2012 Student Survival Guide by Foundation Studies

ENGLISH LANGUAGE & FOUNDATION STUDIES CENTRE

STUDENT SURVIVAL GUIDE SEMESTER 2, 2012

Table of Contents

About this Guide .................................................................................... 4 Useful Contacts ...................................................................................... 5 2012 Semester Dates ......................................................................... …6 GETTING STARTED: Important Information for New Students ............. 6 DURING SEMESTER: Things You Need to Know While Studying ....... 13 STUDENT SUPPORT: Who Can Help Me? ............................................ 17 EXAMINATIONS AND RESULTS: Completing Your Program .............. 21 APPENDIX 1: Useful Advice from Student Mentors ........................... 21 APPENDIX 2: Campus Maps ................................................................ 29 APPENDIX 3: Using Blackboard ........................................................... 31 APPENDIX 4: University Policies............................................................ 33 APPENDIX 5: ID Checklist for Student Card ....................................... 36

About this Guide The Student Survival Guide is designed to help you navigate the challenges of being a new student at the University of Newcastle. The guide consists of sections to help you during each phase of being a student, as well as other information you may need to be aware of. •

GETTING STARTED: Important Information for New Students (pp. 7-12) This section lists things to do before Week 1, such as enrol in your courses, organise your class timetable, attend orientation and how to get your student card.

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DURING SEMESTER: Things You Need to Know While Studying (pp. 13-16) Read this section in Week 1. Start attending Lectures this week. Tutorials commence in Week 2.

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STUDENT SUPPORT: Who Can Help Me? (pp. 17-22) Refer to this section throughout the semester. We encourage you to get in touch with someone at the University as soon as you feel you are experiencing difficulties or need some advice or assistance. There are many people who are very willing to help you with a range of issues.

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EXAMINATIONS AND RESULTS: Completing your Program (pp. 23-27) Read this section in the Semester 1 Recess. Check the examination timetable as soon as it is available and make sure you are available for your exams. Be aware of how to access your results, and about the process of applying to University. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us at one of the phone numbers or email addresses listed on the next page.

You will receive a Student Diary from one of the Student Hubs. It highlights the wide range of resources that are available to you as a student at the University of Newcastle. The Student Diary has been specifically designed to provide information for students undertaking degree programs at the University. Should you notice any conflicting information between the Student Survival Guide and the Student Diary it is due to the differences between Foundation Studies students and Undergraduate students. Should this happen, you can trust that the Student Survival Guide is the most relevant for you. All the best in your studies!

Foundation Studies Staff Listing

Directors Director

Associate Professor Seamus Fagan

Language Centre

Deputy Director

Dr Keryl Kavanagh

McMullin Building

Executive Officer

Dianne Rigney

Room MCG62A McMullin Building

Open Foundation

Dr Barry Hodges Barry.Hodges@newcastle.edu.au

Room MCLG62 McMullin Building

Open Foundation – Student Advisor (Academic)

Dr Anna Bennett Anna.Bennett@newcastle.edu.au

Room MCG46 McMullin Building

Yapug

Liz Cameron Liz.Cameron@newcastle.edu.au

Program Coordinators

Central Coast Programs Bridging Programs

Room SAS2.09 Birabahn Room HO1.68 Dr David Powter Humanities Building David.Powter@newcastle.edu.au (Ourimbah) Catherine Burgess Room MCLG33 Catherine.Burgess@newcastle.edu.au McMullin Building

Support Services ESL Support Teacher Counsellor Learning Development Open Foundation Mentor Administrative Support

Evonne Irwin Evonne.Irwin@newcastle.edu.au Deanna McCall Enabling@newcastle.edu.au Annette Morante Annette.Morante@newcastle.edu.au Joyleen Christensen Enablingmentors@newcastle.edu.au

Room MCLG52 McMullin Building c/-Room MCLG49 McMullin Building Centre for Teaching and Learning

Team Leader

Lynette Dennis

Room MCLG51 McMullin Building

Open Foundation

Lucy Maguire

(02) 4921 5558

Newstep&Yapug

Maureen Jones

(02) 4921 5319

Open Foundation by Distance

Lynda Lomax

(02) 4921 7232

Office Locations Callaghan Office Ourimbah Office – Open Foundation &Newstep

Christine Dowman

Room MCLG49 McMullin Building (02) 4348 4076 Room HO1.61 Humanities Building

2012 Semester 2 Dates

Semester 2 Semester 2 Commences Semester 2 Recess (includes Labour Day Public Holiday)

Monday 23 July 2012 Monday 24 September 2012 to Friday 5 October 2012

Semester 2 Resumes

Monday 8 October 2012

Semester 2 Concludes

Friday 2 November 2012

Semester 2 Examinations

Monday 5 November 2012

Disclaimer Information in this booklet is correct as at 10 January 2012. The University reserves the right to amend administrative processes as circumstances require.

Privacy and Confidentiality The information gathered by the University through the Enrolment system and during the course of your enrolment will be used for management purposes in accordance with Privacy legislation, to assist the University to enrol you in your study program and to enable you to complete that program. It will not be disclosed to third parties without your consent unless the University is under a legal obligation to provide it. Bodies such as Centrelink, the Department Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education, the Australian Taxation Office and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship are able to acquire some types of information to be provided for their purposes. The University may also be required to provide information to law enforcement agencies if, for example, a subpoena or warrant is served on it, or if an application is made under the Freedom of Information Act.

Getting Started The following pages will outline important information for new students regarding:

Enrolment Bridging Courses

Computing Skills

NUmail

Blackboard

Class Timetable

Textbooks Student Card

Commonwealth Supported Study

Accommodation

Childcare Parking Rules

Enrolment Enrolling in Your Courses See the detailed instructions in the Step by Step Enrolment Guide which was sent with your letter of offer. Changing Your Enrolment You may add a course or change from one course to another prior to the end of the second week of semester. It is rare that you will be able to commence courses after the first two weeks of semester, as you will have missed too much of the course you wish to join. If you want to do so, seek advice from the Program Coordinator or the Foundation Studies office. Courses must be added online by the following dates: Semester 2 courses

Friday 3 August 2012

Are You a Full-time or Part-time Student? If you are enrolled in courses with a total value of 30 units or more in a semester, you are deemed to be a full-time student. Intensive Open Foundation is a full time program held during Semester 2.

Bridging Courses Bridging courses are free courses offered prior to the start of semester to introduce key topics and skills in areas such as chemistry, mathematics, essay writing and computer skills. Check the timetable at: www.newcastle.edu.au/bridging

Computers – What Skills Will You Need? Computers will be an integral part of your educational experience. They are used to distribute learning materials; communicate with the University, teaching staff and fellow students; for accessing material on the internet and from the library; to prepare and submit your assignments; and, in many other ways as well. An ability to use several key university computers systems, such as Blackboard and myHub, is essential to being successful in your studies. A working knowledge of some applications used in the teaching programs, such as word processing, is also important. Don’t get left behind. There are Bridging Courses run prior to the start of Semester designed to help you gain the required skills (see above for more information). 8

There is also a variety of other resources and forms of assistance available to help you learn to use computers, overcome your uncertainties or perhaps gain additional skills. There are a number of Tip Sheets, available from the Foundation Studies Office as well as on Blackboard, which provide a starting point for getting online with your studies. Once you’re enrolled in your courses and the program, you can find out more about what assistance is on offer during semester and how to access it. Select the Computer Assistance menu link on your Program Blackboard site (see further information about Blackboard below).

NUmail The University provides an email address for all of its students. This address is used to advise you of any important information with regard to your enrolment and related matters. Log on to your NUmail account at: www.outlook.com/uon.edu.au. If desired you can redirect your NUmail to a private email address. To protect your privacy you must use your NUmail to communicate with the University and check your NUmail account at least twice each week. When communicating with the University via NUmail, you should always include your full name and student number so that we can easily identify you. You should also explain your problem in as much detail as possible, so that we can ensure that any problem is resolved as quickly as possible or we can direct you to the person who can help you.

Blackboard Blackboard is an online teaching aid that your lecturers will use to communicate with you and support your learning. You can access Blackboard by typing blackboard.newcastle.edu.au into your internet browser – or else from the University of Newcastle homepage under Quicklinks. See Appendix 3 for the steps on how to access Blackboard. Please note the following: •

Blackboard does not reflect your formal course enrolment. Your formal enrolment can be viewed in myHub. Once you are formally enrolled you should automatically gain access to Blackboard. This may take up to 48 hours.

Your lecturer may set up their Blackboard site so that students cannot access it until semester begins. If you are unable to access your course Blackboard site, wait until Semester begins and check that your enrolment is correct on myHub. If you still do not have access talk to your lecturer. 9

Class Timetable Class Timetable information is available on the web at https://webapps.newcastle.edu.au/timetables Once you are enrolled in your courses online via myHub you will be able to print out a copy of your class timetable from that system. The link is via Weekly Schedule on the myHub homepage.

Textbooks Some courses in the Open Foundation and Yapug programs require you to purchase textbooks. Advice on which textbooks are required will be provided at Orientation and during the first week of classes. The bookshops at the University campuses stock required texts. Please note that you can become a member of the Co-op Bookshop for a one-off fee of $20, which entitles you to discounts on your purchases. Check the Co-op Bookshop website for pricing information for each of your textbooks: http://www.coop-bookshop.com.au/bookshop/action/DataSubjSelect If you need to contact the bookshops, their details are as follows: Callaghan:

Level 1, Rear Shortland Building, Callaghan Campus (02) 4967 1850 or Newcastle@coop-bookshop.com.au

Ourimbah:

Shop 1, Student Amenities Building, Ourimbah Campus (02) 4362 2796 or Ourimbah@coop-bookshop.com.au

Student Card Your Student ID card is an important form of identification while you are enrolled at the University of Newcastle. It is used for identification purposes when sitting examinations, library use and computer access. The University requires you to provide at least 100 points of identification to prove your identity before you can obtain your Student ID card. You will need to bring your 100 points of identification to either the Shortland Hub or the Hunter Hub at Callaghan, the City Hub in Newcastle or the Ourimbah Hub at the Ourimbah campus to have your photograph taken and your card printed. In order to print to an on-campus printer you will need to charge your Student Card with money. This can be done with cash at any of the Libraries or using EFTPOS at the Student Hubs. This card remains current for the remainder of your enrolment. If you misplace your student card you will need to pay a replacement fee. 10 Â Â

Commonwealth Supported Study A Commonwealth supported place is a higher education place for which the Commonwealth makes a contribution towards the cost of your education. The Australian Government allocates a number of Commonwealth supported places to universities each year. As an enabling student you are classified as a Commonwealth supported student but, unlike undergraduate students, you are not required to contribute financially to the cost of your education and you do not pay any HECS for your courses. The Australian Government requires that all Commonwealth supported students complete the Request for Commonwealth Support and HECS-HELP form to register their enrolment. You will complete this form as part of your online enrolment. You do not need to provide your Tax File Number as you are not paying any HECS for your studies this year.

Accommodation For information about on or off-campus accommodation, you can access the Accommodation Services Homepage at: www.newcastle.edu.au/service/accommodation/ Application forms can be printed from the website and sent to the Accommodation Enquiry Centre. The service maintains an interactive database, which allows you to access a wide variety of off-campus accommodation options. To contact the Service: Phone: Fax: Email:

(02) 4924 1444 (02) 4924 1440 AccommodationEnquiry@newcastle.edu.au

Childcare Callaghan Campus Three childcare centres are located on the Callaghan campus. All offer quality long day care for children aged from six weeks to five years. Applications should be made to the individual centres as early as possible. KU Kintaiba (community centre) 11 Â Â

Phone:

(02) 4967 3475

KU Kooinda (work based centre) Phone:

(02) 4921 7171

KU Wonnayba (community centre) Phone:

(02) 4967 6488

For information about off-campus childcare: Newcastle City Council Phone:

(02) 4974 2864

Ourimbah Campus KU Children’s Services operates the KU Ourimbah Preschool & Children’s Care Centre on the Ourimbah campus. The Centre operates for 50 weeks of the year and is open for children aged 0 – 6 years. Phone:

(02) 4362 2933

Parking Rules When parking on-campus it is important to follow the instructions for parking. You are not permitted to park in Reserved parking spots, including Staff Parking areas. You must park in designated General Parking spaces only and be aware that you must pay for parking on the Callaghan campus. Fines are imposed for non-payment of parking fee. Callaghan Campus Motor vehicle entry fees apply to all cars/motor bikes parked on the Callaghan campus between the hours of 8.00am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday, throughout the year. A parking permit must be clearly displayed on the left-hand side of the windscreen. Cost: $4.10 per day for coin payment, $4.30 for credit card payment. Ticketing machines can be found at the various entrances to the campus and within the carparks. A cheaper option is to purchase a parking permit for each semester or for the whole year. Parking permits are available from the Student Hubs. A Student Motor Vehicle Entry Permit is only valid for use in general car park areas signed 'P'. If you park in other areas such as designated Staff Parking, you will be liable to a fine. Ourimbah Campus Parking on the Ourimbah campus is free. Students and visitors must park in designated parking spaces only.

During Semester The following is a breakdown of key information you need to know while studying:

On-campus Computer Access Lectures and Tutorials Library Services Academic Integrity Module Submitting Assignments Updating your Contact Details Withdrawing from the Program

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On-Campus Computer Access The University provides extensive computing and communication facilities for your use at a number of locations across each of its campuses. Access is available to personal computers, multi-user computers, email (NUmail), the Internet and many other computing facilities. These locations and their opening times are listed at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/student-computing/for-students/lab-locations/ Staff at these locations can help you if you are having difficulty using the computers or printing. You can also contact IT support on (02) 4921 7000 if you are experiencing problems with Blackboard, NUmail, myHub or any other online University system. You will have a computing labs account and a student email address created automatically once enrolment is completed.

Lectures and Tutorials You will have a lecture and a tutorial to attend. It is very important that you attend all classes. Lectures may be held in large lecture theatres. Group sizes for tutorials are often smaller than lectures and are usually more interactive. Tutorials are an important part of your learning. Ensure that you factor this time into your timetable.

Library Services You are eligible to borrow books from the University of Newcastle libraries at Callaghan and Ourimbah. Go on a Library Tour at the start of semester and find out all you need to know about using the Library. University of Newcastle Libraries: •

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Using the Library Catalogue - You can search for resources via the University library catalogue NEWCAT at: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/library/. Type a key word, author or title into the search field below the heading ‘Search the new Library Catalogue’. Interlibrary Loans - If you want to collect a book from a different campus, you can request an ‘interlibrary loan’. Click on the book you want to borrow and then click ‘Request it’ on the left hand side of the page. Enter your MyLibrary login details (see below), select the campus you would like to collect the book from, and it will be sent to that location. Holding Borrowed Items - If you would like to borrow a book that is on loan to another borrower, you can ‘hold’ the book in the same way that you request an interlibrary loan. You will be notified via your NUmail when the book has been returned, and it will be reserved for you on the library Holdshelf for up to five days. 14

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MyLibrary - you can renew your loans, check due dates, keep track of any book requests and cancel your requests by logging in to MyLibrary at https://library.newcastle.edu.au/patroninfo. You can login using your student number without the ‘c’ and a library PIN – a numerical password that you will be prompted to create the first time you access MyLibrary.

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Electronic Copies - Some books or articles in the catalogue are listed as ‘ERESOURCES’. This means that you can view the book online and do not have to visit a campus library in person. You can also access electronic copies of articles and book chapters through Short Loans Online. Click on the ‘Short Loans’ link on the library homepage http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/library/. Enter the course name, course code or lecturer. If an electronic copy is available, the following message will appear next to the title: Internet Access – COURSE CODE – ONLINE ARTICLE. Click on the title required and enter your MyLibrary login details.

Contact

Callaghan:

(02) 4921 5851

Ourimbah:

(02) 4348 4023 http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/library/

For further information, a useful introduction to library services can be found at:http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/library/foundation-portal/.

The Academic Integrity Module (AIM) You will be required to complete an Academic Integrity Module (AIM) via Blackboard. This module is an educational tool designed to help you understand referencing styles, avoid plagiarism, and improve your marks. Your lecturer will give you instructions about when and how to complete the Academic Integrity Module. You will need to indicate on all your assessment item cover sheets that you have completed the module. The AIM is found within the Blackboard site that you are automatically enrolled in. It will appear at the top of your My Courses pane in Blackboard. You will receive a number of emails via NUmail about this; the first in Week 1 of semester and at regular intervals thereafter. You need to read these emails as completion of the AIM is mandatory.

Submitting Assignments Lecturers may have different requirements for the submission of assessment items. Make sure you read your Course Outlines closely for this information, and don’t hesitate to check with your lecturers for clarification. Please note: • •

You must always attach an assessment item coversheet. You must retain a copy of your assignments for your records.

If you are unable to submit an assignment on time you must apply for an extension or risk losing marks. For more details refer to the policy information regarding “Adverse Circumstances: Requests for Special Consideration, Extensions of Time, Deferred Assessments” that can be found in Appendix 4 on page 34 of this document. Marked assignments are usually distributed in class. If you are unable to attend this class you may be able to collect your assignment from the Foundation Studies Office by presenting your student card. Check your Course Outline for clarification regarding collection of marked assignments.

Updating Your Contact Details If you need to update your address, telephone numbers, emergency contacts or any other personal details you may do so by logging in to myHub at http://myHub.newcastle.edu.au. It is essential that the University has a record of your current contact details.

Withdrawing from the Program If you are thinking of withdrawing please contact your lecturer or the Program Coordinator to discuss your options. You can also find helpful information on pages 17-22 of this Guide. If after discussing your program options you still wish to withdraw, you may do so on or before the last day of semester and prior to the commencement of the exam period (via the myHub system). You cannot withdraw from the program after the last day of semester or once the formal examination period has commenced. If you do not formally withdraw via myHub, you may receive a Fail result in each of your courses. In order to withdraw log in to myHub at http://myHub.newcastle.edu.au and drop all your courses. Then email the Foundation Studies Office at enabling@newcastle.edu.au to notify us of your withdrawal.

Student Support The following information is a breakdown of the support services offered by the University of Newcastle to assist you during your studies.

Help at Hand Lecturers Foundation Studies Office Student Hubs Learning Adviser ESL Teacher Enabling Counsellor Student Mentors Disability Support Careers and Degree Program Advice

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Centres Chaplains 17 Â Â

Help at Hand If you find that you are struggling with your studies, are unsure about some aspect of your courses, or that life is simply getting on top of you, there are a number of people you can contact to find help and support: • • • • • •

Your lecturers (academic help and advice; special consideration) The Foundation Studies Office (administrative help and advice) Learning Development (help with academic skills) Enabling Counsellor (individual counselling by telephone or face-to-face) Student Mentors (advice from previous students) Disability Support (services for people with disabilities or chronic illness)

We want you to succeed and will do all we can to assist you. See page 4 or the following information for contact details.

Lecturers Lecturers can provide assistance if you have questions about course content, assessment items, or need to apply for special consideration or an extension of time for an assessment (see pages 34-35 for the University policy regarding special consideration and extensions of time). You can contact lecturers via email, phone during consultation times, or through Blackboard discussion forums. Contact details for lecturers are listed in the Course Outlines.

Foundation Studies Office Foundation Studies offices are located at Callaghan (Room MCLG49, McMullin Building) or at Ourimbah (Room HO161, Humanities Building). Students should seek advice about student related services from these offices. The Foundation Studies offices operate as a Student Hub for the purposes of lodging Special Circumstances documentation, and collection of marked assessment tasks.

Student Hubs There are Student Hubs located at the Callaghan campus (Shortland Hub, level 3, Shortland Building; and Hunter Hub, Level 2, Student Services Centre), the City campus (University House, Newcastle) and the Ourimbah campus (opposite the main cafeteria). Open Foundation /Yapug students need to access these hubs to obtain a student card, a Travel Concession (full-time students only) or a parking permit. You may also use the Hubs to find out more information about the Undergraduate study that you are interested in undertaking. For all other enquiries (especially regarding Extensions, Special Consideration or Examinations) please see the Foundation Studies Office.

Learning Adviser The Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) provides extra academic help to any student of the University, and has programs designed specifically for Foundation Studies students. To find out what is offered, go to the Learning Development Blackboard site (click the ‘Learning Development’ link under ‘My Courses’ on the RHS of your Blackboard homepage). This site contains information about: Learning Development Workshops •

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Face-to-face: Free workshops for Open Foundation students are held through the year at the Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses. On the Learning Development Blackboard site click the ‘Workshop Info’ link on the left hand side. Click ‘Open Foundation and Newstep’ to access the workshop timetable. You will need to register for these workshops via Online Services at: http://webapps.newcastle.edu.au/rego/index.cfm. Online: Slides and notes from the face-to-face workshops are also made available online. On the Learning Development Blackboard site click the ‘Online Resources’ link on the left hand side and go to ‘Enabling Workshop Notes’. Additional resources can be accessed by clicking ‘Academic Skills Resources’.

Individual consultations •

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Face-to-face: You can book individual face-to-face consultations with a Learning Adviser via Online Services at http://webapps.newcastle.edu.au/rego/index.cfm. Alternatively, you can drop in to see a Learning Adviser at The Learning Centre (IRC254) on the Ourimbah campus. Online: You can email a Learning Adviser at econsult@newcastle.edu.au for advice about assignments or any aspect of learning at University. You should attach a draft of your assignment, a copy of the assignment question and any other relevant documents. You need to think about the kind of feedback you want, so include specific questions in your email. The Learning Advisor will not edit or proof-read your work, but will help you develop your own skills in planning and completing written tasks.

If you have any questions or need more information, you can contact the Learning Adviser for Open Foundation, Annette Morante, via email: Annette.Morante@newcastle.edu.au or phone: (02) 4921 7228.

English as a Second Language Teacher It is assumed that students from a language background other than English will have already undertaken formal study in English prior to commencing Open Foundation, as the program will require a good level of written and spoken English. For information on the English Language support available to students from a non-English speaking background, contact Evonne Irwin, emailEvonne.Irwin@newcastle.edu.au, or phone (02) 4921 5557. 19

Enabling Counsellor If you encounter difficulties in any area of life during your studies and wish to speak to someone, there are counsellors available at the Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses. Either face-to-face or telephone appointments are available. Appointments can be made by contacting the Foundation Studies Office. Tip-sheets with counselling advice for students are available on the Program Blackboard site.

Student Mentors Student Mentors are people who have successfully completed the program. They know what a daunting and overwhelming experience studying at University can be, and can provide that little bit of extra encouragement and advice when you need it. If you would like to link up with a mentor please contact Joyleen Christensen at enablingmentors@newcastle.edu.au. Please identify that you are a commencing student in your email.

Disability Support The University is committed to providing a range of support services for students with a disability or chronic illness. If you have a disability or chronic illness which you feel may impact on your studies, please discuss your support needs with your lecturer or course coordinator. The Disability Support Service also offers practical assistance and advice to students with a permanent or temporary disability or medical condition. If you require any special arrangements for class or examinations due to a disability you must register with Disability Support at the beginning of semester. For more information see the website, www.newcastle.edu.au/service/disability, or contact the service: Callaghan Campus: Ourimbah Campus: Email:

(02) 4921 5766 Room HA168, Hunter Building (02) 4348 4060 Student Support Unit student-disability@newcastle.edu.au

Careers and Degree Program Advice Information about specific degree programs at the University of Newcastle, e.g. Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Arts, etc. is best obtained by phoning the Enquiry Centre on (02) 4921 5000 or logging into the ‘What Can I Study’ webpage at: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/what-can-i-study/ The University’s Careers Service can be contacted for advice on career planning: Callaghan: Ourimbah: Port Macquarie:

(02) 4921 5588 or Careers@newcastle.edu.au (02) 4348 4060or Student-support-ourimbah@newcastle.edu.au TAFE Careers and Counselling Service, (02) 6581 6200 20

Tips for Career Planning are available on the Careers website: www.newcastle.edu.au/service/careers The University holds an Open Day in Semester 2 each year where you can speak to a Program Adviser about your future degree choices.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Centres The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Centres provide support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying at the University. Callaghan Campus The Wollotuka Institute is located in the Birabahn Building. For advice and information: Phone: (02) 4921 6863 Fax: (02) 4921 6985 Email: wollotuka@newcastle.edu.au http://www.newcastle.edu.au/institute/wollotuka/ Ourimbah Campus Gibalee is the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Centre on the Ourimbah campus. Phone: (02) 4349 4500 http://www.newcastle.edu.au/location/central-coast/o-and-c/gibalee.html

Chaplains The Chaplaincy Service is available on both campuses for all students and staff. Visit the Callaghan Campus chaplaincy website at: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/chaplaincy/. The Ourimbah Campus chaplaincy website is: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/chaplaincy/central-coast.html. The Callaghan Campus Chaplaincy Centre is temporarily located in Room HC57 in the Hunter Building. The centre is open for students to drop in between 10am and 2pm, Monday to Friday. Alternatively you can call the Centre to arrange an appointment. Phone: Fax:

(02) 4921 5571 (02) 4921 7401

The Chaplain at the Ourimbah campus is located in Room C1.14 in the Student Support Unit Building. He is usually on campus Tuesday to Friday during normal office hours. Phone: Email:

(02) 4348 4036 Roy.Hazlewood@newcastle.edu.au

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Examinations and Results

Attending Your Exams Accessing Your Results

Grades

Applying for University

Scholarships for Future Study

Attainment Ceremony

Attending Your Exams You will need to sit final examinations in the Formal Examination Period at the end of each semester. It is your responsibility to be available for the entire examination period. Formal written examination sessions take place on prescribed dates within the periods listed in the 2012 Calendar on page 4. Dates and Times Examination timetables will be available on the University’s website from the Online Services page approximately 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the exam period. The web address is: https://webapps.newcastle.edu.au/exam_tt Missing an Examination You are expected to attend examinations unless serious circumstances beyond your control prevent you from doing so. If this happens, you must contact one of the Foundation Studies offices (Room MCLG49 in the McMullin Building at Callaghan and Room H0161 in the Humanities Building at Ourimbah) within three working days of the date on which the examination was scheduled. You will need to complete a Request for Rescheduling of Examination form and provide relevant supporting documentation. You should also contact the member of academic staff responsible for the course as soon as possible. Misreading the Final Examination Timetable will not be accepted as a reason for failing to attend an examination.

Accessing Your Results You can access your final semester results at myHub.newcastle.edu.au. The dates that you are able to access your results have not yet been finalised for 2012, however they are usually 2-3 weeks after the end of the examination period. Please note that if you are indebted to the University you will not be able to access your results until your debt is cleared. Debts include unpaid library fines or parking fines. For further information on a final result in a course or to query your result you should contact your lecturer in the first instance. If the lecturer is unavailable, or if the matter has not been resolved, contact the Foundation Studies Office or the Program Coordinator.

Grades Academic performance is formally graded at the end of each semester and the final assessment will include assignment and tutorial work, examinations, practical work etc. The grading scale used at the University is as follows: Percentage Mark

Grade

Notation

85 – 100

High Distinction

75 – 84

Distinction

65 – 74

Credit

50 – 64

Pass

0 – 49

Fail

Withdrawn without penalty

Incomplete

Special assessment granted

Ungraded pass

Applying for University In order to complete Open Foundation you must pass 40 units within one calendar year. In order to complete Yapug or Newstep you must complete 80 units and pass a minimum of 70 units of the program. Our students can apply for entry to undergraduate study at the University of Newcastle. Many other universities throughout NSW (and Australia) will also accept Open Foundation/Yapug as an entry qualification. However, if your preference is for another university we strongly recommend that you speak to the admissions department of that university to confirm that they accept our enabling program for the degree program of your choice. The majority of applications to universities within NSW are made through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). UAC Information Sessions will be held by Foundation Studies staff in August/September to help students to complete the online UAC application form and apply before the on-time closing date of 30th September. Information will be sent to you closer to the time. On successful completion of your enabling program the University will release your final results to UAC, and UAC will allocate you a rank based on your final marks in each of your courses. 24

IMPORTANT: •

You do not receive an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR). This is given to High School students only. Instead, UAC allocates students an ‘admission rank’ based on your average marks across all courses. UAC does not notify you of this rank, but the Foundation Studies Office can verbally advise you of an approximate rank after you receive your semester 2 results.

•

The University will not release final results to UAC if you are an indebted student (e.g. unpaid library fines or course materials charge).

Scholarships for Future Study When commencing your Undergraduate degree program, you may be eligible for a scholarship: Australian Government Student Start-Up Scholarships Currently all university students receiving Government income support are entitled to an annual SSS payment commencing at $2128 in 2011 (and indexed thereafter).The SSS will provide essential assistance to students for the high upfront costs of textbooks and specialised equipment. All students receiving income support provided through Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy will also receive the SSS. The Scholarship will be paid at the full value whether a student is receiving the maximum rate of payment or a part payment. The SSSs will be paid by Centrelink in two instalments, at the beginning of each semester in each year of a student’s course of study. Equity Scholarships offered by the University of Newcastle (ESSUN) Eligibility criteria for the University’s Equity Scholarships include forms of disadvantage, such as: • • •

Sole carer/excessive family responsibilities English language difficulties for NESB students Effects of trauma, illness or disability

The scholarships are valued at $2,000 - $4,000 per annum for 3 – 5 years. Scholarships for Enabling ‘Graduates’ There are three specific scholarships that Foundation Studies students may apply for when commencing an undergraduate degree program at the University of Newcastle. John Lambert Friends of the University Open Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship This scholarship was established by the Friends of the University to support a student who has completed the Open Foundation program and is intending to enrol in an undergraduate degree in the following year. Applications close on 28 February each year. 25

Irena Ivanovic-Howley Scholarship This scholarship was established to commemorate Irena's life and academic achievements and assist other students of non-English speaking backgrounds who have completed the Open Foundation or Newstep program and are enrolled in the University of Newcastle. Applications close 31 March each year.

Jennie Thomas ‘Dreams Can Come True’ Enabling Scholarship This scholarship was established by Mrs Jennie Thomas to provide financial assistance to students entering University in an approved undergraduate program to help them to attain a degree and make their `dreams come true'. The scholarship provides a benefit of $2500 per year for three years (or half that amount for 6 years for part-time students). Closing date: 31 March. For information about these and other scholarships contact the Scholarships Officer on (02) 4921 6539 or scholarships@newcastle.edu.au. Applications can be printed directly from: http://webapps.newcastle.edu.au/scholarships/index.cfm.

In addition there are scholarships specifically for students of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Descent. Contact the Wollotuka Institute on (02) 4921 6863 or wollotuka@mewcastle.edu.au for further details.

Attainment Ceremony Students who complete Open Foundation, Newstep, Yapug or the International Foundation program are invited to attend a Recognition of Attainment Ceremony. At this ceremony you will receive a certificate of completion and a copy of your academic transcript. Ceremonies are held at the Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses the following year in conjunction with Faculty graduation ceremonies. You will receive information in the mail closer to the time.

APPENDIX 1 Useful Advice from Student Mentors

What would be the key piece of advice you would give a new student?

 “Get on Black Board and click on every link and read as much as you can to understand everything you need to know - And if you have read it all and don't understand ask someone.” 

“Keep with it, even if it seems too hard at first, because it gets easier. And also talk to others to keep things in perspective.”

 “Regarding assessment items it is important to start early (at least 5-6 weeks early) not a week or two before they are due...  IMPORTANT!!! I always make sure I have checked my assessment item against the marking criteria to ensure I have covered all of the key components...  IMPORTANT!!! Take the time to make sure you are referencing correctly both in-text and reference list ....ask for help if you are not sure. Sometimes this can mean the difference between a pass and a fail. Take the time to correct spelling and grammatical errors. Clarify any doubtful points with your tutor.  The important thing is to BE ORGANISED AND PLAN YOUR TIME and to make sure you have time for your family, partner, work commitments and yourself.”  “Keep a diary! Write down all your assessment item due dates, holidays, exam periods etc and keep a copy of the uni map in it as well. I foundit extremely helpful when figuring out what week I am in and how many weeks I had until the exam period and assessments. Also, it is a goodidea to look through each course outline at the beginning of the year and draw up a table listing all assessments in order of due date and how much they were weighted at. It helps to prioritise.“ “Ensure you have a broadband internet connection or use the uni computers and broadband, which can be used for a much reduced cost.”  “Don’t forget to breathe because while you are taking in all this new and useful information you also need oxygen !”  “If unsure...Ask. It doesn't matter how many questions you have, you will be surprised at how many people are willing to assist.”

What were the most helpful things that you or someone else did in those first few weeks of studying?

 “Hit the ground running, start reading any of the course readings that you can in the first weeks. Those first assignments roll around quickly and catching up on the reading while trying to write assignments can be very stressful.”  “Get into a routine asap - draw up your timetable then work out what will need to get done in each subject each week and when you'll tackle it. Plan for breaks but also use time effectively.”  “If you start to struggle early on- get help!!! Talk to your lecturer, course coordinator or whoever... Talk to a Counsellor to get help with organising yourself and getting assistance where you need it.”  “The first few weeks are tough - it's all so new. DON'T GIVE UP. Do all that you can to get back on track before deciding it's all too hard.”  “Take advantage of the slow start to a semester and start reading and summarising after every lecture module, you will be so thankful you did when you get to exam time and have a million assignments due!”  “Find and make friends and support each other.”  “Ask lots of questions if you’re not sure what is required of you. The only silly question is the one you did not ask.”  “Find out when online quizzes etc close, and don't wait til an hour before to begin. Set reminders in your phone, online etc to remind you they are coming up.”  “With regards to the requirements, the course outlines are the bible. Read them before you start on your course materials.”  “Ask the Librarian about research and journals and books and contact Learning Development to learn about writing essays.”  “Generally, once semester started, any questions I had - I asked the lecturer. LOTS of questions. They don't seem to mind...”

APPENDIX 2 - Campus Maps

Callaghan Campus 29

APPENDIX 3 Using Blackboard You can access Blackboard from the Quick Links drop down box on the University’s home page. Following are some general instructions for using the system.

LOGGING IN •

Click on Blackboard in the Quick Links Drop Down Box on the University Home Page.

•

Type in your uni ID (your student number preceded by a ‘c’) and your password. Click on log in and the Blackboard sites for the courses you are enrolled in will appear.

•

The courses are listed in the Panel headed My Courses under the heading ‘Courses in which you are enrolled’. To access each course click on the name.

•

This is an example of the first page for one course – Linguistics 1:

Any announcements and General Information can be included on this page. Each button on the left hand menu contains information specifically for that course. Not all buttons will appear for each course. Your Lecturer will provide more information regarding how Blackboard will be used for their course.

APPENDIX 4 University Policies Academic Integrity Academic integrity, honesty, and a respect for knowledge and truth are fundamental to the University. These principles are the bases of all academic endeavours in teaching, learning and research. Dishonest practices contravene academic values of respect for knowledge, and respect for truth, scholarship and scholars. They devalue the quality of learning, both for the individual and for others enrolled in the course, program or University as a whole. Academic dishonesty in the preparation or presentation of any assessable work is regarded as misconduct, and the University imposes serious measures on students who are found to have acted in this way. There are two major categories of academic dishonesty: academic fraud and plagiarism. Academic fraud is making a false representation to gain an unjust advantage. Plagiarism is the presentation of the thoughts or works of another as one's own. For a detailed statement of the University’s Policy on Student Academic Integrity, refer to the following website: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/policy/000608.html.

Adverse Circumstances: Requests for Special Consideration, Extensions of Time, Deferred Assessments Students are required to submit assessment items by the due date, as advised in the Course Outline, unless the Course Coordinator approves an extension of time for submission of the item. University policy is that an assessment item submitted after the due date, without an approved extension, will be penalised. Any student: • •

who is applying for an extension of time for submission of an assessment item on the basis of medical, compassionate, hardship/trauma or unavoidable commitment; or whose attendance at or performance in an assessment item or formal written examination has been or will be affected by medical, compassionate, hardship/trauma or unavoidable commitment;

must report the circumstances, with supporting documentation, to the appropriate person following the instructions provided in the Special Circumstances Affecting Assessment Procedure Policy 000641. Note: different procedures apply for minor and major assessment tasks. A. Minor Assessment Tasks (worth less than 20%)

If the affected assessment item is worth less than 20% contact your Course Co-ordinator, preferably by email. B. Major Assessment Tasks (worth 20% or more) If the affected assessment item is worth 20% or more go to the online Special Circumstances site on the Online Services page at:

https://intraweb.newcastle.edu.au/sc/Pages/Login.aspx Select the ELFSC Hub and complete the online application form. Print the coversheet produced and attach it to your supporting documentation (e.g. medical certificate, statutory declaration etc) and deliver it to the ELFSC Hub (Foundation Studies Office) at Callaghan or Ourimbah. You will be advised via NUmail of the response to your request for special consideration. Please go to the Policy at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/policy/000641.htmlfor further information, particularly for information on the options available to you. Students should be aware of the following important deadlines: ·

Requests for Special Consideration must be lodged no later than 3 working days after the date of submission or examination.

Requests for Extensions of Time on Assessment Items must be lodged no later than the due date of the item.

Requests for Rescheduling Exams (prior to the exam) must be lodged no later than 10 working days before the date of the examination.

PLEASE NOTE: Any requests to reschedule Final Examinations or to sit a Special Examination (those held in the formal examination period) must be directed to the Foundation Studies Office – Room MCLG49, McMullin Building at Callaghan or Room H01.61 in the Humanities Building at Ourimbah Your application may not be accepted if it is received after the deadline. Students who are unable to meet the above deadlines due to extenuating circumstances should speak to their Course Coordinator or the Foundation Studies Office staff in the first instance.

Code of Conduct As members of the University community, we are committed to the values of honesty, fairness, trust accountability and respect. At all times, we will behave in a way that upholds these values both as individuals and as representatives of the University. The Code of Conduct applies to students and staff, who are to uphold the values and comply with the Code of Conduct in their studies, the performance of their duties and in their endeavours. Details can be found at: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/policy/000059.html.

University Computing and Communications Facilities University Responsibility The University makes available to users, both internal and external, computing and network facilities consisting of hardware and software. The University accepts no responsibility for any damage to or loss of data arising directly or indirectly from use of these facilities or for any consequential loss or damage. The University makes no warranty, express or implied regarding the computing services offered, or their fitness for any particular purpose. The University cannot guarantee the confidentiality of any information stored on any University computer or transmitted through its network. For the purpose of managing the resources, it may be necessary for the University to monitor files and usage. The University’s liability in the event of any loss or damage shall be limited to the fees and charges paid to the University for the use of the computing facilities, which resulted in the loss or damage. HINT: Always keep a backup of your work on a separate storage device for example a USB flash drive. Conditions of Use Conditions for the use of University computing and communications facilities are available from any Information Desk. Alternatively you can find them on the web at: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/policy/000817.html. You should familiarise yourself with these conditions to ensure that the manner in which you use the facilities is ethical, lawful, and not to the detriment of others. The terms apply to all users (students, staff and others) and apply to use of both central and school computers. Use by you of any such facilities indicates your understanding and acceptance of these terms.

Dean of Students The role of the Dean of Students is to ensure that all students are treated fairly by the University. The Dean of Students provides information, advice or advocacy on a confidential basis, and can help to resolve or to mediate complaints. The Dean of Students sees students by appointment or, where possible, on a walk-in basis. The Dean of Students’ responsibilities extends to all students of the University, on-campus and external, regardless of program or campus. Make an appointment to speak to the Dean of Students by contacting:

Phone: 02 4921 5806 Email: Dean-‐of-‐Students@newcastle.edu.au

one: Email: Website:

(02) 4921 5806 Dean-of-Students@newcastle.edu.au www.newcastle.edu.au/service/deanofstudents/

APPENDIX 5

Foundation Studies English Language & Foundation Studies Centre Room MCLG49 McMullin Building The University of Newcastle CALLAGHAN NSW 2308 Freecall: Phone: Fax: Email:

1800 353 775 (02) 4921 5558 (02) 4921 6901 enabling@newcastle.edu.au

Website: