Many of you would be aware of the discussions currently underway about a proposal to change Curtin’s academic calendar.
Consultation on this proposal commenced last semester and is continuing, with ‘town hall’ meetings to be held with students and ongoing discussions with the National Tertiary Education Union, the Curtin Student Guild and with work areas across the University. In addition, information for students about the proposed changes has been placed on Oasis News, addressing a number of issues that have been raised by the Guild.
I am pleased to report that following a meeting between the University management and Guild Executive on 15 June, the consultation period has been extended to mid-August to allow students and staff more time to provide their feedback which is an important part of the consultative process. The University management has also agreed that any changes will not be implemented until 2021, rather than 2020 as first proposed. Additionally, the University has agreed to reinstate study weeks before exam periods due to significant feedback from students on this issue.
Through the consultative process the University has recognised that there are significant issues with the original proposal of three twelve-week study periods. At least two alternative proposals have been put forward at this time which include a summer school of nine weeks. These proposals have been put forward by a member of Academic Board and by the Curtin Student Guild. As Chair of Academic Board, I can confirm that these will be considered as part the consultative processes, and the University has agreed to actively explore both proposals to address the significant concerns of students and staff to three equally sized study periods.
Taking this into account and following the completion of the consultation period, the paperwork for the Academic Services Committee will be prepared. Following that meeting the Committee will make a recommendation to be considered by Academic Board.
It is important to remember that decisions regarding changes to the academic calendar are made by Academic Board.
I will continue to update the University community as the proposals to change the academic calendar progress.
Professor Dale Pinto
Chair
Academic Board
