Glossary

Word

Definition

The Australian Government scheme to assist eligible students with an indigenous background to cover basic living expenses while studying on a full/time or part-time basis. (see relevant information provided by Centrelink at http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/payments/abstudy.htm)

Conduct in relation to any academic work that is dishonest or unfair, and includes all forms of cheating, plagiarism and lying.

The final day a student can withdraw from a unit without an academic penalty (eg Withdrawn Fail) being officially recorded for that unit.

The status applied to a student's academic progress by the Board of Examiners at the end of a teaching period (eg good standing, probation, suspension, exclusion, expulsion).

The official written statement of a student's units studied and grades received. The piece of paper you are given containing your academic record is also referred to as a transcript or certificate of academic results.

Staff whose current classification level is part of the academic award and who have been appointed wholly or principally to undertake a 'teaching only' function, a 'research only' function or a 'teaching and research' function.

Students may book their accommodation in different ways: 1) On-campus; 2) Off-campus, and 3) Homestay Information on these can be obtained at http://www.ecu.edu.au/fas/village/accommodation.php and http://www.ecu.edu.au/fas/village/offCampusHousing.php.

If you want to know how much it will cost you to live in Perth while studying go to http://www.ecu.edu.au/international/about/aboutperth/livingcosts.html. Prices are approximate and may require some further adjustment to cover rise in prices (around 2-3%).

Activities are lectures, tutorials, labs or other classes which on-campus students attend as part of their unit study requirements. Where study in a unit requires attendance in a combination of activities such as a lecture plus a tutorial, the student must ensure they enrol in both the unit and activities, otherwise the unit enrolment may be considered invalid/incomplete.

Admission is the series of formal administrative steps that allow you to become a Student at ECU.

Requirements, academic, administrative or otherwise that you must fulfil in order to be admitted as a University student, such as previous study qualifications, minimum cut-off scores, senior first aid certificate or a police clearance. For more information on admission requirements refer to the ECU Handbook at: http://handbook.ecu.edu.au/

The granting of credit towards the completion of a course based on studies or experience gained elsewhere (previously termed exemption);

This is the term usually applied to students once they have graduated, that is, to former University students. There is a Development and Alumni Office at ECU (find more at http://www.ecu.edu.au/alumni/) responsible for both the development activities of the University, as well as being the formal link with ECU's graduates or alumni.

A fee which students are required to pay to cover a wide range of services including health, welfare, cultural, sporting, advocacy and recreational activities. The Amenities and Services fee is managed by the Guild.

Students have the right to appeal against an assessment mark, a unit result and/or the academic progression status they are given where they feel they have grounds to do so. For more information on academic appeals go to:

http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/assessment/appeals/index.php

The process by which a student's progress or achievement in a unit is evaluated. This can include assignments, in-class tests, project work, seminar papers, tutorial participation, and examinations. Assessments in the performance and creative arts can include studio practice, creative productions and performances. Assessment is a component of the learning program in each unit of each course of the University. The Unit Coordinator is responsible for assigning a grade of assessment to each enrolled student at the completion of the unit. The Unit Outline provided at the beginning of each unit of study provides details on the individual assessment items that will make up the final unit grade.

Student results in a unit are normally linked with a mark range. Each student's achievement in each enrolled unit is assigned a grade of assessment, either a grade only or a grade and mark (whole number percentage), as specified in the unit outline. To find our more check the Admission, Enrolment and Academic Progress Rules on the ECU website.

A form of assessment allowing for extension of the learning that occurs in class. Most assignments are undertaken on an individual basis but occasionally students will be required to produce and submit group assignments.

The cover sheet has space for the student to write in information relevant to the assignment and the marker to write comments and the result of the assessment. The coversheet is used for the student to endorse ownership of the submitted work and submission of the assignment against any claim of non-receipt. Information relevant to the assignment includes the unit title, name and ID of student and the due date of the assignment. The cover sheet also has summary information on copyright for assignments and procedures and penalties on late assignments. See: http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/admin/forms/index.php#assignment.

A classification of the manner in which a student is undertaking a course or unit. Students are classified as on-campus, external (studies undertaken off campus) or mixed mode.

A classification of the manner in which a student is undertaking a course. Attendance types are full-time or part-time.

The Australian Government scheme that covers your basic living expenses while you are studying on a full/time basis. To be eligible for Austudy some conditions apply (see relevant information provided by Centrelink at http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/payments/austudy.htm).

An IT identity and permissions check which requires you to provide your user ID and password when you log on to an ECU computer system.

A formal University qualification received following the completion of the required course of study or supervised research. Award Level refers to the classification of a University award into a particular category, e.g., Certificate; Graduate Certificate; Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Graduate Diploma, Bachelor Degree, Honours Degree; Masters Degree and Doctoral Degree.

An undergraduate University award usually requiring three or four years of full-time or equivalent part-time study. A Bachelor Degree will often qualify a person for admission into specific commercial and service occupations or professions. Study requirements for undergraduate degrees vary widely across courses. To find out the study requirements for a particular course students can check the online Handbook or consult their Faculty Student Support Officer. http://handbook.ecu.edu.au/

The name of the computer software program (learning management system) used to develop, deliver and manage ECU online units. http://myecu.ecu.edu.au/

The Faculty committee that each semester ratifies all individual student grades and marks in units for courses offered in that Faculty, determines the status of each student and determines the students who are to be given awards, prizes and other honours.

Each of the five days of the ECU working week, Monday through to Friday, excluding national public holidays and the two week university closedown at the end of each year.

The University student (records) management system. Students indirectly use Callista through its student portal known as SIMO (Student Information Management Online).

The term given to different University sites. ECU has campuses at Bunbury, Joondalup and Mount Lawley .

Career is the generic name used in reference to a number of tertiary-related professions. It should not be confused with the courses or studies that will endow you with the required qualifications. Different combinations of studies may land you on one and the same career path, although your strengths and skills will vary accordingly. When you choose your course for the first time, make sure that your studies will actually lead you to the desire career path in which you are interested.

Your studies are career path openers. Depending on your strengths, abilities and preferences you may wish to further a particular area of your studies which may land you your preferred job. If you are uncertain about which study path to take, the Careers Advisory Service can help. They may also assist you with job-seeking strategies, resume writing, interview techniques. The Service also advertises full-time, part-time and vacation employment opportunities. The Career Advisory Services is packed with valuable information which makes interesting and profitable reading. See http://www.ecu.edu.au/careers

A career portfolio contains evidence of your skills and talents as substantiated by your study output, educational qualifications, work-related experience or its equivalent. If you are an artist, your career portfolio will be built-up with representative samples culled from your practical work.

Census Date

Also known as the ?financial penalty date?, the census date occurs during each Teaching Period (eg Semester 1, 2 and Summer School). This represents the final day for withdrawal from a unit without incurring a financial liability for that unit. For details on census go to: http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/admin/dates.php#census The census date is also the date on which a student's enrolment is taken to be finalized; HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP debts are incurred and SLE is consumed. Students must make their up-front payments and submit their request/s for Commonwealth assistance by the census date.

Certificate is a type of award which normally requires a minimum of one year of full-time or equivalent part-time study.

A copy of the original document which has been certified by:

• Student Central staff at ECU; or
• The official records department of the institution that originally issued the documents; or
• The Admissions Office or Student Administration of any Australian University; or
• Within Australia, anyone who is currently employed as a Justice of the Peace; commissioner of declarations; pharmacist; credit union branch manager; bank manager; barrister, solicitor or patent attorney; police officer in charge of a police station or of the rank of sergeant and above; medical practitioner; postal manager; principal of an Australian secondary college, high school or primary school; accountant ? member of the Institute of Charted Accountants in Australia or CPA Australia or the National Institute of Accountants or the Association of Taxation and Management Accountants or Registered Tax Agents; or
• Overseas, an Australian overseas diplomatic mission and Australian Educational Centres or Notary Public; or
• The Administration Office at any TAFE College; or
• Western Australian Tertiary Institutions Service Centre, Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre, South Australian Admissions Centre, Universities
• Admissions Centre (NSW and ACT) or Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre.

Multifaith Chaplaincy Service is about supporting spirituality, providing care and creating community. The multifaith approach values and respects all faith and traditions. More information on the services and facilities offered by the Multifaith Chaplaincy Service can be found at http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/chaplaincy/index.php.

Obtaining or attempting to obtain, or helping in obtaining, credit for academic work through any dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent means. Cheating includes copying or consulting unauthorized sources, materials or memoranda during a test or an examination, and the fabrication or falsification of data.

CHS stands for the Faculty of Computing, Health and Science. See http://www.chs.ecu.edu.au/ for more information.

A notice issued in each teaching period in which you are enrolled, that advises how much student contribution amount is owing, based on your enrolled units as at census date.

A unique identifier for each student that accesses Commonwealth assistance for higher education.

A higher education place for which the Commonwealth makes a contribution towards the cost of the student's education.

A student who occupies a Commonwealth supported place in a course, for which they will receive Commonwealth support (a contribution) towards the unit fees. The remaining proportion of unit fees payable by the student is called the Student Contribution Amount.

Obtaining and responding to feedback from students as key customers, is a central element of ECU's approach to quality and pivotal to the overall development of the University. Acting on student feedback and effectively dealing with student complaints will help ensure continuous improvement in the quality of services provided by the University. ECU is committed to ensuring that all complaints made by students are resolved fairly, promptly and at the most appropriate level within the University. Complaints are important means to redress malfunctions and to improve quality service for students. See http://www.ecu.edu.au/GPPS/complaints/

Hours that a student is required to spend at lectures and tutorials, normally on-campus.

Units within a course structure which students must complete in order to fulfil the requirements of that course.

The Counselling Service provides a professional and strictly confidential service free of charge to all students in the ECU Community. Student Counsellors can assist you to deal with any personal or study-related concern you wish to raise. The service includes short-term and medium-term counselling over a range of areas, including psychological and social problems, study related issues, support in academic matters, and so on. Counsellors are available on each campus from Monday to Friday between 9:00am-4:30pm . http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/counselling/index.php

A course is a programme of study made up of units which, upon satisfactory completion, will qualify the person for a University award, VET or other educational qualification offered by the University. Each course has a specified structure which sets out the combination of units required for completion. Most course structures allow students to undertake either a supporting major or combination of minor and elective units to complement the chosen major field of study and intended career path. A small number of enabling and non-award courses are also offered by the University.

A sequence of three characters used to identify each course of the University. For example, the FCHS Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) course has course code B73.

The satisfactory completion of all the academic requirements of a course including any required attendance, assignments, examinations, assessments, dissertations, practical experience or work experience in industry. The conferring of the award for a course at graduation is not synonymous with ?course completion' as some students may have completed all the academic requirements of the course but are yet to graduate and receive their award.

The academic most directly responsible for management of a course. The Course Coordinator is responsible to the Head of School for ensuring that each unit in the course meets its learning outcomes (as approved by the Academic Board), the needs of the learners and the expectations of the professional community.

Refers to the proportion of ?Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL)' that your enrolled units of study equate to. A full time study load of 120 credit points in a year equates to 1.0 EFTSL.

A course of study leading to a higher education award or an enabling course (5.1).

The status applied to reflect a student's administrative standing within a course (eg enrolled, inactive, intermitted, lapsed, discontinued etc).

Outlines the unit requirements for the satisfactory completion of the course.

All the assignments, essays, lectures and specific units that go into making a course are considered coursework. The term is used by contrast to research. Some degrees, for instance a Master's, can be obtained through coursework instead of research or by a combination of both.

Credit refers to the number of credit points or units of competency gained or granted towards completion of a course. Credit may be obtained through completion of units of study at ECU or applied for based on previous experience, study and/or qualifications gained elsewhere (see ?advance standing?).

The measure of academic effort required to complete certain higher education coursework units and courses. ECU has adopted a credit point system in which one year of full-time study is worth 120 credit points. Accordingly, an ordinary three-year undergraduate degree course is worth 360 credit points while a four-year degree course is worth 480 credit points. A standard 24-unit three-year undergraduate degree may have a course structure with each unit worth 15 credit points (24 x 15 = 360).

Undertaking units of study with a ?host' institution as part of a course of study for which the student is enrolled with a ?home' institution. There are a number of other criteria that must be met for study to be considered cross-institutional.

The minimum Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER) for entry to a particular ECU course.

Completion of an assessment item (test, seminar, tutorial, project, assignment or examination) at a date later than the due date. Refer to the ECU (Admission, Enrolment and Academic Progress) Rules in the ECU Handbook for grounds for deferral of an assignment or examination and procedures for applying.

See Award.

This means a unit or Unit of Competency which a Faculty Board has designated as a fundamental course requirement and may only be attempted once unless otherwise determined by the Board of Examiners.

Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas normally require two to three years of full-time or equivalent part-time study.

The course status given to a student who has withdrawn from their course of study.

An amount of student contribution discounted by the Commonwealth when an eligible Commonwealth supported student pays $500 or more of their student contribution on or before the census date.

A University award (e.g., PhD) for a substantial piece of original research which has been conducted under proper academic supervision and in a research environment for a period of usually three years full-time or equivalent part-time study.

This word is synonymous with PhD (Philosophy Doctorate). See PhD.

A domestic student who is not eligible for Commonwealth support for a unit of study or who undertaking a fee paying course and must pay full-fees.

A student who is an Australian citizen, a New Zealand citizen or the holder of a permanent visa.

Double degrees normally require four to five years of full-time or equivalent part-time concurrent study for two awards in selected areas. Students undertaking double degrees are required to complete all of the core requirements of each of the two awards and undertake study which, in total, exceeds the length of the longer of the two awards by at least one year of full-time study. Honours may be undertaken in either or both of the awards. Students who complete the requirements of either of the two awards before completing the double degree may graduate with that award at the first opportunity.

Studies undertaken in two major unit sets under one degree. Some course structures specify double major requirements eg Bachelor of Science (Psychology and Criminology). Other course structures allow for students to undertake a second major unit set of their choice.

The Centre responsible for providing specialist support services to International students studying on-campus.

A unit of study that a student chooses to undertake which will count towards and enable completion of course requirements. Electives can be selected from a wide range of units offered within the University. Most course structures allow for the undertaking of electives in addition to core units, which are compulsory. The range and number of elective units that you may undertake will vary according to the course structure. Students normally choose electives to complement their degree or intended career choice although unrelated subjects can be taken for personal interest.

A program of study which provides bridging or supplementary education for the purpose of enabling a person to undertake an award course at a University. The ECU University Preparation Course is an enabling course.

A restriction placed on a student's course record for breaching specified due dates or other conditions of enrolment such as payment of fees, submission of tax file number or return of university equipment. An encumbrance normally results in restricted access to University systems (eg Library), information (eg results) or processes (eg graduation), until such time as the student has met the condition and the encumbrance has been lifted.

Enrolment is the process where students formally register to undertake units of study towards completion of their course requirements. Students will normally enrol in units using SIMO (Student Information Management Online) each semester. Students may alter or amend their enrolment by either adding or withdrawing units. A student's enrolment may be cancelled if they have not met all their administrative requirements (eg. outstanding fees).

The period specified by the Director, SSC, within which students must enrol in units to continue their course of study.

One EFTSL is a measure of the study load, for a year, of a student undertaking a course of study on a full-time basis.

Formal method of assessment normally conducted at the end of a teaching period during the timetabled two-week examination period. Although most ECU examinations are written, some are practical. In written examinations, students provide written answers to questions in a printed examination paper. These examinations are usually of two to three hour's duration and may be closed book, open book or restricted open book. At ECU, the Student Services Centre normally manages examinations centrally, including their supervision.

The reciprocal exchange of a domestic student with an overseas student, which is covered by a formal agreement between the Australian higher education provider and an overseas higher education institution that allows both students to pay for their study under whatever regime applies to them in their home country.

An academic progression status which precludes a student from admission or enrolment in a course or courses as specified by the Board of Examiners.

The academic with the most senior responsibility for all activities in the Faculty. The Executive Dean is responsible to the Vice Chancellor for the management of all aspects of teaching and learning at the Faculty level. Each Faculty has an appointed Executive Dean. The term Executive Dean generally includes the Director of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and the Dean of the Faculty of Regional Professional Studies.

See Advanced Standing.

A scholarship that is awarded to a student by a provider that exempts the student from paying student contribution amounts or tuition fees for a course of study.

An academic progression status which precludes a student from admission or enrolment at the University, and ?expelled? has a corresponding meaning.

You may need to have more time to complete your assignment, studies, thesis, and so on, beyond the expected and/or prescribed time. If that is the case you may apply for an extension. There are different extension forms (for instance, extension of the date of submission). You are expected to explain your reasons as clearly and convincingly as possible.

Units which are offered in off-campus mode (ie. do not normally require on campus attendance). Units which are offered externally will be timetabled as Campus: Off-Campus Mode: OFF. Off Campus units are primarily accessed online.To study Off-campus you will need a computer (or regular access to a computer) with access to the Internet.

A student enrolment study mode that does not normally involve on-campus attendance. A student is studying a unit externally when the study involves learning materials, assignments, etc. delivered to the student or provided completely online.

A title given to an academic organisational unit within the University. Each Faculty is comprised of a group of Schools related to particular disciplines and headed by an Executive Dean. ECU's five faculties are:

B&L: Business and Law
CHS: Computing, Health and Science
E&A: Education and Arts
RPS: Regional Professional Studies

A staff member, located in each faculty, to assist students with a range of study skills and advice in preparing assignments. Learning Advisers conduct workshops, provide guest lectures, teach courses, prepare academic skills resources, support other academic staff in the promotion of tertiary literacy skills and see students in one-to-one and group consultations. External students can email, fax or phone to receive assistance from Learning Advisers.http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/student-learning

A loan scheme to help eligible full fee paying students defer payment of their tuition fees through taxation. The maximum amount of tuition fees ($50,000, indexed) that a student can receive a FEE-HELP loan for over their lifetime. www.goingtouni.gov.au

Fees are all the monies you must pay to access certain services, including tuition fees the amenities and services fee.

See Census date.

A set of units that are common to a range of course structures e.g., a common first year.

Students who pay full tuition fees to the University as apposed to Commonwealth Supported students or those receiving tuition or research scholarships.

A Full-time student is a student who is enrolled in units with a credit point value of at least 75% of a full credit point load for higher education courses or 420 or more nominal hours per year for VET courses.

An academic progression status applied to students who are making satisfactory academic progress.

A student who has completed all the requirements for an award course but has not yet graduated.

A person who has received a degree award after satisfactorily completing all the requirements of the course. The term ?graduate' is also used to describe a course such as a graduate diploma available only to graduates.

Generic personal attributes skills, capacities and values relevant for employment, that help make the graduate a valuable and worthy employee. ECU has identified graduate attributes that guide the selection and development of more specific course learning goals.

Graduation ceremony is the special formal occasion at which you are conferred your degree parchment. Attendance at graduation ceremonies is not compulsory. You may make arrangements to have your parchment delivered to you once the ceremony has taken place.

A student organisation open to all ECU students which can act as an advocate, lobbyist, representative body, welfare agent, and social manager. Student representatives are available to talk with you if you feel that you are being unfairly treated by the University. It provides students with opportunities for a wider range of education experiences, including recreation, sporting, social, intellectual, cultural, and community conscious pursuits, creating a more vibrant campus culture, and a better quality university life. For further information on the Guild and its services see www.ecuguild.org.au.

An ECU publication containing essential information for all students and staff on ECU facilities, rules, courses and units. It is published online at: http://handbook.ecu.edu.au/

The academic with the most senior responsibility for all activities in the School. Each School has an appointed Head of School who is responsible to the Faculty Executive Dean for managing teaching and learning within the School.

A scheme that includes up-front payment discounts and loans to help eligible Commonwealth supported students defer payment of their student contributions through taxation. www.goingtouni.gov.au

Higher Education Support Act. The new legislation introduced by Government transforming key aspects of University administration. For more information go to: www.goingtouni.gov.au

This describes a sector of tertiary education which provides higher education awards as specified by the Australian Qualifications Framework.

A loan programme to help eligible students pay student contributions (HECS-HELP), tuition fees (FEE-HELP) and overseas study expenses (OS-HELP).

The campus at which a student is enrolled. In general, most of the units of study being undertaken by a student are at the home campus.

A University award usually requiring advanced study of up to one year full-time following the first three years of a Bachelor Degree course. You may have to check in advance whether your honours studies in your preferred areas and whether you are eligible. Honours students are expected to demonstrate a high degree of autonomy and competence in critical thinking and research capabilities. Fulfilment of an honours degree is a precondition to proceed to Stage 2 of Master degrees, or directly to doctoral studies.

Fees that are additional to student contributions or tuition fees and are for goods or services that are related to studies.

The course status given to a student who has applied for and received approval to defer their course of study for a specified period not exceeding 12 months. Intermit or intermission can be applied for by completing and submitting an Intermit/Discontinue form at any Student Central Office.

Any student who is not an Australian citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia but has a student visa to study in Australia for a specified period. All international students are required to study full-time and in on-campus mode.

Short for Information Technology. ECU is an IT-oriented University in that it strives to incorporate the best on-line or computer based technologies into its student systems. Students at ECU conduct their own enrolments online and may access their teaching materials, emails, library and many other supportive resources online. http://it.ecu.edu.au/student/

A class conducted in a laboratory (computing, science or other) where the practical components of learning are normally carried out following delivery the theoretical material delivered during a lecture.

The course status given to a student who has failed to re-enrol in any units of study in any given Academic Year, except where given approval to intermit (defer) or having given notice to discontinue (withdraw from) their course.

The penalty for late assignments is deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each business day, past the due date for submission, the assignment is late.

The student outcomes of the unit stated clearly and in terms that enable the students to understand what skills and knowledge they are expected to achieve, and what values and attitudes will be fostered by satisfactorily completing the unit. The learning outcomes of the unit are usually expressed as: On completion of this unit students should be able to (followed by the list of specific learning outcomes). The unit learning outcomes are included in the unit outline.

A formal presentation by a staff member -the lecturer- usually to a large number of students in a lecture theatre. Lectures may include the use of handouts, overhead slides and audio-visual presentations. There are usually less opportunities for staff-student interaction, conversation and questioning during a lecture, than during a seminar or tutorial.

The academic staff member who delivers a lecture.

Each ECU campus has a modern library with electronic databases, book and journal collections, e-journals, videos, computer files and multimedia packages as well as facilities for study and research. Students may borrow material at any metropolitan campus using the library's self-service Easyloan machines. Borrowing privileges also extend to the libraries of other libraries of other Western Australian Universities http://www.ecu.edu.au/library/.

A sequential set of units (unit set) in a specified discipline which constitutes part of a course or courses. For example, the Psychology Major consists of 12 core units which are undertaken as part of a range of psychology degrees or may be undertaken as a double major under a different degree where the course structure allows it. A supporting major is a unit set which is more comprehensive than a minor unit set, but less than a major. Supporting majors, normally consisting of 8-12 units, are offered in a range of discipline areas and are generally undertaken to complement the course major and the intended career path.

To avoid getting lost, especially on your first days at Uni, download your campus map at http://www.ecu.edu.au/fas/campus_maps/.

A whole number, between 0 and 100 inclusive, indicating a student's achievement in a unit. See also Assessment Grade.

A University award designed to provide advanced theoretical and applied studies in a selected discipline. A Masters Degree usually requires one to two years full-time study (or equivalent) following completion of an Honours Degree or above average performance in a Bachelor Degree. A Masters Degree is usually classified as a Masters by Coursework, Masters by Research or Masters by Coursework and Research.

A student aged 20 years or over before the census date in the first teaching period of admission. Mature age students can apply for admission to a course if they have a Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER) score; by sitting for the Special Tertiary Admission Test (STAT); or by successfully completing the University Preparation Course (UPC). Many mature age students enter University after a significant lapse since completing formal schooling.

The maximum student contribution amount for a place that can be charged for any units of study in a given discipline cluster as prescribed by the Commonwealth Government. www.goingtouni.gov.au

Each campus has designated computer labs for student use. Labs are supported by IT staff, printing and scanning facilities. Once students have acquired an IT logon ID and password they can access the megalabs to check their student record and emails, complete assignments or conduct online research. Megalabs are also open on Saturdays and Sundays, however a security card is required to access them after hours. For more information see http://it.ecu.edu.au/student/

A recognised set of units (unit set) which normally requires completion of six units in one discipline area. Minors are normally undertaken to complement the major unit set of the course and intended career path.

The dissertation written in satisfaction of a Master's Preliminary or Master's degree. It is minor only by comparison to the thesis which is written towards completion of a PhD.

A mode of attendance where the student is studying both on-campus and externally offered units (e.g., attending on-campus for at least one unit and studying externally for another unit).

A course of study that does not lead to a recognised tertiary award or qualification. A non-award course may be comprised of units or sets of units from an award course. The University Preparation course is one example of a Non-Award course.

The study of units which will not constitute part of a course nor count towards completion of the requirements of a higher education or VET award. A non-award student is admitted to the university to undertake studies not leading to a University award or an award provided by the University.

A unit undertaken which will not count towards the requirements of the course being undertaken. Non-award units are undertaken on a full-fee basis (Commonwealth Support is not available for non-award studies) and must be applied for in writing to Student Central. A student in an award course may choose to study a non-award unit out of personal interest where they have exhausted their elective options in that course.

The time that a student is expected to spend on learning outside of scheduled contact time (lectures, tutorials, seminars, laboratories and workshops). For example, time spent on library research, reading and reviewing lecture notes, preparation for tutorials, preparing for and writing assignments and preparing for tests and examinations are all activities that a student would complete during non-contact time.

Off Campus Support manages the distribution of learning materials and assignment management for students studying in the off-campus unit modes. http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/external

Courses and Units are offered in different Unit modes and classifications. On-campus unit mode indicates units which require on-campus attendance in activities (lectures, tutorials, lab, seminars, etc).

Orientation is a series of activities and services all designed to help new students get started and on the move at Uni. Through orientation activities, students can gain confidence in using University resources and services, adjust to academic life, and become a part of the ECU community. http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/orientation/

A period introduction to ECU for commencing students, designed to assist them with their transition to University life. The University schedules a range of orientation programs and activities in the week immediately prior to semester 1 week 1. During Orientation week, students have an opportunity to familiarise themselves with their home campus layout and facilities. Orientation activities provide many valuable tips to assist new students with academic life which may save you a great deal of effort later. Orientation is a great opportunity to meet and get to know your future colleagues.

A loan available to eligible students to assist them to undertake a portion of their course requirements as an exchange or study abroad student at an overseas institution. www.goingtouni.gov.au

Any student who is not a domestic student and is studying through ECU in an offshore location.

Regular parking on-campus requires a parking permit which can be obtained from the cashier at Student Central Offices. Students, visitors and staff have their own designated areas. Make sure that you park in the right parking area, otherwise you might get fined! All you need to know is explained at http://www.ecu.edu.au/fas/sts/parking.php.

A PT student is a student who is enrolled in units with a credit point value of less than 75% of a full credit point load for higher education courses or less than 420 nominal hours per year for VET courses and part-time has a corresponding meaning;

The PhD is the highest level of university study, usually, but not necessarily after completion of a Master's degree. Time for completion may vary, but it is usually set at three years of full-time study or its part-time equivalent. Generally speaking, it involves the writing up of a thesis, which may vary in length (between 60,000-100,000 words). A thesis doctorate is often considered the base requirement for those willing to pursue an academic career, such as Lecturer or Researcher. Postdoctoral scholarships may allow a doctor to pursue his/her research interests in a university setting.

The intentional or unintentional presentation as one's own work, the work of another without appropriate acknowledgment or referencing. The term ?work' includes all or part of any form of work including working notes and papers, student assignments, seminar and conference papers, reports, theses, articles, books, lecture notes, tapes and work of creative art. The term another means any other person or source of professional material. Plagiarism includes, but is not limitedto:

• copying or paraphrasing text without acknowledgment of the source;

• paraphrasing text inadequately with acknowledgment of the source;

• copying the text of another student's assignment or other students' assignments.

• Rules and Regulations http://www.ecu.edu.au/GPPS/legal_legis/uni_rules.html

A broad level course or student category. A postgraduate course includes doctoral, masters, or (post)graduate diploma courses. A postgraduate student is one who is enrolled in a postgraduate course. A research postgraduate is a student enrolled in a Doctoral or Research Master degree.

This refers to university courses (1-2 years in length) on specific areas which require that students be holders of suitable tertiary qualifications or equivalent, usually a Bachelor degree in a related area.

See Handbook.

See postgraduate.

A part of a course providing learning experiences outside the University in a relevant professional setting such as a school or hospital. During the professional placement, the student may either be an active participant or merely an observer. A practicum may be undertaken as either part of a unit or as a complete unit within a course.

Preclusions (formerly substitutions) are approval to substitute a core unit by undertaking an alternative unit in its place, based on recognition of prior learning for which advanced standing is not granted.

Both Courses and Unit may have conditions which must be satisfied in order to undertake them. These conditions are termed ?pre-requisites'. The online handbook and unit outlines indicate whether a course or a unit has a pre-requisite requirement. Students who have not met prerequisite requirements of a unit may be prevented from enrolling in that unit.

The academic progression status applied to students deemed to have made less than satisfactory academic progress but permitted to continue their studies;

The Professional Masters programs have been designed for students whose first degree is in an area other than the Professional Masters course to undertake major studies and obtain relevant knowledge and skills appropriate to the area.

The term programme is often used interchangeably with course eg Programme/Course Coordinator, but may also be used to indicate or separate out a group of courses under one discipline area such as Undergraduate Nursing, Postgraduate Nursing and Public Health, and Postgraduate Medicine.

A written agreement entered into by a research candidate and his or her principal supervisor identifying agreed milestones and achievement dates;

The limit on the number of students whom the University will accept into a course, a unit, an activity or the University as a whole.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the process of recognising skills and knowledge acquired through experience for the purpose of gaining entry, advanced standing, or preclusions for an ECU course.

A form that a student must complete and lodge to their provider if they wish to receive assistance from the Commonwealth. There are different forms for different types of Commonwealth assistance. Most forms are available online and form part of the enrolment process for commencing students. www.goingtouni.gov.au

The request for Commonwealth assistance that a student must complete and lodge in order to receive a Commonwealth supported place and HECS-HELP loan.

The request for Commonwealth assistance that a student must complete and lodge in order to receive a FEE-HELP loan.

Units within a course structure which students must complete in order to fulfil the requirement of a particular course.

Research and experimental development comprises creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase the stock of knowledge, including knowledge of man (sic), culture and society, and the use of this stock of knowledge to devise new applications.

RPS stands for the Faculty of Regional and Professional Studies. See http://southwest.ecu.edu.au/.

An academic unit of the Faculty. Each School is comprised of one or more Areas of Scholarship. The most senior position in the School is the Head of School.

One or more staff members, located in each School, to assist students with course related issues and course plans.

The name given to the two standard teaching periods (Semester 1 and 2) in the Academic Year, in which the majority of on-campus students are required to attend in order to complete their course.

A seminar typically incorporates a lecture format combined with a discussion period to follow where the presenter/s can answer questions or further elaborate on the material presented.

Staff who are engaged and paid on a casual (sessional) basis and who have no entitlements to paid annual leave, paid sick leave or paid long-service leave.

SIMO is an on-line enrolment system allowing students to enrol in units of study each teaching period. It displays the semester timetable including the days and times of all on-campus or external unit offerings, associated activities and unit/activity quotas. You can also access the following through SIMO: your semester results; Semester Timetable; ECU Handbook; Examination Timetable; personal details and general information (re-enrolment Days/times, change of enrolment, PIN). See http://www.ecu.edu.au/apps/SIMO/index.htm.

A set of units (unit set) in a specified discipline that is part of a course. A stream may be a sequential group of units, similar to a major but not designated as such, undertaken over the period of the course.

Student Central is open between 8:30 a.m. and 4.45 pm from Monday to Thursday and 8:30 am and 2.30 pm Friday on each campus, including semester breaks, and is able to supply information about courses, admission requirements and administrative matters. Student Central is your first point of contact for any questions relating to your study life at ECU. This is the place to visit if you need to apply for advanced standing, course admission, appeals, cross-institutional study, non-award study, academic transcripts, after-hours access card and parking permits. We can also help if you require cashier services, a change to your personal details, information about support services, and much more ? http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/central.php.

A University pledge to provide all students with equal opportunities and an obligation to guarantee a learning environment free of racial, sexual, religious, cultural and physical discrimination. It sets out the standards as a list of aims for the University, its staff and its students. See http://www.ecu.edu.au/prospectus/charter/.

Contributions that Commonwealth supported students make towards the cost of their education, known as the student contribution amount.

All the places, centres and venues essential for a everyday student life at University.

The identification/identity number issued by the University to all students on enrolment. Each student ID is a six, seven or eight-digit code, allocated sequentially from the Callista Student Management System.

The identification card for all students containing the student name, photograph, identification number, course code and a library borrower's bar code (also see ?ID Card?. Student ID/LIBRARY CARDS are available from MMR (Multimedia Resources) on each campus. http://www.ecu.edu.au/KITSC/MMR/info/students.html

An entitlement that gives eligible students access to a Commonwealth supported place for the equivalent of 7 years of full time study.

The Student Recruitment Centre is the first point of contact for prospective students when inquiring about courses at ECU. With experienced staff on hand to provide assistance by telephone, e-mail, postal mail or face to face if you're on campus. So, if you want the right course information contact them at

Building Two, Reception Area 216, Joondalup Campus - Joondalup Drive, telephone: (61 8) 6304 6304, facsimile: (61 8) 6304 2166, E-mail: futurestudy@ecu.edu.au go to their website www.ecugreatcareers.com

The Centre responsible for management of matters relating to student records and administration. Student Central are the student contact points representing the Student Services Centre.

A visa issued by the Department of Immigration, Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs for the purpose of study in Australia . http://www.immi.gov.au/

This is the programme a domestic student undertakes in order to study outside Australia with an overseas higher education institution; the studies thus undertaken count as credit towards the course in which they are enrolled in at their home institution. These students are not covered by an agreement between institutions and will typically pay fees set by the overseas institution while studying overseas.

A non-standard teaching period during the summer vacation where ECU offers a range of units to give students the opportunity to accelerate their coursework, upgrade professional qualifications and/or extend workplace skills and employment prospects.

See Major.

An academic progression status applied to students not making satisfactory progress in their course. Whilst on Suspension a student is precluded from enrolling in units for their course for a period specified by the Board of Examiners. Suspension is aimed at giving students a break in study to review their options and academic progress issues.

The period of time within which a unit is offered by the University and study is undertaken. Semesters 1, 2 and Summer School are three of the 12 possible teaching periods in which units are offered at ECU. http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/admin/dates.php#census

The official document or parchment certifying that you have completed the studies entitling you for a given award. It is a legal document and obtaining a replacement is not an easy matter. Keep it in a safe place as you might need it to produce evidence of your suitability for a professional appointment or to enter into further studies at a later date. http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/student-records/parch.php

A schedule of all units offered in a given teaching period and associated on-campus activities (lectures, tutorials, seminars, laboratories and workshops), their contact times and room locations. http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/admin/timetable.php

TISC stands for your Tertiary Institutions Service Centre, where most students lodge their application for admission into University. Tel. (61 8) 9318 8000. Their website is www.tisc.edu.au.

See "Academic Transcript"

Unit fees incurred by students when undertaking a unit of study.

The academic staff member who conducts a small-group tutorial, laboratory or workshop, and/or provides feedback on and assesses student work. Laboratory or workshop tutors are sometimes termed demonstrators, instructors or supervisors. Discipline-specific terms for a tutor in the performing arts include director, choreographer, conductor, musical director, producer and production supervisor.

A class conducted by a staff member, the tutor, with a small number of students, structured to enable students to develop specific skills and knowledge under supervision. The tutorial provides opportunities for effective staff-student interaction, questioning and clarifying the more difficult aspects of the work. It is usually less formal than a lecture. Also a generic term including discipline-specific workshops, laboratory, studio or performance practice classes.

An undergraduate course leads to an award such as University Certificate, Diploma, Associate Degree or Bachelor's Degree (including honours). An undergraduate student is one who is enrolled in an undergraduate course.

See Handbook.

The basic component of study within a course, normally completed over a period of one teaching period. Each course is a combination of units in a specified structure, normally made up of foundation/core, major, minor and electives. Each unit is identified by a unit name and code. For example, ACC1100 Accounting I is a foundation unit in all Bachelor of Business degrees offered by the Faculty of Business and Law.

A sequence of seven characters used to identify each unit of the University. The first three characters are an alphabetical prefix that identifies the discipline area or the academic unit responsible for it, while the last four are a four-digit numeric suffix identifying the unit in the discipline. For example, Accounting I has a unit code of ACC1100.

The academic with the most senior responsibility for the unit in a given semester. This responsibility includes all aspects of coordination and teaching the content as specified in the unit outline and the assessment of each enrolled student.

A short statement describing the essential aspects of the unit included in the ECU Handbook and on the Official Unit Outline.

This means the specification of knowledge and skill and the application of that knowledge and skill to the standard of performance required in the workplace (also know as unit of competence).

Unit offerings specify which units are available in which teaching periods, in what unit mode and through what campuses (including off-campus unit offerings).

A statement of the essential details of a unit and how it is taught. The unit outline usually contains the unit title, prerequisites, credit points, description, learning outcomes, content, teaching and learning processes, assessment, texts and significant references.

A plan of how the unit is being offered and run in a given teaching period. A unit plan is a supplement to the unit outline prepared by the Unit Coordinator that provides a clear statement with answers to frequently asked questions to both students and staff how the unit is being offered and run in the given teaching period.

Courses are made up of one or more unit sets. Majors, supporting majors and minors are types of unit sets. The unit sets specifies the combination of units required to complete that component of the course.

Partial or full payment of student contributions or tuition fees made direct to the provider on or before the census date.

Stands for the Unit and Teaching Evaluation Instrument given to students to obtain feedback on individual units and teachers. The UTEI is an important quality tool enabling University staff to monitor, evaluate and improve the effectiveness of teaching and learning across the University.

VET stands for the Vocational, Education and Training sector of tertiary education which provides Certificates II, III and IV, Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas as specified by the Australian Qualifications Framework.

The Chief Executive Officer of the University. ECU's Vice-Chancellor is Professor Kerry Cox.

The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) repayments made at the ATO that are in excess of compulsory repayments.

Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. See http://www.waapa.ecu.edu.au/.

A measure of a higher education student's performance in a teaching period or a course. The WAM replaces the existing course average calculation. The difference between the course average and the WAM calculation is that WAM takes different credit points weightings into the equation. The majority of courses have equally weighted units.

Work undertaken by a student as a part of, or in connection with, a course of study undertaken with a provider, in respect of which student learning and performance is not directed by the provider, purpose of which is to obtain work experience relevant to the course of study.

Work-based university learning connects the worlds of work and university so as to enhance learning outcomes for students. It links theory and practice and creates opportunities for students to demonstrate competence in applying to the workplace knowledge gained on campus. WBL enhances the relevance of university courses, acculturates students into professions, and facilitates the employment of graduates. For further information see http://www.ecu.edu.au/ssa/worklinks/overview/index.html.

A website that contains information on courses and providers for students and prospective students. Through this website, and using their CHESSN and other unique information, students can access information on their usage of Commonwealth assistance.