academic research culture; to expand their language skills as required for successful graduate studies; and to enhance their knowledge and access through the graduate studies network.

The online resources include four key topic areas:
o Life in Australia – This topic features resources based on materials from the Australian government to provide key information and advice;
o Research in Australia – This topic features links to key research facilities, funding agencies and universities in Australia;
o Language skills – This topic features links to resources that support reading, writing, listening and speaking;
o Fields of research – This topic features links, activities and information about research studies within different disciplines.

Resources and functions included in the website were designed based on factors identified via consultation with key stakeholders. Some features include video, self assessment activities, and Individual student profile pages. Social networking opportunities were built around the activities and profile page. Search functions including search by region, topic and research interest to allow the student to select engagement with other participants as well as key experts.

Anticipated learning outcomes are anticipated to include increased confidence, enhanced understanding of the Australian cultural and research environments, and increased networking of contacts to support them during candidature; and resources to help developing skills in speaking, listening and writing in English. By improving the quality of their personal and professional experience, it is anticipated students will experience more satisfactory progress through candidature and timely completions will result.

In addition, while the main aim of the Doorway to Research relate to graduate research outcomes, the website will also be accessed by supervisors and other key university stakeholders in the pre arrival phase, and throughout their study in Australia.

Keywords:

Higher education, international graduate programs, language development, online resources, student support.