School of Arts & Social Sciences

Master of Community Development (Emergency Management)Graduate Diploma of Community Development (Emergency Management)

Graduate Certificate of Community Development (Emergency Management)

School of Arts & Social Sciences

2011 Course Enrolment Guide

School of Arts and Social Sciences Southern Cross University Email: postgrad@scu.edu.au

Web: www.scu.edu.au/sass

Published November 2010CEG2011V1_1110

Contents

i

How to use this Guide .....................................................................................................................................................................iii

Welcome ........................................................................................................................................................................................... iv

Part One: Course and Enrolment Information ...................................................................................................1.1

Course Overview .......................................................................................................................................................................1.1

2011 Course Rules .......................................................................................................................................................1.2

Course Structure and Unit Availability Table ............................................................................................1.3

Part A ............................................................................................................................................................................1.3

Part B ............................................................................................................................................................................1.3

Mode of Study ..........................................................................................................................................................1.3

Unit Descriptions ......................................................................................................................................................................1.4

Other Important Information ...........................................................................................................................................1.6

Information for Online Students ....................................................................................................................1.6

SCU Email Account ................................................................................................................................................1.6

Textbooks ...................................................................................................................................................................1.6

SASS Postgraduate Student Centre Site .....................................................................................................1.6

Academic Staff .........................................................................................................................................................1.6

Assignments ..............................................................................................................................................................1.6

Frequently Asked Questions .............................................................................................................................................1.7

School Contacts .........................................................................................................................................................................1.8

Student Liaison Officer ........................................................................................................................................1.8

Emailing your enquiries ......................................................................................................................................1.8

Academic Staff .........................................................................................................................................................1.8

Part Two: Administrative and General Information ....................................................................................2.1

Online enrolment ...................................................................................................................................................2.1

Fees and Fee Help for domestic students ..................................................................................................2.1

Withdrawing from a course or unit ...............................................................................................................2.1

Fees for international students........................................................................................................................2.2

Other related costs ................................................................................................................................................2.2

Final date to enrol in unit/s ...............................................................................................................................2.2

Advanced standing – recognition of prior work or study .................................................................2.2

MySCU ..........................................................................................................................................................................2.3

Study materials and Books of Readings ......................................................................................................2.4

Turnitin .........................................................................................................................................................................2.4

University Library ...................................................................................................................................................2.5

ii Course Enrolment Guide 2011

Academic Skills Development Unit ...............................................................................................................2.5

Services for distance education students ..................................................................................................2.6

Information technology and technical support .....................................................................................2.6

Examinations ............................................................................................................................................................2.7

Grades and academic standing .......................................................................................................................2.7

Staying in touch with SCU .................................................................................................................................2.8

Complaints @ SCU ..................................................................................................................................................2.8

General Information ...............................................................................................................................................................2.9

Key Dates for 2011 .................................................................................................................................................2.9

Useful University Websites ..............................................................................................................................................2.10

Getting started .....................................................................................................................................................2.10

About the University ..........................................................................................................................................2.10

Schools and Colleges.........................................................................................................................................2.11

How to use this GuideThis course enrolment guide has been developed by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences to assist students with unit selection, to facilitate online enrolment and provide advice about important contacts, resources and support services available. It is also a valuable resource containing easily referenced material that no student should be without.

• Part One contains course specific information and sets out the structure of the course, maps suggested or compulsory unit progressions and shows specialisation sequences per study period, if applicable.

• Part Two provides helpful information in relation to important dates, useful websites and relevant administrative information including the contact details of specialist staff within the University who are available to assist with specific enquiries.

Getting Started:We encourage you to become familiar with the information in this guide and the resources available to you within the School and the University. We also suggest you refer to the Getting Started at SCU brochure (sent with your offer letter), which outlines the easy steps to online enrolment. Together, these documents will answer many of your questions and guide you through the enrolment process.

What to do next:1. Print or download this guide and retain it for reference throughout the duration of your degree/

course.2. Become familiar with the Award Rules and the course structure requirements (refer to the

Student Handbook at www.scu.edu.au/handbook).3. Choose the units you will study in each study period using the course structure and unit

information provided.4. Enrol in units for the whole year online in `My Enrolment’ at www.scu.edu.au/myenrolment

The new Southern Cross University three session teaching calendar provides students with the flexibility to spread their study load over three sessions or to fast track and complete studies earlier. To ensure the University can plan classes and tutorials appropriately we strongly advise students to enrol in units for each study period at the commencement of the academic year. Please note, Session 3 is an optional study period.

5. Register for your internal classes online through `My Enrolment’ at www.scu.edu.au/myenrolment once the Online Class Registration notification is sent to your SCU webmail account [not applicable to University Wide (external) students studying by distance education].

6. For assistance with `My Enrolment’ refer to the Demonstration Guides located on the Student Enrolment and Support Services site or contact Student Services on 1800 626 481 or email enrol@scu.edu.au.

7. Once enrolled in your units, visit MySCU to become familiar with where your School’s Student Centre and Learning Sites are located. Although you will have access to the School’s Student Centre as soon as you are enrolled in units, you will not have access to your learning sites until the beginning of the study period or just prior. While there, don’t forget to download a copy of your Unit Information Guide and Study Guide.

Important notice:A student’s course is governed by the Award Rules for the year in which they commenced study. It is important that first year students retain a copy of this Course Enrolment Guide for the duration of their Award (program/degree). If a student is unable to adhere to the structure in place when study commenced, they must consult with a School Student Liaison or Support Officer.

The information contained in this guide is correct at the date of publication. This guide is revised each year.

iii

iv Course Enrolment Guide 2011

WelcomeThe School of Arts and Social Sciences is a multidisciplinary and creative learning community that provides quality teaching and focussed research, which aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills for careers in rapidly changing and competitive regional, national and global environments.

Our mission is to provide a diverse range of programs which are informed by scholarly research and are of value to the community, in the fields of visual arts, contemporary music, arts, media, humanities, social sciences and ageing that develop graduates who are ethical, reflective and committed to lifelong learning.

The degrees offered by the School of Arts and Social Sciences include:

Bachelor of ArtsBachelor of Social ScienceBachelor of Contemporary MusicBachelor of MediaBachelor of Visual ArtsBachelor of Ageing in the CommunityMaster of Community Development (Emergency Management)Postgraduate – Research

Further information about courses offered by the School of Arts and Social Sciences can be found on the School website at www.scu.edu.au/schools/sass

The School delivers courses across Southern Cross University’s three east coast campuses in northern NSW, which are located at Lismore, Coffs Harbour and Tweed Gold Coast. Some courses are also offered by distance education. Our highly qualified academics are committed to supporting our students throughout their studies and our student support staff are available to assist with enquiries.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact the School on 6620 3831 or email isass@scu.edu.au

1.1

Part One Course and Enrolment Information

Course OverviewThis online program grew out of a United Nations imperative to provide skills for communities to proactively work to reduce the effects of disasters. The course is designed to enhance professional skills and knowledge to help communities reduce the effects of and build resilience to major emergencies and disasters. Students enrolled in this program, from all around the world, working in both paid and voluntary capacities, are able to network online, which adds another dimension to the learning outcomes.

The program is aimed at those who work (or wish to work) anywhere in the world, in emergency services or humanitarian organisations, including aid workers in developing countries, community development workers employed in non-profit organisations and government departments.

Students will gain a greater understanding of the principles of working with communities and how these impact on the consequences of disasters. The course develops student’s analytical skills and knowledge with emphasis on practical application.

Students can qualify with a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Masters qualification, depending on the units completed.

2011 Course RulesThe Award Rules for each course are published in the Student Handbook. Hardcopies of the Handbook are available for purchase at the University Co-op Bookshop.

An online version of the Handbook is available from the Southern Cross University website at www.scu.edu.au/handbook.

Level of Award Postgraduate

Faculty Arts and Sciences

Academic Organisational Unit School of Arts and Social Sciences

Campus Coffs Harbour

Course Mode Online

Duration Up to 6 years

Total Units Up to 12

Specific Award RulesSee the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, in conjunction with the Specific Award Rules listed below.

4.1 Requirements for an Award(a) To be eligible for the award of Graduate Certificate of Community Development

(Emergency Management) a candidate shall successfully complete any 4 units from Part A.

(b) To be eligible for the award of Graduate Diploma of Community Development (Emergency Management) a candidate shall successfully complete all 6 units listed in Part A plus any 2 units from Part B.

(c) To be eligible for the award of Master of Community Development (Emergency Management) a candidate shall successfully complete all 6 units listed in Parts A plus any 6 units from Part B.

1.2 Course Enrolment Guide 2011

Course Structure and Unit Availability TableThis information is derived from the Schedule of Units and is correct at time of printing. For the most up-to-date version please visit: http://www.scu.edu.au/scheduleofunits

Part AUnit Code Unit Name Trimester Pre-requisite

BHS00360 Perspectives of Community Development A Nil

BHS00361 Political and Economic Contexts of Communities and Disasters B Nil

BHS00362 Community Education and Communication for Disasters C Nil

BHS00364 Disaster Resilient Communities C Nil

BHS00365 Living in a Hazardous Environment A Nil

BHS00366 Social and Cultural Contexts of Communities and Disasters B Nil

Part B Unit Code Unit Name Trimester Pre-requisite

BHS00363 Issues in Emergency Management A

BHS00367 Communities and Disaster Research B 4 units

IST00365 Independent Study I ABC

IST00366 Independent Study II ABC

IST00367 Independent Study III ABC

IST00368 Independent Study IV ABC

RECOMMENDED ELECTIVES

MNG03217 Leading and Managing People C

MNG00785 Project Management B

MNG03281 Logistics Management B

MNG01720 Organisational Behaviour B

Or any other postgraduate unit/s offered by the university – please refer to www.scu.edu.au/coursesin2011 for other postgraduate units

Mode of StudyThe Postgraduate Program in Community Development is only offered online. There is no requirement to attend a campus and there are no residential schools. Access to a reliable internet connection is necessary. Course information, discussion forums and contact with your tutor is all done online so you must be prepared to go online regularly. The freedom and flexibility of being available online means that the course can be studied from anywhere in the world. Assessment is by assignment only unless you are doing an elective from another school (such as those recommended). You should check assessment requirements prior to enrolling.

1.3Master, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate of Community Development

Unit DescriptionsBHS00360 Perspectives of Community DevelopmentProvides students with an overview of the contextual and theoretical elements of Community Development. Approaches to community development will be critically analysed using the contextual and theoretical elements and apply the process of community development to a variety of settings.

BHS00361 Political & Economic Contexts of Communities & DisastersProvides students with an understanding of the complexity of communities, and how politics and economics influence the way communities prepare for, and respond to, emergencies and disaster. It enables students to focus on specific communities and a specific emergency or disaster and consider the impact of politics and economics on the response to it. It prepares students for future related roles/occupations.

BHS00362 Community Education and Communication for DisastersProvides students with an overview of learning theories and educational strategies as they apply to community education. The unit explores the various educational roles as they relate to community educational needs.

BHS00363 Issues in Disaster ManagementA number of major issues in contemporary emergency management are covered in this Unit that is a foundation for the rest of the course which has a more specific community development orientation. The Unit provides a broad outline of the nature of disasters, response, recovery, preparedness and mitigation from an international perspective.

BHS00364 Disaster Resilient CommunitiesProvides a foundation understanding and practical application of planning for disaster preparedness by communities. The Unit examines international practice in community disaster planning processes, the theory and practice of community preparedness, and how to prepare an effective disaster plan.

BHS00365 Living in a Hazardous EnvironmentProvides a detailed understanding of most of the known natural and human made hazards that can lead to disasters and major emergencies. The Unit then examines the principles and practice of mitigation for a number of local and international hazards.

BHS00366 Social & Cultural Contexts of Communities & DisastersProvides a detailed analysis of the sociological, psychological and cultural aspects of disasters and disaster preparedness in individuals, communities and organisations.

BHS00367 Communities and Disaster ResearchExamines the research process as it applies to communities and disasters. Works through the research process from general topic to research question, reviewing and critiquing the literature and preparing a research proposal. Overviews a range of research methods. Four (4) coursework units must have been completed prior to enrolling in this unit.

Independent Study UnitsFor the Masters program, students undertake four units of Independent Study. These units are self-directed and involve a Learning Contract being agreed as to how and what you want to learn. The aim of these units is to give you an opportunity to explore some of the ideas in the coursework units, in more detail. You may do four separate areas or two or a project or case study that uses all four units.

1.4 Course Enrolment Guide 2011

Recommended Electives

MNG03217 Leading and Managing PeopleProvides an advanced analysis of leadership and teamwork within the context of the modern organisation. The unit will assist students to become self aware of their own leadership style and its impact on individuals, work teams and organisations. An examination of some essential issues for leaders in organisations that enhance effective leadership is also undertaken.

MNG00785 Project ManagementDevelops students’ understanding of the principles of project management from a managerial perspective in an organisational setting. Students will be introduced to the various phases and processes associated with a project life cycle, and should understand the knowledge areas associated with any project and explore practical applications of the knowledge acquired through this unit.

MNG03281 Logistics ManagementInvestigates the efficiency with which the entity uses its resources, particularly with regard to transportation systems, materials handling and storage and distribution of the firm’s inputs and products. Logistics management plays a critical role in ensuring international competitiveness of contemporary corporations and effective operation of not for profit organisations including governments and NGOs.

MNG01720 Organisational BehaviourIntroduces students to work and worker behaviour, behaviour at work, group and organisational behaviour, links between behaviour and organisational structure, tasks and job design, administrative hierarchy, job satisfaction and worker adjustment, stress and other factors related to the environment or work and values associated with work behaviour., recovery, preparedness and mitigation from an international perspective.

1.5Master, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate of Community Development

Other Important Information

Information for Online StudentsIf you have accepted your offer and enrolled in unit/s and NOT received your text and CD by the end of Week 1 of the trimester please contact the Student Liaison Officer at postgrad@scu.edu.au or 02 6659 3309.

Please include your Student ID, full name, unit code and current postal address. Also ensure that the subject heading is Online Studies Course Materials.

Once you enrol in a unit/s you will have access to that unit’s learning site through MySCU. Here you will find valuable information about the unit, your tutor, discussion forums and all the information required for each unit.

SCU Email AccountEvery student admitted to a course at Southern Cross University is issued with an SCU student email account. You should check this at least weekly. You are also able to forward it to your everyday email account.

TextbooksAs a student in this postgraduate program you are NOT required to purchase textbooks. These will be sent to you free of charge.

SASS Postgraduate Student Centre SiteThis is a virtual space for you to locate information relevant to your program, make contact with other SASS postgraduates and staff, and share useful stuff you have found too. Please have a look around to see who is involved with PG studies and the activities we are introducing to help you work towards your degree. To find the Student Centre go to your MySCU homepage: http://study.scu.edu.au.

Below the heading ‘Information Sites’ click the link to the Postgraduate Student Centre – School of Arts and Social Sciences (SASS).

Academic StaffYou will have contact with your lecturer via the online MySCU site, by email and by phone.

AssignmentsAll assignments are submitted online. Instructions on how to do this will be placed on the unit site for the specific unit (on MySCU). There are generally no examinations for units UNLESS you choose an elective unit where an exam may be part of the assessment. Please check this and determine whether you are able to sit an examination at your location.

1.6 Course Enrolment Guide 2011

Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: I am currently working overseas. Can I still do this course?A: Many students of the postgraduate Community Development programs are stationed

overseas for a period of time. As long as you have regular access to a computer and the internet it is possible to keep studying. If you do experience difficulty and require extensions to assignments or special consideration please make contact with your tutor as soon as possible.

Q: How long do I have to complete the course?A: Unless the Head of School otherwise determines a candidate for the: Master of Community Development shall normally complete the course in not more than

10 study periods (3 years). Graduate Diploma of Community Development shall normally complete the course in not

more than 6 study periods (2 years). Graduate Certificate of Community Development shall normally complete the course in

not more than 3 study periods (1 year).

Q: What Is the cost of the course?A: For Australian citizens or permanent residents the fee per unit in 2011 is $AUD1730. This

fee may be deferred if you are eligible for the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-Help. Please refer to www.goingtouni.gov.au for further details. You can submit your details online to claim fee-help - you will need your tax file number.

If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident the fee per unit in 2011 is $AUD1985. You should ensure your fees are paid on or before two weeks prior to the start of the trimester. International tuition fee information, including information about unit withdrawal impacts, due dates for student fees and refund rules is available from the International Office and Fees websites. To contact the International Office telephone + 61 2 6620 6876 or email intoff@scu.edu.au.

Q: How many hours per week should I devote to study?A: As a postgraduate student you will probably be familiar with how much time you need to

spend on study in order to keep up. Normally we recommend 10 hours per unit per week.

Q: What if I need help with assignments, writing reports or referencing?A: The Academic Skills Development Unit at Southern Cross University provides educational

support to students and staff. You can contact them for advice and guidance in relation to assessment tasks. They provide support for internal and external students and can help you develop your skills and confidence in critical thinking, academic language and learning methods, as well as providing strategies for effective study. Check their site at http://www.scu.edu.au/academicskills/

1.7Master, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate of Community Development

School ContactsStudent Liaison Officer

The Student Liaison Officer aims to provide you with a high level of friendly, efficient and professional service and can be used as the first point of contact for enquiries you may have regarding your course. If the Student Liaison Officer does not have the answer to your question, they will be able to refer you to the relevant area within the University or to the appropriate staff member.

The Student Liaison Officer can provide you with assistance during the course of your studies in relation to the following types of enquiries:

• enrolmentadviceandassistance• coursestructureandplanning• specialconsideration• generalcourseadministration

Student Liaison Staff LocationLocation: The Student Liaison Officer for this course is based at the Coffs Harbour Campus

Hours: 9.30am – 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

Monika Sudull Liaison Officer 02 6659 3309

msudull@scu.edu.auCoffs Harbour campus Room: MG.5

Emailing your enquiriesPlease note: Students should email postgrad@scu.edu.au with any postgraduate course specific enquiries. Include your name and student identification number in the email.

We aim to give you a high level of friendly, efficient and professional service. We welcome feedback from students if our service does not meet your expectations. Similarly, if our service exceeds your expectations, we would love to hear about that also!

Academic StaffAcademic staff are available to discuss any questions or issues you may have regarding specific unit or course content.

The Course Coordinator of this course is Dr Jean Griffiths.

Dr Jean Griffiths Course Coordinator

02 6659 3106 jean.griffiths@scu.edu.au

Coffs Harbour Room: MG.25

1.8 Course Enrolment Guide 2011

2.1

Part TwoAdministrative

and General Information

This section of the guide is a summary of administrative and general information relative to students and their studies. Wherever possible you will be directed to sources of further information and assistance. A comprehensive list of useful websites is located at the end of this guide.

Online enrolmentOnce you have received your offer of admission you will be required to accept or decline. You will receive instructions, a logon and password with your offer of admission. From here on you have control over your enrolment and your details, for example, updating your address details, selecting and enrolling in units, withdrawing from units. To assist students to enrol online Students Services have developed an easy reference guide called `Getting Started at SCU’. This guide outlines the easy steps to online enrolment. Students can download a copy of Getting started at SCU from the Student Services website.

Fees and Fee Help for domestic studentsThe fee per unit of enrolment in this program for 2011 is $AUD1730. FEE-Help may be available to Australian citizens.

To be eligible to receive a FEE-HELP loan the student must be an Australian citizen or holder of a Humanitarian visa. FEE-HELP is not available to New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

Students, who wish to access a FEE-HELP loan, must read the ‘FEE-HELP information booklet’ available from Student Services or at www.goingtouni.gov.au. They must also complete and submit an eCAF via ‘My Enrolment’ and provide their Tax File Number.

Payment of a FEE-HELP loan is deferred to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) and is repaid later through the Australian tax system when their income is above the nominated minimum threshold.

Withdrawing from a course or unitAfter certain dates in the academic calendar have passed, withdrawing from a course or unit can have a serious impact on a student’s financial liability and/or academic record.

Withdrawing from unit/s without incurring a FEE Help debtThe final day to withdraw from unit/s without incurring a debt through FEE Help is the census date of the relevant trimester. Census dates vary depending on the unit/s in which a student is enrolled. Students can check the census date for each enrolled unit through My Enrolment. Each enrolled unit will be displayed with its census date clearly identified. Students who withdraw from unit/s after census date will incur a debt.

Withdrawing from unit/s without incurring a Fail gradeThe final day to withdraw from unit/s without incurring a Fail grade is referred to as the `Withdrawal Without Failure’ date. As this date is after the census date the debt/fee will still apply. To check the final day to withdraw without incurring a Fail grade please refer to the key dates on the university’s website.

Remission of FEE Help debt under extenuating circumstancesWhere extenuating circumstances exist, students may apply for a remission of the FEE Help amount by contacting the Student Liaison Officer. You must be able to demonstrate that your circumstances changes significantly AFTER the census date and impeded your ability to continue studying..

Fees for international studentsThe fee per unit of enrolment for international students in this program for 2011 is $AUD1985. International students are required to ensure that their fees are paid on or before two weeks prior to the start of the study period.

International tuition fee information, including information about unit withdrawal impacts, due dates for student fees and refund rules, is available from the International Office and the SCU Fees and Financial Assistance website.

To contact the International Office:

Phone: +61 2 6620 3876

Email: intoff@scu.edu.au

Other related costsStudents in this program are provided with associated textbooks and other reading material, whether in hard copy or on CD. You are required to have regular access to a reliable internet connection at least weekly.

Final date to enrol in unit/sThe final date to enrol in unit/s online without approval is the end of Week 2 (Sunday) of each study period. Students wishing to enrol in unit/s after this date will require approval from the relevant School and should submit a Unit Approval Request through My Enrolment stating the reason for the late enrolment. Where approval is not granted, the relevant School will contact the student.

Advanced standing – recognition of prior work or studyStudents who have relevant professional experience or demonstrable expertise or have completed previous postgraduate study in the last ten years may be eligible for credit toward their program of study.

At Southern Cross University this is known as Advanced Standing and refers to Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit, Credit transfer or Credit for previous learning or study.

An application for advanced standing needs to include certified evidence of prior study or work experience and documents indicating the content of study or extent of experience. Applications are assessed by the Course Coordinator. You may not necessarily know the outcome prior to enrolment in units.

2.2 Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

MySCUThe `MySCU’ portal is a student’s point of entry to a range of services and resources that are available online to support study and student life at Southern Cross University. The services and resources include online learning sites, support services and the University Library. MySCU is a student’s `doorway’ to unit materials and online activities.

MySCU contains two main sites on the home page: Information Sites and Learning Sites, where students can access resources and communication tools and links that are integral to their study throughout the study period. Contact details for teaching staff and information and messages specific to each unit are provided, together with grades and grading standards and the referencing requirements specific to an area of study.

Students should regularly check the following location in their browser:

http://study.scu.edu.au

This opens the MySCU student intranet page.

MySCU Information SitesMySCU `Information Sites’ contain the Student Centres for each School and are typically online information forums specifically developed to support students studying units offered by a particular school. Following are examples of the information that may be contained within Student Centres under MySCU Information Sites:

• Notice Board contains important announcements posted in relation to administrative deadlines, re-enrolment, examinations, upcoming events and internship opportunities, as well as a range of other relevant details.

• Important Information about advanced standing, leave of absence, candidature extension and graduation together with links to other University sites such as Schedule of Units, principal dates, Student Handbook, special consideration and examination, maps, student classifieds and My Enrolment.

• Course Information contains a link to the current course enrolment guides and relevant course related information.

• Discussion Board is an interactive forum that allows students to communicate with staff and/or network with other students.

• Staff Contacts lists School staff and their contact details.

MySCU Learning Sites`Learning Sites’ contain vital information about the unit of study in which a student is currently enrolled and it is within these sites that students can obtain unit and assessment information, study materials and resources, including the Unit Information Guide and Study Guide. The Unit Information Guide is an important document as it contains details of the aims, objectives and syllabus of the unit, as well as the essential prescribed textbook (which will be provided to you) and the assessment tasks with due dates. Students should obtain a copy of this guide once the unit learning site is activated.

It is strongly recommended that Unit Information Guides are kept upon completion of each unit. Should a student decide to further their studies or apply for advanced standing at a later date, they may be requested to supply this information to SCU or another institute as evidence of the unit requirements.

Through the Learning Sites students can also link to ElluminateLive! where lecturers may have real-time discussions with their students while they view PowerPoint slides, web sites, a whiteboard and shared applications – all of which are interactive.

Students will obtain access to MySCU Learning Sites one week prior to the commencement of the study period providing they are enrolled in that unit. Please note Learning Sites will be open

2.3Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

to allow students to become familiar with the site and to download information but teaching and moderation of discussion boards will not occur until the first teaching day of the study period.

If the symbol is displayed to the left of the link to the Learning Site this means the site is not yet available. Where a student cannot see a particular unit listed under Learning Sites they should first check their enrolment status through My Enrolment. If it appears the student is not enrolled in that unit, they should either enrol in that unit or email a variation request to Student Services at enrol@scu.edu.au If a student is enrolled in a unit but still cannot see the Learning Site they should send an email to helpdesk@scu.edu.au

MySCU login detailsStudents can access their MySCU login details through My Enrolment. Once in My Enrolment students can click on the “MySCU Details” tab to find their MySCU username, SCU email address and login details. Following is an example of the login message a student will find there:

Listed below are the MySCU details we have recorded for you.

Your MySCU and SCU email password is initially set to your date of birth in eight digit format – DDMMYYYY e.g. 15061989

This password must be changed after you first log in – you can change your password in the ‘Computing & IT’ section of your MySCU welcome page.

MySCU Username: jcitiz10SCU Email Address: j.citizen.10@scu.edu.au

HINT 1: Commencing/first year students should check MySCU as soon as possible as it will assist their preparedness for university studies.

HINT 2: It is important students read and understand the information contained in the Unit Information Guide.

Study materials and Books of ReadingsAs a student of the postgraduate programs in Community Development (Emergency Management) you are sent textbooks, readings (either on CD or hard copy).

Textbooks and other materials will be forwarded to the ‘preferred’ address listed in the student contact details in My Enrolment under the ‘My Details’ tab. Please ensure this address is kept up to date at all times.

Delays in receiving study materials may be experienced if you enrol (or vary your enrolment) only a few weeks before the study period commencement date. If study materials are not received by the commencement of the study period, students should immediately contact their School or College External Studies Dispatch Officer by email or telephone.

TurnitinMany assignments at the University will be submitted (through MySCU) to Turnitin, a text-matching system that finds similarities between assignments and other documents such as web pages and academic journals.

Turnitin produces an ‘Originality Report’, a report identifying sections of text in the submitted assignment which match sections of text in these other documents. Turnitin at SCU is set up so that students can self-check their work before submitting a final copy of their assignment.

For further information, see the SCU Turnitin website.

2.4 Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

University LibraryThe library provides a wide range of services, print and electronic resources to support students in their study and assessment tasks, including distance education students and students with special needs.

To discover how the library can help students, visit the Southern Cross University Library website.

Library services and resources include:

• Getting Help: librarian assistance, finding information, referencing, EndNote and copyright• Online Resources: catalogue, databases, Ebooks, eReadings, journals, and search tools• Library Services: borrowing, document supply and podcasts• SCU Library Guides: subject guides - see the Emergency Management Subject Guide for

this course.

Southern Cross University Library contact details are:

Lismore campus (located in Block A)

Freecall: 1800 659 460 or +61 2 6620 3752Fax: +61 2 6622 0093Email: libdesk@scu.edu.au

Coffs Harbour campus (located in Block E1)

Phone: +61 2 6659 3232Fax: +61 2 6659 3234Email: coffslibrary@scu.edu.au

Gold Coast, Tweed campuses (located at Gold Coast Campus)Phone: +61 7 5589 3100Fax: +61 7 5589 3702Email: goldcoastlibrary@scu.edu.au

Academic Skills Development UnitThe Academic Skills Development Unit (ASDU) provides educational support to the staff and students at Southern Cross University. The support aims to improve the quality of students’ learning by developing their skills in:

• critical thinking and analysis• academic language and literacy• numeracy• study skills• time management

ASDU staff are available at the Lismore, Coffs Harbour, and Gold Coast & Tweed Heads Campuses and online via the ASDU website.

Students can:

• explore the ASDU website for information on: - Academic skills - Numeracy resources - Workshops (both online and face-to-face) - Drop in sessions (both online and face-to-face)

2.5Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

• obtain a copy of the CD ‘What is expected of me at university?’ by emailing academicskills@scu.edu.au

• form a small group and email academicskills@scu.edu.au to organise a group session on a particular topic

Academic Skills Development Unit contact details are:

Website: www.scu.edu.au/academicskills/Email: academicskills@scu.edu.au (domestic students) intoff@scu.edu.au (international students) rmunro@academic.scbit.edu.au (SCBIT Students)Phone: +61 2 6620 3386 (domestic students) +61 2 6620 3876 (international students)

Services for distance education studentsDistance education students (external, university-wide) can access all Southern Cross University services in-person at any one of the SCU campus locations. Distance education students can also access SCU information and services via the SCU website, telephone, email, instant messaging, SCU Connect and MySCU.

The University has also established a Student Services freecall number for external students – 1800 111 890.

Information technology and technical supportInformation Technology and Technical Support (IT&TS) provide technology, Internet connectivity and information systems services, training and support to students to support teaching, learning, research and administrative activities.

These services include:

• SCU Connect provides staff and students with access to a range of computing services including internet access, dial-up (modem) access, email, on-campus computing labs, website support, and online services, including MySCU, My Enrolment and Webmail.

• IT Support: The helpdesk allows students to log a call for assistance as well as view open and archived calls.

The contact details for IT&TS are:

Freecall: 1800 111 890, 9am–5pm weekdays (the call will be directed to the relevant Helpdesk).

Lismore, Tweed Heads and Gold Coast campuses

Phone: +61 2 6620 3698Email: helpdesk@scu.edu.auWebsite: www.scu.edu.au/itCoffs Harbour campus

Phone: +61 2 6659 3080Email: chec.helpdesk@scu.edu.auWebsite: http://checit.scu.edu.au

2.6 Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

ExaminationsIf you have enrolled in an elective unit which requires you to sit an examination you will need to organise where you will sit this examination. You can nominate your examination centre through My Enrolment. Final examinations are held at the end of each trimester.

Students who need to sit an examination at an overseas location must contact the Examinations and Progression Team to make the required arrangements.

Grades and academic standingAt the end of each study period upon the release of grades a student can check their grades for each unit, print a copy of their grades and identify their academic standing for that study period.

There are four categories of standing:

• GPA 3.0 or above: The student will commence their studies in this category, and once they have obtained final grades in units will then obtain a GPA for that study period.

• Seek Help: The student has a GPA greater than or equal to 2.50 and below 3.00 in their units for that study period.

• Must Get Help: The student has a GPA below 2.50 in their units for that study period.• Excluded: The student has obtained a GPA below 2.50 in their units for two consecutive

study periods.

Students allocated an academic standing of ‘Seek Help’ or ‘Must Get Help’ will be advised by:

• a notification posted within My Enrolment – My Grades; and• an email issued to their SCU email account.The `Seek Help’ email notification provides students with a weblink to various sources of academic assistance and they are encouraged to seek and use these resources during their next study period.

A student with a `Must Get Help’ academic standing will be given a weblink to sources of academic assistance and informed that they must urgently contact their Course Co-ordinator. They will also be advised that two consecutive ‘Must Get Help’ standings will result in automatic exclusion from the University. A student with this standing must consult with the Course Coordinator about subsequent unit selection prior to re-enrolling and/or commencing the next study period.

Both `Seek Help’ and `Must Get Help’ students are advised that if they have outstanding grade results that are likely to increase their GPA, they should delay making contact with the University until those grades are finalised.

Students who receive an academic standing of `Excluded’ will be advised by:

• a notification posted within My Enrolment – My Grades; and• an email to their SCU email account; and• a letter to the ‘preferred’ address recorded in the Student Management System.An `Excluded’ student will be informed they have been excluded for one study period and advised of their re-enrolment and appeal rights, which are set out in detail under Rule 2.10 in the Rules Relating to Awards.

International onshore students who receive an academic standing of ‘Must Get Help’ or `Excluded’ are advised they must contact the International Student Advisor at their campus.

Students can access their grades and academic standing in My Enrolment by selecting ‘My Grades’. Here students will also find a link to the relevant policy – Academic Policy, Part 3, Student retention and standing.

Students may query the grade awarded for any unit by first contacting their Unit Assessor to discuss the matter. The Unit Assessor will provide advice regarding the process, which is specified under Rule 3.14 Query of Final Grade in the Rules Relating to Awards.

2.7Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

Staying in touch with SCUStudents should ensure that they keep their contact details up to date in ‘My Enrolment’, including work, home and mobile telephone numbers and residential, postal and delivery addresses.

Students should also regularly access ‘MySCU’, (the University’s online learning portal) at lease weekly. Most lecturers make use of MySCU for announcements to all students regarding unit related matters, to answer individual or commonly asked questions and to offer assistance, tips or feedback with assignments. In MySCU students can also participate in discussion groups, upload assignments, access study materials and participate in online assessments.

The University encourages the use of electronic mail (email) to enhance communications and the sharing of knowledge and ideas. University email services are intended to allow greater efficiency and support teaching, learning, research and administration activities. The University student email address is viewed and used as the University’s primary form of written communication with students. Students should access their SCU webmail weekly (even during University vacation periods) as changes to enrolment details, all-student notices and important reminders relating to University studies are sent to student SCU email accounts. Forwarding of SCU student email to a private email address is permitted. Forwarding instructions are detailed in My Enrolment under ‘Email Forwards’ – click on the ‘Webmail Forward’ link.

For further information please refer to the IT&TS Email Policy, 2.2.1. Access and Availability – Student Email Accounts.

Complaints @ SCUThe University has a commitment to seeking feedback from students and staff, and acknowledges the right of students, staff or members of the public to complain if they are dissatisfied.

The University has established a Complaints Management Framework to provide for the timely and fair resolution to complaints. The Framework will help students to decide how to proceed with a complaint or concern.

Students are encouraged to make a complaint informally, as many complaints can be sorted out with the staff member directly responsible. However, if a complaint submitted informally is not resolved, then students should set out their complaint in writing to the nominated officer.

For further information about how to submit a complaint please refer to:

Complaints @ SCU

Complaints Management Framework

Sources of advice at SCU

Nominated Complaints Officers

2.8 Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

General Information

Key Dates for 2011

Trimester A, 2011

Studies commence Monday, 17 January

Last date to enrol online Sunday, 30 January

Census date Check your census date in My Enrolment

Last withdrawal without fail Saturday, 26 March

Exam period (if applicable) Monday, 18 April – Friday, 29 April

Grade publication Monday, 9 May

Trimester B, 2011

Studies commence Monday, 9 May

Last date to enrol online Sunday, 22 May

Census date Check your census date in My Enrolment

Last withdrawal without fail Saturday, 16 July

Exam period (if applicable) Monday, 8 August – Friday, 19 August

Grade publication Monday, 29 August

Trimester C, 2011

Studies commence Monday, 29 August

Last date to enrol online Sunday, 11 September

Census date Check your census date in My Enrolment

Last withdrawal without fail Saturday, 5 November

Exam period Monday, 28 November – Friday, 9 December

Grade publication Monday, 9 January

For further enquires please telephone 1800 626 481

2.9Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

Useful University Websites

Getting startedNew and re-enrolling student information– ‘Getting Started at SCU’ brochure

www.scu.edu.au/enrolwww.scu.edu.au/enrol/index.php/3

Academic Skills Development Unit www.scu.edu.au/academicskills

Key dates www.scu.edu.au/services/studentservices

Change your password www.scu.edu.au/changepassword

eReadings www.scu.edu.au/library

Fees and financial assistance information www.scu.edu.au/fees

Fees and financial assistance – document downloads

www.scu.edu.au/students/fees/index.php/dds

International students – unit withdrawal impacts

www.scu.edu.au/students/fees/index.php/14/

Library www.scu.edu.au/library

My Enrolment www.scu.edu.au/myenrolment

MySCU http://study.scu.edu.au

Orientation and transition www.scu.edu.au/orientation

Policy and information –Academic Standings and Appeals

www.scu.edu.au/governance/academicboard

Principal teaching dates www.scu.edu.au/about/dates

Schedule of units www.scu.edu.au/scheduleofunits

SCU Connect www.scu.edu.au/scuconnect

Student associations www.scu.edu.au/studentassociations

Student Handbook www.scu.edu.au/handbook

Student Services www.scu.edu.au/studentservices

Student Support Services www.scu.edu.au/studentsupportservices

Test your browser www.scu.edu.au/help/browser

Turnitin http://study.scu.edu.au/turnitin

Webmail http://webmail.scu.edu.au

About the UniversityAbout the University www.scu.edu.au/about

Academic faculties www.scu.edu.au/about/index.php/15

General contact details www.scu.edu.au/contact

International Office www.scu.edu.au/international

Virtual tour www.scu.edu.au/virtualtour

2.10 Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

Schools and CollegesArts and Social Sciences www.scu.edu.au/sass

Commerce and Management www.scu.edu.au/business

Education www.scu.edu.au/education

Environmental Science and Management www.scu.edu.au/enviroscience

Gnibi – College of Indigenous Australian Peoples

www.scu.edu.au/gnibi

Graduate College of Management www.scu.edu.au/gcm

Graduate Research College www.scu.edu.au/research/college

Health and Human Sciences www.scu.edu.au/healthscience

Law and Justice www.scu.edu.au/law

Tourism and Hospitality Management www.scu.edu.au/tourism

The Hotel School Sydney www.hotelschool.scu.edu.au

2.11Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two

2.12 Course Enrolment Guide 2011 – Part Two