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This goal of the transformation strategy aimed at re-conceptualizing and
reforming undergraduate education within a research culture and the
implementation of an enhanced residential life experience. To accomplish
this, undergraduate and graduate education continues to be reviewed and
evaluated, and changed if necessary, to ensure a new generation of young
Emirati leaders to manage the country’s future.
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This process of review and evaluation strengthens the
University and confirms its role and function in nation building.
This was done through two main changes; the evolution of
a unifying undergraduate educational experience within a
research culture coordinated by the Dean of Undergraduate
Studies, and the enhancement of residential life reflecting
international best practices while respecting the cultural
expectations of the Nation. These changes have allowed and
supported a range of extracurricular enhancements to the
student experience.
Accomplishments to enhance student experiences included
the following highlights:
University College
The committee to develop a plan for the proposed University
College submitted its report in Spring 2011. The University
College will provide an umbrella organization responsible for
the undergraduate experience, including preparatory studies,
the core curriculum, the first-year experience, student
services (advising, learning skills assistance, career planning
and placement), and residential and campus life.
Residential College
The first full year of operation of the women’s Residential
College set the college on a distinctive path, with an enriched
program of intellectual and cultural activities for residents.
The college included both undergraduates from the several
Faculties and graduate students. Plans for the future
include considering what theme to adopt—e.g., leadership,
environment, community service—for the college’s activities.
Residence Life
The residence halls provided a safe, clean and stimulating
environment by supporting opportunities for cultural and
social learning, community living and experiences, and
leadership training. For the first time this year counseling
offices were available in the residence halls through the
support of the Psychology Department in the Faculty of
Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS). Residence Life
Coordinators and Residence Assistants received extensive
training that included; understanding normal and abnormal
behavior, developing good relations between students, self
care, conflict management, first aid, and other professional
development opportunities.
Campus Life
With Student Affair’s belief that student success is
embedded in the holistic experiences of students, this
year saw the investment in multiple opportunities to create
lifelong relationships and memories by being involved in a
community of peers. Students were exposed to student well-
being, student learning, multicultural development, character
development, community responsibility and standards, and
team development.
Student Services
A number of initiatives were undertaken by student affairs
relating to services to students, three of which were:
•
Health Services were enhanced through the licensing of
two clinics for female and male students respectively, two
ambulances were equipped with support from the Ministry
of Interior, a second female GP was appointed, and the 1st
Exhibition and Forum for Health, Nutrition and Fitness was
undertaken in collaboration with university partners.
•
Counseling Services were refocused with services being
opened in two residence halls, the inclusion of evening
shifts, and targeted personal counseling to support the
residential college’s focus on career counseling.
•
The Disability Centre extended its services by drafting its
polices and procedures, acquiring assistive technology
tools, and organized the first Disability Services Forum
focusing on best practices in special education.