Student rules V14_July 2016
Mater Education Limited
Student Rules
Student rules V14_July 2016
Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 3
1. Anti-Discrimination.......................................................................................................................... 4
2. Appeal Procedures .......................................................................................................................... 4
3. Assessment ...................................................................................................................................... 4
4. Attendance ...................................................................................................................................... 7
5. Behaviour ........................................................................................................................................ 8
6. Behavioural Misconduct .................................................................................................................. 8
7. Clinical / Vocational Placement ....................................................................................................... 9
8. Complaint Process ......................................................................................................................... 10
9. Compliance with Legislation and Mater Health Services Policies ................................................. 10
10. Children on Mater Premises ...................................................................................................... 10
11. Confidentiality ........................................................................................................................... 11
12. Copyright ................................................................................................................................... 11
13. Dress Code ................................................................................................................................. 11
14. Health and Safety ...................................................................................................................... 14
15. Identification ............................................................................................................................. 14
16. Library ........................................................................................................................................ 15
17. Misconduct & Disciplinary Procedures ..................................................................................... 15
18. Mobile phones ........................................................................................................................... 18
19. Netiquette ................................................................................................................................. 18
20. Outstanding / Overdue Payments of fees ................................................................................. 19
21. Progress of Study ....................................................................................................................... 20
22. Qualification Achievement ........................................................................................................ 21
23. Smoking ..................................................................................................................................... 21
24. Social media............................................................................................................................... 21
25. Stewardship of Resources ......................................................................................................... 22
26. Withdrawal from Program ........................................................................................................ 22
Appendix 1 – Academic / Behavioural Misconduct Flowchart.............................................................. 24
References ............................................................................................................................................. 25
Student rules V14_July 2016
Introduction
Mater Education Limited (MEL) is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Code
5210). MEL is compliant with the required registering bodies in alignment with
the qualification it delivers. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery
Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and the Vocational Education and Training
(VET) sector national competency and compliance standards as per the
Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) are some of those organisations.
Mater Health (Mater) employees and students are expected to observe Mater’s
philosophy, mission and values and ensure their behaviour is respectful, lawful,
diligent, professional, ethical and responsible. MEL students are a part of
Mater Education and therefore are also expected to respect its associated
policies and procedures.
The Mater works together as one organisation providing healthcare to public
and private patients while recognising and respecting the individual needs of
components of our health services.
Behaviour that breaches these principles may result in action being taken
under the relevant disciplinary process.
To assist you in maximising the benefits of your training and understand your
responsibilities there are a number of rules that you are required to agree to
and abide by to successfully complete your qualifications you have enrolled
into.
Student rules V14_July 2016
1. Anti-Discrimination
Discrimination whether direct or indirect is unlawful. You have obligations under the Anti-
Discrimination Act 1991 and Mater’s Anti-Discrimination Policy.
2. Appeal Procedures Academic appeals regarding assessment procedures or results should be made in writing to the Course Coordinator within one (1) week of the result being notified. Further details can be noted in Point 6 & 17 of this document. Appeals regarding formal disciplinary action for alleged misconduct by a student should be made in writing by the student or their advocate within one (1) week of being notified of proceedings. All appeals will be heard by an independent person or panel where the appellant can formally present their case. The outcome of the appeal will be provided in a face-to-face meeting.
3. Assessment
Assessment refers to any processes used to appraise a student’s knowledge, understanding, abilities or skills. This includes written assignments, exams, PBL activities, simulated skill assessments and clinical placement required throughout the program. Academic assessments can be submission of written or verbal questioning or undertaken under formal exam conditions. Written feedback will be provided for all assessment to support students’ ongoing learning and development.
It is the student’s responsibility to abide by the following:
To seek assistance and clarify assessment expectations from unit specific educators prior to assessment due date.
To submit all assessment items (completed in their entirety) by the due date, unless an extension has been granted. Breach of the above will result in an unsatisfactory result being recorded for that assessment item.
To comply with the procedures for assessment item submission and collection as identified on all assessment task sheets.
To properly acknowledge all information sources using the American Psychological Association (APA) referencing guide.
To maintain academic integrity, all assessment tasks and examinations must be completed without any evidence of cheating, plagiarism or collusion.
To request feedback and negotiate resubmission of the assessment item (if required).
To keep a copy of any submitted item.
Student rules V14_July 2016
3.1 Submission
Students must complete all assessment requirements outlined on submission and assessment task instructions included in each assessment.
Written assessment (with the exception of online) requires students to use the electronic date and time stamp located in the MEL Reception area as a record of receipt. The assessment item is then to be submitted in the drop box by the date and time specified on the assessment coversheet. An assessment coversheet is required to be attached to each assessment task item.
If absent on the day of assessment submission (due to illness or special circumstances only) students are required to contact the relevant unit Educator who will determine appropriate submission option. Decisions will be based on individual circumstances. If assessment is not submitted by the due date and an extension has not been requested, the student will be contacted by the relevant unit Educator. Students could incur an unsatisfactory result for the relevant unit of competency / s, effecting progression in their studies and requiring the student to re-enrol for the semester. Re-enrolment decisions will be at the discretion of the Course Coordinator and will be at the students own cost, relevant fees will apply.
3.2 Extensions
Extensions will only be granted by reason of personal illness, or because of other special circumstances. Formal requests for extensions must be lodged in writing, with the relevant educator, 48 working hours (Mon – Fri) before the due date for the assessment and supported, where appropriate, by documentary evidence. A doctor’s certificate must be produced to verify illness or a statutory declaration in special circumstances.
Length of extension is at the discretion of the designated unit Educator.
3.3 Resubmission
If the student has submitted an assessment item by the due date & time, and it is assessed as requiring additional work the student will need to resubmit the item by the date specified by the unit Educator (no more than one [1] week). Prior to resubmission, each student must receive verbal feedback from the Unit Educator. Resubmission requires the student to follow the below steps – Provide a new assessment addressing the specific areas of the assessment that need correction; Submit with original assessment; Include a new assessment cover sheet; and Date and time stamp and place in drop box in MEL Reception.
Student rules V14_July 2016
Only one (1) resubmission attempt will be granted for each assessment item. An unsatisfactory assessment outcome on resubmission may result in the student being unable to progress with semester studies. Re-enrolment decisions will be at the discretion of the Course Coordinator and will be at the students own cost, relevant fees will apply. Failure to resubmit a complete assessment item will produce an unsatisfactory result and discontinuation in semester studies.
3.4 Examination
Students will be informed of examinations at the commencement of the semester. Only students enrolled in the unit of competency, the examination supervisor and other authorised personnel may enter or remain in the examination room during an examination session.
If you are deemed unsatisfactory in an examination you will be given one further opportunity to resit exam (under exam conditions). This is at the discretion of the Course Coordinator. Failure to resit an examination will produce an unsatisfactory result and discontinuation in semester studies. 3.5 Assessment Feedback Assessment feedback will be provided by relevant unit Educator within 21 days of assessment due date. It is the student’s responsibility to seek feedback.
3.6 Deferred Assessment
Deferred assessment refers to any assessment that requires an extension period greater than two (2) weeks due to the special circumstances.
The student may apply in writing to the Course Coordinator for a deferred assessment, clearly outlining the reason for the request. The Course Coordinator will then determine if the deferred assessment meets special circumstances criteria.
The application is to be made at least seven (7) days prior to the due date of the assessment, except:
In emergency circumstances
In cases of serious illness or injury where you will need to provide a medical certificate. If the assessment date has passed, the application must be made within three working days of the concluding date on the medical certificate.
3.7 Alternative Assessment
If you consider you will be disadvantaged due to an unusual circumstance, you may request an alternative assessment. These requests should be submitted directly to the Course Coordinator.
Student rules V14_July 2016
4. Attendance
Mater’s Diploma of Nursing program follows adult learning principles with the inclusion of self-directed learning. Organisation and time management skills are required to be successful in this intensive full time program.
There is an expectation in class and on clinical placement that attendance is 100%.
Absences have a negative influence on an individual’s learning, affecting their knowledge, performance and ability to achieve the required competencies. Therefore it is expected that students will attend and complete identified supplemental make-up training and assessment to meet all program requirements.
Absences of greater than one week will require students to provide a medical certificate to the Course Coordinator.
It is the student’s responsibility to:
contact the Diploma Reception (via phone 3163 1500 or email [email protected] ) or clinical area Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) and advise of any non – attendance prior to the session / shift.
book in for additional training, assessment and / or clinical shifts
provide a medical certificate or legitimate proof of absence
complete training and / or assessment to cover missed sessions as identified by trainers.
Failure to complete the identified supplemental training and / or assessment may result in the student not being able to undertake required assessment or attend clinical placement. As a consequence the student will receive an unsatisfactory result for the relevant unit of competency / s and will need to re-enrol at their own cost and pay the relevant fee.
Classes (lectures, simulation [clinical tutorials] and problem based learning [PBL])
Simulations [clinical tutorials] and Problem Based Learning (PBL) sessions require 100% attendance. Special circumstances will only be considered for non-attendance and students will be required to provide supportive evidence (i.e. medical certificate or statutory declaration) if absent. In these circumstances specific, make-up work or additional sessions should be completed at a time determined by Educator / Course Coordinator.
Failure to complete these requirements may result in the student being unable to attend vocational placement and continue semester studies.
Student rules V14_July 2016
5. Behaviour
You have a responsibility to be courteous, objective, and helpful when dealing with others at all
times. You shall treat staff, members of the public and other students honestly, fairly, responsibly
and compassionately.
You will behave in a way that upholds the Mater’s Values of Mercy, Care, Commitment, Dignity and
Quality, and demonstrate a commitment to respecting the dignity, rights, and views of others.
You must not denigrate any person’s cultural, religious, and/or other beliefs, nor engage in any form
of bullying, mistreatment, coercion, harassment (including sexual and racial harassment), or any
other unethical or unlawful behaviour. If so, you will have to show cause as to why you should
continue in the program.
6. Behavioural Misconduct
Behavioural misconduct refers broadly to any actions that breach the student rules or Mater policies and will lead to disciplinary action being taken. Please refer to the flowchart in Appendix 1 for an outline of associated disciplinary processes.
Behaviour misconduct can include, but is not limited, to the following:
Breaches of State and Commonwealth law
Breaches of Mater Educations Netiquette rules (Point 19)
Any act or failure to act that endangers the safety or health of any other person
Actions that causes students, staff or others on the Mater campus to fear for their personal safety
Any evidence that demonstrates that training relationships are being abused
Any misuse or damage of Mater’s assets and resources
Denigrating any person’s cultural, religious, and/or other beliefs.
Engaging in any form of bullying, mistreatment, coercion, harassment (including sexual and racial harassment), or any other unethical behaviour.
6.1 Consequences of Behavioural Misconduct
Student rules V14_July 2016
i Where State or Commonwealth laws appear to have been breached, the matter will be referred to the police or other appropriate authority however Mater Education may choose to continue with an internal investigation.
ii A member of the teaching staff or any senior staff member may, in respect to any misconduct by you committed in a class, laboratory, library, facility or premises under their management or control, immediately suspend you from attendance at such class or from use of such laboratory, library, facility or premises for a period not exceeding 24 hours in the first instance.
iii If a suspension action is taken, that staff member is required to advise the Course Coordinator of Mater Education immediately and complete an anecdotal student note which details the circumstances of the suspension.
i The matter will then be referred to the Head of Discipline(or delegated officer) for appropriate action and if the misconduct warrants further action the student will be advised in writing of the alleged incident of misconduct and this will commence a formal disciplinary process. See Appendix 1. At this time, the Course Coordinator or the Head of Discipline may suspend the student from attendance for the period of the review, up to a maximum of 10 days (including any suspension issued via 6.1.ii).
ii If the student is an apprentice or trainee, any disciplinary action or recommendations will be made with due regard to the provisions of the Vocational Education, Training and Employment Act 2000.
iv If the student is under 18, the students parent/guardian may be notified, unless the student is an independent person with a Centrelink account, or estranged from their parent/guardian.
7. Clinical / Vocational Placement
Vocational / clinical placement is the application of all theory and practical skills learnt throughout the semester. As a result demonstration of expected knowledge, skills and attitudes will be required for students to successfully progress into the next semester or to graduate.
Failure to achieve the expectations of vocational / clinical placement may result in a student being unable to progress with semester studies and repeating related unit/s of competency. Re-enrolment decisions will be at the discretion of the Course Coordinator and the relevant fee will apply.
Students must adhere to Mater policies and procedures (available on the Mater Intranet via Mater Document Centre) whilst on clinical placement and at all other times when on campus.
Clinical / vocational placement has a 100% attendance requirement. Students must complete all vocational placement hours each semester to progress in the program / graduate.
Absences due to illness or special circumstances require students to contact the clinical area NUM and follow absenteeism procedures outlined in the Vocational Placement Assessment
Student rules V14_July 2016
Workbook and on the Student Placement Online Tool (SPOT). Supportive evidence (i.e. medical certificate or statutory declaration) will be required. Any time missed will need to be “made-up”. Clinical Placement make-up periods are predetermined and relate to hospital student capacities.
Any student who breeches their scope of practice during vocational / clinical placement may be removed from placement on the day of incident. The outcome may result in the student being deemed unsuccessful for that vocational / clinical placement and semester of study. Re-enrolment will be at the discretion of the Course Coordinator and new fees will apply.
Please note: All attendance decisions will be at the discretion of the Course Coordinator.
8. Complaint Process If a student has a complaint regarding the delivery or assessment of the course, they are encouraged
to initially speak to the relevant member of the Diploma Team. If your issue is unresolved you should
contact the Course Coordinator. Follow the complaints and appeals process.
9. Compliance with Legislation and Mater Health Services Policies As a student of Mater Education Limited (MEL), you are required to abide by State and
Commonwealth legislation as well as Mater’s policies and these rules.
10. Children on Mater Premises Mater Education acknowledges that there will be times when a carer or parent will need to bring a
child or children onto campus. However, we also expect that children will only be on campus when
an emergency or difficulty has made it impossible for the parent or carer to arrange for appropriate
care of the child off-campus or to be placed in temporary care on campus.
While on campus children should be under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Bringing a
child onto campus is meant to be an unusual occurrence of brief duration until proper care can be
arranged. It is not meant to allow a parent or carer to try to attend classes while also trying to
supervise the child.
Children are welcome to accompany their parents to the library and e-learn, provided their
behaviour does not disturb others. Children are not permitted to attend classes with carers or
parents or allowed near computer equipment.
Student rules V14_July 2016
11. Confidentiality
As part of your studies you may have access to Mater information that is confidential. You must not
divulge any information that would breach the privacy of patients, staff, students or the organisation.
Such breaches of confidentiality are considered misconduct and are subject to disciplinary action.
12. Copyright
You must comply with the Copyright Act 1968 and the Mater policies on copyright and intellectual
property. For study and research purposes, you are allowed to copy:
• one chapter or 10% of a book, or
• one chapter, or 10% of the number of words of text materials in electronic form, or
• One article per issue of a journal, magazine or newspaper – or more than one article if each
article relates to the same subject matter.
Internet material, artist, dramatic, film and musical works are also covered by copyright legislation.
Please check with library staff.
Remember to reference carefully the copyright works you use in order to avoid plagiarism which is
considered a breach of academic integrity (academic misconduct). Unless advised otherwise by an
individual teaching staff member, you should use the APA 6th edition referencing system.
You must comply with licences for the use of intellectual property, including software. All software
loaded on Mater computers, or provided by Mater Education, is licensed and there is no permission
to copy software unless permitted by licence.
13. Dress Code
Please also refer to Mater Document Centre – Mater Health Services Uniform and Dress Policy PY-
PAL-010020
When attending training, both in class and at clinical placement, appearance and personal hygiene
should reflect the professional image of Mater and relevant policy. Mater people including students
must ensure a high standard of their appearance and personal hygiene. You must:
Demonstrate respect and dignity for Mater patients, clients and each other
Promote professionalism and credibility
Student rules V14_July 2016
Be sensitive to the needs of our patients / clients and does not offend others
Ensure patient / client, staff and student safety.
Mater respects the diversity of cultures, religions and physical appearance of its people and will take
a sensitive approach when this affects dress and uniform requirements. However, priority will be
given to health and safety, security and infection control considerations.
The following are not acceptable:
Singlets
Clothing with offensive messages or pictures
Short skirts or shorts
Very sheer blouses
Halter tops or other tops that expose the midriff
Low cut tops / blouses that expose cleavage
Backless dresses
Students will be asked to correct Their Dress Code by Mater Education staff. Inappropriate attire
will result in the student being removed from class and required to go home. Compulsory classes
and clinical placement will need to be made-up.
Failure to follow dress codes will result in a Behavioural misconduct procedure as per Appendix 1
of this document.
13.1 Footwear
Footwear should be appropriate and meet all necessary Work Health & Safety Standards e.g.
low/medium heels, non slip soles, preferably secured at ankle. When attending clinical simulation
sessions or vocational / clinical placement, shoes must be worn which are completely enclosed (i.e.
no open toe or backless shoes), and are to be black or dark navy in colour.
Thongs and stilettos are not permitted in classroom or clinical areas.
13.2 Hair
Hair should be clean and tidy at all times and worn above the collar.
Men should be cleanly shaven, however, beards and moustaches are acceptable if well groomed and
trimmed in clinical areas (simulation and clinical placement).
Coloured hair needs to remain neutral in tone.
Student rules V14_July 2016
13.3 Jewellery
For simulation, PBL tutorial and on clinical placement jewellery should not be excessive or distracting
and should reflect Mater policy specifically:
Earrings must be restricted to studs or sleepers for safety reasons.
Any body piercings that are exposed and which a student is unable to remove must be covered or have a clear insert.
Jewellery, with the exception of wedding bands, MUST be removed.
13.4 Tattoos/Body Art
“If a student has any tattoos or body art, where possible, they must be covered by clothing while at
work. The style and nature of body art must not detract from the image of Mater.” (MHS-MISS-HR-
108)
13.5 Nails
Nails should be clean and neat. False (artificial & acrylic) nails or nail polish should not be worn in
patient care and clinical areas.
You will be asked to remove false nails or nail polish by Mater Education staff while attending
learning as a Mater Education student.
13.6 Personal Hygiene
A high standard of personal hygiene should be maintained. It is important to consider the comfort of
other students and staff. If a student is identified to have notable body odour it will be discussed
with them as appropriate.
13.7 Dress Requirements for Clinical Placement & Clinical Simulation Sessions
Students are required to wear a uniform to Clinical Placement and Clinical Simulation Sessions.
Mater Education will provide uniform shirts.
Students must provide their own:
Black business pants or knee length black skirt (preferably with pockets)
Footwear which should be appropriate and completely enclosed i.e. no open toe or backless shoes. (see dress code – shoes 13.1)
Student rules V14_July 2016
14. Health and Safety
The Queensland Work Health and Safety Act 2011 places obligations to ensure workplace health and safety. This applies to all Mater staff and students. All staff and students have a responsibility to ensure that they work safely, without risk of injury to themselves or people around them.
You have a health and safety obligation to yourself and to others. You must:
Comply with instructions given for workplace health and safety
Use personal protective equipment if provided and if you’re properly instructed in its use
Not wilfully or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided for health and safety
Not wilfully place others at risk
Not wilfully injure yourself
Mater Education has the required Workers' Compensation insurance under the Vocational
Education, Training and Employment Act 2000 for students undertaking vocational placement. (refer
to our website www.matereducation.qld.edu.au/before-you-apply/vocational-placement)
Students are covered for permanent impairment and death only, as per Workers’ Compensation and
Rehabilitation Regulation 2003. (refer to our website www.matereducation.qld.edu.au/before-you-
apply/vocational-placement)
15. Identification
Identification card must be visibly worn in a clear unobstructed manner at all times whilst on
Mater’s premises. Identification cards must not be defaced or altered in any way. Replacement of
lost or damaged cards will be at cost to the student and must be organised to be replaced by the
student in their own time with security. If students have another position within the hospital
identification cards and access are to be kept separate.
Your photo that is taken by MHS at the time for identification purposes is kept by the organisation
and used as an aid to identify who you are via email when emailing within the MHS. Your photo is
also used to identify who you are to the Clinical Tutors and Facilitators who will be working with
you in the Clinical Environments. It is used to ensure that identification for assessment purposes is
true and correct.
Student rules V14_July 2016
16. Library
Students receive membership to the UQ Mater McAuley Library subject to the library conditions of
use. Library clearance will be required prior to graduation.
17. Misconduct & Disciplinary Procedures
Student misconduct includes academic misconduct and behavioural misconduct (Point 6). Evidence of such misconduct will be subject to disciplinary procedures.
17.1 Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, collusion (working in groups where not approved by the teaching staff member), falsifying information, and supporting or enabling others to breach any aspect of academic integrity.
Please refer to the flowchart in Appendix 1 for an outline of associated disciplinary processes.
17.2 Cheating in an Examination: Consequences
If a teaching staff member or examination supervisor believes a student is involved in cheating during an examination:
i The student will be immediately informed of such but allowed to finish the examination.
ii The teaching staff member or examination supervisor will prepare a written report on the alleged academic misconduct and, where appropriate, attach the report to the students examination script.
iii The matter will be referred to the Course Coordinator (or delegated officer) for action under the Academic Misconduct pathway.
17.3 Plagiarism, Falsifying Information and Collusion: Examples
These include, but are not limited to:
i Direct duplication of the thoughts or work of another, including by copying material, ideas or concepts from a book, article, report or other written document (whether published or unpublished), composition, artwork, design, drawing, circuitry, computer program or software, web site, Internet, other electronic resource, or another person’s assignment without appropriate acknowledgement.
ii Paraphrasing without appropriate acknowledgement another person’s work with very minor changes, keeping the meaning, form and/or progression of ideas of the original.
iii Piecing together sections of the work of others into a new whole without appropriate acknowledgement.
Student rules V14_July 2016
iv Presenting an assessment item as independent work when it has been produced in whole or part in collusion with other people.
v Submitting work written by another person as your own.
vi Making your work available to other students for them to use in their own submissions.
vii Claiming credit for a proportion of work contributed to a group assessment item that is greater than that actually contributed.
viii Falsifying the results of an experiment or test.
17.4 Plagiarism, Falsifying Information and Collusion: Consequences
If a teaching staff member believes a student has breached academic integrity through, plagiarism, falsifying information or unauthorised collusion in an assignment:
i The student will be informed of such as soon as possible, but within 10 calendar days of detection. This notification will be placed on the students file by the staff member.
ii With reference to Appendix 1, the staff member will determine whether the breach is minor or major. If it is a first-time minor breach, the relevant teaching staff member will communicate with the student and advise the student on the correct academic behaviour. The student will be required to amend and resubmit the assessment item. No other penalty is applicable for a first-time minor breach.
iii A repeat minor breach or any major breach will be referred directly to the Course Coordinator (or delegated officer) for appropriate action.
iv Students with any confirmed minor or major breach of Academic Integrity will be have this noted within their student file.
17.5 Formal Disciplinary Process for Misconduct (Academic or Behavioural)
Where formal disciplinary action is instigated:
i The Course Coordinator (or delegated officer) will advise the student in writing of the alleged incident of misconduct and provide the student with an opportunity to show cause of their behaviour.
ii The student will have a maximum of 10 calendar days, from the date on the advice letter, to make oral or written representations regarding the matter.
17.6 Outcomes of Formal Disciplinary Process for Misconduct (Academic or Behavioural)
Within 10 calendar days after this period, the Course Coordinator (or delegated officer) may modify or dismiss the charge OR
For a breach of Academic Integrity, impose one of the following penalties:
a) First-time minor breach: amend and resubmit the assessment item.
b) Repeat minor breach: assessment unsuccessful, resubmit new assessment.
c) First-time major breach: Resubmit new assessment item/resit exam.
d) Repeat major breach: fail the entire unit of competence and re-enrol in that unit of competence in the following semester.
Student rules V14_July 2016
e) Any subsequent breach: fail all units undertaken in that semester, with a recommendation to the Head of Discipline of Mater Education that the student be excluded from Mater Education.
For a Behavioural Misconduct breach: impose one of the following penalties:
a) Minor behavioural breach: reprimand and warn you against a repetition.
b) Major behavioural breach: suspend you from attending classes for a period up to 10 calendar days, and/or suspend you from using all or some facilities and/or services, including library borrowing and computer access rights.
c) For any subsequent behavioural breach, a recommendation will be made to the Head of Discipline of Mater Education that the student be excluded from Mater Education.
At all points noted above - The Course Coordinator (or delegated officer) will provide the student with a written statement detailing the decision, including information on the student’s right to appeal.
17.7 Misconduct Appeals Process
If a student has been found guilty of academic misconduct or disagrees with any non-academic or administrative decision in which they are involved in as they may appeal the decision.
The student must appeal within 10 calendar days of the date the decision was communicated.
Within the students appeal the student must:-
outline the decision and reasons for the appeal,
including any compassionate or compelling circumstances,
and may provide documentary evidence in support of the appeal.
The student is welcome to lodge their request, and any evidence, electronically; however original items must be made available to review at the face to face meeting of the appeal.
Within 10 calendar days of receiving notification of the students appeal Mater Education will advise the student of the time and place to meet with the relevant Mater Education delegate to hear the students appeal. The student may be accompanied by a nominated representative who shall have no formal part in proceedings. This nomination must be sent to the delegate hearing the appeal at least two days before the date of the hearing.
Should the student decide not to attend the meeting the relevant Mater Education delegate will proceed in its deliberations based on the student’s written documentation. The decision of the Mater Education delegate on the students appeal is final.
Student rules V14_July 2016
18. Mobile phones
Mobile phones must be switched off or turned to silent during classes. For simulation and PBL
tutorial and on clinical placement mobile phones should only be used during allocated breaks (as
per MHS policy).
In exceptional circumstances, where a student may need to leave a mobile phone on (e.g. family
illness or emergency), this should be negotiated with teaching staff before the class commences.
19. Netiquette
There are some basic, common sense guidelines for interacting in an online environment (coined
Net Etiquette, or Netiquette for short). Just as one needs to show courtesy and respect in the
face-to-face classroom, so does one in the online arena. However, where there may be only
words to interpret messages, you need to be especially careful in what you say – there is no voice
tone or body language to help the ‘listener’ interpret your message. Here are some guidelines for
text-based communications conduct that you should follow.
Some pointers (‘Do’s and Don’ts’)
Do’s
Clearly signal the subject of your message in the appropriate text box in the Message
window.
Create single subject messages wherever possible, not messages with multiple subjects.
Be polite – do address each other by name, as appropriate.
Make you messages easily read:
Keep your messages as succinct as possible – use short paragraphs, and short sentences
(no more than 20 words) – unless otherwise advised by your lecturer.
Structure you message if necessary with bullet points, numbered lists, and/or use sub
headings to break the text up into easily read chunks.
Don’ts
Refrain from making any rude, hurtful, sexist, racist or other disparaging comments.
Respect others’ ideas and perspectives – although feel free to share differences in
opinion. If critical, apply it to the argument, not the person.
Refrain from dominating the communications through prolific postings – give others
space and ‘air time’.
Don’t copy or forward a message or attachment (or parts within) without first getting the
permission of its author.
Student rules V14_July 2016
Beware CAPITALISING or highlighting whole words or phrases – this seems like ‘shouting’
to the reader.
Beware using wit, humour, irony or sarcasm – it can be easily misinterpreted without the
usual voice tone and body language cues.
Before you send
Before you hit the Send/Post button, think:
? Is this really what I want to say?
? How will this be interpreted by my reader(s)?
? Is this the best medium to send the message (e.g. use email for private/personal
communication; Discussions and Chat are for more public forums)?
? Am I comfortable that this will be a permanent electronic record?
? Take the time to review your message and correct any errors in grammar or spelling that could
mislead the reader.
? If you do find a message hurtful or offensive, avoid escalating the matter publicly through the
Discussions or Chat forum (this is called ‘flaming’). Either contact the sender responsible privately
(e.g. by email) or contact your Educator or Course coordinator.
Students who cause offense to others with inappropriate Netiquette will be dealt with as per
the Behavioural Misconduct process highlighted in this document. (point 6 & 17)
Mater Education staff will ask for any inflammatory Netiquette posts to be evidenced via soft or
hard copy so as the posts can be managed as per the Behavioural Misconduct process
highlighted in this document.
20. Outstanding / Overdue Payments of fees
If you have outstanding / overdue payments you may not be able to:
Undertake / submit assessment
Continue to study
Receive your results of assessment
Borrow items from the library
Access training resources
Attend clinical placement
Be issued with a qualification or statement of attainment
You will be asked to leave the program and will not resume learning until fees are paid.
Student rules V14_July 2016
21. Progress of Study
You are expected to achieve satisfactory results to progress in your studies. If you are having difficulty maintaining acceptable progress, you should discuss the situation with the Course Coordinator as soon as possible.
Students who are experiencing personal, academic or clinical challenges that may be affecting their study are advised to seek the assistance and support of an Educator or the Course Coordinator. The Diploma of Nursing will try to offer as much support as possible, within the limitations and expectations of the rules and compliance expectations.
21.1 Unsuccessful Results in Assessment - Outcomes
Students receive two attempts at each assessment item as per the VET assessment conditions.
Students who are deemed unsuccessful by their Educator on their second attempt at an assessment item will be notified via email of this unsuccessful result.
A second unsuccessful result on an assessment item will mean that the student can no longer attend learning in that specific Unit of Competency.
The unsuccessful result achieved may affect other learning in the program and may affect the ability of the student to attend placement and complete other learning in the semester / year of learning being attended.
It is the student’s responsibility to follow up unsuccessful results of assessment and seek feedback.
Please note: - if a student chooses to not follow up results and seek feedback about unsuccessful results, it is not Mater Educations responsibility to provide feedback unless requested.
The student may appeal to the course coordinator for academic appeal of their second unsuccessful result made by the Educator. Once the Course Coordinator received the letter of appeal from the student the course coordinator will then:-
Speak to the Educator and receive/review the unsuccessful assessment items
Review the students attendance at learning
Review the students participation in the program with other Educators and Clinical tutors
Make an appointment with the student to review their appeal
Once this process has been completed the course coordinator will either uphold the educator’s decision or allow another attempt at learning.
If the student does not achieve competency in /pass a unit of competency, they will be able to re-enrol in that unit of competency in the following semester, if a place is available, and they are able to pay the relevant fees.
Student rules V14_July 2016
If the student does not achieve competency in/pass the unit of competency after a second enrolment they will not be able to re-enrol in the unit of competency. If the student wishes to refute the decision made by an Educator they may request a review of the decision in writing to the Course Coordinator or Head of Discipline of Mater Education.
The Course Coordinator (or delegated officer) may confirm the decision to refuse further enrolment
in the unit, or allow you to enrol again but with a restricted number of classes. Any subsequent
failure may lead to a refusal of further enrolment in that qualification offered by Mater Education.
You will be provided with written notification of the decision.
22. Qualification Achievement
The Diploma qualification will only be provided to students who have completed all the Diploma
requirements including full payment of fees and return (in good order) of property / materials
provided by Mater Education Limited for course participation.
23. Smoking
In accordance with Queensland Government Directive on smoking, smoking is banned within 5
metres of all Mater campuses.
24. Social media
Mater students are to be aware that participation on blogs and social networking sites such and
Facebook or Twitter is subject to the same Mater policies which apply to their behaviour at
Mater.
Mater Diploma of Nursing students also need to be aware that when using social media, health practitioners should remember that the National Law, their National Board’s code of ethics and professional conduct (the Code of conduct) and the Guidelines for advertising regulated health services (the Advertising guidelines) apply. Please review AHPRA ‘s National Board policy for registered health practitioners at http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/documents/default.aspx?record=WD14%2F13327&dbid=AP&chksum=PvNCit4JNxlpCjqOenrKvQ%3D%3D SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Any breach of Mater’s Social Media policy will result in disciplinary action in addition to any other
legal consequences and may be required to show cause as to why you should continue in the
program.
Student rules V14_July 2016
A person that can be identified as a Mater student and who has posted material deemed by
Mater to be offensive, racist or obscene material even in their own time and using their own
resources, could be in breach of policy and the Code of Conduct and subject to disciplinary action.
Before posting a comment or uploading information, students should strongly consider if they
really want that information in the public domain and whether the information is respectful,
appropriate or could be considered offensive.
25. Stewardship of Resources
Students shall demonstrate responsible stewardship of Mater resources and avoid any waste or extravagance. You are required to assist in maintaining facilities, resources and equipment. You must:
Report breakage and / or faults with equipment to the Mater Education Limited’s (MEL) Administration Team.
Leave training areas neat and tidy after classes and tutorials and ensure equipment is clean and correctly stored.
Not use or install unlicensed software on Mater computers
Only use Mater computers for training purposes.
Abide by the terms and conditions of use of Mater IT assets according to the Mater ITS policies.
Persons wilfully damaging property will be held liable for costs and may be expelled from the program.
26. Withdrawal from Program
Students that have enrolled in a program of study are required to submit a formal, written notification of their intention to withdraw from the program by completing Mater Education’s Withdrawal Form. http://matereducation.qld.edu.au/recognised-training/mater-education-limited/forms )
Where students have been provided with uniforms, identification cards, and/or loan equipment or books these items must be returned to Mater Education. Diploma of Nursing students are also required to complete a clearance form as part of the withdrawal process.
Mater Education reserves the right to charge a student withdrawing from a course a fee for any item that has not been returned.
Student rules V14_July 2016
Students will not receive acknowledgement of their study e.g. statement of attainment unless all fees have been paid in full and all Mater resources provided to the student e.g. uniforms or text books are returned in good order.
Student rules V14_July 2016
Appendix 1 – Academic / Behavioural Misconduct Flowchart
Student’s academic performance and/or behaviour
is incomplete and/or unsuccessful
Verbal / Written Warning
Educator, Clinical Tutor or Clinical
Facilitator address performance or
behaviour / s with student.
Serious academic /
behaviour concerns
will result in meeting
with Course Coordinator
and Head of Discipline
to discuss
consequences.
Resolved- no
further action
Behaviour not resolved – Consultation Required
Will entail:
o Involvement of Course Coordinator o Meeting with Educator/s & Course Coordinator to address
concerns & to initiate a learning plan outlining actions required to rectify behaviour concerns.
o Student to meet weekly with Educator for ongoing guidance and support.
o Educator to meet with Course Coordinator fortnightly to discuss the students’ progress
o Documentation completed throughout & kept on students file.
Student has the opportunity to request an advocate and to
respond to identified behaviour concerns.
Not Resolved
Withdrawal from Program
Advise student of reason for withdrawal- ongoing behaviour concerns & non–achievement
of learning plan. Provide student with formal written withdrawal & copy kept on student file.
No refund shall apply.
Resolved- no
further action
Student rules V14_July 2016
References
Queensland Work Health and
Safety Act 2011
https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/legisltn/current/w/workhsa
11.pdf
Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/LEGISLTN/current/a/antidisc
rima91.pdf
Privacy Act 1988 1. https://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/C2015C00279
PY-IID-100039 Copyright Policy V 5.0
PY-CEO-000008 Intellectual Property Policy V 8.0
PY-IID-100016 Information Privacy V 16.0
PY-PAL-060000 Code of Conduct V 11.0
PY-IID-300003 Internet, Intranet & Email Usage V 11.0
PY-IID-300002 Information Security Policy V 9.0
PR-PAL-020032 Workplace Bullying Procedure V 5.0
PR-PAL-020031 Reporting Issues of Sexual Harassment Procedure V 6.0
PY-IID-200016 Identification of staff and visitors - Policy V 9.0
PY-PAL-030002 Clinical Placement of Diploma and Undergraduate Nursing
Students V 9.0
PY-PAL-010020 Mater Health Services Uniform and Dress Policy V 2.0
PY-PAL-000001 Commitment to work health and safety policy V 10.0
PR-PAL-001170 Provision of Protective Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Procedure V 13.0
Student rules V14_July 2016
PY-PAL-020042 Anti-Discrimination Policy V 14.0
PR-MKT-000004 Mater Social Media Procedure V 8.0
UQ Mater McAuley Library
conditions of use
http://www.cybrary.uq.edu.au/iad/rules.html
Mater Health Services Policies are available on Mater-networked computers by opening Internet
Explorer and choosing the “Mater Document Centre” link.
Top Related