Jisc Change Agents' Network Conference 2024

This poster presentation aims to shine a light on the innovative strategies employed at Coventry University to enhance the student experience and steer towards a more inclusive, supportive environment that fosters academic and personal success. Coventry University has a diverse array of students and programmes spread over several campuses. 

Peer mentors and Student Success Coaches are utilised to foster a sense of community and belonging from day one. Vygo, a cutting-edge software solution, further amplifies this approach, providing a safe and accessible virtual environment for students to connect seamlessly. International students, often navigating a distinct set of challenges, become a focal point as we explore strategies for creating meaningful and supportive experiences. 

Coventry has several peer mentoring programmes which match students based on shared interests and help to form communities based on geographical proximity and the needs of their students. This lays the foundation for a cross-cultural understanding, fostering a profound sense of belonging and peer support. Our presentation highlights the collaborative relationship between Coventry’s students, staff and Vygo, and the evolution of strategies to find the right support model. Through collaborative initiatives, Coventry University showcases how institutions can harness the collective wisdom of their academic community and a Peer Assisted Learning approach to effect positive changes. 

Technological innovation takes centre stage, with Vygo's Support Ecosystem Platform exemplifying the transformative potential of technology in student engagement. The presentation culminates with a discussion on measuring the impact of these initiatives, presenting data that underscores the tangible positive outcomes. We invite you to immerse yourself in the possibilities of ongoing collaboration, where diversity, technology, and meaningful partnerships converge to create a higher education landscape that is not only adaptive but truly empowering.