The difference a great teacher can make
Great teachers can shape your whole university experience. They challenge your thinking, encourage your ideas and create environments where you feel supported to learn, contribute and grow.
At Deakin, arts and education students learn from lecturers, researchers, creative practitioners and industry professionals who bring their expertise and experience into the classroom.
Deakin is consistently ranked the #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction – but the students themselves can tell the story best.
This World Teachers’ Day, we’re celebrating the people behind the learning and hearing directly from students about the teachers who have made a difference to their Deakin experience.
Learn from people who know their field
Deakin’s arts and education teachers are active researchers, creative practitioners and education professionals, bringing current knowledge and professional experience into their teaching. They include:
- Professor of Communication Matthew Ricketson, co-author of Getting Murdoched: How Murdoch’s Media Wields Power and Punishment
- acclaimed director, animator, Oscar and BAFTA nominee and animation lecturer Anthony Lucas
- communication lecturer Ross Monaghan, former CEO of the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association.
Their expertise helps students connect what they’re learning with their field and develop the knowledge and practical skills they’ll need for what comes next.
But expertise is only part of what students value in a great teacher.
What students say about their teachers
Deakin students describe teachers who are approachable, passionate about their fields and genuinely invested in helping their students succeed. Here’s what arts and education students say about the people who have taught, supported and inspired them.
'The best thing about my degree is that all the teaching staff know me by name and are always approachable for help. You really get the vibe that they are there to best prepare you for the real world, and they want to see you succeed.
Luke, Bachelor of Health and Physical Education
'One of the things that stood out most was how approachable the lecturers were. They were always available to answer questions, provide constructive feedback and encourage discussion, creating a classroom where students felt comfortable sharing ideas and learning from one another.'
Elin, Bachelor of Communication
'Having lecturers like Mr Ross Monaghan, who was always approachable and willing to guide me whenever I was unsure, made a real difference to my learning experience. That mentorship gave me confidence and encouraged me to keep developing my skills.'
Ashima, Master of Communication
'Beyond teaching the course content, they were always willing to offer professional advice and guidance when asked, which made a huge difference to my confidence and success both in class and in my early career.'
Finn, Master of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies
'The teaching and academic staff at Deakin are exceptional. Most of them are still teaching in schools, as well as lecturing and teaching at Deakin. This allows them to be a key asset in what the theory looks, sounds and feels like in a classroom.'
Natasha, Bachelor of Education (Primary)
'Every single journalism lecturer I have had has been passionate about the field, optimistic about its future and always willing to help where possible.'
Mitch, Bachelor of Communication
'One of the most inspiring parts of my course at Deakin has been the enthusiastic teaching style of the staff. They encourage us to think critically and try out new ideas, which makes our feedback sessions feel like helpful conversations and builds my confidence as a designer.'
Sally, Bachelor of Design
'The teacher-student relationship was an aspect that I highly valued during my time in this course. The personalised and attentive care given by the academic team whenever help and guidance was needed was one of the best features of this degree.'
Shehara, Master of International Relations (Professional)
'Deakin’s staff are what make the university as a whole so special, memorable and impactful. Not only did I create meaningful relationships with the staff, but they helped, and still do help, connect me to the industry.'
Caleb, Bachelor of Design
Great teaching, through students’ eyes
Hear how Deakin teachers have helped students feel welcome, supported and inspired – in their studies and beyond.
What are the dance teachers like at Deakin?
Criminology student Olivia on feeling welcomed by staff.
What inspired you to be a teacher?
Media comm student Phoebe on feeling supported by the teaching staff.
Explore arts and education at Deakin
Inspired by what our students have shared? Explore arts and education at Deakin and discover where your studies could take you.