DEAKIN UNIVERSITY STUDENT ASSOCIATION INC. ADVOCACY & WELFARE: THE EASY GUIDE Exclusion

Transcription

1 DEAKIN UNIVERSITY STUDENT ASSOCIATION INC. ADVOCACY & WELFARE: THE EASY GUIDE Exclusion

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3 WHAT IS SHOW CAUSE? What is show cause and why have I received a letter? Show cause is when a student is asked to write a written submission because their academic progress has fallen below what is required by Deakin University standards. If you have received a proposal to restrict letter, please refer to our What is a proposal to restrict? document on our website. If you have received a proposal to exclude or a proposal to automatically exclude, this document will assist you with your response to the faculty. WHAT IS INSIDE THIS GUIDE? The Easy Guide to Show Cause has five clear sections that will assist you with writing your written submission to the Faculty. SECTION ONE provides you with a template letter to assist you in writing your response to the faculty. SECTION TWO assists you with identifying the non-academic problems or issues that have affected your academic progress as well as providing possible solutions or ways to manage ongoing problems. SECTION THREE assists you in identifying the academic problems or issues that have affected your academic progress. SECTION FOUR provides potential solutions to academic problems or issues that you can follow through in order to demonstrate your commitment to improving your academic performance. It also provides a list of types of supporting documentation that may add weight to your show cause application as well as a list of Deakin University service providers that can help you. SECTION FIVE provides a clear step-by-step guide of what to do next. HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 3

4 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE The Advocacy & Welfare team along with DUSA can provide you with academic and personal resources and support systems to help you enjoy your time at Deakin

5 CONTENTS SECTION ONE Letter Template 03 SECTION TWO Identification of Non-Academic Issues or Problems 05 Identification of Possible Solutions to Non-Academic Issues or Problem s 05 SECTION THREE Identification of Potential Academic Problems or Issues 10 SECTION FOUR Identification of Potential Solutions to Academic Problems or Solutions 10 List of Possible Supporting Documentation/Evidence 12 List of Deakin University Service Providers 13 SECTION FIVE What Next? 15 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 2

6 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE SECTION ONE: RESPONSE TO FACULTY LETTER TEMPLATE The Secretary The Faculty Academic Progress Committee Faculty of <insert your faculty> Deakin University 221 Burwood Highway OR Burwood VIC 3125 <Date> SHOW CAUSE APPEAL AGAINST EXCLUSION I, <insert name in here> wish to appeal against the exclusion imposed in my course, <state the name of your course here> pursuant to University Regulation 5.3(1). 1. Brief Introduction Deakin University 1 Gheringhap Street OR Geelong VIC 3220 Deakin University 5 Pigdons Road OR Waurn Ponds VIC 3216 Deakin University Princes Highway Warrnambool VIC 3280 Provide the committee with some information about yourself, such as the course you are studying, how many years you have been at Deakin, academic history and evidence of your integrity. You may also like to include some information about how receiving the letter has affected you. This should be kept brief. FORMAL LETTER INTRODUCTION 2. Identify the non-academic problems or issues affecting your studies You need to explain to the committee what has been happening in your life which has impacted on your study. Provide details of the circumstances/problems that have affected your academic progress (see list of potential problems/issues on pages 5 8). If you have received a Proposal to Automatically Exclude you are required to address exceptional circumstances which were beyond your control only. 3. Focus on the solution Provide details about what has changed or what steps you have taken to overcome these problems (see list of potential solutions on pages 5 8). The main point is to convince the committee that you are now (or will be next year/trimester) in a better position to successfully complete your studies. It is extremely important that you provide evidence of your efforts (see list of types of evidence you can provide on page 12). IDENTIFY NON ACADEMIC PROBLEM FOCUS ON THE SOLUTION 3 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED

7 5. Plan for your future success committee for their time in considering your case. Mailing address: 123 Example Street, Burwood VIC 3125 Telephone number: SECTION ONE 4. Identify the academic problems or issues affecting your studies All students have strengths and weaknesses when it comes to their learning and study habits. When students experience either external or internal hurdles to academic success, weaknesses in study habits can exasperate. It is important to use this process to reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses as a students and to articulate these in the letter (see pages 10 11). IDENTIFY THE ACADEMIC PROBLEM 5. Plan for your future success Demonstrate to the committee what plans you have in place to ensure your academic success (these need to relate to the academic problems/issues identified in the previous section.) Address each of your identified problem areas and solutions you have put in place and show a study plan for units, and a weekly time management plan (timetable) (see pages 10 11). PLAN FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS 6. Conclusion Summarise the main points and show how the proactive steps you have taken will enable you to succeed in your future studies. Thank the committee for their time in considering your case. CONCLUSION Yours sincerely, The Secretary The Faculty Academic Progress Committee Faculty of <insert your faculty> <Date> <Your Name> Student ID: XXXXXX Mailing address: 123 Example Street, Burwood VIC 3125 Telephone number: [email protected] or [email protected] SHOW CAUSE APPEAL AGAINST EXCLUSION I, <insert name in here> wish to appeal against the exclusion imposed in my course, <state the name of your course here> pursuant to University Regulation 5.3(1). 1. Brief Introduction Provide the committee with some information about yourself, such as the course you are studying, how many years you have been at Deakin, academic history and evidence of your integrity. You may also like to include some information about how receiving the letter has affected you. This should be kept brief. 2. Identify the non-academic problems or issues affecting your studies You need to explain to the committee what has been happening in your life which has impacted on your study. Provide details of the circumstances/problems that have affected your academic progress (see list of potential problems/issues on pages 5 12). If you have received a Proposal to Automatically Exclude you are required to address exceptional circumstances which were beyond your control only. 3. Focus on the solution Provide details about what has changed or what steps you have taken to overcome these problems (see list of potential solutions on pages 5 12). The main point is to convince the committee that you are now (or will be next year/trimester) in a better position to successfully complete your studies. It is extremely important that you provide evidence of your efforts (see list of types of evidence you can provide on page 13). 4. Identify the academic problems or issues affecting your studies SIGN OFF All students have strengths and weaknesses when it comes to their learning and study habits. When students experience either external or internal hurdles to academic success, weaknesses in study habits can exasperate. It is important to use this process to reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses as a students and to articulate these in the letter. Demonstrate to the committee what plans you have in place to ensure your academic success (these need to relate to the academic problems/ issues identified in the previous section.) Address each of your identified problem areas and solutions you have put in place and show a study plan for units, and a weekly time management plan (timetable). 6. Conclusion Summarise the main points and show how the proactive steps you have taken will enable you to succeed in your future studies. Thank the Yours sincerely, Name here <Your Name> Student ID: XXXXXX [email protected] or [email protected] HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 4

8 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE SECTION TWO: IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION OF NON-ACADEMIC PROBLEMS IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM/ISSUE EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM OR ISSUE POSSIBLE SOLUTION Medical/Health Do you have a physical or mental health issue? Is it ongoing? See list of external and Deakin University service providers. Please note that depression and anxiety should be clinically diagnosed. Are you registered with a Disability Resource Centre? Personal 1. Have you suffered from an external event that has impacted on your emotional/mental health? For example the death of a family member or a close friend? 1. Have you considered seeking support from a grief management or mental health service professional? 2. DUSA has a free legal advice service for students: legalservices.dusa.org.au Work/Financial 2. Have you been the victim of a crime or had any legal issues? 1. Are you experiencing financial hardship? 2. Are you working full-time? 3. Have your work hours changed? 4. Do you work night shift? 1. Do you need to see a financial counsellor? A DUSA Advocate can provide you with contact details. You might want to consider applying for a Hardship or an Access and Equity Scholarship. See page Have you explored your eligibility for government payments? 3. Is it possible for you to undertake less paid hours? Perhaps you may also wish to consider studying part-time? 4. Is it possible to work more regular hours? 5 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED

9 SECTION TWO SECTION TWO: IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION OF NON-ACADEMIC PROBLEMS IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM/ISSUE EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM OR ISSUE POSSIBLE SOLUTION Family 1. Are you having relationship issues? 2. Is a member of your family ill? Are you their primary carer? 3. Are you from a Non English Speaking Background? 4. Are you the First In Family to attend University? 5. Has there been a family breakdown? 6. Are there certain family beliefs/ obligations that are impacting on your studies? 1. Have you considered counselling? 2. Will this be ongoing? Do you have any other person who can assist you? Do you have a personal support network during this difficult time? 3. Are your parents familiar with the Australian University tertiary sector and the demands of studying? Parents can speak to DUSA Advocates if they have any queries or concerns. 4. Have you considered finding a mentor? Each faculty has their own mentorship program. See page 14. HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 6

10 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE SECTION TWO: IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION OF NON-ACADEMIC PROBLEMS IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM/ISSUE EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM OR ISSUE POSSIBLE SOLUTION Housing/Accommodation 1. Do you have a difficult living situation? Are you having trouble finding long-term accommodation? Do you live in share-house accommodation? Are you homeless? 2. Do you have a dedicated study environment? Do you have access to a computer and/or the internet? 3. Do you live far away from University? 4. Do you need to find temporary accommodation while on placement? 1. Do you have tenancy issues? DUSA has a free legal services where you can speak to a lawyer about such issues directly. Do you need to change your living circumstances? The Off-Campus Housing Service can assist you with any housing issues. See page Do you need to talk to family about creating a dedicated study environment? Have you made use of the several 24-hour study areas at Deakin? 3. Is it possible to move closer to your campus? If you travel on public transport, is it possible for you to use this time to study or read notes? Is it possible for you to buy a car or car pool with other students? 7 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED

11 SECTION TWO SECTION TWO: IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION OF NON-ACADEMIC PROBLEMS IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM/ISSUE EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM OR ISSUE POSSIBLE SOLUTION Administration 1. Have you applied for special consideration or an extension? If not, why not? 2. Are you having issues with DSA (Division of Student Administration)? 3. Should you be studying a full-time or a part-time study load? 4. International Students: Are you having visa issues? 5. Have you applied for an extension? If not, why? 6. Do you need to apply for a Remission of Debt? Transition 1. Are you an International Student experiencing problems adjusting? 2. Are you experiencing TAFE to Higher Education transition issues? 3. Are you a regional student? 4. Are you finding it hard to make friends? 5. Are you in your first trimester of your course? 1. Have you become familiar with the process of special consideration? 2. Have you been proactive about solving issues with DSA? Do you need help navigating the system? Have you considered speaking to a DUSA Advocate? 3. Have you spoken to a course advisor or counsellor? 4. Have you spoken to a migration lawyer? DUSA has a free legal service for Deakin students. 5. Have you considered applying for a Remission of Debt? 1. Have you visited an International Student Advisor? Have you considered joining one of the DUSA Clubs? 2. Have you considered seeing a counsellor? Have you considered a mentor? Have you considered joining/forming a study group? Have you visited a Language and Learning Advisor? 3. Have you considered meeting with a mentor? See page 14. Have you spoken to your tutor/lecturer/unit chair? 4. Have you considered joining one of the DUSA Clubs? HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 8

12 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE DUSA Clubs & Societies provide you with opportunities to meet new people and make friends

13 SECTION THREE SECTION THREE: IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION OF ACADEMIC PROBLEMS IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM/ISSUE EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM OR ISSUE POSSIBLE SOLUTION Academic 1. Are you a DeakinCloud student? Placement (Nursing/Education Students) 2. Do you have language difficulties? 3. Is your social life affecting your studies? Do you spend an adequate amount of time studying? (the University recommends a minimum 10 hours per unit per week) 4. Have you attended all your classes? If not, why? 5. Are you having issues with setting regular study habits? Why? 6. Is this the course you want to be studying? Why? 7. Are you experiencing motivational issues? Why? 8. Have you planned your studies? 1. Have you joined the online discussion forum and boards? Have you considered joining DUSA Distance? 2. Have you spoken to a Language and Learning Advisor for oral & written language skills? 3. Have you considered speaking to a Language and Learning Advisor. Finding the right uni-life balance can be difficult have you thought about speaking to either a counsellor or a Learning and Language Advisor? 4. Have there been any issues that affected your attendance? Is there any way you can structure your timetable to make sure you attendance increases? 5. Have you created a study plan? Have you set up a realistic weekly study routine and a trimester planner? 6. Have you considered speaking to a Careers Counsellor? 7. Have you considered speaking to a Counsellor? 8. Have you sought assistance to improve these areas? 9. Can you identify which part of your studies you are having trouble with? Written Assignment, Placement, Oral Presentation Group Work or Exam 1. Have you failed a placement? 1. Is it important that you ask for either your Clinical Challenge Report (Nursing) or the Placement Report (Education) as this will provide you with the most insight into the reasons for failing the placement? It is imperative that you respond specifically to each of the issues listed in either the Clinical Challenge Report or the Placement Report. HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 10

14 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE SECTION THREE: IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION OF ACADEMIC PROBLEMS NETWORK OF SUPPORT TIME MANAGEMENT STUDY SKILLS WILL YOU BE JOINING A WEEKLY STUDY GROUP? HAVE YOU DETERMINED THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN STUDYING/ SOCIALISING/FAMILY TIME AND SELF-CARE? HOW WILL YOU DEAL WITH DIFFICULT SUBJECTS? WILL YOU USE THE MENTORING SERVICES? HAVE YOU PLANNED YOUR TRIMESTER? (INCLUDING ALL ASSESSMENT TASKS, VALUE AND DUE DATE?) DO YOU KNOW HOW TO TAKE EFFECTIVE STUDY NOTES? HAVE YOU CONSIDERED JOINING A DUSA CLUB? HAVE YOU BROKEN UP THE WEEKS OF WORK FOR EACH TASK? FOR EXAMPLE, 60% = 6-8 WEEKS OF WORK FROM RESEARCH TO FINAL SUBMISSION? HAVE YOU BRUSHED UP ON YOUR REFERENCING SKILLS? HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR UNIT - CHAIR/LECTURER/TUTOR? HAVE YOU WRITTEN UP A WEEKLY PLANNER? HAVE YOU INCLUDED TIME FOR PRE-READING AND QUESTIONS? LECTURES AND TUTORIALS? POST REVISION (WITHIN 24 HRS)? ASSIGNMENT WORK (SEE TRIMESTER BREAKDOWN)? REVISION OF PREVIOUS REVISIONS? HAVE YOU REVIEWED YOUR EXAM REVISION TECHNIQUES? HAVE YOU REVIEWED YOUR ASSESSMENT PRIOR TO SUBMISSION? 11 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED

15 SECTION FIVE SECTION FOUR: LIST OF POSSIBLE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION EVIDENCE PROBLEM/ISSUE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION/EVIDENCE Medical/Health Medical Certificate/Report/Letter Letter from Counsellor/Psychologist Letter from Disability Support Officer Letter from Counsellor/Doctor/Specialist/Disability Support Officer detailing your support plan Personal Statutory Declaration (must be submitted with another document from the list) Copy of Police Report/Letter from Lawyer Letter from Counsellor/Psychologist Death Certificate Work/Financial Letter from Centrelink Payslips or letter from employer Letter from debt collection agency Family Letter from a Counsellor Letter from a Doctor Housing/Accommodation Rental agreement Letter from a Real Estate Agent Proof of Current Address Transition Letter from Counsellor Transcript from previous TAFE course Letter from family doctor Other support networks/social groups you have joined Academic s/details showing who you have asked for help Details of contact with your lecturer/unit chair Details of contact with any Deakin services Appointment times with support service staff (if in the future) HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 12

16 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE SECTION FOUR: LIST OF DEAKIN UNIVERSITY SERVICE PROVIDERS CAREERS COUNSELLING DEAKIN COUNSELLING SERVICE There are a number of Mental Health Services and Substance Abuse support services available in the community. Please speak to a DUSA Advocate for contact for details. DEAKIN MEDICAL CENTRE DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTRE DUSA CLUBS DUSA DISTANCE FINANCIAL HARDSHIP SCHOLARSHIPS HEADSPACE HOUSING SERVICE (OFF-CAMPUS) 13 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED

17 SECTION FOUR INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISORS LANGUAGE AND LEARNING ADVISORS LEGAL ADVICE MENTORING Arts & Education Business & law Health Science, Engineering & Built Environment RELATIONSHIPS AUSTRALIA SCHOLARSHIPS HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 14

18 DUSA ADVOCACY EASY GUIDE TO SHOW CAUSE SECTION FIVE: WHAT NEXT? 01. WRITE A DRAFT OF YOUR SHOW CAUSE LETTER. 04. ONCE YOU RECEIVE FEEDBACK, INCORPORATE IT INTO YOUR LETTER AND REMOVE TRACK CHANGES. 07. SEND THE FINAL VERSION OF YOUR LETTER, REPLY SLIP AND ANY SUPPLEMENTARY DOCUMENTATION TO THE FACULTY AND DUSA. 02. SEND DRAFT LETTER TO DUSA- [email protected] (INCLUDE PROPOSAL TO EXCLUDE LETTER AND A COPY OF YOUR ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT). 05. COMPLETE YOUR REPLY SLIP AND INDICATE WHETHER YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY A DUSA ADVOCATE. 08. WHEN YOU ARE INFORMED OF YOUR HEARING, PLEASE DUSA IMMEDIATELY ([email protected]) WITH THE TIME, DATE & LOCATION. AN ADVOCATE WILL BE ALLOCATED TO YOU & WILL CONTACT YOU REGARDING YOUR HEARING. 03. FEEDBACK WILL BE GIVEN WITHIN 24 HOURS 48 HOURS. 06. ONCE YOU RECEIVE FEEDBACK, INCORPORATE IT INTO YOUR LETTER AND REMOVE TRACK CHANGES. 09. IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUERIES, PLEASE DUSA-ADVOCACAY@DEAKIN. EDU.AU. 15 HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED

19 SECTION FIVE NOTES HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED 16

20 DEAKIN UNIVERSITY STUDENT ASSOCIATION INC. 221 BURWOOD HIGHWAY BURWOOD VICTORIA 3125 ABN: REG NO. A Y