The 2021 Census data that was released earlier this year indicates a steady growth in cultural diversity, with nearly a third of Australians being born overseas. As a result of shifting migration patterns, our largest-growing communities are now from India, Nepal, Philippines, China and Vietnam. With so many cultural nuances and differing worldviews, how can we effectively communicate with others in an increasingly global context?

McCrindle’s recent research would suggest that we should start by listening. By endeavouring to understand others’ values, priorities and experiences, we build empathy and trust, which lays a solid foundation for effective communication. In the VLC, we focus on building students’ emotional intelligence and understanding through the SECRET Skills (Self-Manager, Effective Participator, Creative Thinker, Reflective Learner, Enquirer, Team Worker), so that students can function and contribute effectively beyond the virtual classroom. Examples of sub-skills that are explicitly taught include Managing Emotions, Persuading Others, Questioning Assumptions, Inviting Feedback, Staying Objective and Taking Responsibility. To find out more about how students learn in the VLC, please contact our enrolments team at vlcenrolments@hilcrest.qld.edu.au