Lead Department
Applied Social Studies
Coordinated by
Mary Cooney (Mary.Cooney@mtu.ie)
Purpose
The Night-time Students Learning Community aims to support and enhance the academic experience of night-time students at MTU. As an often-overlooked student cohort, night-time learners face unique challenges, including balancing work and study, accessing student support services outside of regular hours, and engaging with the broader university community. By identifying these challenges, the Learning Community seeks to develop targeted strategies that foster student success and inclusion.
A key focus is to create a supportive network that enhances both the academic and social experiences of night-time students. By collaborating with staff, students, and institutional support services, this Learning Community will work towards solutions that improve engagement, access to resources, and overall student well-being. Additionally, aligning with MTU’s Strategic Plan, the Learning Community will contribute to broader institutional goals related to student engagement, retention, and inclusivity.
Summary
- The Learning Community focused on gathering insights into the experiences and needs of night-time students. Engagement efforts were made to identify key barriers to participation, academic success, and student well-being for those studying outside standard daytime hours. Work was undertaken to explore best practices for supporting night-time students, including academic resources, student services, and social integration.
- Plans were developed to strengthen collaboration between staff, students, and support services to enhance the night-time student experience. Further work is required to define next steps and implement new initiatives aimed at increasing student engagement and success.
- The Learning Community continues to explore ways to enhance engagement and support for night-time students. Further development is planned to structure initiatives around student feedback and institutional priorities. The next phase will involve refining objectives, expanding membership, and formalising an action plan for sustained impact.
