August 2017 Issue 24 by Southern Institute of Technology

The Magazine of the

SIT2LRN Distance Students August 2017 Issue 24

Programme Developments for SIT2LRN • Bachelor of Hotel Management on-site programme • SIT2LRN Teaching and Learning Board of Studies • Student Feedback • SIT Library

About SIT The Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) is one of 18 government polytechnics and institutes of technology offering tertiary education throughout New Zealand. SIT programmes are accredited and approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority up to Master's level. SIT has a proud history of vocational education and training. For over 40 years we have been providing students with quality education across a range of subject areas and at a variety of levels including postgraduate study. This variety enables you to enter your training at the level that suits you and to progress as you are ready. Many of our programmes link to higher level qualifications at SIT and other institutions in New Zealand and throughout the world. We are constantly developing these relationships to ensure that our graduates have maximum mobility.

The Zero Fee Scheme Our Zero Fee Scheme means we pay your tuition fees, so all you have to pay for are the direct material costs for your course. This applies for all of our degree programmes and most of our diplomas and certificates, including distance learning programmes. Many of our graduates are able to start their careers debt-free! This is not an exaggeration – on any given degree, our students save between $10,000 and $19,000 on tuition fees.

Locations Our main campus is in Invercargill, and we have smaller campuses in Christchurch, Queenstown, Gore and Auckland.

SIT2LRN Contact Details Freepost SIT2LRN Private Bag 90114 133 Tay Street Invercargill 9840 Free Call : 0800 4 0 FEES(within NZ) Telephone : 03 211 2699 ext 3320 Free Facsimile : 03 211 2698 Email : info@sit.ac.nz Website : www.sit.ac.nz Free Text : 2LRN (2576)

Welcome to SITUATION W

hat is it that drives successful people? How do they motivate themselves to begin a new task or aim for a new goal when they’ve already got plenty on their plate? Often the biggest problem people have with achieving their dream is actually getting started. Many people can’t make a start so obviously they’ll never finish. As a result, they stay in the same place – or go backwards. Sir Isaac Newton might just have hit the nail on the head with his First Law of Motion, which is sometimes referred to as the Law of Inertia: An object at rest will remain at rest, and an object in motion will remain in motion unless it is acted upon by an unbalanced force. While Newton’s law might relate to inanimate objects, it also works for people. If someone doesn’t do something to get in motion (such as enrol to study) then they’ll stay where they are. Sure, we’ve simplified a complex theory and twisted it for our own point, but it’s quite valid. So when is the right time to get in motion and start studying? That’s a question many of our students ask themselves when they’re exploring their options. It’s quite a broad question too. Does it relate to a time of year – should you begin at the start of the year? Does it relate to a season – there’s not much to do in winter so is that the best time? Does it relate to a life stage – before the baby is born or after the children have left home? The answer to the question is actually quite simple. When it feels right for you is the right time to start studying. The important thing is that you begin. Getting started on your academic path will keep you moving towards your goal. Zoe Fleming is one SIT2LRN student who is definitely in motion. She’s one of the country’s best BMX talents with a goal to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, and has taken up a professional contract to race in the United States. But she’s also in her first year of study towards a Certificate in Sports Training and Development through SIT2LRN. Two Dunedin-based SIT2LRN graduates have used their study to get the ball rolling on their careers, by enjoying success in the Otago Wildlife Photography competition. Check out the story to see how Douglas Thorne (Diploma in Digital Film) and Melanie Middlemiss (Diploma in Digital Photography) plan to launch their careers off the back of their study. Lauryn Johnston already has a career as a massage therapist but the Certificate in Health Sciences (Pre-Entry) graduate is eyeing up further qualifications to achieve her goal of becoming a naturopath. This Wellington woman is definitely someone in motion that plans to stay in motion. And it’s not just students getting on with it. Facilitator Glenn Drew doesn’t stay long in one place – when he’s not fighting fires he’s seeking new ways to learn, which is something he wants to pass on to his occupational health and safety students. People have many different reasons why they want to study: that yearning desire for more knowledge, the need to upskill, the want to advance a career, or to desire to make a better life for themselves. The vital element needed in success is to start. That first step begins that necessary motion – because as Newton says, you don’t get anywhere without moving.

CONTENTS

Production Manager: Teri McClelland

Cover photo: Zoe Fleming

Editor: Mark Hotton

Certificate in Sports Training and Development student (page 19)

Contributors: Claire Allison, Nathan Burdon Co-ordinator: Vicki Popham Art Editor: Elana Bai

04 SIT2LRN Programme Profile 4 Programme Developments for SIT2LRN 5 Transitioning into new qualifications

08 On-site Programme Bachelor of Hotel Management

10 Facilitator Profiles 10 Glenn Drew -Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (Level 6) facilitator

11 Dave Rohan

19 Zoe Fleming

-Bachelor of Applied Management facilitator

-Certificate in Sports Training and Development student

12 Chris Parkin -Diploma in Digital Photography facilitator

14 Lana Quaid -New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care facilitator

20 Douglas Thorne -Diploma in Digital Film graduate

21 Melanie Middlemass -former student and current Diploma in Digital Photography facilitator

24 SIT2LRN Teaching and Learning Board of Studies

25 Student Feedback SIT2LRN Student Surveys

Student Profiles

15 Lauryn Johnston

Industry

SIT Library

-Certificate in Health Sciences (Pre-Entry) graduate

22 Triflor

26 Database Access On and Off Campus

16 Rachael Clarke -New Zealand Diploma in Business student

-Rudi Verplancke / Anmari Jordaan

23 Isaac Construction

26 Search the Catalogue 27 Requesting Books via the Catalogue Off Campus

-Antonio Chadinha

17 Robert Barrett -Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety student

18 Carl Emmanuel -Postgraduate Diploma in Business Enterprise graduate

SIT2LRN PROGRAMME PROFILE

PROGRAMME DEVELOPMENTS FOR SIT2LRN Ever wondered why some qualifications have a “New Zealand” identifier at the start of the title? It comes from a review started in 2010 by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) that was designed to streamline and simplify the national qualifications system for all sub-degree qualifications (Levels 1 to 6). It would also ensure consistency of qualification outcomes across all providers. As a result, all new qualifications developed due to the review now carry the “New Zealand” identifier at the start of them – New Zealand Certificate or New Zealand Diploma. When new qualifications are listed on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework, these replace any old qualifications that do not have “New Zealand” in the title. Old qualifications, regardless of the provider, will expire when new qualifications come on to the framework and providers have the choice of either no longer offering a programme of study or working towards the new qualification. When new qualifications are listed on the framework, the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) works with industry and subject specialists to determine which of the new qualifications will be the best fit for its delivery and students. So what does this mean for SIT2LRN students - and alumni? The first noticeable change is the transition information. When a new qualification has been identified for SIT2LRN delivery, SIT2LRN creates a transition plan as part of the development process. The plan’s purpose is to provide a pathway for students in old qualifications to either transition into the new qualification, or complete the old qualification. What is important to note here is both the old and new qualifications are fully NZQA approved and

SITUAT SITUATION UATION ION August 2017

accredited. Whether students complete the previous Certificate or Diploma, or the new “New Zealand Certificate” or “New Zealand Diploma”, they can have confidence in the quality and credibility of their qualification. If SIT2LRN alumni want to undertake further study in the same field, they may apply for the new “New Zealand” qualifications. So if, for example, a student completed a 40-credit Certificate in General Horticulture (Level 3), but would like to continue studying, they could apply for the 60-credit New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3). In some instances the previous study may be able to contribute to the new qualification as well – this information is in the transition plan for the new qualification, which can be obtained from SIT2LRN Administration Officers.

In 2017 SIT2LRN commenced delivery of the following new qualifications: ª New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Lifestyle Block and Companion Animals contexts) (Level 3) ª New Zealand Certificate in Business (Small Business) (Level 4) ª New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3) ª New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Level 3) (Landscape Construction strand) ª New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Level 4) (Landscape Design strand) ª New Zealand Certificate in Organic Primary Production (Level 3) ª New Zealand Certificate in Organic Primary Production (Level 4)

ª New Zealand Certificate in Project Management (Level 4) ª New Zealand Diploma in Agribusiness Management (Level 5) ª New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5) (Leadership and Management, Administration Technology, and Project Management strands) ª New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 6) (Leadership and Management, Administration Technology strands) ª New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel (Level 5) ª New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel (Level 6)

Plans for 2018 include being able to offer these new qualifications (depending upon completing developments and obtaining NZQA approval and accreditations): ª New Zealand Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching (Level 4) ª New Zealand Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching (Level 5) ª New Zealand Certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy Education (Vocational/ Workplace) (Level 5) ª New Zealand Diploma in Adult and Tertiary Teaching (Level 6) ª New Zealand Certificate in Land Based Sustainability Practices (Level 3) ª New Zealand Certificate in Primary Production (Level 4) ª New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3) (Applied Health Sciences Pre Entry)

SIT2LRN PROGRAMME PROFILE

TRANSITIONING INTO NEW QUALIFICATIONS ª New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) (Applied Health Sciences Intermediate) ª New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 5) ª New Zealand Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6) ª New Zealand Certificate in Education Support and Care (Level 3) ª New Zealand Certificate in Sport Coaching (Level 3) ª New Zealand Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 5) Conservation (Operations) and Marine strands ª New Zealand Diploma in Screen Production (Level 5) As developments progress on these new qualifications, students currently enrolled in the old qualifications will be updated and transition information sent out. Later this year, the SIT website will list all qualifications being offered by SIT2LRN in 2018, complete with transition information and online applications.

It can be quite confusing and a little daunting for students who are midway through a programme of study and they receive notification that it is changing. On the following pages are some examples of those transitions already underway. BUSINESS PROGRAMMES Programme Operations Manager Chris Montgomery said the New Zealand Qualifications Authority’s (NZQA) “targeted review of qualifications” (TRoQ) was driving the move behind the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT). As part of the TRoQ, newly reviewed qualifications would have the ‘New Zealand’ identifier in the title. In the business programmes, the National Diploma in Business is being transitioned to the New Zealand Diploma in Business, he said. In most cases, students are able to complete their current programme of study but may choose to transition so they received the latest version of the qualification, Chris said. “But it’s important that students are guided through the process so they are making relevant and informed choices around their study,” he said. “We put comprehensive transition plans in place and try to anticipate questions and provide outcomes and solutions in advance, but sometimes students need to be walked through

the process and we are more than happy to do that.” It is a big commitment for students to undertake any study, so it is equally important that they are well informed and guided through any changes that might affect the qualification they are taking, Chris said. “It’s really important students understand that expiring qualifications do not lose their relevance. If students are more than half way through a programme of study, it is normally in their best interests to continue and complete it, but every student’s individual circumstances are different so we deal with these on a case-by-case basis. “In the case of the business programmes, some of the new papers covered different subject matters or covered certain areas in more detail and some students were keen to do these papers, so we work with each student to create an individual transition plan so they can achieve their desired goals.”

Although the New Zealand sub-degree qualifications are going through one of the largest reviews ever undertaken, SIT2LRN staff are working hard to not only keep up with the changes in qualifications, but to also provide students with a suite of study programmes that are relevant, current, and diverse.

SITUATION August 2017

SIT2LRN PROGRAMME PROFILE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME Students who have completed business diplomas through SIT2LRN and wish to progress into higher-level study have an opportunity to do so. Senior Programme Manager Lucille Hatley said students who have successfully completed the National Diploma in Business Level 5 and/or Level 6 can apply for credits into the Bachelor of Applied Management, depending on the unit standards completed, as indicated in the tables below. That means students who have completed the National Diploma in Business (Level 5) and National Diploma in Business (Level 6) can continue with Year 2 or Year 3 of the Bachelor of Applied Management. Likewise, Management papers completed in the New Zealand Diplomas in Business, Level 5 (with strands in Administration and Technology, Leadership and Management or Project Management) or Level 6 (with strands in Administration and Technology, and Leadership and Management) can be credited directly into the Bachelor of Applied Management. It is important to note that the Bachelor of Applied Management has six majors – Applied Management, Applied Marketing, Event Management, Project Management, Human Resource Management and Occupational Health and Safety – and each of those majors may have specific papers which must be completed, she said. Visit https://www.sit.ac.nz/campus/SIT2LRN-DistanceLearning and select the appropriate major for specific information.

National Diploma in Business Level 5 to the Bachelor of Applied Management Year 1 BAM Paper

Unit standards required from NDB L5

MGT100 – Introduction to Accounting

6410, 25940

MGT101 – Introduction to Human Resource Management

25695, 6407

MGT102 – Introduction to Business Operations

8498, 11647, 9692 (on-site students do these units)

MGT103 – Introduction to Applied Management

1991, 9732 or 25212, 26254 with either 8084 or 25940

MGT104 – Principles of Applied Marketing

2931, 2950

MGT105 – Business Communications

9691, 21336, 9685

MGT106 – Introduction to Quality Management

8078, 8076 and 19020 or 19025, (distance students do these units)

MGT107 – International Marketing

26254, 27643

Elective MGT109 – Quality Assurance and Compliance

8084

SITUATION August 2017

MGT110 – Workplace Relationships

1987, 9704, 19025

National Diploma in Business Level 6 to the Bachelor of Applied Management Year 2 BAM Paper

Unit standards required from NDB L6

MGT200 – Management Accounting and Finance

6412, 11624

MGT203 – Operations Management

25778, 1993 or 6407

MGT205 – Introduction to Strategic Management

9741, 7448 (distance only),

9741, 9732 (on-site only) MGT215 – Organisational Behaviour

23912 or 8076, 9735

MGT218 – Contract Law and Business Relationships

11633, 7455 (distance only),

11633, 1987 (on-site only) MGT219 – Change Management

9735, 9741, & 11624

Electives MGT201 – Marketing Operations

2930, 2928

And MGT220 – Quality Management

8084

Or MGT221 – Strategic Planning

27764, 9685

PROJECT MANAGEMENT TRANSITION ARRANGEMENTS Changes to certificates and diplomas in project management have also been introduced as part of the TRoQ process.

SIT2LRN PROGRAMME PROFILE

Senior Programme Manager Lucille Hatley said the New Zealand Certificate in Project Management (Level 4) and the New Zealand Diploma in Business Level 5 (Project Management) have replaced the National Certificate in Project Management (Level 4) and the National Diploma in Project Management (Level 5). New students have been unable to enrol in the old qualifications since January 1. Students currently enrolled in the National Diploma in Project Management (Level 5) have been given the choice of finishing the existing National Diploma by the end of intake four this year, or transitioning into the New Zealand Diploma in Business Level 5 (Project Management) which is already being offered, she said. Below is a table showing how the National Diploma in Project Management (Level 5) transitions into the New Zealand Diploma in Business Level 5 (Project Management):

NZDB L5 (PM) Paper

Unit standards required from NDPM L5

BAM Paper

Unit standards required from NDPM L5

MGT100 – Introduction to Accounting

25222, 25224, 25229

MGT101 – Introduction to Human Resource Management

25223, 25226

MGT103 – Introduction to Applied Management

25219, 25221

MGT105 – Business Communications

25227, 9691, 21336 or 1986

MGT100 – Introduction to Accounting

25222, 25224, 25229

MGT101 – Introduction to Human Resource Management

25223, 25226

MGT109 – Quality Assurance and Compliance

25225, 25228

MGT103 – Introduction to Applied Management

25219, 25221

MGT110 – Workplace Relationships

9678, 9685, 27763 or 19025 or 5616

MGT105 – Business Communications

25227, 9691, 21336 or 1986

MGT113 – Introduction to Project Management

RPL based on successful completion of entire National Diploma in Project Management (Level 5)

Electives

Project Management Strand MGT109 – Quality Assurance and Compliance

25225, 25228

MGT110 – Workplace Relationships

9678, 9685, 27763 or 19025 or 5616

The main differences between a “paper” (such as MGT100) and a “unit standard” (such as 25222) are that papers are 15 credits each, and results are on a graded system (e.g. A+, A, A-, B+, etc.) rather than on a competency (e.g. competent or not competent) based system. In addition to the papers identified above, students will need to complete two additional papers: MGT104 Principles of Marketing; and MGT113 Introduction to Project Management, to gain the New Zealand Diploma in Business Level 5 (Project Management).

In addition to the papers identified above, students will need to complete one additional paper: MGT104 Principles of Marketing, to gain Year 1 of the Bachelor of Applied Management (Project Management), but may also commence Year 2 papers in the same intake if they wish. For more information please visit https://www.sit.ac.nz/ campus/SIT2LRN-Distance-Learning and look for options under the Project Management. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Programme Manager Steve Woller (steve.woller@sit.ac.nz).

If students have completed the National Diploma in Project Management (Level 5) they may prefer to transition into the Bachelor of Applied Management (Project Management). The transition table for the degree is below:

SITUATION August 2017

ON-SITE PROGRAMME PROFILE

BACHELOR OF

HOTEL MANAGEMENT The fostering of a long-term relationship with international tertiary institutions has the potential to bring dividends not only for the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) and SIT2LRN but also the booming Queenstown tourism industry. For more than five years, students from Hubei University of Education (HUE) in China have been coming to Invercargill to complete their tourism and hotel management studies. As part of their study, the students also have to complete a six-month internship at a hotel in Queenstown, or another main centre. HUE is located in Wuhan (population 10 million), the capital of the Hubei province, in central China, which has a population of more than 58 million people. The arrangement is a flexible mixed-mode delivery education programme for SIT, SIT2LRN and HUE. School of Business Programme Operations Manager Therese Doyle said before they can start studying towards the SIT2LRN Diploma in Tourism and Hotel Management in Hubei, students have to undertake a SIT2LRN English language course to achieve the Certificate of English Language (Level 3). The Hubeibased part of the diploma course is taught in English, with the goal to prepare students for English-speaking work around the world. Students also have to undertake a large industry project, which involves them taking up an internship in a hotel before reporting back to their class in Hubei.

Once they’ve completed the second year of study in June, they move to Invercargill to start their final year in September. They start at the Invercargill-based Southern Lakes English Language school and are required to pass the English Language Proficiency test, and meet the entry requirements for programmes of study at Level 7, before they can move on to the third year of study, working towards the final year of the Bachelor of Hotel Management. They do six months on-site at SIT, with the final paper being a full-semester internship. Hotels in Queenstown such as the Hilton, Novotel and Sofitel are“very quick to take them on”, Therese said. Once completed, the students graduate with a Bachelor in Hotel Management. Many are offered jobs in the hotels where they completed their internship, she said. “They are fantastic gateway internships – they get really good training and have a great opportunity to show their abilities and the skills they’ve learnt on the course.” As an added bonus, most of the internships are with global companies so the students have career pathways around the world opening up for them, she said. Therese believes the opportunities created by the three-

SITUATION SITUAT UATION ION August 2017

ON-SITE PROGRAMME PROFILE way relationship are significant and not just for the Chinese students coming to New Zealand, but also the other students on the course and the country’s tourism industry. “It’s all part of fostering relationships with other tertiary institutes around the world and creating internship experiences for students. There’s big demand from the likes of China for English-language programmes and particularly for their students to do English-speaking degrees. “For SIT2LRN it’s the global reach of qualifications but there is also great benefit in the cultural diversity that the programme brings." It was a drawcard for HUE to offer pathway opportunities and overseas experiences for students, while Queenstown, which was crying out for hospitality graduates, also benefitted, Therese said. The students learnt English quickly by being immersed in the culture, while there were also advantages for New Zealand students in the class because it created opportunities for broader experiences, she said. “Before coming to Invercargill, the Hubei students have undertaken a significant industry project in a global hotel chain, or food and service industries in places such as Shanghai, America, and even Australia, so New Zealand students can learn from them too.” The multi-cultural nature of the class also helped to create networks, which can become invaluable when they were looking for employment at any stage in their career, Therese said. While numbers fluctuate each year depending on how many students are able to meet the English language requirements, the projections are strong. Eight students are expected to start in September, while as many as 17 are coming through the programme in Hubei and will be ready to start in 2018/19. “As part of the internship paper assessment requirements, students return to Invercargill at the conclusion of their work experience and present at a seminar to an audience of tutors and Year 1 and 2 students. This is an opportunity for them to share their experiences with their cohort and students yet to embark on internships,” Therese said.

The opportunity for Chinese students to learn authentic English, study overseas and gain a solid start in a career in hotel management is the driving force behind the mixed-mode delivery programme. Professor Sam Le, School of International Education Dean at Hubei University of Education (HUE) in Wuhan, China, has been involved with the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) and SIT2LRN since 2010 and is a strong advocate of the partnership. The relationship began in 2009 when the then SIT Marketing Manager Pat Mao, who had worked in Wuhan, contacted him through a mutual friend. The goal was for the institutions to work together in a field that would benefit both Chinese students and SIT, with hotel management proving to be a “wise choice”, Sam said. “Pat and I shared the same interest in direct partnership in hotel management and we understood the future needs of hotel industry talents, both in China and New Zealand.” A memorandum of understanding was signed in May 2010, which paved the way for the collaboration. “SIT has an excellent hotel management major and SIT2LRN offers good support and facilities. China needs more skilled and experienced hotel staff with overseas educational and working backgrounds, both of which give hotel management a prospective market.” The collaboration has been successful because New Zealand had a strong tourism industry and was “supreme” in the hotel industry, he said. With more Chinese tourists visiting New Zealand, there was also an obvious need to employ hotel staff with a Chinese background. “The students like it very much. They love the hotel industry and have the ambition of studying and working in New Zealand. They appreciate the curriculum design and the internship opportunities. “They also have opportunities to work in the New Zealand tourism industry and enrich their industry experiences, which will be vital to their career development in the global market.” The success of the collaboration has also created a bright future for the HUE-SIT relationship, Sam believes. “My colleagues and I greatly value the friendship and partnership between our two institutions. As a Chinese saying goes, even mountains and seas cannot distance people with common aspirations. “HUE teachers and SIT teachers visit each other every year to get a better idea of how to give students the best teaching and employment information,” he said. “I believe there will be a bright future in our joint programmes, which will undoubtedly help to constitute a long-term, cohesive strategy for the New Zealand-China relationship.”

SITUATION August 2017

FACILITATOR PROFILE

GLENN DREW Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (Level 6) facilitator

Glenn Drew describes his path to having a career in something he’s passionate about as being “a series of dots that just seemed to connect naturally." Many people have to search for something they’re passionate about that they can turn into a career, but Glenn found his passion for health and safety and wellbeing through his love of sport. As a typical young Kiwi he was passionate about sports and linked good performance with good health and fitness. In his teens he trialled for football club Manchester United but a serious injury curtailed that ambition. Realising that he wasn’t going to be a professional athlete, he was able to continue to explore his interest in health by becoming an inspector for the Department of Health in Wellington. “In those days, one of the major roles for a health inspector involved occupational health. I found that I enjoyed the opportunity to help people achieve a safe working environment. Considering that a third or more of life is spent at work, it is critical that we can pursue our occupations safely and return to our families healthy at the end of each day.” Wellington Port was part of his responsibility, so whenever there was a chemical spill he would be mobilised along with the Fire Service to provide technical support. 10

SITUATION SITUA UA August 2017

“I was still only 25 years old and felt more inclined to get actively involved in fixing problems than telling others how to fix them,” Glenn said. This inclination led to him joining the fire service. “In emergency response situations, the need for safety is critical and I learned a lot about handling a wide range of emergencies.” When the 1992 health and safety legislation was introduced, the Fire Service stepped up its commitment to safe procedures and practices and as well as being a professional firefighter on the trucks, he was put in charge of Health and Safety at Hawkes Bay Fire District. “My commitment to health and safety produced some mutually beneficial results. The Fire Service saw a benefit in supporting my continued development and so they financed my studies towards a Diploma in Health and Safety Management.” As Health and Safety Coordinator for Area 11, a large part of the eastern North Island that covers 26 fire stations, 72 professional firefighters and about 360 volunteers, his role includes site hazard inspections, annual audits, contractor management, delivering training and facilitating meetings. He’s also

trained as a serious harm accident investigator. In November he will mark 35 years in the service, is a graduate member of the Institute of Fire Engineers and holds the rank of Senior Station Officer. Outside the fire service, Glenn runs a health and safety consulting firm and is involved in various health and safety organisations. It was through his involvement with the Hawke’s Bay branch of the NZ Institute of Safety Management that led to him approaching SIT2LRN about facilitating. He wanted to share his knowledge and passion with the next generation of health and safety practitioners to make sure everyone goes home safely at the end of their working day. He’s now facilitating US5616 – Developing Systems for Occupational Health and Safety Management Practice, a paper in the Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (Level 6) programme. “The role has been very interesting so far and I hope to do it for many years to come. I thoroughly enjoy learning new things and equally enjoy sharing with others who are interested in learning.”

FACILITATOR PROFILE

DAVE ROHAN Bachelor of Applied Management facilitator

With a much-varied career behind him, Dave Rohan is well qualified to be a facilitator for SIT2LRN’s Bachelor of Applied Management degree. Dave's working life began as a teenager in the Bank of New Zealand in Otautau, in Western Southland. It was a time of great change, with computerisation changing the way banks operated. “Overnight, the job changed from being involved in all aspects of a small branch to just feeding the machine, which bored me and led me to leave,” Dave recalled. “Realising how helpful and disruptive technology could be led to my interest in technology and also to recognising that I needed more formal qualifications.” Dave has been interested in efficiency all his working life. “This resulted in an almost obsessive focus with on-the- job training as a supervisor in my early 20s. My mantra was ‘Do it once, do it right’. “Within a few years, I could see the benefits of more formal training and I was delivering management training at my work and as a part-time business studies tutor at Southland Polytechnic [now the Southern Institute of Technology or SIT]. Efficiency also caused a fascination with technology as a tool.” Dave was a union delegate for the Post Office Union during the mid1980s – when the New Zealand economy was restructured and

thousands of people lost their jobs – and later that decade was personnel manager at Telecom in Invercargill where he had to advise dozens of employees that their positions were redundant. During the early 1990s he was human resources manager at the Southland Building Society and was a member of the executive team which was preparing the organisation for sale to Westpac Bank. Members eventually voted against the sale and SBS Bank is now a thriving national business. Dave was chair of the council of Southland Polytechnic during a time of great uncertainty about how education would be delivered in the future, was president of the Southland Chamber of Commerce during tough economic times for the province and owned a financial advisory business during the global financial crisis. “I sold my financial advisory business four years ago and my interests in efficiency and effectiveness have led me back to being a part-time tutor at SIT, as well as a tutor/facilitator at SIT2LRN, and a part-time product advisor for Microsoft, a role that involves training and technology,” he said. “The subjects I have tutored/ facilitated in the past four years, from levels 4 to 7, include introduction to management,

organisation and management, employment relations, applied management, enterprise research project, workplace relationships and strategic management.” The three-year full-time (or up to 10 years part-time) Bachelor of Applied Management degree is a Level 7 course that produces graduates with the personal and professional skills necessary to be successful in demanding and evolving business environments – locally, nationally or internationally – something Dave has experienced in various business settings. “I have a working life of experience gained from on-the-job training, about 35 years’ experience in tutoring and fronting seminars, plus a lot of business experience. Hopefully I can make the right decisions to be soft, or tough, as necessary to get the best out of students,” Dave said. “I enjoy being a facilitator. There is satisfaction in helping students learn and gain confidence, which should enable them to gain more rewarding work in the future.”

SITUATION August 2017

FACILITATOR PROFILE

CHRIS PARKIN Diploma in Digital Photography facilitator

Photography might be Chris Parkin’s day job, but the Wellington-based SIT2LRN facilitator is also making a name for himself as a potter.

The former high school chemistry teacher is a house husband, dad to 11-year Keryn, and facilitator of several papers for SIT2LRN’s Diploma in Digital Photography, working with about 160 students. Chris completed the qualification himself graduating in 2012, and has been facilitating since 2013. And while Chris keeps striving for new challenges on the photographic front, he's also turning his talented hands to other creative pursuits. “Because photography became a job, I had to find something else as a creative outlet. So when I came back to Wellington [from Rotorua] two years ago, I picked up pottery. I did it when I was 16 or so, but it turned out I'd just about forgotten everything.” It didn't take long for Chris to get the knack, and he had one of his pieces selected for Ceramicus, the Wellington Pottery Society’s annual show, alongside some of New Zealand’s top potters. “I'd been doing pottery for just over a year, so to get something in at that point I was quite pleased.” Highlights over the past couple of years have included a photographic

SITUATION August 2017

entry in the 2016 Muriel Hopper Award, winning the Hutt Camera Club’s advanced grade ladder competition for prints, and having photographs, paintings and pottery included in Hutt Art Society exhibitions - “I took up photography because I liked painting but couldn't, so I've finally started pushing myself to do some painting”. Chris has also had photographs accepted for NATEX, the national competition run in conjunction with the Photographic Society of New Zealand (PSNZ) conference, with one of those entries also accepted into the PSNZ International Salon. And while he's already having some success with pottery, Chris is continuing to develop his photographic CV. He's been an Associate of the Photographic Society of New Zealand since 2014, and this year made his second attempt to gain his fellowship – and failed. “There’s only a 20 per cent success rate – this year, only three people were awarded it, so it's pretty exclusive. It's meant to be hard.” But Chris is no stranger to a challenge. He's dyslexic, but wasn't

diagnosed until he was in his Honours year at Victoria University, and for the first time, had a reader/ writer for his exams. How did he get so far without that support? “I have no idea!” he said. Chris is also working towards becoming accredited as a judge with PSNZ, judging camera club competitions. “They send a selection of photographs to me, I write comments and grade them – a lot like I do for students. I picked it up to give myself some extra professional development.” If all that doesn't make for a busy enough life, for the past five years Chris has volunteered for Kids Camps New Zealand, which offers five-day camps for children aged 7-11 who have been victims of abuse, neglect and abandonment. “That's been really cool, seeing the kids turn up each year and seeing the change that happens to them over that time, seeing them come out of their shells.”

FACILITATOR PROFILE

Chris Parkin’s pottery entry in Ceramicus 2016

Open Projected – Obsolescence, one of his NATEX acceptances Chris Parkin prepares a new pot

Nature Projected - Phalacrocorax varius. A NATEX acceptance and accepted for the PSNZ International Salon

SITUATION August 2017

FACILITATOR PROFILE

LANA QUAID New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care facilitator

Taking up a facilitator role with SIT2LRN meant Lana Quaid could move closer to family, while remaining a part of the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) network.

A Diploma-qualified vet nurse, Lana taught on campus in Invercargill, before the opportunity came up to move to Dunedin and take up a full time job as clinical coordinator for a veterinary practice. She had taken on a facilitator role with SIT2LRN’s Animal Care Science qualifications at the beginning of this year – alongside her on-campus tutoring – and that meant she was able to continue working with students, despite no longer living in Invercargill. “I had always wanted to relocate to Dunedin and saw an opportunity for me to do this and still remain working for SIT. It was around the same time my current job came up. Everything seemed to fall into place and I am grateful for the opportunity to do both of these jobs.” Lana has brought considerable clinical experience to her roles with SIT and SIT2LRN. Born in Timaru, she left there at 16 to pursue her career in vet nursing. She worked for six years in clinical practice in Canterbury and Southland before starting her teaching career at the Veterinary Nursing School based at the Invercargill campus.

SITUATION SITUAT UATION ION August 2017

“I worked there for five and a-half years which I thoroughly enjoyed. I worked with a fantastic group of people at SIT and learnt a lot from my time there.” The role of clinical coordinator is an exciting new challenge for her career, and she's also enjoying the flexibility of being a facilitator, she said. “I work full-time and I am able to fit this in around my job and family.” Lana has a three-year-old daughter, who is an animal lover just like her mum. “We currently have two dogs and a cat, but once we have bought our house we will once again get some chickens, as nothing beats fresh eggs for breakfast. “I love cooking and you will often find me at the local farmers markets or organic shops. And getting outdoors – either running or biking with my daughter and dog. I need to find more time to get out and enjoy the gorgeous beaches and tracks we have here in Dunedin, so I'm looking forward to the daylight hours increasing.”

“If you have a passion for something and want to further your knowledge then distance learning may be for you. It allows people that have other commitments such as work or children to gain a qualification.” - Lana Quaid SIT2LRN was fa fantastic for anyone considering gd distance learning, Lana said. “If you ou have a passion for something and nd want to further your knowledge then distance learning may be for th you. It allows people that have other commitments such as work or children to gain a qualification.” Her advice for anyone considering distance learning? “Go for it! Set small goals each week so you stay on top of the workload and get involved in the discussions with your peers.”

STUDENT PROFILE

LAURYN JOHNSTON Certificate in Health Sciences (Pre-Entry) graduate

Lauryn Johnston is another step closer towards her goal of becoming a naturopath, thanks to SIT2LRN’s Certificate in Health Sciences (Pre-Entry) qualification.

For the past decade, the Wellingtonian has been working around the world as a massage therapist and aromatherapist, but reached the point where she wanted to offer her clients more. So she decided to return to New Zealand to become a naturopath. “I applied to enter the naturopath diploma programme at Naturopathic College of New Zealand, but they advised me that the programme was being replaced by a Level 7 course and I needed to complete a Level 3 health science certificate before I could be considered for the new programme,” she said. “As I am working in two clinics, renting space four days a week, I needed an online learning course that could be self-paced and I was recommended the SIT2LRN course by the staff at Naturopathic College New Zealand.” Lauryn completed the three-month full-time course in May. It included foundation knowledge of the human body structure and function. “I found that to be the most enjoyable part of the course. There were also some units on things like working with people and checking your maths,” she said.

Lauryn urged anyone considering getting into the health sciences field to consider taking the SIT2LRN pre-entry certificate. The nature of the online course fitted perfectly with Lauryn’s work schedule. “As everything is done through online tests and assessment, I could do my test in the evening after my clinic. During the day I could read and digest the subject notes in between clients,” she said. “Finishing this course confirms I have the base level knowledge to continue on to doing a Level 7 course in natural health, so fingers crossed I'm accepted on to the natural medicine programme this year.” The pre-entry Certificate in Health Sciences is considered an ideal starting point for students wishing to study nursing, midwifery, sport and exercise or therapeutic and sports massage.

Students study human anatomy and biology, structures and systems of the human body in a health context, health care, ethics, culture, and science fundamentals. Lauryn believes the certificate will be an important building block for her career. “New Zealand is going through a lot of changes regarding natural health therapists, so I wanted to be prepared,” she said. “I love my job, but as nearly all of my study was done overseas I need to get a New Zealand qualification to future-proof my career, as I want to have a long and successful one.” Lauryn urged anyone considering getting into the health sciences field to consider taking the SIT2LRN preentry certificate. “It’s a wonderful way to dip your toes in and see if you are ready for study,” she said. “I also recommend you prepare your family and friends as you will need them to respect your study time. It’s really important that you really assign yourself both study times and relaxing time with them, so they know when you can hangout and when you need to focus on the course.”

SITUATION SITUAT UATION ION August 2017 7

STUDENT PROFILE

RACHAEL CLARKE New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5) student

Rachael Clarke aims to add management qualifications to an already impressive career as a medical laboratory scientist.

Rachael began studying towards a New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5) through SIT2LRN in February, and is getting to grips with balancing full-time work, family and study. The 47-year-old mother of two Emma (21) and Hannah (14) - lives in Dunedin with husband Phillip, and works for the Best Practice Advocacy Centre New Zealand (BPACNZ), an organisation delivering education and professional development programmes to medical practitioners and health professional groups. Brought up in Balclutha, South Otago, she began her career in the Balclutha Hospital laboratory as a trainee medical laboratory scientist. Over the following 20 years, she became highly qualified as she worked in medical laboratories in Christchurch, Wellington, Lower Hutt and Queenstown, before eventually settling in Dunedin. The highlight of her career was receiving a fellowship of the New Zealand Institute of Medical Laboratory Science in 2002, of which only about 50 have been awarded. “Achieving my fellowship was a double-edged sword; while on one hand I was immensely proud of my accomplishment, it also made me want to progress my career. But unfortunately the opportunities for

SITUATION August st 2017

“As this is my first study for a while, I was quite nervous before it went ‘live’, and I must admit the first week I wondered how I was going to juggle everything. Now, it’s starting to feel more comfortable and ‘doable’." -Rachael Clarke this in Dunedin were limited, and as we wanted to remain in Dunedin, I decided it was time for a change.” So, in 2004, Rachael began working for BPACNZ, managing a national laboratory education programme for general practitioners to educate doctors about the appropriate use of laboratory tests and reduce the national expenditure on these tests. In 2012, she became involved in a recertification programme for all non-specialist doctors in New Zealand, helping them meet the annual education requirements set by the Medical Council of New Zealand.

“It has been a real privilege to be part of this, and it was only a day or two after I started that we learnt we had gained the contract. This was a brand new programme, there were no staff, no systems, no rulebook, and we had to figure out how to achieve what we had promised. In the beginning there was innovation on a daily basis, and while that is not so frequent now, there is a sense of pride in seeing the programme that we have set up running smoothly.” While she is proud of what she has achieved, Rachael says her lack of formal management training has always concerned her. “That was the driver for me enrolling in this diploma, and I am hoping I continue on to do the Bachelor of Applied Management. But right now, I am at the start of this.” Rachael has enrolled in two courses - Business Communications (MGT105) and Introduction to Applied Management (MGT103) - and is enjoying them. “As this is my first study for a while, I was quite nervous before it went ‘live’, and I must admit the first week I wondered how I was going to juggle everything. Now, it’s starting to feel more comfortable and ‘do-able’."

STUDENT PROFILE

ROBERT BARRETT

Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (Level 6) Student SIT2LRN’s practical focus was particularly valuable for Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (Level 6) student Dr Robert Barrett as he transitioned from the academic world to being a business owner. Robert began his studies at the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Hons) degree majoring in neuroscience. “I was very interested in how the brain grows, connects, and develops throughout life.” Robert was then “lucky enough” to be awarded the William Georgetti Scholarship for his doctoral studies on pre-term brain injury, which involved an interview in front of the Governor General and associated dignitaries at Government House in Wellington. “It was pretty nerve-wracking, but my enthusiasm for the project carried me through.” After completing his PhD in physiology and post-doctoral work at the University of Auckland, Robert and his wife Vanessa moved to Christchurch in 2012. He worked in the Psychology Department at the University of Canterbury in the traumatic brain injury research area, and was also statistics advisor to some of the staff and students. Robert’s transition to a business owner began in 2014. “I became aware during my postdoctoral studies that your future in terms of employment and work direction was largely in the hands of other people in terms of funding decisions. I decided that this was

unsatisfactory for me personally.” So Robert and his wife decided to launch Precise Services – a food safety, quality assurance, and documentation company. “Vanessa has a lot of industry experience in quality control and assurance from the chemical and food industries, and she noticed a gap in the market in terms of medium and small businesses needing such services. I set up the website, accounts, and marketing, and handled some of the regulatory and documentation aspects of the business.” After two successful years, a pattern began to emerge in their dealings with small to medium-sized businesses. “At initial meetings or during the work we would get asked if we could provide health and safety information or services as well. Naturally, we would say ‘no, sorry, can’t help’.” As inquires kept coming, Robert looked into options for study in this area. “I was initially hesitant about studying again. I was concerned about the financial impact in terms of student loans and lost business time.” However, Robert found the SIT2LRN website page and began researching study options. “I really liked the content of the diploma. As I was reading the course descriptions I was ticking off comments and questions that had been directed to us. I loved that it

was practically focused and based in the real world. The zero fees aspect was also appealing, and being a distance learning course it felt like a new challenge.” Having regained his enthusiasm for study, Robert began his studies in February. “I did a lot of pre-course work in terms of reading the new Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and regulations, three law books on the subject, and as much Government and ACC material as I could to acquaint myself with the area. “This preparation came in handy as I could focus more on the practical side and how to apply the knowledge to my host business. The facilitators were also great in giving me feedback and making sure I was on the right track, which gave me confidence as the course went on. My health background also came in handy when assessing potential consequences of hazards and risks.” Robert found the SIT2LRN online platform and Blackboard system “easy to use” and navigate. Although early in his studies Robert has already found the practical aspect of his study making a difference. “My host business has already made important changes to their health and safety systems as a result of what I have learnt, which is a very satisfying and tangible outcome of the work you put into the course. “I’m really looking forward to the rest of the diploma and developing my skills in this area over time at the pace I want to.”

SITUATION August 2017

STUDENT PROFILE

CARL EMMANUEL Postgraduate Diploma in Business Enterprise graduate

Completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Enterprise has opened up a world of possibilities for Carl Emmanuel. “I decided to do this diploma for a number of reasons. One is because my career of teaching at a private training establishment requires it. “Another is because it nourishes the mind, it keeps me up-to-date with the market of careers and with the rest of the intellectual world, and it creates an obligation to seek knowledge and achieve greater substance in my field,” he said. Emmanuel completed the diploma earlier this year after three years of part-time study that included eight courses covering a comprehensive range of business enterprise and innovation topics. "This diploma is very comprehensive and helps the learners to develop extra strengths necessary in achieving their goals regarding future enterprises and innovation,” he said. Emmanuel has become a strong advocate of SIT2LRN and the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT). “I found the diploma to be truly interesting and rewarding, and certainly it has to be taken seriously. SIT2LRN was never short in providing assistance when needed with wonderful and highly experienced

SITUAT SITUATION UAT August 2017

facilitators. The programme is also highly organised, does not leave the learner in any sort of confusion. The organisation of the materials was evident in the open, friendly communication and planning,” he said. Emmanuel is confident the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Enterprise, which is designed for graduates who want to start their own business as well as those who want to learn about entrepreneurship, innovation and business enterprise management in an existing business, will pay dividends for his professional career. “This diploma meant a lot for my personal and professional development. Firstly, it provided me with confidence based on the high level of evaluations and it confirmed any previous knowledge and skills that I had earned, but may have needed to be confirmed. “Moreover, it supports me professionally in applying for more diverse positions that I would like to try to approach. It is a well respected diploma from a highly respected New Zealand institute that is recognised internationally.” He believes his successful completion of the diploma should

create employment opportunities. “It opens more doors for the future and gives me the confidence to tackle any project I would like to establish in a variety of careers, whether it is employment or establishing an enterprise.” “This will also include applying my innovations and helping others to apply their innovations, thereby supporting the society in better methods and achieving improved outcomes.” Emmanuel said he had been encouraging colleagues and friends to get involved with SIT2LRN in the future, especially with the opportunities offered through the Zero Fees Scheme. “I have already been suggesting the diploma and other SIT2LRN courses to several people, and my first advice for those who are reluctant is to go for it and not to waste any time because education is your greatest support,” he said. “Secondly, SIT2LRN is offering the best opportunity through its Zero Fees Scheme Programme. I wish many more individuals could benefit from this diploma especially, and from SIT2LRN in general.”

STUDENT PROFILE

ZOE FLEMING Certificate in Sports Training and Development student

One of New Zealand’s brightest BMX talents is making the most of the ÀH[LELOLW\ WKDW WKH 6,7 /51 SURJUDPPH SURYLGHV KHU Aucklander Zoe Fleming is a genuine BMX star with ambitions of representing New Zealand at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, but in her rare moments of downtime she is also in her first year studying towards a Certificate in Sports Training and Development through SIT2LRN. Zoe first began trying to tame the track from age 8 with her BMX-mad family. Her first world championship appearance was in Australia as an 11-year-old in 2009, finishing fifth, and this year she was a reserve for the elite women’s team at the world championships in the United States. She has travelled to South Africa, Dubai, Italy, Germany and Denmark to race, and this year has taken up a professional contract to race in the United States, earning her first professional women’s podium finish in Texas. “My ambitions are to simply go as far as I can in the sport while absolutely loving it to pieces,” Zoe said. “I hope to inspire girls to go beyond the stereotypical sports and allow them to believe that they are just as capable as any guy out there, in any kind of male-dominated sport. I truly believe there's so much more to life

than doing what the ordinary person does.” After finishing high school, Zoe won the Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship and a Prime Minister’s Scholarship and shifted to Hamilton to study at Waikato University and be part of the Cycling New Zealand high performance base in Cambridge. “When the opportunity was given to me to race in the US for the year on a full professional sponsorship deal, I decided to move to online study as it suited my new pathway much more effectively. “SIT2LRN gave me the flexibility and support from all angles that I have absolutely loved. Having facilitators that understand my training and travel schedule, but are still supportive and encouraging with completing my study is something I couldn't be more grateful for." Choosing the course allowed her to study something she was passionate about. “Sport has made study not feel like study, as what I learn I am able to adapt into my own life.” Zoe believes the support of the facilitators and the flexibility offered by SIT2LRN makes it an ideal choice for athletes who want to continue studying when competing, especially

“SIT2LRN gave me the flexibility and support from all angles that I have absolutely loved. Having facilitators that understand my training and travel schedule, but are still supportive and encouraging with completing my study is something I couldn't be more grateful for." -Zoe Fleming when their campaigns take them overseas. “Being in sports and with my life revolving around sports, studying isn't challenging, it's constantly interesting and relevant – many things I'm able to transfer into my own training and recovery,” she said. “SIT2LRN is truly one of the best things that I could have come across while chasing my dreams on the other side of the world. There’s nothing more special than knowing you've always got someone back home who’s there for you, no matter what assignment or deadline you may be struggling with.”

SITUATION August 2017

STUDENT PROFILE

Success in a major provincial photography competition is not the pinnacle of two SIT2LRN graduates’ studies – it simply marks the start of their careers.

DOUGLAS THORNE Diploma in Digital Film graduate

Douglas Thorne, who graduated with a Diploma in Digital Film last year, won the 2017 Otago Wildlife Photography Competition, beating a record 2226 submissions across Animal, Plant, Human Impact on the Environment, Pets, and Night Skies photo categories. The former Te Anau man left school without any real plans so saved up and went travelling around South America with his Canon 60D camera taking photos and videos. “It was a huge eye opener for me,” he said. “At that time I wanted to be a filmmaker, so studying Digital Media at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) seemed to be the best path to take. I made some good friends and learnt some good lessons – little things like talent release forms can be a pass or fail situation.” He opted to return to Dunedin to be with his partner and began studying towards a Diploma in Digital Film through SIT2LRN because of the flexibility that distance learning provided. He graduated last year, thrilled with the course and the options it provided. “The good thing about the course for me was that I could pick and choose what subjects to take. And for me I chose photography and Photoshopspecific papers." Douglas is now a security officer at Dunedin Hospital and using his spare time to take photos – and using that time well. His Rifleman Perched photo, captured in Fiordland, won him the Otago Wildlife Photographer title. It also won the ‘Animal 15 years and over’ category. The win, in his first attempt, was “unexpected”.

Douglas Thorne, Rifleman perched

“I would definitely say the SIT2LRN course helped me with the photo competition because it got me out taking photos.

I loved. I studied in my spare time after work. I would certainly recommend SIT2LRN for people that have other commitments.

“It's always good to learn new skills and continually improve. That's one thing with photography – technology is always getting better so you have to keep active with new trends.”

“The facilitators were great and knew what they were talking about. I learnt many things with Photoshop and with photography.

He’s full of praise for both the challenging course and the facilitators. “You have to be organised for sure. Sometimes I didn't have the whole night to finish something because I may have had night shift. Starting assignments as early as possible was always the best way.

He encouraged anyone with a passion for photography to seize the opportunity offered by SIT2LRN. “You'll come out with something to put on your CV and plenty of new knowledge. “One of the good things that’s come out of doing the course is that I know I will always be into my photography no matter where life takes me."

“I didn't need to arrive at a particular time for class, that was something

You can see more of Douglas Thorne’s work by following him on Instagram: @newzealandphotographs. 20 20

SITUATION SITUATIONAugust August2017 2017

STUDENT/FACILITATOR PROFILE

MELANIE MIDDLEMISS Diploma in Digital Photography graduate and facilitator

The gift of a digital camera before heading off on her OE was the catalyst for Melanie Middlemiss becoming hooked on photography. After teaching herself how to use the camera while overseas, she returned to her adopted home of Dunedin and joined the Dunedin Photographic Society, learning as much as she could by attending meetings and going on trips. The information science graduate was working at the University of Otago when she decided she wanted to learn more and began studying towards the Diploma in Digital Photography through SIT2LRN in 2012. She studied part-time, doing two papers per intake and graduated in 2014. “I liked the flexibility of the course – it could fit in with my work and other

things in my life. I also loved the challenge of the assignments – each week there were different techniques to learn about and then you got to go out and shoot photos for the assignments.” Deciding to enter the Otago Wildlife Photographer of the Year also provided another option to shoot photos with a theme in mind, and she was delighted to be rewarded with the Jury Prize for her shot Horsing Around taken near Tarras in Central Otago. “That was a great buzz to receive that. I really enjoyed using the skills I’d developed through SIT2LRN and creating an image that people loved. That’s really cool.” She has now been able to combine her interest in teaching – Melanie works as a consultant providing computer and smart device training

Melanie Middlemiss, Horsing around

– with photography by starting as a SIT2LRN facilitator on DPP103 – Practical Photography (Level 5) – paper. “I’ve just finished the first intake and have found it very rewarding. It’s fantastic to see the students’ work, and to see their progression over the course of the paper.” Her passion for photography has continued. She recently received a Photographic Society of NZ Licentiate (LPSNZ) honours and is also chairing the organising committee for the 2018 Photographic Society of New Zealand’s national convention to be held in Dunedin. Having been on both sides of the fence, she has some simple advice for anyone thinking about studying. “Make sure you have a good study space – somewhere that you can sit, do your readings, edit photos and not be distracted. “Be motivated. It's easy for other things in life to take over sometimes and so you've got to be quite motivated and disciplined to keep up with your coursework. “Make sure you ask questions. Facilitators are very helpful and are there to answer questions when you feel stuck. “Participate in online discussions. We have a discussion area on Blackboard for sharing work and getting feedback from students. This makes you feel more connected to the other students.”

You can see more of Melanie’s works at: melaniejanephotographic.co.nz

SITUATION SITUATION August August 2017 2017

21 21

INDUSTRY PROFILE

TRIFLOR 6PDOO EXVLQHVVHV VKRXOGQ W VK\ DZD\ IURP VXSSRUWLQJ VWDá&#x201A;&#x2021; WR JDLQ IXUWKHU TXDOLÂżFDWLRQV 5XGL 9HUSODQFNH D 6RXWKODQG EXVLQHVV RSHUDWRU EHOLHYHV SIT2LRN student - Anmari Jordaan

Triflor is a tulip bulb exporter based near Edendale and while it employs hundreds of casual workers at its peak in January and February, it has just three full-time staff, including operational manager Rudi Verplancke and SIT2LRN student Anmari Jordaan, who has studied human resources and is now working towards her Bachelor of Applied Management. Although it was Anmariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision to work towards a degree, Rudi said the business was also reaping the benefits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the agricultural or horticultural area, in a nutshell, we are farmers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HR and health and safety aren't necessarily our strongest points. Anmari loves that side of things, and to have someone quite focused in those areas, it takes a burden off our shoulders. She manages all the staff and recruiting, all of the staff issues.â&#x20AC;? Anmari has been with Triflor for nine years, initially as a university student working on the conveyor in peak season, cleaning and processing bulbs. The company exports 50 million bulbs each year to North America, Canada and Scandinavia. A change in family circumstances saw her move into the office for a couple of months, and Rudi says she took to it like a duck to water.

SITUATION August 2017

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now she's probably doing 30 per cent office work, the rest of it on the floor, managing people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bossing people around!â&#x20AC;? Rudi is already seeing the benefits of having a staff member engaged in further education. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gets people focused on other parts of the business, and gives them a good understanding of where I'm coming from, from the management side of things. If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an issue with staff, I can talk to Anmari from a management perspective, and she has that understanding.â&#x20AC;? Businesses like Triflor are often family-oriented â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a father and son, or two brothers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Rudi said that meant there may not be many opportunities for advancement, so it was important to look for other ways to keep staff motivated. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would say that some employers are worried that gaining new qualifications would make staff think about leaving, but my view is that if staff want to leave, they are going to leave â&#x20AC;Ś and that if they do, there is always somebody else ready to step up. It might create an opportunity for another employee but it always works out.â&#x20AC;? Compared with other distance learning options, the low cost of SIT2LRN papers makes it easier

Compared with other distance learning options, the low cost of SIT2LRN papers makes it easier for an employer to consider making a financial contribution towards an employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s studies and demonstrate an investment in their professional development. for an employer to consider making a financial contribution towards an employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s studies and demonstrate an investment in their professional development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For example, $500 isn't a big amount of money from my point of view â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but $1500 is a bit different. If Anmari needed flexibility for study around work, Triflor can usually accommodate this, as there are only a couple of months a year that they are at peak production, Rudi said.

INDUSTRY/STUDENT PROFILE

ISAAC CONSTRUCTION ANTONIO CHADINHA :KHQ $QWRQLR 7& &KDGLQKD UHVHDUFKHG GLVWDQFH OHDUQLQJ RSWLRQV LQ 1HZ =HDODQG 6,7 /51 FDPH RXW WKH FOHDU ZLQQHU The former high-level South African police officer immigrated to New Zealand 10 years ago, and for the past four years has been with Christchurch-based firm Isaac Construction as the Group Systems Manager â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Risk, Health and Safety, Quality, Environmental and Human Resources Management Systems. Formed in 1950, the company has long been renowned for its focus on conservation and endangered species protection projects, and has received numerous awards for that work. Last year, the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new quarry plant was named Environmental Project of the Year at the annual Australian Bulk Handling Awards, and it received a Gold Award for Environmental Excellence at the Quarry New Zealand Industry Awards. The company sees an obvious value in having skilled staff and supports TC in his studies, by providing a positive environment to continue to develop his knowledge and skills. It's a different life for the 50-yearold Portuguese-South African, who joined the South African Police Force in 1985 and was immediately recruited into Security Intelligence Covert Operations. Six years later he was recruited into the infamous Murder and Robbery division, serving as a senior detective captain in command of 130 Murder and Robbery detectives. In 2003, TC resigned and became the CEO of his own company which provided legal, national risk and quality control for the two largest microloan banks in South Africa. He has always recognised the value of gaining new qualifications, not just for his own personal development, but also to keep up with the everchanging work environment. That has seen him gain diplomas in

Criminal Law and Procedures, Risk Management Systems, Health and Safety Management Systems and Occupational Health and Safety, the latter with SIT2LRN. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I need to upskill myself to stay ahead of the pack. I researched the top academic institutions in New Zealand to assist me in achieving my goals through distance learning. The answer was clear and easy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SIT2LRN is the best.â&#x20AC;? Having internationally-renowned health professionals Professor Bill Glass and Dr John Wallaart as facilitators illustrated the level of expertise in the SIT2LRN ranks.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I need to upskill myself to stay ahead of the pack. I researched the top academic institutions in New Zealand to assist me in achieving my goals through distance learning. The answer was clear and easy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SIT2LRN is the best.â&#x20AC;? -Antonio Chadinha

â&#x20AC;&#x153;What grabs me most about the studies through SIT2LRN is its applicability in my everyday work environment. I apply it constantly with major success. It is specific, not generic. The SIT2LRN studies reflect what knowledge and expertise I need for current and future situations.â&#x20AC;?

in it, at every level of the business. Giving people the opportunity to be the best that they can possibly be by investing in them through training and development is one of the ways we can improve our people and therefore improve the business."

His plan is to complete the Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management this year, and next year complete the two remaining subjects required for the Graduate Diploma in Health and Safety. Then he'll decide which diploma to attempt next through SIT2LRN.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Supporting our staff to better themselves through training is a significant investment; however, it is an investment that will pay itself back many times over by developing talented, skilled, engaged and motivated staff throughout the business.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a gateway to achieve continuous improvement initiatives and further my career through a recognised and quality academic institution. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be a fool not to grab the opportunities provided by SIT2LRN. My academic goal is to complete a further six diplomas through SIT2LRN.â&#x20AC;?

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment in training and developing staff has grown significantly in recent years, and the company supports study in several ways, including time off to study, paid study time within work hours, and part or full payment of fees, Jeremy said.

Isaac Construction chief executive Jeremy Dixon said one of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core values was â&#x20AC;&#x153;a place where people matterâ&#x20AC;?.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;SIT2LRN works well with work life and family life as many of our staff are not in a position to leave family or work for extended periods. The qualifications are well respected and the courses are well structured and supported.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Any success within our company is the direct result of the actions and decisions of the people that work

SITUATION August 2017

SIT2LRN TEACHING AND LEARNING BOARD OF STUDIES

Chris Montgomery

Working behind the scenes to ensure the education offered to distancelearning students is of the highest standard is the SIT2LRN Teaching and Learning Board of Studies Committee. The committee’s main role is to ensure that there is sound consultation and discussion of academic-related matters, so that SIT2LRN reflects current, robust academic practices. It also provides a forum for staff to gain information to help provide education and training that is contemporary, relevant, and of an appropriate academic standard. The board oversees all SIT2LRN courses, including new programmes, changes made to existing programmes, and student results and feedback. Board members include the head of the SIT2LRN faculty, four programme operations managers, the academic compliance officer, an academic leader, a SIT2LRN facilitator, and an academic operations manager. The board meets monthly. Chris Montgomery is a programme operations manager for the SIT2LRN distance learning faculty, and part of his role within the faculty is to serve 24

SITUATION August 2017

Debbie Ruwhiu

on the board of studies. He has been a member of the board since he took up the programme manager role in 2014.

there to measure and maintain the consistency and quality of academic operations and performance across the institute.”

“My role on the board is two-fold. Firstly, the board is there for me to present any academic-related matters involving programmes of study I’m in charge of for discussion, feedback and approval. This can range from student applications or requests that fall outside normal academic practice, to academic changes to programmes that I manage.

Debbie Ruwhiu has worked for SIT in various roles for 10 years, beginning as the Literacy and Numeracy Coordinator, and now working in the Academic Support Unit, where she has been able to use her expertise to support and guide the development of educational capability.

“Secondly, I’m there to be part of the consultation and discussion of academic-related matters that are presented to the board. These may relate to student issues or programme changes raised by other programme managers, to changes and improvements to current programmes of study, or indeed proposed new programmes of study, presented by the head of faculty or senior management. “The board is there to provide a forum to discuss the academic merits of what is presented. It serves as a valuable step in a wider Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) process that is

“Being a member of the SIT2LRN Teaching and Learning Board of Studies is one of the academic processes I support. The role of the board is to ensure there is sound consultation and discussions of academic-related matters so that the institute services reflect current, robust academic practices. “One of the best things about working with SIT2LRN is getting to meet and work with a diverse range of people, who care about the quality of education they deliver. The board is proactive about making meaningful decisions and recommendations ensuring each learner gets a wellrounded education in their chosen field.”

STUDENT FEEDBACK

SIT2LRN STUDENT SURVEYS So far this year, in addition to the formal “How Did We Do” survey that all students have available in their course site at the end of an intake, SIT2LRN has undertaken two First Impressions surveys (where a call centre calls all students new to SIT2LRN delivery around week 3 of their intake) and the first Student Feedback survey, an online survey that went out to all SIT2LRN students in early May. Respondents to these surveys are anonymous and no identifying information is collected. SIT2LRN finds these surveys to be extremely helpful in assisting us in continually improving our delivery and programmes and we’re pleased to be able to share our findings, and actions, with you. What We’ve Found Out (so far) and What We’re Doing

Students New to SIT2LRN Delivery From the First Impressions surveys completed so far, we’ve found that almost 90% of new students found the enrolment process OK to Very Smooth, with only about 10% saying they had a few hiccups, and fewer than 2% commenting that the enrolment process was a “nightmare” for them. Also, more than 90% of new students commented that they had received enough information to plan and organise their study, and the course was what they had expected. Almost 100% of new students knew who to contact should they have a problem with their course of study. While most respondents do not have any suggestions for improvements, in each survey some suggestions were given for improvement to the Blackboard Learning Management System. These suggestions are with our Blackboard team, who are already looking into how we can better streamline processes like navigating between Blackboard and email.

almost

90 90 100 %

almost

enrolment process OK to Very Smooth

had received enough information to plan and organise their study knew who to contact should they have a % problem with their course of study

SIT2LRN Student Feedback More than 90% of SIT2LRN students noted their enrolment contact at SIT2LRN to be helpful, which was great to see. We also found more than 90% of SIT2LRN stude dents considered themselves to be very motivated to complete students their studyy (although ( a few did note that they were a bit late in getting things done som metimes). sometimes). Also, o, almost 80% of SIT2LRN stud students said the online experience was either pre good, or great; while 16% of respondents said that they did learn, pretty but found the online learning hard to work with, and 4% did not like online learning. Our aim is for all stud students to have great learning experiences, and the work we’re doing in the B Blackboard environment to better streamline things should help here too. More than 9 95% of students told us that they could see the value in what they were doing, doin which is pleasing to hear, especially since more than 90% of studen students are undertaking study for employment reasons – such as to gain prom promotion, increase chances for employment, or as a requirement. Seeing va value in what you’re learning means that you feel your study is helping you achieve your goals, and that’s something we are very keen on. While more than 90% of students felt their facilitator(s) were really good, a few stu students did note some issues they felt could use improving in one or two area areas. This information was really great to receive – as a result we have been a able to identify areas of concern and provide extra support and modifications to address these concerns now, rather than after all intakes had finished. And we’ll be checking in the next student survey that goes out in August to make sure that these areas have improved for students.

90 90 80 95 90 90

almost

their enrolment contact at SIT2LRN to be helpful

very motivated to complete their study

online experience was either pretty good, or great

could see the value in what they were doing

undertaking study for employment reasons of some sort

facilitator(s) were really good

Thank You! for your responses to our surveys – whether they be the First Impressions, Student Feedback, or How Did We Do (or all three!) surveys. We like knowing when we’ve got something right, and even more importantly, when we can improve something, and your feedback is vital to us.

SITUATION August 2017

SIT LIBRARY

SEARCH THE CATALOGUE

DATABASE ACCESS ON AND OFF CAMPUS

From the MySit intranet home page (https://student. sit.ac.nz/MySIT/pages/Home.aspx) click the Library Catalogue link on the right in the Quick Links panel or from Blackboard click the Print Books link in the left hand panel

Access to the online databases is via https://www.sit. ac.nz/pages/library/online_db or

http://www.sit.ac.nz/ and click the heading Five Campuses and click the Library link.

Library Catalogue

Logging in is not required to search, however logging into the catalogue will give you access to current loans, loan history, and reservations.

The Online Databases are on the left hand side and are grouped in to subject areas. Click the heading that you require, the title will expand and the individual databases will display.

Staff who have not borrowed previously will need to contact the library to be added to the borrower list. To check if we hold a title and its availability use the following method. Type the title in the search bar at the top e.g. cultural safety Or, type in the author surname e.g.Wepa, Or type in keywords from the subject e.g. Treaty of Waitangi. A result list will be generated.

Results list

Clicking the title will expand the record. A green tick or red cross indicates available or on loan status.

You are required to enter your Network Log In details to gain access.

Expanded record

The library catalogue can be accessed from any computer on or off campus.

After initial log in you have access to all the databases for the current session.

For further assistance, please ring the free phone number 0800 40 3337 Ext 8836

SITUATION August 2017

SIT LIBRARY

REQUESTING BOOKS VIA THE CATALOGUE OFF CAMPUS

To access the SIT Library type in the following address http://www.sit.ac.nz/library you should see a page similar to this; click the Library Catalogue link.

To request the titles that you require â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tick the check box to the left of the title in the results list. Click the My Catalogue icon to add the title/s you want to request. Continue searching for other titles, ticking the check box and adding them to My Catalogue as you proceed.

My Catalogue Send Request

You now have access to your personal details, current loans and other options by clicking the links across the top or click My Portal in the left hand column. Type your search term/s into the search box.

When searching is complete click the Send Request icon.

You will receive a confirmation notice from the library email system during business hours only. Books are issued to you for a period of three weeks. You can request one renewal if the book has not been requested by another student. Books are not issued for the duration of the course. If it is a required text book you must purchase your own either from the SIT Bookshop or from any other bookseller/provider. A return courier bag is included so that you can return your items on time. If you require any assistance please ring the free phone number 0800 40 3337 ext 8836.

or email library staff library@sit.ac.nz

SITUATION SITUAT UATION ION August Aug ugust 2017

BACHELOR OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT

@ SIT

INVERCARGILL

ª Make hotel management your specialty ª Real industry experience ª Fantastic career opportunities ª Combine business skills with your passion for tourism

Call today or email info@sit.ac.nz 0800 4 0 FEES www.sit.ac.nz