Keynote - Connection Before Content: Relationships as the Foundation of Authentic Student Engagement

Description

Authentic student engagement is often understood through three interconnected dimensions: emotional, cognitive, and behavioural. This keynote argues that relationships and belonging are fundamental to the emotional dimension and provide the foundation upon which deeper learning and participation are built.
In a decade marked by disruption, digital transformation, and changing student expectations, today's Generation Z learners arrive at university seeking not only knowledge, but connection, purpose, and community. As institutions focus on student success, the challenge is not simply how to engage students, but how to create the conditions in which engagement can flourish.
Drawing on contemporary perspectives on belonging and student success, this keynote explores the importance of seeding success from day one through meaningful relationships with peers, educators, and the wider institution.
The central message is clear: before students engage with content, they need to feel connected. Because connection is not the reward for engagement, it is the reason engagement happens.

Period	10 Sept 2026
Held at	Northumbria University, United Kingdom
Degree of Recognition	National