Thinking About the New Trimester – A Matter of Reflection and Renewal
As one trimester comes to an end – immediate attention is drawn to the new trimester commencing. The changeover, now renewed many times, has become relatively straightforward and essentially seamless. With this said there remains in place the long-term commitment to quality delivery and student support.
Staffing
The key issue is always the staffing arrangements for the upcoming trimester. These were essentially finalised in the late part of the previous trimester and will no doubt be ‘tweaked’ over the next few weeks. The dynamic of the return to face-to-face was embedded in early 2024 with lecturing out of Sydney and facilitation occurring in Melbourne and Adelaide. In T2, 2024 some lectures will be delivered out of Melbourne for the first time (given the investment in lecture studios) and this will impact the dynamic – in a positive way it is hoped. The role of the facilitator is essential to the model – moving forward - and this was largely embraced with a likely further enhancement in T2, 2024.
For more on the role of the facilitator see - https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/the-important-and-emerging-role-of-the-facilitator/
Student Feedback from Previous Trimesters
Moving forward it is essential to consider the feedback from students and use the information gleaned to further improve the offering and delivery of courses. In most recent times (T1, 2024) the survey results (based on the same 11 questions each trimester since 2016) have been very pleasing (4.4/5) and would suggest the teaching and learning at the school is of high quality. It is important, though, not to become complacent – and at all times strive for the best outcomes possible.
For a better understanding of student surveys see - https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/student-feedback-on-units-sfu-a-great-way-to-measure-student-satisfaction-with-teaching-and-learning/
Staff Feedback from Previous Trimesters
Monitoring and managing both teaching and professional staff is a vital aspect of the overall management of the school. Listening carefully to staff provides the opportunity to further enhance the morale and the capability of the workforce. The critical question is always – ‘overall, you are satisfied with your job’ (in the most recent survey T1, 2024 – 4.41./5) and if this can be achieved longitudinally – much can be achieved.
For a clearer understanding of staff surveys see - https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/staff-surveys-a-window-into-wellness/
Learning Support
A critical element at all campuses and for all students is the provision of adequate learning support. At each campus, we have in place highly experienced and highly qualified learning support coordinators who focus directly on additional academic support for students. In more recent times additional online (video) support has been created that can be used across the campuses in place of F2F workshops that had limited traction in the past.
For more about learning support see – https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/learning-support-a-key-element-of-overall-student-support/
For more about online learning support resources see - https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/learning-support-online-help-is-only-a-click-away/
Student Services Support
In addition to learning support is the provision of student services. My school has in place – at each campus – a suitably qualified and trained Student Services Support Person (including a virtual member) who is able to provide all needed guidance in matters non-academic. This includes enrolment, access to resources, and support mechanisms.
For a better understanding of the difference between academic and non-academic support see - https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/student-support-academic-and-non-academic/
Maintaining Compliance and Welfare at All Times
Finally, a key element of all success across the school is maintaining vigilance around compliance and ensuring the welfare of students and staff (wellness) is maintained at all times. This means having in place the essential structures required coupled with clear rules and regulations that ensure both integrity and success for all involved.
For more about quality and self-assurance see – https://www.ubss.edu.au/article/quality-assurance-is-all-about-self-assurance-and-of-course-being-compliant/
Emeritus Professor Greg Whateley is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (UBSS) and Chief Executive (GCA).
