The University of Melbourne >Centre for the Study of Higher Education

The Sessional Staff Project at The University of Melbourne

National Colloquium: Sessional Staffing in HE and VEVictoria University, 27 November 2009.

Chi BaikCentre for the Study of Higher Education

The University of Melbourne >Centre for the Study of Higher Education

Melbourne’s framework for the training, support and recognition of sessional teachers

Seven areas:

1. Recruitment and management

2. Induction and ongoing support

3. Professional development

4. Evaluation and feedback

5. Recognition and reward

6. Organisational and administrative support

7. Monitoring and review of policies/programs

The University of Melbourne >Centre for the Study of Higher Education

Melbourne’s framework: some key points

For all new sessional teachers:

• minimum 3-hour (paid) face-to-face induction program

• minimum 1 hour (paid) follow-up workshop

• provision of a reference guide specific to the New Generation degree or faculty

• up to two hours paid professional development per year

• opportunities to receive feedback on teaching

Centrally-run programs and support

• advice & assistance with the development of faculty and department-based programs

• annual forum for coordinators/supervisors

• online community (LMS) for coordinators/supervisors

• annual ‘advanced’ program for sessional staff (2-day intensive)

• print and online resources

The University of Melbourne >Centre for the Study of Higher Education

Web resources

http://www.cshe.unimelb.edu.au/academic_dev/sessional.html

The University of Melbourne >Centre for the Study of Higher Education

Print resources

Can be downloaded from: http://www.cshe.unimelb.edu.au/academic_dev/sessional.html

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