Program Guide <Program name> <Location> <Load> <Month> <Year> in collaboration with <Partner institution> Contents Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 4 Contacts ............................................................................................................................................................. 5 Administrative Contacts ................................................................................................................................. 5 Academic Contacts ........................................................................................................................................ 5 Program Structure and Schedule ...................................................................................................................... 6 Contact Hours and Schedule ......................................................................................................................... 6 Program Fees and Enrolment ........................................................................................................................... 7 Program fees and late penalties .................................................................................................................... 7 Course enrolment........................................................................................................................................... 7 Course withdrawal.......................................................................................................................................... 7 Taking Leave of Absence .............................................................................................................................. 7 Program withdrawal ....................................................................................................................................... 8 Student-centred Learning .................................................................................................................................. 9 Flexible delivery ............................................................................................................................................. 9 Graduate qualities .......................................................................................................................................... 9 The Grading System ........................................................................................................................................ 11 Calculating the Grade Point Average ........................................................................................................... 11 Assessment of Courses ................................................................................................................................... 13 Performance in Assessment ........................................................................................................................ 13 Students with Disabilities ............................................................................................................................. 13 Variations to Assessment Tasks .................................................................................................................. 13 Assignments ................................................................................................................................................. 13 Examinations and Final Grades ................................................................................................................... 16 Failure of a Course....................................................................................................................................... 18 Progress through Your Degree Program and Academic Review .................................................................... 19 Academic Requirements for Progression .................................................................................................... 19 Information about Complaint Procedures ........................................................................................................ 20 Plagiarism ........................................................................................................................................................ 21 Induction for New Students .......................................................................................................................... 21 Other Policies and Procedures ........................................................................................................................ 22 Quality Control and Feedback ..................................................................................................................... 22 Course Materials .............................................................................................................................................. 23 Study Guide ................................................................................................................................................. 23 Course Information Booklet ......................................................................................................................... 23 Readings ...................................................................................................................................................... 23 Textbook ...................................................................................................................................................... 23 The University’s Online Environment .............................................................................................................. 24 Accessing Password-Protected Online Environments ................................................................................. 24 Program website .......................................................................................................................................... 24 2 Email ............................................................................................................................................................ 24 Accessing University Services ......................................................................................................................... 26 The Library ................................................................................................................................................... 26 Learning Connection .................................................................................................................................... 27 <Partner name> Information, Policies and Procedures ................................................................................... 28 3 Introduction Dear Student, This program guide has been specially prepared to assist Transnational students who are pursuing the <Program name> offered by the University of South Australia (UniSA) in association with <Partner name>. This program guide is intended to be a source of reference on how the program works, as well as the support that is available to you. We recommend that you read this program guide before reading the course materials. Any necessary changes will be brought to your attention through the program website. Studying for the <Program name> is a managerial experience itself. Many of you will soon find that the learning process is going to be a most interesting and enriching part of your life, although it will be demanding. We are confident that you will find that the University of South Australia's long experience in delivering transnational programs will ensure that your program is interesting and challenging, as well as helpful in furthering your professional careers. We hope that you will find this program guide useful in the course of your study. We wish you every success in your studies. <Partner director signature> <Program director signature> <Partner director name> <Partner director position> <Partner name> <Program Director name> <Program name> Program Director University of South Australia Disclaimer This publication contains information which is current as of <date>. Changes in circumstances after this date may impact upon the accuracy or currency of the information. The University College takes all due care to ensure that the information contained here is accurate, but reserves the right to vary any information described in this publication without notice. 4 Contacts [Insert specific contact information] Administrative Contacts [Insert partner admin contact information] Academic Contacts For specific questions relating to academic course content or assignment details; students should contact the relevant [tutor/lecturer/ course co-ordinator] directly via email. If you have general questions in relation to the course, please address these to your local tutors or lecturers, your course coordinator or your program director via email. The configuration of all UniSA email addresses is always the same, that is first name.last name@unisa.edu.au. Email is the best and quickest way of communication with a course coordinator. For general academic matters relating to your program of study, students should contact their Program Director. [Insert Program Director contact information] 5 Program Structure and Schedule The <Program name> program is designed as an interactive program with internationalism weaved throughout its interrelated, constituent courses. The courses are directed at preparing participants for managerial leadership in international operating environments characterised by increasing global competitiveness. Individual courses are given an international focus from the Asia Pacific perspective. Courses have been placed in a particular sequence, in each program, to help build knowledge as students progress through their degree. Following the University’s prescribed pathway enables students to complete their program of study within the shortest possible timeframe. In addition, the course sequences have been set up in order for students to build on their knowledge sequentially throughout their program of study. Any student wishing to study courses outside of the normal sequence must seek permission from the appropriate Program Director via communication with <Partner name>. The courses in the University’s undergraduate programs are listed in Appendix... Transnational students normally undertake the same program of study as students in Australia. The University constantly reviews and revises its programs in response to student evaluation of teaching. As programs are reviewed, changes can occur. Students will be advised of any changes and, if required, transition information will be provided. <All applications are assessed for credit upon entry to the program. Depending on the levels of credit granted at entry, students may be required to complete more or less courses than those listed.> The program structure is located in Appendix… The program sequence available on your program website, <insert Program home URL>. UniSA reserves the right to make changes, if necessary, to the structure and/or sequence of courses. Contact Hours and Schedule A typical learning cycle consists of <number of weeks> weeks covering <number of courses> courses of study. Each course is supported by <total number of lecture hours> hours of lectures and <total number of group hours/tutorial> hours of group discussion/tutorials. <UniSA/Partner> appointed lecturers will conduct these lectures and tutorials. The lectures are scheduled in blocks, usually, between <insert details>. Each session will last <length of session time>. Lecture sessions will be held from <lecture session start> to <lecture session end>. <Insert any conditions on contact hours for government/scholarship funding> 6 Program Fees and Enrolment Program fees and late payment penalties Our local program management partner, <Partner name>, has provided details of all program fees in the Program Brochure provided to you prior to joining the program. The program fee covers University registration, enrolment, course materials, study guides, handouts, <textbooks>, classes, marking, projects, degree and academic transcript (additional copies require additional payment) if successful. For further information on Program fees and late payment penalties, please refer to Appendix… Course enrolment Students are to be enrolled for each study period following the initial registration by paying the appropriate course fee. Enrolment is subject to the approval of UniSA. Students must make satisfactory progress during the program to obtain approval for continuation of enrolment. Where progress is deemed to be unsatisfactory, UniSA may terminate the registration of a student in line with the University’s Academic Review policy. http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/default.asp Students who wish to enrol in a previously withdrawn or failed course must complete the <insert name of form> which can be downloaded from the Program website: <insert program website URL>. This form must be submitted to <Partner name> <no. of weeks> prior to the start of study period. Verbal or email applications will not be accepted. Repeating a Failed Course Subject to academic review (please refer to the ‘Progress through Your Degree Program and Academic Review’ section for more information), students may not be granted supplementary assessments for failed courses. No re-sit attempts will be allowed for passed courses. Both the University and <partner name> cannot guarantee that the program will be offered indefinitely. If the failed course(s) is/are not available for any reason, students will be required to repeat the course(s) on their own and submit assignment(s) in accordance with the timetable set by the University. Under such circumstances, academic counselling/seminar sessions will not be provided. If a student has failed a course and is seeking to re-enrol in that course, they need to advise <partner name> of their intention to re-enrol at least <no. of weeks> weeks prior to the start date of study period. A completed <insert name of form> must be lodged before a student can be re-enrolled in a course. Repeating courses may affect the completion date of the program. Course withdrawal If students are permitted to withdraw from a course until the next intake or study period, the notation that will be recorded next to the course on their academic transcript will depend on when they return their <insert name of form>. Key dates for course withdrawal are available on the Transnational Academic Calendar, http://www.unisa.edu.au/partner/transnational/transcalendar%20default.asp If a student is enrolled in a course, and fails to notify [partner name] of their course withdrawal at any stage during the study period, an F2 (Fail Level 2) grade will be recorded. For information on the fee refund policy, please refer to Appendix.. Taking Leave of Absence Generally speaking, students are not encouraged to take leave of absence, as it will disrupt the momentum of their studies and may hinder the attainment of their Degree. Requests for leave of absence should be first discussed with <insert title>. If case leave is necessary, the student should fill out the ‘Leave with Absence from Program form’ and <insert name of form>’ available on the Program website under ‘Forms to Download’. The final decision for granting leave of absence lies with UniSA. 7 Students must follow the program timetable given, whenever possible. Leave should only be seen as a last alternative. A period of one year is permitted under UniSA policy. Any further applications for Leave of Absence must be approved by the Program Director. Students must complete at least one course in their enrolled degree before leave can be approved. Applying for leave at the beginning of your program, before any courses have been attempted is considered a deferral of the program. Please note that should you defer your program to the next intake, you will be required to adhere to that intake’s conditions and program structure. Program withdrawal In the event of withdrawal, the ‘Program Withdrawal Form’ must be completed. The form is available on the program website. Verbal or email applications will not be accepted. For the refund policy, please see Appendix ... Absence without Notification Students who do not enrol in one or more courses in the program for at least one calendar year and have not been granted leave, may be withdrawn from the program. Such students wishing to renew their studies will be required to apply for readmission. No transfer of fees is permissible should students renew their studies at a later stage. 8 Student-centred Learning The approach to teaching and learning at UniSA is student-centred. The University has chosen this approach to teaching because it is the most effective way for adults to learn. As a UniSA student, your life experiences will be valued and drawn upon within your studies. Also, you are likely to experience a broad range of learning opportunities and have some choice over how, when and what you learn. Some courses will provide opportunities for learning to take place in applied and work based settings. You will be encouraged to make choices about your learning and to reflect upon your learning experiences. You will also be able to take responsibility for your learning, in tracking your achievements and in managing your learning opportunities, to develop the particular skills and attitudes you will need as a graduating professional. Student-centred learning for the Professions is at the centre of the Teaching and Learning Framework Flexible delivery The central element of the Teaching and Learning framework at the University of South Australia is flexible delivery. Flexible delivery means the provision of resources and application of technologies to create, store and distribute program content, enrich communication, and provide support and services to enable both more effective learning and better management of learning by the learner. Thus, flexible delivery allows the maximum number of students to participate effectively in learning, thus satisfying the Strategic intent of the University. To read more information on Flexible delivery, please refer to the Flexible Delivery website at http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/learningconnection/staff/framework/flexible.asp Graduate qualities UniSA has identified seven graduate qualities that describe the knowledge, skills and personal abilities that you will need as you negotiate the constantly changing global economic environment. UniSA is committed to helping you develop these qualities from your program and also from your life experiences. With the graduate qualities you’ll be able to approach employers knowing that you stand out from graduates of other institutions. Even if employment is not your goal, with these skills you will be the one who directs your own future. 9 To read more information on Graduate Qualities, please refer to the Graduate Qualities website at http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/gradquals/student/default.asp 10 The Grading System UniSA grading system is as follows: Grade Notation Notational % High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass level 1 Pass level 2 Supplementary Pass Conceded Pass Terminating Pass Fail level 1 Fail level 2 HD D C P1 P2 SP CP TP F1 F2 85 - 100 75 - 84 65 - 74 55 - 64 50 - 54 50 * # 40 - 49 below 40 * To be eligible for a CP, the final mark for the course must be in the range of 45-49% and the grade point average (GPA) over the proceeding six months must be at least 3.75. A student can be awarded only one CP grade per 18 units of study (1 out of 4 courses). A CP allows the course to be included in progression in the program and can be used as a prerequisite. # To be eligible for a TP, the final mark for the course must be in the range of 45-49% and the grade point average (GPA) over the proceeding six months must be at least 3.40. A student can be awarded only one TP grade per 18 units of study (1 out of 4 courses). A TP does not permit the student to use the course as a prerequisite for another course. Students awarded a TP in a course that is a prerequisite for other courses will be required to repeat and pass the course if they wish to continue with the courses for which it is a prerequisite.. Students do not apply for CP and TP grades. They are automatically awarded by a UniSA committee if a student meets the conditions outlined above. <Please not that due to the accreditation requirements of the Bachelor of Commerce degree, CP and TP grades will not be awarded for most courses.> Calculating the Grade Point Average Formula The Grade Point Average (GPA) shall be calculated by using the following formula: GPA = Sum of (grade points x course point values) -------------------------------------------------------Sum of course point values Note: Each course in the program has a point value of 4.5 Grade Point Average Weighting System Grade Description Grade Grade Point Weighting High distinction Distinction Credit Pass level 1 Pass level 2 Supplementary Pass Conceded Pass CP Terminating Pass HD D C P1 P2 SP 3 TP 7 6 5 4.5 4 3.5 3 11 Example A student receives the following grades over 6 months: Course 1: Distinction Course 2: Credit Course 3: Pass level 1 Course 4: Pass level 1 ((6 + 5 + 4.5 + 4.5) x 4.5) GPA = ---------------------------------18 90 GPA = -----18 GPA = 5 12 Assessment of Courses To pass a course you must satisfactorily complete the assessment requirements prescribed for the course. The details of the assessment requirements are available in the Course Information Booklet. Re-marking and resubmission of some assignments may be permitted. The degree to which re-marking and resubmissions are allowed in a course will be stated in the Course information booklet for that course. The University has defined policies and procedures on assessment. If you require more information or detail then please go to http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/ where you will find the full version of the Assessment Policies and Procedures Manual. Performance in Assessment Your performance in a course’s assessment will be given a grading notation. Graded or Non-graded modes of assessment may be used. Please refer to the Grading System section for further information. Students with Disabilities Students with disabilities may be entitled to a variation or modification to standard assessment arrangements. Policy for students with disabilities is available at: http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/ Variations to Assessment Tasks Students may request a variance to assessment methods, tasks and timelines based on medical, compassionate or religious observance grounds, or community services. Such variations must be requested within the first two weeks of the course (or equivalent for accelerated or intensive teaching). Alternative arrangements due to unexpected circumstances should be discussed with the <Unisa / Taylor’s> Course Coordinator as required. Variations requested after this date will need to be negotiated with the <Unisa / Taylor’s> Course Coordinator and may not be able to be accommodated. Assignments Aims and Objectives To extend the knowledge base of the student To stimulate students’ interest in the course. To test the extent to which the students know and understand the course. To develop the students’ analytical, decision-making and written presentation skills. To enable students to relate theory to their own experience and to the practical situation in the work place, and To enable students to monitor their progress. Assignment Policy There will be a minimum of two assessed assignments for each course. Content and Style Bearing in mind the aims of written assignments, students must demonstrate in their assignments that they: Understand the topics in question by defining/describing/analysing/synthesising the appropriate theories, concepts, principles or practices. Have read widely on the subject by judiciously quoting appropriate books, journals, papers, authors or other authorities and referencing all ideas and words of other authors. 13 Have thought about the subject by selective and critical use of authoritative sources. Have understood the subject by their application of their knowledge to the analysis of situations/problems. Presentation All assignments must be presented typed or word processed. Unless otherwise specified in the Course Information booklet, double spacing should be used with a 4cm margin on the right side of each page so that comments, if any, can be inserted by the lecturer. All hard copy assignments must be stapled at the top left corner only. Assignments should not be bound or put in folders. Principal Considerations In marking the assignments and examination answer booklets, the lecturers will take into consideration the following: Relevance of your answer to the question or task set. Proper acknowledgement of documentation and use of a bibliographic convention. Logical planning and sequence. Use of non-sexist language. Overall presentation, including correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. Comprehensive coverage reflecting mastery of set readings and text. Demonstrated capacity to relate theory to practice. Supportive evidence and/or examples provided and acknowledged to support arguments. Critical use and interpretation of course materials and examples based on the students’ own experience will be valued more than straight recapitulation of notes. Length of an assignment is less important than evidence of clear understanding, and a focused and analytical response that is well organised. Originality of thought and critical analysis are more important than a catalogue of facts. Originality is what distinguishes a HD grade from a C grade. Structure and content of the submission are more important than an excellent usage of the English language, though clearly a poor standard of English will hinder the intelligibility of the paper, thus affecting the grade. Submission of Assignments All assignments must be submitted electronically using the University’s assignment lodging system, AssignIT unless stated otherwise in the Course Information book. AssignIT enables students to submit assignments electronically. Assignments are stored in a database from which markers can collect, mark and return assignments with feedback and a grade to students. All assignments are to be submitted via AssignIT unless the assignment or course has been granted an exemption. Requirements for submission will be outlined in your course information booklet. Students will receive a confirmation of receipt email via UniSA student email which can be accessed in MyUniSA. If requested in the Course Information booklet, students may also submit their assignments in hardcopy to their lecturer. Students can access AssignIT via the 'students' link on the AssignIT log in page at: http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/assignit. There will also be a link to AssignIT on your course homepage. Help is available at: http://www.unisa.edu.au/helpassignIT/students/default.asp. If you have a technical problem using AssignIT you should contact your <Unisa / Taylor’s> course coordinator in the first instance. Students are advised: 14 to check that you have access to AssignIT prior to the submission deadline read assignment information in your course information booklet carefully for course specific instructions to ensure that you submit prior to the deadline or normal late penalties will apply not to submit assignments in hard copy or email assignments to course lecturers unless specifically instructed to do so by the course lecturer if for any reason AssignIT is not available due to UniSA technical fault check the program noticeboard for more information. Course Coordinator’s will advise alternative submission arrangements in your course website and late penalties will be waived. Log the error with IT helpdesk via myUniSA or by sending an email to <insert program generic email address> so that it can be investigated. When assignments are submitted via AssignIT you will be required to agree to the plagiarism statement prior to submission. If individual students are submitting on behalf of a group the plagiarism statement is assumed to have been agreed to by the entire group. All assignments must include a signed ‘Statement of Authorship’ on the Title page as follows: Statement of Authorship I declare that the work contained in this assignment is my own, except where acknowledgement of sources is made. I authorise the University to test any work submitted by me, using text comparison software, for instances of plagiarism. I understand this will involve the University or its contractor copying my work and storing it on a database to be used in future to test work submitted by others. I understand that I can obtain further information on this matter at http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/learningconnection/student/studying/integrity.asp …………………………………….. (Signature) Students may also wish to acknowledge cooperative work by listing the names of those students with whom they worked. Note that signing these declarations means that students cannot argue that any plagiarism was inadvertent. Students are strongly advised to keep a copy of their work. Assignments will be returned to students after marking and moderation are completed. Return of Assignments <Add any additional details for return of assignments below> Your assignments will be marked and feedback returned to you via AssignIT after marking and/or moderation is completed. This is usually within three weeks of your lecturer receiving them. Request for Extension to Assignment Due Date Extensions to assignment submission dates are not granted for some courses. Requests for an extension of time for submission of an assignment should be made before the due date of the assignment. <Insert any rules for negotiating extensions used by you and your partner organisation> Where approval has been granted by UniSA for the extension of the assignment deadline, there will be no penalty of marks. UniSA will approve extension requests only for the following reasons: Medical (Medical Certificate required) Compassionate (with supporting documentary proof) 15 Exceptional-case basis (with supporting documentary proof) Late Submission The penalty for late assignment submission varies between courses. Penalties will be outlined in the Course Information booklet for each course. Feedback on Assignments Assignments submitted in accordance with the original schedule will be marked with appropriate comments and be awarded with a grade. This grade will be entered into students’ record. Re-marking and Re-submission Policy Please refer to the Assessment Policies and Procedures Manual (Section 5) for information on re-marking and re-submission, http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/default.asp. The student shall be informed of the outcome of a re-mark in due course. Examinations and Final Grades Examinations are a form of assessment where you are required to undertake a specified academic task within a specified limited period of time. Generally, access to the examination room and external assistance are also regulated. All courses will include an examination component as part of the required assessment, unless otherwise advised. Information about examinations and the criteria for assessment will be included in the individual course information booklets. Examination procedures have been stipulated in the Assessment policies and procedures manual at: http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/ (section 6) and you should familiarise yourself with them. All students must bring their Student Identification Card (or an alternative form of photographic identification acceptable to the invigilator) to the exam. Students who breach the examination conduct provisions may be guilty of academic misconduct. For further information about this, please refer to Section 9 of the Assessment Policies and Procedures Manual at: http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/ Setting and Marking of Examination Papers All examination questions are set by your lecturers and approved by UniSA. <MODERATED APMI PROGRAMS The respective lecturers who set the questions will mark examination answer booklets and UniSA will internally moderate the marks. Please allow three weeks from the date of examination for the examiner/moderator to process your examination paper and final grades. Exam papers will not be returned to students. Telephone enquiries about exam results will not be entertained. Date, Time & Place of Examination Examinations are held in accordance with the program timetable. The actual date, time and place of the examination will be determined by <Partner name>. Students will be notified of the details in advance via the Program website. <insert partner specific timetable information> The date, time and place of examination must be strictly adhered to and are NOT open to negotiation or variation. It is the responsibility of the students to check the examination schedule. 16 Deferred Examinations A student may apply for a deferred assessment on the grounds that unexpected and extenuating circumstances prevented them from attending the final examination or undertaking the final assessment. This may include, but is not limited to, accidents, unexpected illness or bereavement. It does not include a disability or illness for which variations have already been made, unless it is compounded by an unexpected change in the condition or an additional condition. The circumstances must have happened in a period of time directly relating to attendance at the examination or submission of the final assessment. . Students should be aware of the following: Students are required to submit their requests to <Partner name>, in writing by filling out the ‘Application for Deferred Examination’ form, which can be downloaded from the Program website, if possible before the examination commences but no later than five working days after the examination. Please refer to the Assessment Policies and Procedures Manual (Section 7.4) for further information on deferred examinations, http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/default.asp. Only one deferred examination will be permitted. A student who misses the original deferred examination date will not be permitted to seek a second deferred examination. Under no circumstances will deferred assessments be granted on the grounds that a student has mistaken the day, time or venue of an examination or the due date of an assessment. Although deferred exams are allowed under university policy where a student is unable to sit the original exam, usually for medical reasons, students should be aware that applying for a number of deferred exams can have the following disadvantages for their study. It may: 1. Impede student progress through the program in the minimum time. 2. Lead to a situation where students have a number of exams to complete in a very short time period and overload students. 3. Develop a situation where students do not have the knowledge to successfully complete following courses. Release of Final Grades Provisional final grades will be available to students via MyUniSA as soon as the results are recorded on the system (refer to the online user manual for information on how to access MyUniSA). Students will be able to print a record of their final grades from MyUniSA. Note that these grades will be provisional until academic review takes place. Eligibility for Conceded Passes (CP) and Terminating Pass (TP) will be determined around this time, and students’ records will be updated accordingly. Final marks will not be released to students, only final grades will be reported. Telephone enquiries on final grades will not be entertained. Appeal against Final Grades Students who wish to appeal against their final grade for a course must notify <Partner name>, in writing, within 10 working days of the release of the final grade. The letter of appeal must state detailed academic reasons for the appeal. <Partner name> will then inform UniSA, who will respond to the appeal in terms of UniSA policy. Appeals received by <Partner name> after the 10 working days will NOT be accepted. Disputes will be resolved through the following process: a) in discussion with the Course Coordinator, examiner or Program Director. A student who does not accept the final grade should consult the lecturer, within 10 working days of the release of the final grade. b) where necessary, then by referral to the Head of School responsible for the teaching of the course. Where the dispute fails to be resolved through consultation with the Lecturer, the student may request the Head of School to undertake a review of the final grade. Such requests must be lodged in writing within twenty working days of the release of the final grade. 17 The Head of School will ensure the review, which may include a re-mark of the assessment task, is conducted normally within ten working days from the date on which the request was lodged. The Head of School is responsible for notifying the student, in writing, of the outcome of the review. If the review results in a new grade, this grade will become the final grade. c) where necessary, then by referral to the Pro Vice Chancellor of the division responsible for teaching the course Where the dispute fails to be resolved through the review conducted by the Head of School, the student may request the relevant Pro Vice Chancellor of the division responsible for teaching the course to undertake a review of the final grade. Such requests must be lodged in writing within five working days of the student being notified of the Head of School’s decision. d) where necessary, then by appeal to the Student Appeals Committee through the Director: Student and Academic Services If the review undertaken by the Pro Vice Chancellor fails to resolve the dispute, the student may lodge a formal appeal to the Student Appeals Committee. For more details please refer to the UniSA Assessment Policies and Procedures Manual (Section 8.7), found at http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/default.asp These procedures apply only to final grades in courses. Please note: Some courses require students to obtain a minimum mark in the examination/assignment before the student is deemed to have passed the course. For example, if it is a requirement that a student achieves at least 45% in their examination to pass the course, even if the final mark when combined with the assignment mark is above 50%, the student will not be granted a pass grade (this may include CP and TP grades). Failure of a Course Under most circumstances, students who obtain a fail grade (F1 or F2) in a course will be required to repeat the whole course. 18 Progress through Your Degree Program and Academic Review A program consists of a sequence of courses taken over multiple study periods, and normally multiple years. To pass a program and earn your degree, you will need to satisfactorily complete the assessment requirements for all of the required courses for your program. Each course you complete earns you a certain number of units (e.g. 4.5 units). To complete a program you will need to have accumulated the correct number of units (e.g. 108 units) from appropriate courses. The specific details about your program and its component courses can be found on your program’s homepage. You can find your program’s homepage at: < insert program homepage URL>. To determine whether you are making satisfactory progress in your program, the University reviews your assessment at the conclusion of each academic review period (generally twice per year, in a process called ‘Academic review’) noting the results you have achieved for each of the courses in which you were enrolled. Using this data the University calculates your grade point average (GPA) and determines your academic standing. To be given a satisfactory academic standing you need to keep your GPA above 2.8, and not fail the same course twice or fail a course which includes a clinical or field placement. If you are not making satisfactory progress you will be notified in writing of your academic standing by the University at the end of the academic review period. If you are not making satisfactory progress, you should follow the instructions in the letter and seek guidance from your Program Director so that you satisfactorily progress through subsequent study periods. When the University identifies a student as making unsatisfactory progress for the first time in that program, the student will have an academic standing of Notified 1. The student will automatically be sent a letter advising them to seek support. This may include counselling with the Program Director, or academic staff nominee either in person or via email. When the University identifies a student as making unsatisfactory progress for the second time in that program, the student will have an academic standing of Notified 2. The student will automatically be sent a letter requiring them to attend formal academic counselling with the Program Director or academic staff nominee either in person or via email. Possible outcomes of this discussion may include: a recommended program of study over a specified period of time to assist the student's progress, recommended reduction in load, or taking a leave of absence. The Program Director will make a brief written record of the discussion which will be retained in the student's file. When the University identifies a student as making unsatisfactory progress for the third time in that program, the student will have an academic standing of Notified 3. The School Committee will consider a recommendation for preclusion from the program. In every program you can be considered as making unsatisfactory progress twice without it affecting your enrolment. If you are found to be making unsatisfactory progress for the third time it is likely that you will be precluded, meaning that your enrolment in your program of study is cancelled. More detail about the University’s review of your student progress can be found in Section 10 of the University’s Assessment policies and procedures manual which can be found at: http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/. Your Program Director can provide you with assistance in understanding your progress through your degree program. Appeal processes for students to challenge academic review decisions are available and you can contact [partner name] for advice and support. As part of good teaching practice, academic staff will endeavour to identify students at risk as soon as possible, and shall make adequate time available for giving advice and assistance to such students, or recommend that they seek appropriate counselling. Academic Requirements for Progression [Insert any specific requirements for progression in the program, i.e courses that need to be completed first] 19 Information about Complaint Procedures The University of South Australia is committed to providing a fair and harmonious working environment for students and staff. Sometimes however you may be faced with a difficult issue which you are not able to easily resolve, and where you feel you have been treated unjustly. In such instances, the complaint procedures to be followed will vary depending upon the nature of your complaint; the program in which you are enrolled; where you are studying and where your course is being delivered. UniSA’s policies and procedures for student grievances can be viewed at http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/policies/corporate/C17.asp or by following the links from the UniSA home page. You should also check to see whether <Partner name> has its own complaint policies and procedures. The principle underlying all complaint procedures is that you should try to solve your problem at the local level. This means that generally speaking you should first: approach your tutor, lecturer or course coordinator, or the person most closely involved with the problem. If this is not satisfactory, then you could: approach the program director or another UniSA staff member. If you are still not satisfied you could: write to the Head of School or the Manager of the section of UniSA with which you are having difficulties. If your problem is still unresolved then you may contact the Student Ombud at UniSA. The Student Ombud at UniSA provides a service for helping to resolve complaints from students. The service is a ‘last resort’ when students have been unable to resolve their problem by following the usual procedures. The Ombud is independent and is not a student advocate. The Ombud is not usually involved in assessment issues, and cannot overrule decisions of the Student Appeals Assessment Committee. If your complaint is about unlawful discrimination or harassment, then you could ask for advice from the Student Ombud directly. The UniSA Student Ombud is located in Adelaide, and more information can be found on the Ombud home page at http://www.unisa.edu.au/ombud/default.asp 20 Plagiarism Plagiarism is a specific form of academic misconduct. Deliberate plagiarism is regarded as a serious act of academic misconduct. Whether inadvertent or deliberate, plagiarism includes the following: a) word-for-word copying of sentences or whole paragraphs from one or more sources (work or data of other persons), or presenting substantial extracts from books, articles, theses, other unpublished work such as working papers, seminars and conference papers, internal reports, lecture notes or tapes, without clearly indicating their origin. This includes both paper-based and electronic sources of material; b) using very close paraphrasing of sentences or whole paragraphs without due acknowledgement in the form of reference to the original work; c) submitting another student’s work in whole or in part; d) use of another person’s ideas, work or research data without acknowledgement; e) submitting work that has been written by someone else on the student’s behalf; f) copying computer files, algorithms or computer code without clearly indicating their origin; g) submitting work that has been derived, in whole or in part, from another student’s work by a process of mechanical transformation (e.g. changing variable names in computer programs). h) in any way appropriating or imitating another's ideas and manner of expressing them where such assistance is not expressly permitted in the Course Information Booklet. Plagiarism is treated very seriously at UniSA. For details regarding procedures and penalties, refer to the University Assessment Policies and Procedures Manual (particularly the Section 9: Academic Integrity) available at the following website: http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/default.asp Refer to the following website for information on how to avoid plagiarism: http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/learningconnection/student/studying/referencing.asp When assignments are submitted via AssignIT you will be required to agree to the plagiarism statement prior to submission. If individual students are submitting on behalf of a group the plagiarism statement is assumed to have been agreed to by the entire group. Note that signing these declarations means that students cannot argue that any plagiarism was inadvertent. Induction for New Students Attendance at <induction/orientation> is strongly encouraged. UniSA policies and procedures to assist students in avoiding plagiarism will be worked through in detail during these sessions. Please consult your class timetable for <induction/orientation> sessions. 21 Other Policies and Procedures This program guide provides a summary of the most important UniSA policies and procedures relating to the program. Other UniSA policies and procedures can be found at the following website http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/manual/default.asp In particular, please refer to the UniSA Assessment Policy & Procedures Manual for Assessment rule and guidelines. Other important policies include: IT email policy http://www.unisa.edu.au/ists/Governanceinit/Policies/others/email.asp Discrimination policies o Anti-racism http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/policies/corporate/C21.asp o Sexual harassment http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/policies/corporate/C12.asp o Inclusive language http://www.unisa.edu.au/policies/policies/corporate/C01.asp Quality Control and Feedback Students will be requested to feedback and evaluate the courses and program regularly through the Student Evaluation Instrument (SET), the Course Evaluation Instrument (CEI), the Transnational Student Evaluation Questionnaire and the Graduate Exit Survey. <insert any program specific information> 22 Course Materials The following course materials will be made available to students for each course: Study Guide Comprehensive study guides are provided for the majority of courses. These study guides are prepared by UniSA and are continually updated to meet the requirements of the program. They are ‘road maps’ for the courses and cover the following: topic areas specific requirements for each topic recommended articles (if necessary) More importantly, these study guides integrate all course materials, e.g. textbooks, reference books, selected articles, assignments and program requirements. However, students should remember to source and research for other relevant materials from the libraries. Course Information Booklet Course Information booklets are provided for each course and will cover the following: lecturer details assignment questions key dates sample exams (where applicable) recommended reference books Readings Some courses provide students with additional readings to support their studies. These readings will be made available online via the Program Website. Hardcopies of the readings will also be available in the <Partner name> library. Textbook There is normally one textbook per course. These are nominated by UniSA and are fundamental to your studies. Textbooks are compulsory and will be used continually throughout the study period. <Insert details about whether textbooks are provided by partner or not> Generally, assignments are written around the textbooks and having constant access to the text is essential to passing your assessment. Students should not wait until the first lecture of a course to obtain the textbook. Generally, textbooks cover a wide range of topics and demand a substantial amount of reading time from students. Students are therefore, advised to focus on the topics recommended in the study guides that are relevant to the assignment questions as a priority. However, to gain maximum benefit from the course, students are advised to expand the scope of their readings beyond the assignment questions. 23 The University’s Online Environment To assist you using student-centred learning to develop the desired Graduate Qualities in your program, UniSA provides you with flexible online environments. These online environments allow you to access services and learning 7 days a week and 24 hours a day. You can access the University’s online environments wherever you can access the Internet. If you do not have access to the Internet at home, other options include the UniSA partner organisation’s computing pools (if available) and public libraries. Some sites in the University’s online environment are password protected. As an online university, the official means of communication at UniSA is email, but lecturers also often communicate with their students in online ways (e.g. websites, discussion groups) that are linked to course homepages. You will use a number of interactive technological tools via the Internet which enable you to enhance your learning effectiveness, submit assignments, discuss work with other students and communicate with people in the University. Developing your skills to work effectively as an online learner will help you to be a successful student at UniSA. Getting to know UniSA’s online environment for teaching and learning is important and there are useful guides to refer to as you develop and extend your skills for successful online learning. These can be found at: http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/learningconnection/student/studying/online.asp. A good place to start getting to know UniSA’s online environment is your own web portal – myUniSA – which you can access from your program’s homepage. This important service is automatically adjusted for each student to collate links to many of the critical websites that you will need for your study. For example, there are direct links to your email account and your personal details as they appear in the University’s system. You can also add links of your own choice. Accessing Password-Protected Online Environments 1. In the Username box, type your student Mail-ID. Your Mail-ID is printed on your enrolment form, for example doedy005. 2. Press the TAB key on the keyboard. 3. In the Password box type your password. Note that the password is case sensitive. Your initial password is the first four letters of your surname followed by your day and month of birth. If your surname is less than four letters, it is supplemented with Xs. For example, if David Doe’s birthday is 21 July, then his password would be doex2107. (Note that the Mail-ID uses a Y as a filler, while the password uses an X.) 4. Click the OK button on the screen to log on. 5. If you have trouble with your password or ID contact the IT Help Desk through email on ITHelpDesk@unisa.edu.au or see help guides available on the IT Help Desk website http://www.unisa.edu.au/ists/ITHelpDesk/default.asp. Program website Most communication between [partner name], the University and students will be via the program website and e-mail. It is therefore essential that all students have access to the internet and e-mail facilities. The University of South Australia uses the Web to assist in the delivery of many of its programs. The [program name] has a website especially designed for students studying in [location]. The website is accessible at the following web address: [insert program website URL] [Partner name] and the University of South Australia staff frequently post notices and announcements to students via the Program Notice Board on the Program website. Students are advised to access the website at least twice a week for important updates regarding the program. Email While you are a student at UniSA, you are provided with email services so that we can communicate with you. Lecturers often need to provide information by email about your studies during the study period. To 24 obtain this information, log on to your University of South Australia email account. If you need to make contact with your lecturers, send them an email – this is usually the most efficient way to make contact and to set up appointment times. To maintain effective email communication, you should log on to this account at least two or three times per week. There is an email re-direction facility available through myUniSA. If you are unable to access your email, please inform your Course Coordinator at the beginning of the study period and alternative arrangements will be made. Assistance for accessing your email can be obtained at: http://www.unisa.edu.au/ists/email/default.asp. If you are still experiencing difficulties, call the HelpDesk on +61 8 8302 5000 or email them: ITHelpDesk@unisa.edu Your program, course or partner organisation may have different IT processes in place. Ensure that you confirm these arrangements. 25 Accessing University Services The Library You have 24 hours a day, 7 days a week access to Library electronic resources and online services from any computer connected to the internet. The Library website http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/ links you to the library catalogue, databases, ejournals, ereaders and information skills tutorials. Information Skills: http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/infoskills/onlinetrain.asp To complete most assignments you need to be able to access, evaluate, manage, analyse, communicate and organise information. The Library offers a range of online resources to help you learn these skills, InfoGate a self paced tutorial teaches you about looking for information. Ask the Library: www.library.unisa.edu.au/help This online service helps you to find and use information resources and answers questions about other library matters. Self Help guides give quick answers to questions about information skills, accessing electronic resources, and using the Library catalogue. You can also contact the Library by: Ask a Librarian-email: http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/questionpoint/ask.asp Ask a Librarian-chat : http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/help/chat.asp Telephone: +61 8 8302 6231 Office hours: 8.30am - 5.00pm Australian Central Standard Time and voicemail after hours. Fax: +61 8 8302 6699 Assignment help: http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/infoskills/assignmenthelp.asp Always check this website as you may find help for a particular assignment Catalogue: http://catalogue.library.unisa.edu.au Use the catalogue to: find out what books, journals and other materials are held by the Library locate and print off your course readings from the High Demand Collection connect to electronic resources such as ebooks, ejournals and websites Databases: www.library.unisa.edu.au/resources/database/ Databases are organised collections of information which provide access to complete articles or article references and abstracts. Use databases to find journal articles, newspaper articles, conference papers, company information and other material. Access to most databases outside the University network is available through one of the following methods: Enter your UniSA Network ID and password. Individual usernames and passwords which are available from the eResource passwords page. Access to this page is via your UniSA Network ID and password 26 If you need help to use databases go to Ask the Library Flexible Information Service (FIS) http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/fds FIS is a FIS is a free service to offshore transnational students. You can request photocopies of articles, chapters, conference papers and contents pages at http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/fds/docreq.asp. FIS can also mail books to you if you are prepared to organise and pay return postage – see http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/fds/delivery.asp This does not include textbooks as it is University policy that you buy textbooks. FIS offers phone and online help in the use of the Library's resources and services – see Ask the Library: www.library.unisa.edu.au/help <Insert partner library information> Learning Connection Learning Connection provides a wide range of online resources for students, covering learning advice, career resources and disability services. The range of Learning Connection online learning resources are available at: http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/learningconnection/students/defaut.asp Students With Disabilities Or Medical Conditions Services for students with disabilities or medical conditions are available through <Partner name>. 27 <Partner name> Information, Policies and Procedures 28