17triplezero IT Service Desk Facts
In February, 1,540 students logged calls with 17triplezero IT Service Desk - 1,100 phone calls and 440 logged online. 90% of these queries were answered straight away.
It makes sense to call 17triplezero IT Service Desk on 492 17000 or log a request online via the 17triplezero Service Portal if you have any questions about your student account or access to our systems.
Dr Glenn Platt is 2012 Young Alumni Award Recipient
The Awards recognise professional excellence, innovation, creativity, exceptional leadership and those who inspire others in a range of fields through local, national or international service.A fashion designer, clinical neurologist, and a philanthropist are just four other exceptional University of Newcastle graduates named recipients in this year’s Alumni Awards.
The recipients of all eight categories are:
Norwegian-born designer and business woman, Ms Linda Bergskas, took out the Newton-John Award, presented to a graduate displaying innovation or creativity that improves life.
Ms Bergskas, who graduated from the University with a Bachelor of Visual Communication Design in 2002, is behind the rising fashion label Guanabana, which debuted at Australian Fashion Week in 2010.
Guanabana is now a global brand stocked in more than 100 stores in Australia, Japan, the US and Norway. The label has been worn by high-profile celebrities including tennis champion Serena Williams and model Jennifer Hawkins.
Clinical Neurologist Associate Professor Mark Parsons was jointly awarded the Alumni Medal and philanthropist Jennie Thomas was recognised with the Alumni Award for Exceptional Community Service.
Other recipients:
- Young Alumni Award – Dr Glenn Platt (Theme leader, Local Energy Systems, CSIRO)
- Indigenous Alumni Award – Dr Donna Odegaard (Chief Executive, Radio Larrakia Darwin)
- Alumni Award for Exceptional Community Service – Ms Jennie Thomas(Philanthropist)
- Alumni Award for Regional Leadership – Dr Frances Gentle (Lecturer, Vision Impairment, Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children)
- Alumni Award for National Leadership – Dr Peter Halliday (Founder and Managing Director, Elite IT Services)
- Alumni Award for International Leadership – Ms Tiffany See (Executive Director, Human Resources, Commercial Business Unit, Dell Inc.)
- Alumni Medal joint winners – Professor David Currow (Chief Executive Officer, Cancer Institute NSW) and Associate Professor Mark Parsons (Senior Staff Specialist in Neurology, John Hunter Hospital; Associate Professor in Medicine; and Director, University of Newcastle Stroke Research Program).
No matter where you go or what you do you stay connected with your global alumni community- it's a connection for life.
Did we mention joining the Alumni community is FREE? Plus you get a subscripton to the Alumni magazine and e-news, invitations to events and professional development programs in your city (Australia and beyond) and access to alumni achievers in your field.
Join UoN Alumni on Facebook and make sure your contact details are up-to-date on gradlink - don't miss out!
Think Big and have your say in 2013!
Do you have a BIG idea that you think would work well for the students of UoN? "Think BIG" is a program that encourages all UoN students to suggest, and then vote on ideas for new or improved student services, facilities and events.
Ideas that get the most support by your feedback may end up being funded by SSAF (after student consultation), or by UoN Services. That means that great ideas can become a reality.
Based on your feedback we've updated the voting process so now you have the opportunity to vote for BIG ideas that you love, or - tell us why you don't like an idea. Watch this space for BIG ideas coming your way - and remember to VOTE!
Getting involved means you get to have your say, so don't miss out.
Visit Think Big for more info.
Three Minute Thesis Winners
Vincent Candrawinata, who is in the first year of a PhD (Food Science), took out the University of Newcastle title from an impressive field, with his presentation "The Extraction and Utilisation of the Polyphenolics from Apple Juice Pomace". Vincent will now go on to compete in the National/Trans Tasman Competition on 11th October at the University of Queensland.
The runner up was Vaibhav Gaikwad who is studying a PhD (Chemical Engineering) with his presentation of "Effluent to Polymer: A Cold Plasma Approach".
Daniel Beard a student in PhD (Human Physiology) came third with "Collaterals in the Brain: A potential New Treatment for Stroke".
The standard of presentation by all the finalists was outstanding and we wish Vincent all the best for the final in Brisbane.
Adverse Circumstances impacting assessment items
Do you know what to do if you need an extension on an assignment, or reschedule an in class or formal exam?
The University knows that some students may experience hardship throughout their studies. As a result, you are able to seek consideration for adverse circumstances that may affect your performance in assessment item(s), including formal exams. This may include any adverse circumstances that impact either on your preparation for or attendance at an exam, or your performance during your exam.
Student Hub staff are here to help you with your application and provide any advice you might need in regards to supporting documentation required.
You can apply for Adverse Circumstances by completing the application form online and submitting supporting documentation to a Student Hub. Please note there are strict deadlines and criteria to be met in relation to your application, including the requirement to inform the exam invigilator prior to leaving the examination room if you wish to apply for adverse circumstances impacting on your performance during the exam.
Make sure you are across the Adverse Circumstances policy by watching this video or by checking out the Adverse Circumstances Policy and Procedure.
Fine Arts Students support Alexander the Great Exhibition
This summer, two of our Fine Arts students, Michelle Schmitzer and Emma Elliot played a creative part in supporting the exhibition “Alexander the Great” hosted by the Australian Museum in Sydney.
The exhibition bought the largest ever collection of treasures to Australia from the world famous State Hermitage in St Petersburg, Russia.
As part of the comprehensive events program supporting the exhibition, Fine Arts student Michelle Schmitzer won the contract to provide Mosaic workshops to visitors.
Fellow Fine Arts student Emma Elliot was also involved, delivering a talk on the Mythology and Iconography of Horses in the Ancient World.
This was yet another wonderful opportunity for our students to showcase their talents to the broader community.
Anatomy just got cooler
To meet the growing demand of people wanting to learn more about what is going on inside our bodies, the Uni is bringing you the new MSB West anatomy teaching building. It is now in the early stages of construction and will provide improved teaching spaces for a range of students, including those studying medicine, medical radiation science, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, biomedical science, speech pathology and sports science. The anatomy laboratory alone will be about three-times larger than the current area in which students study anatomical specimens.
The new $10 million building will be home to three major teaching spaces with lab areas for students studying anatomy, human molecular science, and pharmacy. There will also be a new anatomy museum, private study areas and even a new morgue. State-of-the-art video communication systems to enhance student learning will also be installed throughout the teaching laboratories.
The grand opening of the MSB West anatomy teaching building is anticipated for Semester 1, 2014, so watch this space for updates!
Will you be donating your body to UoN? Find out how, AskUoN
Student Andreena Kardamis awarded 'Young Citizen of the Year'
Congratulations to University of Newcastle student, 19-year-old Andreena Kardamis, who was honoured with ‘Young Citizen of the Year’ awards on Australia Day.
Andreena, who was named Young Citizen of the Year for Lake Macquarie, is a full-time Business and Law student and is the driving force behind the Lake Macquarie Youth Advisory Council where she is currently serving her second year as Chair.
Andreena was selected as a member of the NSW Youth Parliament, and filling the roles of Shadow Attorney General and Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, she developed a petition for placing life mentors and coaches in schools.
Andreena has since worked with Lake Macquarie Youth Development Officer Bradley Dunn to implement a life mentors and coaches program in the Lake Macquarie area. She is a Hunter Life Education ambassador and has helped organise International Youth Day celebrations.
A new perspective from Ghana
Michael Meagher, Margret Marquart Catholic Hospital, Kpando, Ghana.
Tell us about your placement: The placement was the most incredible experience I could have asked for. Through Cosmic Volunteers, I had the opportunity to stay with a local family - in my case, a small family of 4 whose household grew 12 months ago when they took in 12 orphans. Eating, playing, relaing with the family made me feel like I got a good feel for Ghanaian life (including getting damn god at the ol' 'fetch the water from the well' trick).
The hospital placement itself was eye-opening, to say the least; a 200 bed hospital seen to by only 3 doctors, a lack of hand sanitiser in the medical ward, typhoid patients sharing bedpans with post-op patients, and countless other examples of a different world of medicine. The staff were very welcoming, allowing me on rounds, in operations experiencing minor and major procedures (including delivering babies in the ever-busy maternity ward). Major cultural differences challenged me almost to the point of anger - the poor level of education and continuing care for HIV patients was astonishing.
Like any placement, things got slow on certain days and boredom well and truly set in. My supervising doctor was pretty well attuned to me, though, and would order me to buy some chocolate if my eyes glazed over. Legendary.
Tips for making the most of this placement: Get to know the town - Kpando is a rural community with tight-knit groups ready to welcome a stranger. Introduce yourself, ask about the local culture, go to church with the family - it's the only way you'll really experience Ghana.
A new perspective from Malawi
Kathryn Kerr, Embangweni Hospital, Northern Malawi
Tell us about your placement: Embangweni's a small hospital facing some big challenges: malaria, TB, HIV and a chronic lack of fuel, power and gloves. It's incredible how much you can learn about medicine from dedicated staff in a resource-poor setting.
Medical students are welcome and you can essentially design your placement to suit your interests. I spent a week in each of the paediatrics, maternity, primary health care and male wards before returning to maternity for my last four weeks.
The staff were all eager to teach me and would let me know if something particularly interesting or unusual was happening. I could get as involved as I wished, and I spent far more hours there than were required because I was getting so much out of the experience.
I was able to visit surrounding villages for ante-natal clinics, and so I got to see a bit of life in rural Malawi (and enjoy the local staple, nsima, which appears with every meal and which is not dissimilar to Clag). Oh and if you're in theatre after hours, you get a free Fanta.
Of course it was hard going. A baby or a mother were lost most days, usually because resources that are abundant in Australia just weren't available, and I just don't know what to say about that. I didn't get a lot of sleep.. But the experience was one of the most valuable of my life so far, both personally and professionally, and I hope to return to Embangweni.
In short: if you're interested in tropical medicine, have a vision of yourself jumping out of an MSF helicopter at some point in the future, or just need a break from "the itchy patient", then Embangweni is the place for you.
Tips for making the most of this placement: You'll spend a lot of time without power, water and contact with the outside world so make sure to pack a torch, some baby wipes and your untwistable knickers. And take some gloves. As many boxes as you can carry.
A new perspective from Taree
Keelan Sheridan, Manning Rural Referral Hospital (MRRH), Taree, NSW
Tell us about your placement: Let’s face it: We can’t all be living it up drinking wine on a yacht in the Caribbean or trekking the picturesque mountains of Nepal. If you need to stay closer to home for your eight week HES placement, or if you’re living on a tight budget, then perhaps rural NSW is the way to go. While Taree lacks the glamour and excitement of the aforementioned locations, it is a lovely small town with very friendly people. Cheap subsidised accommodation can be organised through the UDRH (University Department of Rural Health) which is more than adequate and the newly built Manning Education Centre/Rural Clinical School is very useful, providing tutorial rooms, computers, internet access and library resources.
I was based in Manning hospital emergency department for my placement, which while at times was very busy, it was still a fantastic place to meet and talk with patients about their health care. More importantly, I could follow patients though their hospital admissions, from their time on the wards to community outreach follow-up. I chose to focus on acute stroke care at MRRH for my final report and wrote about the inequitable access (NB – equity = fairness/justness) to stroke services (especially thrombolysis and specialist neurological assessment) at the hospital, compared not only to major metropolitan hospitals such as JHH, but also to other rural hospitals which offered these services. The hospital’s stroke clinical coordinator was an invaluable resource.
If you want real hands on clinical experience, then rural NSW is definitely a good choice (due to the University’s insurance policy, only students who stay in NSW are allowed to undertake clinical procedures). Whilst the development of clinical skills is not a core objective of the HES placement, it is still very important to anyone’s future training and career, and I thoroughly enjoyed the practical aspects of my placement (from extensive cannulation practice to urinary catheter insertion to emergency intubation and even assisting in theatre).
What you choose to do whilst on your HES placement is entirely up to you, and the options available at MRRH are virtually limitless (pathology, radiology, mental health, obstetrics, paediatrics, ED, surgery, Aboriginal health, ambulance service, community health) with staff in all departments that are extremely happy to teach students.
Tips for making the most of this placement:
Plan early – do the reading, plan your topic, talk to students in other years.
Talk to as many people as you can whilst on placement (staff, patients and other students) – also, a search in the local newspaper’s online archive is a great way of determining prominent local health issues.
Enjoy the clinical experience – the best part of doing HES in NSW!!
Assignments
So you’ve chosen your assignment topic, thought about it a bit and now the deadline is looming and you’ve still got a blank page and blinking cursor in front of you…what do you do?
Head to the library!
Either online or physically. Start with your subject resource guides. Here you’ll find information on your assignment and possibly some recommended reading.
Then hit up the online guides and training – you can learn how to master endnote and have referencing sorted out and get some pointers on researching in our libraries.
Finally the books! Trawl the catalogue online, uncover some ebooks and journal articles, even reserve the physical books you need.
Consider making an appointment to catch a Learning Adviser or drop them an email. This could be extremely helpful in organising your thoughts structuring your arguments and tying the whole paper together.
Drop into a PASS session. An informal study session run for students by students might be just the thing you need to get your thoughts and arguments in order.
Finally, get writing! Make sure you allow plenty of time to review.
2013 - A big year for our stellar Athletes at the University of Newcastle!
2013 will be a massive year for many of the University of Newcastle’s student-athletes. Not only do we expect bumper teams at the Eastern and Australian University Games, some of our elite students have their sights set on success at the World level.
Two UoN students are looking to make their mark on the international stage when they represent Australia at the 2013 Student Rugby League World Cup, to be held in England from 3-15 July. Cameron Copeland and Michael Gavan were selected following strong performances for NSW in the 2012 NSW v QLD Interstate Match in October.
Physiotherapy student Celia Sullohern will make her debut for Australia in Open competition, when she competes at the World Cross Country Championships in Poland this March. She was Australia’s top-placed finisher at the 2011 World Championships, placing 21st in the junior category.
2012 Australian University Games Heptathlon Champion, Sophie Stanwell, has qualified to represent Australia at the 2013 World University Games in Russia in July, while Matt Lynch (400m) and Blake Blackburn (Pistol Shooting) are also hoping to qualify to wear the Green & Gold for Australian Universities this year.
The University of Newcastle wishes all our outstanding athletes the best of luck for the Games! If you are an athlete and want to know more about competing at University level, check out www.unisport.com.au/nusport.
A unique rural health experience
Hunter New England Health's Rural Primary Health Care Services operate a Men’s Health Pit Stop at the Grey Fergie Muster in Bendemeer, this year’s muster was on March 24.
Fourth and Fifth year medical students from JMP who are on placement with the University Department of Rural Health and Rural Clinical School Northern NSW are invited to volunteer their services and help raise the awareness of men's health within the community. The concept has been beneficial in increasing men’s awareness of their health and encouraging them to visit their GP for further health check-ups.
This year five students volunteered their knowledge and expertise. They took blood pressures, waist measurements, discussed lifestyle choices and health concerns all within the confines of a small shed.
Matthew Elton, one of the students thought the pit stop was a great experience.
“It was really good practice for us interacting/counselling participants on common health issues,” he said.
Ann-Marie Kalz, a Community Worker with the Rural Primary Health Service praised the students for their efforts.
“They are a great group of young professionals who will be a real asset to our health service”.
Festival of Autonomy, a Week of Celebrations
We all know Uni is the place to be, but you’re guaranteed a good time when Autonomy Day becomes a week of fun in Semester 2.
A variety of activities are planned to celebrate the Uni’s independence as a tertiary institution since 1 January, 1965. It was then when the Uni was declared autonomous from its forebearer, the University of NSW, as decreed by the Governor of NSW, Sir Eric Winslow Woodward. 47 years on, students have joined in Semester 2 in high spirits to mark the anniversary – but 2012 will for the first time have a week-long of festivities on the agenda.
There will be plenty to do with mates from Thursday, 2 August until Friday, 10 August (the official Autonomy Day). Fun things to look out for will be historic re-enactments, campus markets, gigs, parties, a carnival, cinema screenings, debates, comedy, and much more. Kicking off the party will be the Hilltop Hoods on Thursday, 2 August. Energetic Aussie rockers Bluejuice are also set to entertain us on Wednesday, 8 August. All event details will be updated on the U's website, so be sure to watch this space.
Some of the highlights of Autonomy Day every year are:
- The Auchmuty 500 Billy Cart Race: It’s back! You will put your craftsmanship and sportsmanship to the test in this fun competition of building and racing you’re very own billy cart. Anyone can enter and it’s free. The race takes place at the Aviation Carpark from 9.30am-12pm
- Carnival on the Hill on Oval 4 (behind the Commonwealth Bank): There will be music, food and inflatable fun from 9am. The Amazing Race also starts here
- The Autonomy Day Party at Bar on the Hill kicks off early at 7am. All day, chill out with friends to live music, free food and why not have a dance!
The Uni has come a long way since its humble beginnings. A determined campaign by Hunter residents was the driving force behind its creation. In the early 1950s, Newcastle University College was established on a technical college site at Tighes Hill under the authority of the then University of Technology NSW (now the University of NSW). Just five full-time students were enrolled when classes began and study concentrated on science, mathematics and engineering. Over the next 10 years, the growth in student numbers and the community's desire for a university to call its own led to the University becoming an autonomous institution.
Visit the Toward UoN50 website or look through the Flickr album to learn more about our journey.
For more information on the Festival of Autonomy, go to http://uonservices.org.au/festival-of-autonomy
Meet our furry friends!
Have you met any furry friends lately? Our possums love a good rummage in the bins. Students post pictures of their encounters on a dedicated Facebook page.
Bar on the Hill is a student funded initiative you are benefiting from today
Originally known as the 'Union Building', the Bar on the Hill was a project of the Newcastle College of Advanced Education Students Association, prior to the College amalgamating with the University of Newcastle.
The Association identified a need for a space for students on the College campus and the building was funded entirely with student money, on land provided by the College.
The first stage was completed in 1984 and included a small auditorium and a domestic kitchen facility, which provided basic coffee shop facilities. A Commonwealth Bank agency and a stationery shop were included in the original building.
The work of the building's architect, Mr Charles Martin, was acknowledged in December 1984 with the awarding of a Dangar Design Award for Civic Projects of Architectural or Environmental Merit.
Twelve months later the building was expanded with the addition of a licensed bar and a commercial kitchen, providing a new food outlet on campus. The extension was funded by a loan serviced by the NCAE Students Association.
A further extension of the building was completed in 1988 increasing it to its current size and providing a larger auditorium and more verandah space. Again, this was funded by loans through the students' association.
With the amalgamation of the Hunter Institute of Higher Education and the University of Newcastle in 1989, the building became the Hunter Union and has continued to be known by both students and staff as the 'Bar on the Hill'.
The Bar on the Hill has always been a centre for student engagement. It has been used for a variety of functions, events and ceremonies over the years. Many weddings have been held there, together with 21sts, anniversaries, and farewells. Each year students have celebrated hallmark events such as Valentines Day, Melbourne Cup Day and Oktoberfest. Themed parties like Toga Party, Back to School and Beach Party have seen thousands of students converge on their Bar on the Hill.
The list of Bar on the Hill gigs reads like a who's-who of entertainment, with the venue playing host to acts like Eskimo Joe, James Morrison, John Foreman, You Am I, The Whitlams, Powderfinger, Frenzal Rhomb, The Living End, Dead Letter Circus and Grinspoon.
What is your most memorable experience at Bar on the Hill?
Log in to Blackboard
Each course you are studying has a Blackboard site where you'll find out what's happening in your course as well as access to lectures, reading, and assessment material. For more info on online learning, check out the Learning in an online environment web page.
Blackboard Mobile Learn gives you access on the go through a free mobile application (app) that enables interactive access to Blackboard course sites via a compatible mobile device. Find out how to download this app.
Bowl Championships Bar Beach
There’s an awesome skate park at Bar Beach, Newcastle, which became the venue for the Hurley Australian Bowl-Riding Championships at the begining of the year.
The first-ever skating event attracted huge crowds. Locals watched skaters from across the country dive deep into the bowl at Empire Park, in a contest to find Aussie champs for the world titles in Bondi.
Making the Pro Top 3 ranks were Renton Millar, Jack Fardell and RJ Barbaro. Claiming the Master’s Top 3 were Mik Mulhall, Pat Ngoho and Adam Luxford.
The event will be back even bigger and better in 2013. Check out updates on Facebook.
Bridging Courses
English Language and Foundation Studies Centre (ELFS) offers excellent bridging courses for both foundation students and undergraduates to assist with preparation for study. Subjects include essay writing, grammar, computer literacy, maths, statistics, physics, chemistry, biology and even survival skills at University. Visit the website to find out how to apply.
Byo food and water bottle
On the Newcastle campus there’s a Survival Station right next to the Shortland Hub in the Shortland Building provided by the U. It has hot and cold water as well as a microwave.
NUSA also have a kitchen in their building with microwaves and a fridge for students to use, located next to Bar on the Hill.
Rooms EE101 (Engineering Electrical and Computer Buidling) and ES232 (Engineering Science Building) have microwaves, fridges and tea and coffee making facilities. ES332 in the Engineering Science Building has tea and coffee making facilities.
Also look out for the water fountains with filtered water on main walking paths.
On the Central Coast, Campus Central provides free microwaves and hot water for students to cook their own meals and prepare their own hot drinks. You can use a microwave or hot water in the Main Cafeteria and Cafe East. There is also cold water in the Campus Central office. Over at Cafe Express, there are loads of options in their kitchen, with hot water and microwaves for student use!
At Port Macquarie there are microwaves and hot water in the Canteen block.
CARPOOLING BAYS – 39 More reasons to Carpool
The University has dedicated 39 car parking bays to support carpooling. From 4 March 2013, Students and staff who have registered with myCarpools can obtain a carpooling permit from Infrastructure and Services (Services Building). The carpooling permit will entitle the holder to park in one of the carpooling bays providing the vehicle carries at least 3 persons. Infrastructure and Service will issue carpooling permits to the first 80 students or staff who satisfy the carpooling rules.
Carpooling is a great way to ease traffic congestion, save fuel costs and reduce vehicle emissions. The University provides an online carpooling service to encourage carpooling and to make it easier to form carpools. This service is hosted by myCarpools and allows students and staff to register a journey with the aim of sharing the trip as either a driver or a passenger.
For further information on the University's new carpooling initiative and the carpooling bays click here.
Celebrating Science
The Asian Science Camp was recently held at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem on 26 – 31 August, 2012.
Elyse Hudson, current first year student at the University of Newcastle – was one of 8 Australian students who attended the camp after becoming eligible with her HD results in the 2011 Big Science Competition.
The Asian Science Camp promotes science and friendship whilst promoting international cooperation amongst the next generation of scientists from Asia, Australia and the Oceania.
Deeper thinking about science and scientific thinking is encouraged during the 6-day program and students participate in lectures and group discussions with Nobel Laureates and scientists from across the world.
Elyse also worked with a team of students from Year 12, gap years and first year of University from around the world to design posters that promoted a field of scientific research. Her group focused on protein folding and ways to promote it to various companies and scientific groups.
Overall, Elyse had what she describes as an amazing experience, engaging with like-minded science students from different countries.
Elyse’s experience at the Asian Science Camp contributed to her overall studies at the University of Newcastle in that it celebrated culture, friendship and science. She is currently studying a combined degree in Mechanical Engineering and Business.
Elyse enjoys challenging the gender stereotype in mechanical engineering, not to mention experiencing opposing fields – maths/science and the humanity nature of a business degree.
If you have had an incredible experience overseas thanks to your degree or area of interest – let us know below!
Central Coast campus gets a fitness boost in 2013!
In addition to the planned fitness trail and outdoor gym circuit, Central Coast campus is set to receive a boost in sports and fitness funding this year.
Students can expect to see an increase in access to social and competitive spots including the University Games program.
Additional staff will connect Central Coast based students with sporting teams and clubs, which not only deliver fitness benefits but a great social scene as well.
The Cross-Campus Challenges are one of these initiatives and will be a highlight in 2013. Central Coast is hosting the first year of the games and then each campus will alternate annually. We may see Campus rivalry in the sporting arena with fierce competition in touch football, basketball, soccer, netball and even tennis.
Instead of studying at lunchtime, why not try out the Lunchtime Social Sport at the Central Coast campus? Lunchtime will now feature games such as small sided soccer, touch football, netball and 3 on 3 basketball, so get your friends together and have some fun in the sun.
Stay tuned for more information.
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
When does a classroom become a FREE gym for students at the Central Coast Campus?
In 2012, the Central Coast campus received a $7.7 million upgrade to the Exercise and Sports Science and Psychology Building.
Used as a learning facility for both the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science and the Bachelor of Psychology, the building includes specialist features for the students to get a real hands-on learning experience.
However, it’s not only those students who get to take advantage of the new facility. SSAF funding has allowed the doors to open for other students to use the gym section of the building outside of teaching hours.
Students have free access to its facilities, can get involved in fitness programming, fitness testing and even small group sessions of cardio and muscle conditioning.
Matt, one of the trainers at the gym, who is also a Post Graduate student, encourages all students to take advantage of what the gym has to offer.
“The more people that get involved - the better the facility! Both Tim [another trainer] and I are strength conditioning coaches and we are happy to help with any gym sessions or any questions students have” says Matt.
Many students have already taken advantage of the gym during business hours with Simon from the Central Coast Campus saying "Having the gym enables me to work out before and after class. It's appointed with everything you need, the staff are friendly, qualified and ready to give advice".
The gym is open from Monday to Friday with times as follows:
• 6am - 9am, Monday to Friday.
• 4pm - 7pm, Monday to Thursday.
Don’t forget before you take advantage of the new gym, you will have to complete an enrolment and pre-screening form which you can download here.
Students can drop off their paperwork whilst checking out the gym during business hours.
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
The Chamber Choir
The Chamber Choir is fresh back from a whirlwind tour of the USA and Bermuda during the Semester 1 break, where they competed in the World Choir Games.
This very distinguished choral ensemble has won many awards and receive many standing ovations for their talent, the latest being three silver medals in the Champions Division at the Games. They were also named the winner of The John Lamble Foundation Australasian Open Choral Championship for 2012. Other achievements include claiming the top spot at the 2012 World Choir Games in China and 2010 McDonald’s Sydney Eisteddfod.
If you love to sing as part of a group, you should consider auditioning to join the choir. To meet regular performance and recording commitments, the choir rehearses every Wednesday from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Additional rehearsals are called from time-to-time, as required.
To arrange an audition, please contact Phillippa Miskiewicz: Telephone +61-2-49215507 or email Phillippa.Miskiewicz@newcastle.edu.au.
Like their Facebook page.
Never fear – a mobile charger is near! Brought to you by SSAF funding!
Feedback from the 2012 ‘Think Big’ initiative told us that the students at the University of Newcastle want mobile phone recharge stations accessible at University and that’s exactly what happened!
2012 SSAF funding has allowed mobile phone ‘charge bars’ to be installed across campuses. The Charge Bar has 97% compatibility with all phones on the market and is a ‘fast charge’ system.
No more will you feel that deep anxiety when you have left home without your phone. No more will you be stuck at University without outside contact. No more will you have to worry about missing your lectures because your battery is ‘running low’.
“It’s really handy, it’s great - especially if you have a whole day at Uni and your phone is about to die. They are really easy to find and there are enough plugs you don’t have to wait” says Shayla from the Central Coast Campus.
2012 brought the BIG idea to have mobile phone chargers at the University and along with SSAF funding, this dream became a reality. Now you can just pop by one of the free Charge Bars, plug in your phone and away you go!
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
cocker-doodle-do
Have you met Roger the Rooster on the Central Coast campus?
College residents raise $8,000 for Cancer Council :-)
College residents at the University of Newcastle often engage in some friendly competition, be it on stage or in the sporting arena. More recently, two colleges have auctioned residents, spammed social media and walked the equivalent of marathons, all for charity. Evatt House and International House participated in Maitland’s Relay for Life on the weekend of Saturday the 8th of September and Sunday the 9th of September, raising a combined total of over $8,000 for the Cancer Council.
The combined efforts of Anthony Prugger (Evatt House), Alika Griffiths and Chris Anderson (International House) saw over 100 residents walk to remember, fight back and to celebrate this incredible initiative. The impeccable behaviour, celebrated enthusiasm and humbling response to the community portfolio’s of the college residences reflected the true character of International House and Evatt House in getting involved and seizing the day.
As always, the friendly competition saw each college’s respective mascots engage in some friendly banter. It was impressive to witness the University of Newcastle be represented in such a positive and receptive light, as they gave back to the local community so generously.
Let us know about any charity fundraising you have been involved with recently.
Commencing Student Survey – helping us make your start to Uni easy and breezy
Thanks to everyone who completed the 2012 Commencing Student Survey. Your feedback provided the Uni with a wonderful opportunity to listen, understand and respond to your experiences, perceptions and ideas. Since the last Commencing Student Survey in 2010 we have, among other things, streamlined the orientation experience, addressed some of the parking issues including plans to build more car parks, provided more campus signage and maps, offered more activities that suit all our students, improved wireless coverage and informed students better about what support services are available to them.
Click here to see what you said.
If you were a new student, what would you recommend?
Student Support Services to ensure you are healthy, happy and on top of things
Uni can be tough at times but there are plenty of services here to support you and point you in the best direction.Connect2Success is the online gateway to a large range of support services to help keep you on track with Uni life. Sign up to this on-line program to receive fortnightly motivational emails that are aimed at getting you through the challenge of Uni study. The program also offers the chance to meet up with a Connect2Success advisor who can help you find the right advice and help fast!
Alternatively, if you prefer to speak to someone straight away you can call the Care Infoline on 4921 7938 or email connect2success@newcastle.edu.au to get in touch.
Depending on your needs, they may refer you on to the University Health Service, which is a fully accredited general practice based on both the Newcastle and Central Coast campuses staffed by doctors and nurses who understand the medical problems of students.
If you are worried or not coping with your studies, the Counselling Service offers a free and confidential service where you can discuss any issue, whether personal or related to your studies, with our professionally-trained and friendly psychologists or social workers.
The Careers Service is great not only for finding jobs on campus, but also to help shape your career with CareerHub. You can also access a free, confidential careers advice service.
There are many more services that may be best for you including Chaplaincy and Disability Support. The Connect2Success website also has great info pages and an on-line quiz section to help you pinpoint the services that are best placed to address any issues you might be having, in order to get you back on track.
Cooking up a storm with Dhiiyaan playgroups
UoN is always supporting initiatives within our community. Coordinating presentations, workshops and education sessions with the Dhiiyaan Playgroups, part of Tamworth family Support Service, is just one example of how we’re doing it.
Nutrition and Dietetics Academic Kelly Ancuk and forth year students Lisa Henry, Amy Buckingham and Larine Robinson who are all on placement with the University Department of Rural Health and Rural Clinical School Northern NSW, have presented two workshops and cooking programs in March. Cooking for Two or More is based on the program developed by UoN with the Department of Veteran Affairs Cooking for One or More whereby participants are taught basic cooking skills, educated on food and nutrition for children and families and invited to share the meals created in the workshop.
Participating parents leave the workshops armed with information about cross contamination, hand hygiene, food safety, budgeting and healthy eating; a recipe book filled with the meals created in the workshop and a set of coloured plastic chopping boards.
Not only did participants find the workshop organised, useful and interesting, most importantly thought the food was tasty and that they would make these meals again.
The team will be conducting more sessions with Dhiiyaan Playgroups soon and hope to replicate the workshops in the wider community.
Covalent bonding at UoN
Every year about 100 Chemistry students go on a pub-crawl around Newcastle. This is the brain-child of Rob Atkin from the School of Environmental and Life Science who says it’s critical for teachers to have good relationships with their students.
“There has to be open lines of communication for teachers to be able to get feedback from students about learning gaps and methods of delivery,” said Rob.
“The pub-crawl helps us develop relationships with the students”.
Hugh Dunstan as head of the school believes it is critical for students to develop an identity within their degree but often students find it hard to meet people and develop networks within their cohort.
“Social Learning spaces have been a great development on campus because they encourage students to hang out together before and after lectures,” he said.
The Faculty also makes an effort to organise other events. Michael Mahoney runs a career development aimed at bringing students together and networking with established business leaders, research speakers and alumni. Phil Geary, Assistant Dean International Students brings students together from Environmental Science and Management whilst Clovia Holdsworth organises a lunch with international students in Chemistry.
The School of Environment and Life Sciences is continuing to look at ways of bringing students together. The school is also committed to optimising resources to bring the best possible hands-on training experiences with the sciences.
Dapper
Have you spotted the Dapper Gentleman yet?
Meet Newcastle’s Young Citizen of the Year
Declan Clausen combined Environmental Engineering and Science degree at the University of Newcastle and has achieved more in the past decade than many of us would hope to achieve in a lifetime.
While Declan is only 20 years old, his list of awards and achievements take up an entire page of his CV. On Australia Day this year he was able to add the prestigious title of Newcastle’s Young Citizen of the Year to this list, which he plans to use as a chance to be a voice for other youth in the region.
"I feel very privileged. Being named Newcastle’s 2013 Young Citizen is an amazing honour and a terrific opportunity to highlight some of the concerns of young people in the Hunter," said Declan.
His passion for the environment began at a young age which continued to grow through high school after an inspiring teacher encouraged him to become more involved in scientific programs.
Since then Declan hasn’t stopped and is now involved in numerous programs within and outside the University.
As well as being a student ambassador for Engineering and undertaking the Merit Pathway program offered in Science, he is also on the University Committee for Environmental Sustainability (UCES) which is chaired by the Vice Chancellor, currently works with local high schools to assist with the development of their environmental programs and attended the Science Meets Parliament conference held in Canberra last year.
He has also been awarded a scholarship with the Hunter Water Corporation and sees University as an excellent opportunity to learn more about the industry.
"Both the science and engineering programs have significant practical components which enable me to test out theory in real life. I love the hands on learning opportunities offered which grounds the complex concepts established in the classroom," he said.
After years of significant hands-on experience, Declan’s biggest environmental concern is focused around climate change.
"While there are many local challenges which concern me greatly, unabated global climate change remains my greatest environmental and moral concern," he answered.
"One of the constant challenges of our legal system is the fact that those who cannot speak for themselves far too frequently are not given a voice. This is not only sadly true for people with disabilities, but also for the natural world. The environment is often simply not given a voice" he added.
Declan sees a lot of potential in his generation and field of study to combat this issue.
"Young people in particular are free from competing interests in ways which the older generations are not. Innovation through intelligent science and engineering practices will ultimately provide the biggest opportunities to prevent the looming climate catastrophe" he said.
It may be little surprise that after Declan graduates he is looking to pursue a career that focuses on policy and sustainable resource management and would also like to contribute to post-graduate study at some point.
Declan’s view on science has changed over the years to include the bigger picture.
"Today I see my interest in science through a much broader philosophical view. Through science we are able to gain an understanding of the complex systems which shape our existence and the entire universe around us. Science symbolises hope."
While we all hope for a better future, Declan is actively involved in making this happen and it is very clear that the young student has a very bright future ahead of him.
Disco baby
Dance the night away in the Auchmuty library...
The mirror ball was originally installed to support the 'You Are Here Now' exhibition held in 2009 to celebrate GLBTIQ students and staff, past and present. Do you think this might be the first ever library anywhere in the world that has a mirror ball?
See UoN Stalkerspace flash mob.
Do you want to Study Abroad?
Click on these links below to see testimonials and videos of inspiring Study Abroad experiences. We hope they will give you the travel bug to apply for exchange in 2013. Find out how you can create your own amazing adventure. Expressions of interest to go on exchange for Semester 2, 2013 close at the end of January 2013.
Michael Aspinall, Copenhagen Business School
Kate Lorenc, Manchester Metropolitan University
Stuart Flinn, Northern Arizona University
Ellienore Fuller, Ho Chi Minh City International University
Amanda Kanitz, Manchester Metropolitan University
Rhian Evans, Costa Rica (ISV)
Laura Bereicua, Stockholm University
Brad Moffett, Manchester Metropolitan University
Teegan Markwell, University of Gothenburg
Tim Forrester, Korea University
These UoN Students had the chance to study and live overseas because of the Study Abroad and Exchange Program. If you are adventurous, keen to see the world and like to experience other cultures while studying at the same time, then this program is for you.
The program can take you to many countries around the world like Canada, China, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, France, Honduras, India, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Rwanda, South Africa, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam.
There are some flexible options to choose from:
The Student Exchange Program provides an opportunity to study for one or two semesters at one of the Uni’s partner institutions. The idea behind the program is to give you the chance to experience student life at an overseas university and have that period of study credited to your degree program.
To apply, you need to complete this process:
- STEP ONE: Establish eligibility for Semester Exchange Studies and select an overseas institution
- STEP TWO: Complete an online expressions of interest for exchange studies
- STEP THREE: After the closing date, Expressions of Interest will be assessed by the International Office and you will be notified of the outcome about a month later. Please note that some locations are highly competitive or may not be suitable for certain disciplines and consequently some students may receive an offer to a second or third preference.
E-mail study-overseas@newcastle.edu.au for more information.
Short-Term Experiences are international activities that usually take place during university holiday breaks and typically last between two and eight weeks. Experiences could include overseas university courses, volunteering abroad, work placements and conferences. There are literally hundreds of opportunities available for students to partake, some for credit and some for experience. Find out more here.
To apply, you must:
- STEP ONE: Research and select an approved overseas program
- STEP TWO: Submit your application for a Short-Term Experience (External Application)
- STEP THREE: Complete the Short-Term Pre-Departure Checklist.
For either option you choose, there’s an opportunity to apply for financial assistance in the way of travel grants and OS-HELP.
Michael Aspinall our 2012 Study Abroad Video Competition Winner said his experience gave him the chance to make some life-long friends and grow as a person thanks to Study Abroad. “I need to thank the International Office and iLead as without their help I wouldn't be able to say that I've lived, worked and traveled across 4 continents at the age of 22," he said.
During your exam
So you’ve found your room and your seat now you’re ready to show this exam who’s boss!
Reading time is like a little gift wrapped up and tied with a bow – if you’ve got it use it wisely! Read over each question (make sure you look at every page back and front) and then split up your time. How long you should be spending on each question to make sure you answer everything?
It’s easy to get caught up writing away on a question you know everything about – be strict with your time allocation to avoid this from happening. You don’t want to walk away with one question answered amazingly well and the rest not started.
Don’t worry if you come across a question you don’t know the answer to. Brainstorm some key points or key words and then move on.
If time is running faster than you’re writing try speeding through your remaining questions and summarising your intended answers in point form – who knows you might pick up an extra point or two.
Allow yourself a bit of time at the end to make sure you’ve filled in your answer sheet correctly and read over what you’ve done.
Car washing robot developed by Rowan Yap
If you are a busy student like Rowan Yap, washing your car probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list. That’s one reason why the budding electrical engineer thought it would be a cool idea to create a robot car cleaner.
Rowan’s creation is a compact device that sits on the outside of a car or truck and automatically moves around to clean the vehicle, no human effort required.
It also generates its own power to charge the battery.
While the robotic innovation is just a prototype for now, Rowan agreed it would be a welcomed convenience.
“Yep, I never wash my car,” Rowan laughed.
The robot car cleaner was researched, developed, manufactured and tested throughout the course of Rowan’s last year of study.
It will be one of many final-year projects on display when the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science holds its demonstration day on Tuesday, November 20.
The exhibition will see the students present their work to staff, students, friends, family and members of industry.
The projects cover a diverse range of topics and demonstrate the skills and knowledge learnt in the four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) degree.
Electrical engineering is the science of power generation and distribution, signal processing, and analogue and digital electronics. It is an extremely diverse field, taking in electronics, computer systems, telecommunications, bioengineering, control, robotics and electrical power engineering.
“It will be great to show the result of all our hard work,” Rowan said.
“At the start of my degree I thought it would be impossible to make something like this.”
Find out more about studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Newcastle
Entertainment
There are lots of social activities and gigs planned on the Newcastle campus. Major activities include O Week, Toga Party, Back to School Party, Autonomy Day, Oktoberfest, Halloween and Cultural Awakenings Festival. There are also free weekly activities like trivia, Wii wars, poker and pool competitions. Bar on the Hill has always been the best place in town for Australian bands. Check out the UoN Services web page for upcoming entertainment and gigs.
If you’re based on the Central Coast campus there are lots of activities you can get involved in. There are three free live music events each semester, two trivia nights as well as weekly lunchtime trivia. They also put on two student parties each semester and plenty of other special events such as Harmony Day, Oktoberfest, Cultural Awakenings night and Indigenous Cuisine Days. Check out the Campus Central web page for upcoming events or download the free icampuscentral app to have them placed directly into your diary.
If you're based at Port Macquarie, the TAFE Student Association holds regular BBQ's and Pizza Nights. Details are publicised on Blackboard.
SOME OF THE BEST
Autonomy Day is a celebration of the day that the University became autonomous from the Uni of NSW. It’s a huge day on campus during Semester Two at Newcastle with students getting up at 6am to celebrate. Some of the fun activities on the day include entertainment at Bar on the Hill which attracts over 4000 students, a carnival and an Amazing Race around campus. Don’t miss the billy cart races- students make their own carts and race them down the hill near the Aviation car park! It’s one of the biggest events in the University social calendar so make sure you get involved in the fun.
The Cultural Awakenings Festival International Food Fair is a spectacular day of food, dancing and performance at the Newcastle campus. It is part of the Cultural Awakenings Festival which is a week-long celebration of the diversity of the University. Held on a Friday in Semester Two at Bar on the Hill, over 30 student groups from all different countries prepare their favourite traditional dishes for over 2000 students, staff and community members. Best of all, the entire event is free!
There are also traditional performances, dancing and music. The food is always amazing and the crowds can get huge so drop in early and try some delicacies from all around the world. Some highlights include the best Baklava you will ever taste, BBQ grilled Crocodile and freshly made Spring Rolls.
The Spring Scramble is the Central Coast Campus’ annual fun run and is organised by Campus Central. The event is free and comprises of a 3km run or a 1.5km walk around Sohier Park. There are prizes for first male and female, second male and female, best sun protection hat, and biggest walking group from a club, society, or staff group.
Relay for Life is the Port Macquarie campus's annual fundraising effort in support of cancer care and research. For three years the University has been involved, this year becoming a gold sponsor.
The relay was held in March at Stuart Park, Port Macquarie. The rules are simple - at least one member of the relay team must be on the course at all times for the entire 24 hour duration! Three teams made up of staff, students and alumni represented the Uni this year. Other staff and students participated in the Health Expo, taking blood pressure and pulse readings of participants.
Now tell us, which band hasn't played at Bar on the Hill?
Powderfinger
Living End
Jet
Wolfmother
UoN Success in Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle Contest
A team of students from the University of Newcastle’s Electrical Engineering program have found success in the recent Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle Contest.
The contest is part of the Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle festival, an initiative of the Tom Farrell institute to stimulate development of forward thinking and innovative transport within the Hunter.
The team, consisting of third year students Andreas Antoniades and Francisco Gordin, raced their Electric car in the Demonstrator Division, trouncing the competition to take out best performing vehicle of the event.
Driven by Antoniades, the car made it through 20 laps with a top lap speed of 1 minute 39 seconds, and a top speed of 60km/h, a result the team were extremely pleased with.
"It was a great experience for us" Antoniades said. "Lots of work and long, long hours, but it’s definitely been worth it".
The team were brought onto the project after the University and Tom Farrell institute sought to place a team in the Contest.
Over the course of the semester, the team started big but was quickly whittled down by other commitments, but that didn’t deter Antoniades and Gordin.
Making do with a car chassis reused from a previous electric vehicle, the car was built over a number of months and served as a trial for future participation.
"We’d love to have a bigger team next year and take the project to a new level" Antoniades said.
"We’ll be able to build on the awesome results of this year, and with a few more students and a lot more time we think we’ll be even more successful."
The pair were extremely successful on the day - in addition to their win in the Demonstrator Division they were the second fastest team of the day.
The team are calling for new volunteers for next year’s competition. Any interested students should contact Colin Coates.
Everything you need to know about enrolment
This enrolment guide provides great online tools to help create a timetable that will suit your class preferences.So, you have an idea of what you would like to study, but do you know what courses and degrees are available? Scrolling though the online Program Handbook is the first step to get to know the program structures and course details at the University of Newcastle.
If you need any advice, talk to your Program Officer. Among many things, they can help you ensure you’re meeting your program requirements. Program Officers are located at each of the Student Hubs on UoN campuses.
Once you have chosen your courses, all students should check the opening dates and times for enrolment prior to every semester and trimester. Always list your first, second and third choices for tutorial/lab times as you may not always get the times you desire.
Everyone can create a number of dummy timetables prior to enrolling, even if you are a brand new student and have not been on campus yet. Creating more than one timetable using this tool can help prevent class clashes and make the enrolment process as seamless as possible.
You will need to log in to myHub, but first become familiar with the steps of how to enrol. Be careful not to miss your enrolment day.
Watch this How to Enrol video so you know how to use myHub and avoid mistakes on the day.
On your marks, get set, GO!
In the weeks leading up to exams there are a few things you can do to make sure you’re going to get the best mark possible.
Here’s a few bits and bobs that you might want to keep in mind.
In the lead up to exams…
Attend your final lecture. If there’s one class you shouldn’t miss it’s this one! It’s possible that many pearls of wisdom will be bestowed including tips and hints about what you might expect in your exams or final assessment. Another important take home from this class is what format your exam will be – multiple choice, open book, essay based etc.
Get to a PASS session. Study sessions run for students by students review weekly course material in an informal setting. There are over 30 courses offering PASS sessions across the University – is yours one of them?
Set goals for your exams. This relates to how well you want or need to do in a course. There’s a formula to work this out for you. Find out your magic number.
Draw up a revision timetable. Make sure you schedule in things like paid employment, exercise eating, sleeping and of course your exams. Don’t forget to highlight your end of exams celebrations. Teaching and Learning have a four-week template for you to download and adapt.
Hit the library, physically or online. It’s like Aladdin’s cave! You can get your hands on copies of old exam papers, access your subject guides and book rooms easily for group study sessions.
Before your exam get your stuff together; pen, pencil, ruler, eraser, calculator anything and everything you think you might need. Double-check the date, time and location of your exam. Get some sleep and arrive early the next day. The U team will be operating exam reviver stations stocked with tea, coffee and water outside some exam rooms take some time to chill out and don’t let your mates stress you out!
Exam Timetables
You’ve got your exam timetable so you know when your exams are and where they’re going to be held.
It’s a fairly big job to schedule the exams at UoN, avoid clashes and make sure everyone in a single course can sit their exam at the same time.
Meet Julie and Julia, they’re the ladies in charge of timetabling the 46,753 exams that are being sat this semester.
UoN listens to students.
UoN listens to students. We read your comments, take on board your feedback and make the improvements you want. Have a look around this website at some of the great things on offer.
Your Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) will fund a number of improvements to services for all students. The purpose of the SSAF is to fund specific services and amenities permitted under legislation that directly support you. Many student services and amenities that we provide are not covered by SSAF legislation, so naturally we will continue to provide these. Your feedback; in surveys, on Facebook and from student representatives, establish student priorities for improvements. Great student services and amenities are important to you and the University so take a look around Experience Newcastle to find out more about each of these improvements.
In addition to this, SSAF will continue to support student associations and campus service providers that represent you.
We value your feedback and will continue to work and consult with students about University services. Check your student email regularly and complete the surveys we send you to make sure we keep making the improvements you want. You will be asked to fill in a survey about services soon called Student Feedback on the University (SFUN) and later in Semester a survey about courses called Student Feedback on Courses.
You can add and share your suggestions to any of the information on this website and see what others are saying. Come back and visit soon to check out the latest info about SSAF improvements and see what others have said.
Student feedback on courses is improving
Student feedback on courses is collected each semester. Faculties use the comments, suggestions and scores to re-jig courses to better meet student needs, or identify areas of success.
As you can see in the chart above overall student satisfaction is increasing. In semester 1 2009, 48.6% of courses scored above four in overall satisfaction. In semester 1, 2011 there was an increase to above 63%! However, there is still more to do. So, keep filling in your surveys and we will keep making improvements.
Completing the Student Feedback on Courses survey is a way to make sure future improvements to courses are made. Any course that you rate below 3.5 out of 5 is specifically targeted for improvements.
We are aiming to increase to 70% those courses scoring at least four and no courses scoring less than three.
Find out what your exam format is
Identifying the format of your final assessment is the key to working out how best to focus your study energy and use your time during your exam.
Teaching and Learning provide handy hints, descriptions and study strategies for most formats used by UoN.
- Open-book and take-home exams
- Oral exams.
Don’t forget past exams can also point you in the direction of working out what to expect – check out the library to see if your course has some.
Use the Short Loans option in NEWCAT to search for exam papers. Choose Course from the short loans search menu and type in examination papers - subject name or subject name - examination papers eg. 'chemistry - examination papers'. If the exam is available online it will have the notation Electronic copy available.
SSAF delivers Fitness Trails and Outdoor Gym Circuits for Callaghan and Central Coast Campuses in 2013
UoN is excited to announce plans to build an outdoor fitness trail and gym circuit at Callaghan and Central Coast campuses.
The project is designed to improve opportunities for students to access free fitness facilities that are always open for use.
Set amongst the natural habitat of Callaghan and Central Coast campuses, each trail will be equipped with modern outdoor gym equipment at training stations dotted along each circuit.
Students will be able to walk, jog or cycle along the trails, choose the number of circuits they complete, and the number of sets and repetitions at each gym training station along the way.
“This is a way for students to get fit according to their own needs and timetable” Chris Hicks, CEO of NuSport said. “It's a great way to link academic life with a balanced lifestyle”.
The trails are funded through SSAF initiatives after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations.
“It sounds like a good way to get fit and meet new people. It also gives students more back in return.” Says Tyson, from Callaghan Campus.
The trails are expected to be completed in 2013.
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
SSAF funding reduces Callaghan gym memberships to less than $10 per week!
Getting into a regular fitness routine is set to become a lot less painful this year as memberships to world class gym The Forum are even further discounted for students thanks to SSAF.
Students will have unlimited access to The Forum’s extensive gym and equipment at Callaghan and Harbourside, more than 120 group fitness classes per week as well as access to the region’s only indoor 50 metre swimming pool, for just $9.95 per week.
The discounted rate will be available to all both new and existing student members.
"Being a Uni student means that I have to watch my budget, but with a membership that is less than $10 per week I can get that balanced lifestyle without that 'overspending' guilt. This is a great initiative!" says Justine from Callaghan Campus.
NUsport manages The Forum and CEO, Chris Hicks, said the discount is a great opportunity for students to access great fitness facilities and a range of sport and social activities as part of their University experience.
‘NUsport also offers students activities such as social sports competitions, University club sports and University Games' Mr Hicks said.
The Forum is open from 5:30am until 10pm, Monday to Friday, and 7:00am until 9pm, Saturday and Sunday.
Visit The Forum for more information or to join.
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
Free Food
There’s a common lunch hour every Tuesday between 12 and 1pm on the Newcastle campus and every Wednesday between 12 and 1pm on the Central Coast campus.
A sausage or veggie patty from a lunch time BBQ is our all time favourite form of free food. If you are at Newcastle, keep an eye on the Auchmuty Courtyard (right in front of the library) and on the Central Coast campus, check under the sails. Check out the University events calandar for any upcoming events that may include free food.
At Newcastle, there’s free breakfast every day in the NUSA kitchen and they do a tasty BBQ every Tuesday at 12pm and Thursday at 12.30pm during Semester just outside the NUSA building. Halal options are also available.
On the Central Coast campus, Campus Central provides the Hungry Students Program which provides groceries to students who have been referred to the program and are having trouble with basic living expenses.
Warren Haasnoot wins highest accolade for an architectural graduate in NSW for his work in..
University of Newcastle graduate Warren Haasnoot was awarded this year's Architects NSW Design Medal, the highest accolade for an architectural graduate in NSW.
Winning for his work in envisioning a future Carrington Wharf, Warren’s achievement builds on the successes of other recent Newcastle Architecture graduates Ben Walters (runner up 2011) and Lachlan Seegers (winner, 2010).
The award, held each year, goes to a fresh NSW graduate who shows exemplary and progressive vision in architectural design.
The significance of the award is not lost on Haasnoot.
"It’s fairly prestigious, a real honour", he says modestly.
Newcastle University Academic, Chris Tucker, concurs profusely.
"Some of the previous winners of this award have gone on to become some of the biggest names in Australian architecture. It’s a really significant achievement".
The award takes three final year students from each of the four architectural schools in NSW and exhibits them to the architectural community, from which High-ranking members critique projects on innovation and vision.
Haasnoot’s project aims to challenge the architectural norm of current Novocastrian developments such as Honeysuckle, and recognise the individuality of Newcastle and its people.
Tucker reflects on the qualities that led Haasnoot to his win.
"He has outstanding creative vision, is socially aware and recognises that the true value of architecture lies with the masses".
"He has a very noble outlook on architecture and is a very worthy recipient of the award".
Speaking to students, Tucker recognises the inspiration available right within their backyard.
"Newcastle is in a unique situation for architecture - we have a decaying urban centre that is in need of innovative vision and direction to remain relevant."
"Use this to feed your imagination, use it to create your vision"
Haasnoot agrees. "Architects need to look beyond just buildings. We need to consider and incorporate art, science, technology and anthropology into our designs".
"Immerse yourself within your project and imagine what the project can be within the community rather than what it will be as a building"
With Haasnoot’s success with the award this year, it bodes well for all students interested in competing in future years.
"The calibre of Newcastle’s graduates is incredible. Work on projects you care about and you’ll get out what you put in."
From bedpans and books to the red centre
You know the stories of those students who as well as doing uni juggle work sport and community involvement, well we met one! Introducing Rebecca Gaston, an honours student from the School of Nursing and Midwifery.
Rebecca is en route to the Northern Territory. She is one of the 12 students chosen from 250 applications to participate in the National Rural Heath Students Network Annual NT Rural High School Visit.
The purpose of the trip is to visit several schools across the Northern Territory and talk to students about working in the health profession and studying at UoN. Rebecca will talk about working as a nurse, she’s currently working part time at the Hunter Valley Private Hospital; her research, Rebecca currently studying her honours; and the support services available at Uni. Rebecca will also guest appear on Radio School of the Air, a station dedicated to providing teaching to kids living in remote and regional Australia.
“I’ve never been to remote or rural outback Australia, said Rebecca.
“If I can inspire these students to do something different it will be really rewarding”.
UoN will be well represented on the NT trip with Rebecca being joined by Stephen Langley, a second year physiotherapy student.
Rebecca’s honours project looks at the uneven growth in the role of nurses in the Australian primary healthcare environment as the focus of delivery in rural and remote areas has shifted from doctors to nurses in an effort to reduce healthcare costs, alleviate doctor shortage and workload and continuing to provide quality healthcare. Her project aims to explore and compare the current role of nurses in remote, rural and metro primary healthcare in Australia. Specifically the provision of health consultation, lifestyle advice and clinical assessment (like Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Blood Sugar Levels and Skin assessment) by nurses among the middle aged cohort of women (59-64 years) from the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women’s Health (Survey 6). Rebecca hopes that after completion of her honours she will one-day go on to attain her PhD.
As well as work, study and trips to the outback Rebecca plays soccer for Newcastle Uni, is a member of BREAATHHE and a SOS Mentor. We’re certainly impressed!
Work Integrated Learning Award Winners 2012
Students shared in more than $8,000 of prize money by gaining invaluable practical experience as part of their studies and applying for the University of Newcastle WIL Student Awards and the WIL Student Video Competition.
Each year the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Student Awards are given to winning students from each of the University’s five faculties. The winning students were not only acknowledged for achieving excellence and increasing their career-readiness, by particiapting in WIL-based studies as part of their degree program; they won $1,000. The list of winners are at the bottom of the page.
Seven student awards were given this year:
- Faculty of Business and Law: Winner, Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) international student Charmaine Lam. Highly commended, Bachelor of Business student Keira Bourke.
- Faculty of Education and Arts: Winner, Bachelor of Fine Arts student Kylie Harris. Highly commended, Emily Rose Braithwaite.
- Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment: Winner, Bachelor of Construction Management student Luke Carrol. Highly commended, Bachelor of Construction Management student, Anthony Samuels.
- Faculty of Health: Winner, Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences students Brianna Bassett and Evan Williams and Bachelor of Medicine student Matthew Rowlandson. Highly commended, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy student Alexandra Dickson.
- Faculty of Science and Information Technology: Winner, Bachelor Science/Bachelor of Mathematics student Sean Jamieson. Highly commended, Bachelor of Visual Communication Design (Honours) student Brooke Hall and Bachelor of Communication student Emma Fischer.
Master of Business student Ruth Hartman, was the winner of the inaugural WIL Postgraduate Student of the Year Award. The working mother was awarded for her placement with electricity generator Macquarie Generation.
The highly commended WIL Postgraduate Students of the Year were: Master of Pharmacy students Kate Blanch, Lisa Fluetcher, Janis Safar, Emily Vincent and John Jones.
For the first time this year the WIL Student Video Competition was held, with winning students sharing in $3,000 in prize money.
The winning students had three minutes to shoot a video that captured their WIL experiences and highlighted how their learning has benefited from taking part in practical learning.
Bachelor of Communications student and aspiring director, Chris Butler was the inaugural winner of the competition and won $2,000 for his efforts. Yak! student magazine Feature’s Editor and Bachelor of Communications student, Clarie Young was the runner-up winner of the competition and won $1,000 at the awards held at the University Gallery on October 23, 2012.
Chris’s video Working Knowledge: A Day in the Life of an Engaged Learner showcased his placement when he took on various roles in the production of the play Act of War. This was the first acting experience for Chris, who also took on the role of assistant director and created video used in the performance.
Find out more about WIL programs and how your career-readiness can be enhanced through practical learning.
Get Fit with NUsport
Did you know you can get fit, right here at Uni? Your experience is set to get better with a $600,000 maintenance project this Semester to improve the gym facilities at the Forum. The Forum supports NUsport, which manages sporting clubs on Newcastle campus by providing them with funding, advice and support. There’s 22 affiliated clubs that provide a sporting and cultural home for over 1000 students each year. Among them are Rugby, Hockey, Badminton, Jujutsu, Mountaineering, Tennis, Ski and Snowboard and Water Polo. Joining a sporting club is a great way to stay fit while having fun and meeting people. Find out more about your sport.
The Forum is home to Newcastle’s largest indoor heated pool at 50 metres. Also on campus is a climbing wall, over 120 group fitness classes per week, indoor courts, personal training staff and cardio, strength-training and cycle zones. The Espresso Plus Café and a child-minding area are available too. The Forum also has a gym in the city at its Harbourside location.
What is your favourite sport at Uni?
Get innovative with new Radiation Therapy Simulation Lab
Adding to the success of the Virtual Environment for Radiotherapy, a new Radiation Therapy Simulation Lab with lasers will lead the way in practical teaching spaces.
Students will now be able to spend more time engaging in hands-on learning, but this time in the field of identifying patient positions, locating treatment areas and immobilisation requirements to target cancers accurately for treatment via Linear Accelerators. This is because the lab will include a simulation room fitted with five cubicles each with beds and a set of lasers for patient positioning straightening and field localisation. It follows a popular response to the Virtual Environment for Radiotherapy Training, which is an Australian first project to train students in the delivery of radiation to cancers.
Look out for the Radiation Therapy Simulation Lab – its new home will be the Hunter Building. It will be under construction throughout Semester 2 in anticipation for use in Semester 1, 2013. This is one of the many improvements underway for teaching spaces at the Uni. Cool huh?!
Giving it their best shot
The prestigious University of Newcastle Sports Awards managed by NUsport recognise exceptional sporting achievements of students and Alumni from the past year.
Guest speaker, Australian Olympic gold medalist, Kerri Pottharst shared the secrets of sporting success with approximately 170 guests at Newcastle City Hall as she described the commitment and vision an athlete must apply to their sport. 15 individuals and 2 sporting teams were among the recipients of the University Sports Awards, indicative of the athletic talent present in the Newcastle region.
Triathlete Laura Harris was awarded Sportsperson of the Year for 2011. Having won the 18-24 Ironman 70.3 event in Port Macquarie, and then representing Australia in the World 70.3 Championships in 2011, Laura’s achievements are indicative of her deserving this prestigious accolade. Her sporting records for the 2011 academic year have been exceptional as she continues her studies of a Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Health and Physical Education.
”It is an honor to receive any University award, but to be named sportsperson of the year was pretty special. I am overwhelmed with my award and look forward to representing the University of Newcastle at next week's Australian University Games in Cycling and Athletics,” said Laura.
The University Snow Sports and Water Polo clubs were both recognised as Sports Club of the year for their impeccably high standards in sports administration.
Overall this evening was indicative of the impressive pool of sporting talent at the University of Newcastle, and duly recognised the important role that NUsport and it’s affiliated clubs and athletes play in the overall Newcastle Experience.
Starting your semester, you need to know
There are a number of valuable student support services on offer and organisations to join that will make your semester experience the ultimate.
We do everything we can to help you get the skills you need - work placements that get you ready for your career, amazing new campus facilities and helpful support networks.
No matter what type of student you are or where you are studying, there is something to support you.
Come back and visit soon to check out the latest info and see what others have said.
Tell other students about your favourite club or society experience below.
Great news about 1000 level Maths Courses!
Student Feedback on Courses (SFC) gives students the opportunity to tell us what they think about their courses, the best aspects of them, and how they can be improved.
As a result the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, and the Maths teaching staff made some significant changes to 1000 level courses.
These changes include:
At the beginning of 2012, a dedicated academic was employed whose responsibility it is to co-ordinate and implement teaching strategies specific to first year students.
Clear advice has been provided that specifically outline expectations and the steps students need to follow to succeed at Maths
A fresh perspective on 1000-level teaching through careful selection of experienced and enthusiastic staff.
The great news is that all 1000 level Maths courses in Semester 1 scored above 4 in Overall Student Satisfaction, and student success rates have increased significantly.
The math rooms now also have wall-to-wall white boards so students can work on equations in groups and teachers can more easily get involved with students progress.
A fantastic example of how the University and its teachers are listening to its students, and how providing feedback through surveys can enhance your student experience and help to improve student2’’s academic outcomes.
Great view
Sit down and admire our great bushland setting. The water lillies at the Central Coast are a great place to take in the view.
Have you tasted how good the water is?
You said you wanted filtered water stations - so here they are!
Four drinking stations have been installed around the Callaghan campus - one each at the Science and Basden Theatres, outside the Hunter Building and in the Auchmuty courtyard.
There are now plans to introduce four drinking stations at Ourimbah campus in north, south and east locations, as well as in the Quad.
Drinking fountains are clean, funky, water efficient, a pleasure to drink from and the water is FREE!
A healthy UoN
The Healthy University Strategy will bring UoN together to develop better health and wellbeing services and programs for students.
During 2012, a number of initiatives to support students with mental health disorders will be the focus of this strategy. These include the appointments of a Mental Health Advisor and Outreach Counsellors, and the establishment of a Mental Health Advisory Group with representatives from student associations and other areas across the university.
Other health professionals will work with students on programs that will initially focus on reducing harm from excessive alcohol use and on sexual health. The campaigns will use online and multimedia to cater for all students as well as campus activities to convey important health messages. These initiatives will be rolled out at the Callaghan, Ourimbah and Port Macquarie campuses.
Healthy food for under $5
If you’re looking for a cheap lunch on the Newcastle campus, try the Bakehouse for a spinach & cheese roll or a vegie pie. Sushi from Delish on both the Hunter and Shortland side is an affordable and healthy option plus Unifoods have a range of sandwiches available.
Bar on the Hill also has fresh wraps, fruit salad and homemade quiche.
Tip: lots of these stores have afternoon specials as well!
On the Central Coast campus pick up a fresh Sushi, homemade frittata, quiches, and budget sandwiches from all of Campus Central’s outlets. Campus Central also offers an ever changing, great range of packaged meals, including GrabnGo for only $4.50.
Helping International Students to experience our culture
The Community Connections Program is a cross cultural friendship program through which volunteers link with international students from all levels of study.
The program offers students the opportunity to meet new people and broaden their understanding of cultures across the world. If you are an international student, the program will help you to experience Australian culture and customs, while you share information about your home country with others. If you are a local student, it will provide opportunities to meet people from all over the world and gain a greater understanding of the different cultures that exist globally.
Some volunteers and students like to share common interests, such as going to the movies, having coffee or playing sports together. Other volunteers like to include their students in family gatherings, such as birthday parties and other social events.
If you’re interested in joining the program as an international student or volunteer, email international-community@newcastle.edu.au. You will be contacted for an informal interview. Visit the International Students page for more details and similar programs.
Help with learning
Learning Development are dedicated to helping you learn.
Academic Skills Workshops are held regularly on campus – there’s no need to book into workshops, just find out when they’re on via the dedicated Blackboard pages and show up. The same goes for drop-in sessions on the Central Coast campus – just rock up to the Learning Centre armed with your questions and away you go.
You can register for an Individual Consultation with a Learning Adviser to discuss your assignments or any other learning problems you might have. Your learning adviser won’t edit or proof-read your work but they will help you plan and finish it to a high standard. Instructions on how to register to attend a consultation are on Blackboard.
E-consults are also available if you can’t physically get into campus. Simply email your question with appropriate attachments (like your draft essay or assignment question) to econsult@newcastle.edu.au. Learning Advisers aim to respond to your question within 24hours Monday to Friday.
Learning Development provide a library of online resources on Blackboard covering a variety of topics including:
- Writing skills
- Study skills
- Assignment types
- Maths resources
- English language resources
- RHD resources
What are you waiting for? Check it out!
HELP! (I need somebody…)
The University has lots of different ways to help you get your feet back on the ground.
The Enquiry Centre & Student Hubs provide help in the following ways
In person
Student Hubs provide a one-stop shop for you to access essential student services. Each Hub can give you advice and referrals from trained staff about issues relating to your studies. They are also your pick up point for essential items like your student card, parking permit, diary and to sort out any enrolment issues. Locate where to find a hub right now.
Via the phone
Call (02) 4921 5000 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).
Online
Random question or issue? Just ask the question (any question) at destination AskUoN.
Remember the URL at www.newcastle.edu.au/askuon
There is also a feedback portal on AskUoN where we welcome your feedback, suggestions, concerns and comments about any aspect of your experience at the University of Newcastle.
Please be aware that we have a specific office if you would like to lodge a formal complaint. Find out more information about the Complaints Office.
Dean of Students
The Dean of Students works to ensure that all students receive fair and equitable treatment at the University of Newcastle across all courses and campuses. The Dean of Students role includes providing information and advice and helping students resolve problems of an academic nature. The Dean of Students may bring your problem to the attention of the relevant staff member or help you make contact with one of the other University Services.
Dean of Student contacts are available published in this Dean of Students brochure.
IT Services
The IT Services team offers a range of services to help you with your studies.
Visit their web site for information about getting connected and facilities available.
If you need to talk to them about accessing your accounts, changing your password, or providing feedback, you can contact them online in the 17triplezero Service Portal or if it's urgent call their friendly staff (02) 492 17000.
If you are having trouble with IT related assignments or using particular software, you will need to speak to your lecturer or tutor.
Library
You can get help in the library from librarians and student rovers. However, you can also email, text and chat with a librarian ;-)
Contact a librarian!
Urgent help from a librarian via chat and email.
econsult – Learning Development
Having trouble with an assignment or during study? You can email Learning Development staff at econsult@newcastle.edu.au. Just send a draft of your assignment with specific questions or issues for feedback. You can also ask a question related to studying.
How did the School of Drama Fine Arts and Music improve the learning experience?
Courses in the School of Drama Fine Arts and Music (DFAM) have significantly improved student satisfaction results since 2009. The percentage of courses scoring above 4 in overall satisfaction has increased from 52% in semester 1 2009 to 63% in semester 1 2011!
So how did DFAM turn the student experience around?
Addressed some basic house-keeping issues
Jim Chapman, Senior Lecturer in the School of Drama Fine Art and Music, said results in student feedback suggested DFAM needed to address some basic 'house-keeping' issues with the organisation and quality of course documents provided to students and the management of assessments. The outcome was a wide-ranging revision of all course outlines and assessment documentation, with an emphasis on making these much clearer, so that students knew with more certainty what they could expect from a course, and what was required to succeed in that course.
Weekly feedback to understand learning requirements
DFAM is currently testing a method of gathering weekly feedback from each student in one of the first year courses to find ways to respond to their changing learning needs. Staff use this information to improve class content and delivery.
Restructured AART1010 Foundations: Creative Art
DFAM also saw significant improvement in specific courses, such as AART1010 Foundations: Creative Art (Callaghan). This course required students to study four creative disciplines (music, dance, drama, fine art) in a single semester, which was something many found overwhelming. As a result the Course Coordinator completely restructured the course by integrating the various components into a number of projects. The outcome was a more holistic learning experience and an amazing increase in the overall satisfaction from 2.96 out of 5 in 2010 to 4.23 in 2011.
How's your maths?
If you’re a bit worried about maths at uni and not sure if you have the assumed knowledge required for a particular course the Maths Diagnostic Quiz (MDQ) could be just the thing for a quick maths check-up.
The MDQ checks your maths knowledge, gives you some advice about the right maths course for you and provides information about bridging courses available to get you up to speed if need be.
To access this tool, visit this website and use your student number as your username. Answer the basic questions to set up your account and then you will be brought through to the tests.
Hubs: your go to people on campus
Student Hubs provide a one-stop shop for you to access essential student services. Each Hub can give you advice and referrals from trained staff about issues relating to your studies. They are also your pick up point for essential items like your student card, parking permit, diary and to sort out any enrolment issues. Locate where to find a hub right now.
You can also get advice and answers to any question through an online portal AskUoN or by calling 4921 5000.
There are also Foundation Studies Hubs at both campuses. Newcastle is in the McMullin Building, in room 49 on the Lower Ground level (MCLG49), and Central Coast is in the Humanities Office Buidling in room 1.61 (HO1.61). Students can visit these offices anytime between 9am-5pm weekdays for help with administrative issues, to book student support services such as the Foundation Studies Counsellor, for course information and materials assistance and assignment collection. Students can phone the Foundation Studies hub on FREECALL 1800 353 775 or 04921 5558, email at enabling@newcastle.edu.au.
Compact Skateboard Design by Industrial Design Graduate David Powers
Compact skateboards, easy jar openers and modern coffee makers are just some of innovative products students at the University of Newcastle have come up with in recent years.
It's all in the name of creating exciting products to solve some pretty common problems.
Industrial Design graduate David Powers, for instance, knows how inconvenient the longer style of skateboard can be.
His son was even refused access to a bus because his board wouldn't fit in a backpack.
Given the increasing popularity of the street-savvy sport, David decided to create a long skateboard that folds in half - while still retaining the flexibility and feel of a normal board.
Fellow graduate Jonathan Fenwick also had convenience on his mind.
Jonathan observed that many people, particularly those with arthritis, just couldn't open stubborn jars.
To help make life that little bit easier, he designed a jar opener that can be used by just about anyone.
David and Jonathan are just some of the Bachelor of Industrial Design graduates who have showed their impressive creations in the NEWcastle Products Industrial Design Exhibition.
The annual student showcase is a great opportunity for prospective students and other community members to learn about the field of Industrial Design.
Industrial designers create "just about everything that isn't buildings", Jonathan said.
"But the degree is almost like a mystery, a lot of people don't know about it."
Industrial Design students attend TAFE for three years, after which they complete one year of university study to obtain a degree.
Find out more about the Bachelor of Industrial Design program.
UoN Students shine at NEWcastle Products Exhibition
At the beautiful Newcastle Museum Link Gallery, students and staff joined with important figures from the region’s business community for the NEWcastle Products exhibition. The exhibition showcases the designs of final-year students in the Bachelor of Industrial Design program.
Nineteen budding industrial designers showed off a wide-reaching range of products at the industry evening.
They included: a watch for the visually impaired; a coffee percolator that makes aroma visible; new and improved ski boots; a folding skateboard; an effortless jar opener suitable for people with arthritis; a wireless payment system for not-for-profit and charity groups; a super hygienic toilet brush; and much more.
One such designer was graduating student David Powers who opened the event.
Emphasising the importance of student showcases like NEWcastle Products, David spoke about the lack of general awareness surrounding his field.
“Industrial design is still something that people don’t fully understand,” David explained.
“It’s hard to put in a nutshell what we do – that’s a shame because we really are passionate about it.
“One minute you’re looking for inspiration…and literally, a heartbeat later, you have developed something material. In fourteen weeks we took a sketch on a piece of paper and turned it into a product.”
Also addressing the crowd was fellow graduating student Ray Wills.
The gracious student thanked everyone in attendance for “acknowledging the extraordinary amount of hard work” students in the Industrial Design program put in.
On behalf of all students, Ray extended “a most heartfelt thanks” to both TAFE and University staff, particularly “our educational chaperone” Wyn Jones.
Ray said Newcastle’s Industrial Design degree – which incorporates both TAFE and University study – offered the perfect balance between “manufacturing, functionality, cost and aesthetics”.
“That balance just isn’t available in other university programs,” Ray said.
“The job of an industrial designer is to solve problems and to answer questions, but the real gift of industrial design is to ask questions.
“There is nothing stopping us from coming up with fantastic answers.”
Reaffirming the night’s buzzword was Neville Sawyer, co-founder of leading international electrical supplier The Ampcontrol Group.
Mr Sawyer delivered a passionate talk about the importance of innovation.
“Innovation can be the driver of any good business to be successful in the region or in Australia,” he said.
“Innovation and industrial design are something that are just so intertwined, and that is just so important.”
With innovation a key area of focus for many big local organisations such as the University and Council, Mr Sawyer said industrial designers could look forward to a very bright future.
Innovation in health education
With our partners, the University is committed to providing excellence in health education for your communities across the Mid North Coast, the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
Impressive new health training centres have been established in Taree (Manning Education Centre), at the Newcastle and Central Coast campuses and John Hunter Hospital. The Tamworth base of the Department of Rural Health and Rural Clinic School will also receive a significant boost to facilities in the near future, with a new clinical training building planned worth $15 million called the New England Education Centre of Excellence in Health Education. All of these facilities will deliver to you state-of-the-art health education centres.
International Student Farewell Ceremony
Do you know an international student like Yani completing this year who is heading home?
Yani's journey began in 2004 as the recipient of a Malaysian government scholarship, accepted into a Bachelor of Medicine with the University of Newcastle.
Eight years and countless experiences later she has completed a Bachelor of Health and a Master in Educational Studies specialising in TESOL, and is preparing to leave what she calls her "home away from home."
Yani says she has been inspired and challenged to reach the best of her capability and potential at the University of Newcastle.
"My formative years have been shaped here. Not only academically but also as a better person ready to pay it forward to the community and the world with the values and integrity instilled by my learning here," she said.
"I remember being interviewed for my place. It was daunting because a lot of senior people were there but they treated us as equals which is something I really like about Australia."
Yani also cites the friendliness and warmth of the local community as pivotal factors to her experience here.
"I had only just arrived and a group of us decided to explore Newcastle. We caught the bus to find the halal butcher in Wallsend, ending up at the plaza there eating halal kebabs. A man approached us and asked if we were new, and welcomed us to Australia. That was the moment I felt like part of an extended family. Whoever he was, he did an excellent job."
Mechatronics Summer Scholarship
University of Newcastle graduating mechanical engineering student Jarrah Peddie has spent an exciting summer playing with Robots.
Jarrah undertook a summer research scholarship this semester break which investigated the teaching and learning possibilities of an industrial robotic manipulator, commonly used in the manufacture of cars, electronics etc.
Using an off the shelf hardware and software combination, Jarrah’s research has focused on the possibilities for application of the robot to students studying mechatronics.
It has been an exciting prospect for Jarrah, who has learnt a new programming language and investigated the applications in a university environment – from simple drawing tasks to designing problems that may be presented to an undergraduate student.
"It’s a very real environment for a Mechatronics engineer – these are the kind of robots that graduates will be working with.
"And it’s great fun - I'm playing with robots."
Summer research scholarships in Mechatronics Engineering are relatively competitive and the best chance is to ask an academic whose work you are interested in, Jarrah explains.
"Speak to an academic you know or find interesting – the path in is definitely via the supervisors, most are proposed via face to face contact.
"It’s definitely worth it if you have an interest in postgraduate studies - It’s a great insight into what a career in research is all about."
To find out more about summer research scholarships and to see other projects undertaken in 2013 check out The Summer Research Scholarships page.
Clubs and Organisations
Clubs & societies are a great way to make new friends and there are some awesome clubs out there like Ultimate Frisbee, Rowing, Scuba Diving, Quidditch, Anime or Snowboarding. There’s over 85 sporting and social clubs so it is safe to say there is something for almost everyone.
To check out the available clubs on the Central Coast campus, visit the Campus Central website. For clubs on the Newcastle campus visit the NUSA web page for social clubs, the NUPSA web page for postgraduate clubs and the NUSA web page for sporting clubs. There’s also a full listing of clubs on the Newcastle campus at the UoN Services web page.
Each club holds regular events and new members are always welcome. You can also set up your own club by talking to NUSA (social clubs), NUPSA (postgraduate clubs), NuSport (sporting clubs) on the Newcastle campus or Campus Central for Central Coast clubs.
For example, check out the Quidditch club
If you love Harry Potter, why not join the Newcastle Quidditch Society? It’s a registered club for students at UoN and gives students the chance to live out their wizard dreams of playing Quidditch.
The club has a competition and social element- they regularly have competitive matches as well as social games and demos. The club even competed in the National University Quidditch Championships!
They hold social events at the GT Bar and Bar on the Hill and always welcome new members. Visit the Newcastle Quidditch Society Facebook page for more info.
Organisations on campus
NUsport manages sporting clubs by providing them with funding, advice and support. There’s lots of sporting clubs including Rugby, Hockey, Badminton, Jujutsu and Mountaineering and they are a great way to stay fit while having fun and meeting people.
NUsport also run a range of social competitions on campus like touch football and squash and manage The Forum gym.
NUsport also operate a gym facility at the Ourimbah campus for UoN students. The gym operates between 6am-9am Monday to Friday and 4pm-7pm Monday to Thursday. Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. Visit the gym website to fill-in and submit your enrolment and pre-activities.
Find out more information about NUsport.
The Forum is an awesome gym on the Callaghan campus. It has a state of the art indoor lap pool, two studios as well as indoor sporting courts. Social comps that run include indoor netball and basketball and there is a large weights room and cardio area. If group fitness is more your thing, there is an extensive program of classes that run every day with classes for everyone. There’s also the Forum Harbourside based in the heart of Newcastle. Students get discounted membership to both.
NUPSA is the association that looks after all of the postgraduate students studying at the University. If you are a postgraduate student you are automatically a member. NUPSA hosts a number of free events and BBQ’s each Semester, for the opportunity to socialise with others and seek advice about anything that relates to postgrad studies.
Get in touch with NUPSA or you can visit them at HA150 in the Hunter Building 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
NUSA are a student association who provide student support and grievance services to students studying at the University on the Newcastle campus. They have a number of collectives that students are able to join and they offer free safe sex supplies, free daily breakfast and a free BBQ every Tuesday and Thursday during Semester. NUSA is located next to Bar on the Hill and there is a kitchen with microwaves for all students to use.
NUSA also looks after social clubs on campus and provides them with support and funding to help them grow. Find out more about NUSA.
The U (UoN Services) manage a number of student services and amenities including accommodation, gigs, on campus discounts and retail, food & beverage and health service providers.
They provide free weekly activities, put on major social events such as the Cultural Awakenings Festival and offer clubs and societies subsidised venues, training in governance, and assist with marketing and setting up stalls for University events.
The U also handles Accommodation Services both on and off campus in Newcastle and on Central Coast campuses.
The U support initiatives such as ESIS scholarships, Survival Stations and UContact. Visit the UoN Services website
Watt Space Gallery is an art gallery in Auckland St, Newcastle that exhibits the work of students who are currently studying at the University of Newcastle. The Watt Space Gallery is funded by the U and gives students the opportunity to exhibit, curate or get experience in the gallery environment. Entry to the gallery is completely free and you can visit between 12pm and 6pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Find out more about upcoming exhibitions.
Campus Central is based on the Central Coast campus and looks after student welfare, entertainment, sport, retail, food and beverage. They offer a membership program to all students studying at the Central Coast campus with discounts on a range of benefits on and off campus.
In addition they provide services such as assistance with grievances, clubs and societies support, collectives, social and competitive sporting competitions and activities such as free BBQ’s, trivia, live music and events. Find out further information about Campus Central.
Keeping cool calm and collected
Dealing with exams and end of semester assessment can be a bit stressful. UoN offers heaps of services to help you keep those stress levels under control.
Consider dropping into the library and picking up a book or DVD on relaxation techniques. Or attend one of the counselling service’s meditation workshops. If you don’t have the time to do the workshop download the pre-recorded sessions and listen to them whenever you get a chance.
Above all, if you’re finding it all a bit overwhelming take some time out for yourself, do some exercise or catch up with friends. If you need somebody to talk to contact the counselling service or drop in on your lecturer. There’s always someone available to help.
Keeping you connected
File storage
There are 3000 computers for student use, running Windows 7 or Mac OSX, all connected to the UoN network. This means you can print, scan and store your uni work from almost anywhere on our Callaghan, Central Coast campuses, our City Precinct and Sydney CBD sites.
While we take care of the hardware side of things, it is your responsibility to back-up your files, and you should do this in at least two ways:
- Save to your U: drive. It has 500 MB of space for all your personal storage and course related data. Find out how to access the U: drive
- Copy to USB thumb or hard drive
- Burn a copy to CD or DVD
- Email a copy to your NUmail account
Printing
You can now make online payments to your PrintCopy account through myPrintCopy
View myPrintCopy Instructions (PDF)
Important facts about myPrintCopy
- myPrintCopy is only compatible with an Internet Explorer browser
- You must have a current Mastercard or Visa card you must read and accept the Terms and Conditions before you can create a myPrintCopy account
- NO REFUND POLICY on all transactions applying to your myPrintCopy account.
More information about student printing
Get WiFi connected
Need to connect your laptop or device to the University wireless network?
Visit our Getting connected page to find instructions for different devices; or sign up for a Wireless laptop clinic. Wireless laptop clinics are conducted in the first few weeks of semester to help you connect your laptop to the University's wireless network. Sessions are held at Callaghan and Ourimbah, but numbers are limited, so you will need to register if you want to attend a session. View the timetable here.
See hotspots on Callaghan and Ourimbah
Help
Having problems connecting to our services? Contact our 17triplezero Service Portal or if it's urgent call the friendly staff (02) 492 17000.
Privacy
Download this privacy survival kit.
Law On The Beach
The University of Newcastle celebrates its 10th year of helping people with their unique, free beachside legal service, Law on The Beach.
Run each year over summer on the sands of Newcastle Beach, the University’s flagship, student-run service has provided free legal advice to around 1,000 clients since its inception in 2004.
Program Director Mr Shaun McCarthy said the initiative was developed as a way of reaching out to young people who may not know how to seek advice, giving them access to the law in a comfortable and approachable location.
Law on the Beach also provides a unique opportunity for law students to apply their studies to actual legal practice with real clients. Students, supervised by the University’s Legal Centre lawyers, provide advice on a range of matters including family law, discrimination, employment issues, criminal law, illegal rent increases and house evictions.
Many people are unaware of their legal rights and face barriers with their legal issues in accessing the legal system. Our students find that helping people in the community enhances their law studies and is a rewarding way of applying their legal knowledge and skills.
The university is very proud to celebrate this achievement and acknowledges the benefits in ensuring graduates are work-ready when completing their programs through the integration of such work integrated learning initiatives.
If you or someone you know needs some legal advice, then why not drop in to Law on the Beach at the following dates. No appointment necessary.
Clinic Dates:
Between 10:00am – 3:00pm
- January 23 and 30
- February 6, 13 and 20.
The Australian Institute of Architects honours Professor of Architecture
Multi award-winning architect and Professor at UoN, Lawrence Nield received the Australian Institute of Architects’ (AIA) highest accolade, the Gold Medal.
Nield was announced as the 2012 Gold Medallist at the Institute’s Australian Achievement in Architecture Awards (AAAA), held in Adelaide on 21 March.
AIA National President Brian Zulaikha said: “Lawrence Nield has made an outstanding contribution to architecture for over forty-five years. His career combines a prolific and continued output of significant architecture and urban design projects, services to the Australian Institute of Architects, academic and teaching achievements, including a distinguished list of writings and publications.”
Lead the way overseas or right here in your own backyard
iLEAD is an extra-curricular Leadership program that promises you the edge at the end of your degree, as skills in leadership, international awareness and community work are some valuable attributes employers are looking for.
If you prefer to stay grounded, you can still participate and get the full leadership experience based on campus by helping out local groups, organisations, and international students. As part of the program, you will also go to dynamic, Skill-Building Lectures and attend presentations from well-known and inspirational speakers. Speakers this year included Coalition Frontbencher Malcolm Turnbull and star of The Naked CEO Alex Malley, to name a few.
If you’re thinking of going overseas, you may be able to use this opportunity to gain iLEAD points. On offer are Student Mobility Travel Grants, which can cover the cost of most of your airfare.
Some of the benefits are:
- It’s free
- You will receive an iLEAD Completion Certificate and recognition on your Australian Higher Education Graduation Statement (AHEGS)
- There are no exams
- No deadlines are in place (as long as you complete the program requirements by the end of your degree).
Brooke Muirhead said iLEAD had made her appreciate and learn from the views of other people.gave her critical thinking skills and challenged her perception of the world.
"The first skill-building lecture I went to was on climate change. I found it quite confronting but it made me take a step back and realise there are some very relevant, global issues," she said.
A simple Online Induction that takes about 5 minutes is the first step to sign up. You can access the iLEAD program schedule on Blackboard. Find out what's involved or email ileadprogram@newcastle.edu.au for any enquiries.
Brooke feels more equipped to sell herself in her chosen field because of iLEAD and says jump on board!
Come along to congratulate Brooke and her fellow iLEADers completing this year at Bar On The Hill, Thursday, 25 October from 4.30pm.
Lecture theatres and teaching spaces are getting makeovers
There are over 33 teaching spaces that will get special treatment throughout this Semester. Refurbishments and upgrades will range from the construction of new practical spaces, study areas, building of ramps for wheel chair access, electrical upgrades and beautifying works including new paint, flooring and furniture. It is anticipated most works will be completed by the end of the year for use in Semester 1, 2013. Some improvements to look forward to at Callaghan will be revivals of the Maths, Engineering, Life Science, Social Science and Chemistry Buildings and Richardson Wing to name a few.
A new MSB West anatomy teaching building will be constructed to become an educational hub for students who study medical, scientific and human-related degrees and courses from 2014 onwards. Inside will be three major teaching spaces with lab areas for students studying anatomy, human molecular science and and pharmacy. Other labs also to benefit from upgrades will be an extension of the food tech lab, refurbishment of the Marine Science research lab at Ourimbah and a new Radiation Therapy Simulation Lab at Newcastle.
The Science and Basden Theatres are also getting a makeover worth $1 million to transform their 1960s feel to the 21st Century. This follows a major makeover to the Griffin Duncan last year, a theatre recognised as one of Newcastle’s premier full-performance venues.
As you can see in these before and after shots, $4 million was spent on bringing this theatre up to performance quality and making it an engaging large-capacity teaching venue.
UoN Liberal Club in the John Howard Debating Cup
Preliminary rounds of the John Howard Debating Cup will be at the University of Sydney on Thursday, 27 September.
Alex Dore, organiser and President of the University of Sydney Liberal Club extended a warm invitation to the University of Newcastle Liberal Club to participate in the debate.
The Club’s Secretary, Emily Grace Ostler, Publicity Officer, Ingrid McKellar and James Thompson will be representing the University of Newcastle at the preliminary rounds. If successful, they will continue onto the finals of the John Howard Debating Club in November.
Emily Grace acknowledges the complimentary role that her membership of the UoN Liberal Club has played to her Bachelor of Law/Bachelor of Arts degree at the University. “The University of Newcastle Liberal Club has allowed me to capitalise on the opportunities and subsequent benefits of my degree at the University of Newcastle,” she said.
A Bachelor of Law is offered as a combined degree at the University of Newcastle, providing students with a unique opportunity. “I strongly advocate the law program at UoN, as I can obtain my practising certificate and bachelor degree simultaneously,” explains Emily.
We wish Emily and her team all the best at the preliminary rounds of the John Howard Debating Cup.
Let us know if you are representing the University of Newcastle in any upcoming competitions.
If you would like to join the UoN Liberal Club contact secretary@uonlc.org
Libraries
The University has moved with the times and redesigned its libraries to provide a more stimulating and convenient learning environment.
The Auchmuty Information Common on Callaghan campus earned an Australian Learning and Teaching Council award and is now open around the clock. While the new Huxley Library Information Common, that serves the east side of Newcastle Campus, has nine collaborative study booths and lounge areas with coffee tables and computer outlets.
The Central Coast Campus's $3.5 million face-lift opened this semester. Features include a new 24-hour information common with an additional 88 computers, more group learning spaces, chill out areas and easier access to physical and virtual collections.
The coffee flows in our libraries from inbuilt cafés, so while you tap away at the keyboards or cluster together in booths to discuss group projects displayed on shared screens you can rest assured that a hot brew is always ready and nearby.
You can call up assignments; join tutorial group internet discussions or access one of the libraries 80,000 journals or 300,000 eBooks. Or you can roam the book stacks to look for more traditional resource materials.
Flick through the historical and cultural memories of the University and our region. Cultural Collections incorporating the University Archives, Rare Books and Special Collections are also available.
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Lonely Planet rates Newcastle in world's top 10 cities
Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach and commitment to providing the best information for travellers around the globe.
Among the most recognised guides written for travellers world wide, their BEST IN TRAVEL 2011 is Lonely Planet’s sixth annual collection of the best trends, destinations, journeys and experiences for the upcoming year.
Drawing on the knowledge, passion and miles travelled by Lonely Planet’s staff, authors and online community, it’s big news that Newcastle has been named the only Australian city in this edition of the guide.
Mamadukes
Many coffee drinkers would say Mamadukes is the heart and soul of the Newcastle campus. It’s unique to UoN with its retro style, log fire and have you noticed the dance floor? So we have a disco ball in the library and dance floor in the café!
Papua New Guinean Australian Development Scholarship recipient Mark Sakarao’s journey to the University of Newcastle
As a boy growing up in sleepy Wabag, capital of the Enga province in rural Papua New Guinea, Mark Sakarao dreamed of Newcastle.
“There was a community school in my village which employed a number of Australian teachers. I desperately wanted to go but was too young.
“The teachers measured me with a ruler and told me I was too small for school. They told me to go back home and I cried!
“A year later I went back and was allowed to start kindergarten.
“I must have been 4 or 5 years old and that was when my love affair with Newcastle really started. Every Friday I used to go to a house where they had a television and watch the Newcastle Knights play.
“I started to say one day, I will go there.”
After a 10-year journey from high school to tertiary qualifications in primary teaching and a burgeoning career teaching in local schools, Mark realised his dream with the help of an AusAID Australian Development Scholarship (ADS).
“I met a social worker from Queensland through my work who gave me the scholarship application forms two days before they were due.
“I thought, I’m young, energetic, and want to study more, what an opportunity,” he said.
Mark managed to complete the forms and sent them off to Port Moresby just in time.
“Two weeks later I got an email informing me that my application was being processed. I jumped high just to know it had been received.
“I waited, putting lots of positive energy in thinking I would get it,” he said. It paid off.
Mark was having a coffee and looking through a local newspaper when he saw a list of names of scholarship recipients.
“There was my name! I cleaned my eyes and thought is it me or someone else?!” he said.
“I could choose where I wanted to go and wondered if there was a university in Newcastle. When I found out there was my mind was made up.
“I was so thankful the door to the place I had dreamed of was open,” he said.
Mark arrived in Newcastle at the beginning of 2012. It was all very new to him, but, he says “it was so organised and there was a lot of support.”
Now with a Master in Special Education from the University of Newcastle under his belt, Mark is excited about the future.“I’ve been part of an international institution, one of the top in the world. It makes me very proud and puts me on another level,” he said.
“I can’t wait to share my experience at home. I have a lot to give back through the skills I gained in Newcastle.”
As well as being a graduate, Mark is also a new father. His son was born on 8 November. In a tribute to Mark’s experience the little boy’s name is Ncastro, derived from Newcastle.
“A name should have a meaning and Ncastro’s will keep me in touch with my memories. I will tell my son the story of how I was in Newcastle when he was born and what an incredible time I had there,” Mark said.
This year marks the 21st anniversary of the University of Newcastle’s intake of ADS recipients. Beginning in 1993 with just one ADS scholar, in 2013 the University will host 60 ADS scholarship recipients from developing countries.
The scholarships are long term development awards administered by AusAID. They aim to contribute to the long term development needs of Australia's partner countries in line with bilateral and regional agreements.
Mick the PASS leader
Mick lives in Anna Bay.
He loves to surf.
Mick is great at organising his time! As well as studying at uni full-time and always getting awesome grades, Mick has a number of part time jobs:
- Chef at Merewether Surf House
- PASS Leader for University of Newcastle for MATHS and STATs
Mick started university straight after high school but left in the first semester, he came back to uni at the age of 26 and has just nailed it ever since!
He is in his 3rd year of a Science Degree majoring in Marine Science.
He has won two prizes from the University of Newcastle for his outstanding academic achievements.
In 1st year he received the Barry Boettcher Prize for Biology.
2nd year received Geological Solutions Prize for Geology.
He wants to have a career as a Marine Biologist.
Masters of Architecture 'Heist' Exhibition
Does a culinary arts school specialising in slow food sound like somewhere you’d like to study? What about chilling out on a floating dock on Newcastle Harbour?
These are just some of the spectacular architectural visions the University of Newcastle’s final year Master of Architecture students have for our city.
You are invited to check them out when Heist hits Newcastle Town Hall on November 12 and 13.
The annual exhibition showcases the final design projects of about 40 students in the two-year Master of Architecture program.
Graduating student Steani Cilliers imagines a Newcastle enriched by a culinary arts school.
The University-affiliated school would be all about the slow food movement – cuisine focused on preserving local foods and regional traditions.
“It’s a means of rejuvenating the city – attracting younger people to live and study in the city, without losing track of the heritage of Newcastle,” Steani said.
Fellow student Chris Mullaney thinks renovating one of Newcastle’s disused floating docks is the key to livening up the city.
The dock would be used as a floating exhibition space, possibly holding cafes, short-term accommodation, an amphitheatre and harbour pool, boat-building workshops and festivals.
“It focuses on turning what is essentially scrap into something usable,” Chris said.
“It would be a sustainable space, evolving as the city changes.”
Program Convener Chris Tucker urged everyone to attend the exhibition, which will be full of exciting, liberating, radical and often quite provocative work.
The Master of Architecture Heist Exhibition will be opened by Marcus Westbury from Renew Newcastle at Newcastle Town Hall, 5.30pm. The exhibition is open from 5pm to 10pm on November 12, and November 13, 9am to 6pm.
More students want to live on campus
Building new accommodation so more students can enjoy the benefits of living on campus has been a key initiative for the University.
This year four, two-bedroom self-contained units were built in Taree, while 10 are planned for Port Macquarie in the near future.
Callaghan Campus's Development Application for a new accommodation precinct offering 780 additional beds received the green light on 1 March 2012. The new accommodation is part of a $100 million University student support package, which includes:
- Four residential multi-storey buildings and almost 800 new beds
- More communal green areas
- Additional campus car parking for 400 vehicles
- Refurbishments to existing accommodation
For more information on the new accommodation plans visit the student accommodation website.
Motivation boosters
Are you a slave to the beast that is procrastination? And watching the Rocky flicks back-to-back just isn’t cutting the mustard when it comes to boosting those motivation levels. Maybe the Connect 2 Success motivational emails will be the thing you need. Sign up online.
The must-have apps
Learning on the go:
Blackboard Mobile Learn is a free mobile application that enables interactive access to Blackboard course sites via a compatible mobile device. Blackboard Mobile is not yet a complete alternative to accessing and managing Blackboard courses via a web browser on a computer. However, it does add mobility to some Blackboard features including Announcements, Course Content, Discussion Boards and more. The app is available on iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry and HP devices.
The UoN Future Students app has great interactive maps to help you easily find your way around the Newcastle, Central Coast and Port Macquarie campuses. It’s also handy for looking up events and researching degrees.
An app for Current Students is coming soon.
The Library's mobile web pages are also useful to bookmark on your phone.
Entertainment:
If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest social activities and gigs on the Newcastle campus, download the U smartphone app called the U at UoN. The U (aka UoN Services) provide a range of support services, food and drink outlets and put on the social activities and events on campus. It also has a student diary, club events and member discount locations. It’s compatible with all smartphones and is free to download! Search it on the App Store now. There’s also a mobile version of their website.
On the Central Coast campus, you can download iCampusCentral for free. The app is provided by Campus Central and is compatible on all smartphones. The app features a diary and discount system. You can also get the latest news, campus maps, upcoming events as well as discounts on and off campus. You can personalise your diary by subscribing to the clubs and societies that interest you, and add your own events, notes and reminders.
Other apps we found handy:
The Transport Info app features up-to-date details about train, bus and ferry services in Newcastle and Sydney. You can access timetables and get information about service changes. The app is compatible on iPhone and Android.
The mTAXI 2 app allows Iphone users to book taxis in Newcastle and Sydney. It’s a much quicker and simpler way than calling and the app is free.
iTorch is a simple, but incredibly convenient application that turns your iPhone or iPod touch into a flashlight.
A QR Reader and Scanner allows you to read QR codes being used at University. You simply hold the reader over the code and it will open the web page for that code.
Do you have any recommendations for great apps?
Member discounts
There’s some great ways to save money on food, shopping and entertainment on campus.
On the Newcastle campus there is the Ucard which offers on and off campus discounts. Some of the best deals include discounted gig tickets at Bar on the Hill, a $50 discount on a Forum gym membership and a complimentary Sydney Morning Herald subscription. The card is $50 a year. Visit their website to find the full list of discounts.
On the Central Coast campus, Campus Central membership is just $20 and entitles you to discounts both on and off campus. Benefits include free BBQ lunches, free diary, discounts on food and drinks on campus, discounted stationary, discounted Coles and Woolworths gift cards as well as subsidised fitness programs on campus. Visit their website to find out more about the program.
Industry Scholarships has announced a new and ongoing partnership with the NAB to provide scholarships to eight final-year students.
This professional development pathway is an exclusive partnership between the University of Newcastle and an organisation such as NAB to offer an industry-based scholarship program to students in the corporate banking sector.
Angela Samuels, manager of the Industry Scholarships Program at the University stated “It is fantastic that an iconic organisation like the NAB will engage with the University of Newcastle to build their next generation of professional staff. The collaborative arrangement gives eight scholars a distinctive advantage that will enhance the student experience and enable them to be graduate ready.”
NAB has traditionally only offered Graduate programs in Australian capital cities and this is the first program of its kind that is being offered by NAB in regional Australia.
Mark Collison, NAB Business Banking Executive in Newcastle, said: “We are excited to partner with Newcastle University to offer scholarships to students who are interested in pursuing a career in the banking and finance industry".
“This is a great opportunity for NAB to develop stronger links with a world-class institution such as Newcastle University, to support local students and to help attract new and diverse employees into our business.”
The scholarships are available to eligible students from a diverse range of faculties and degrees. They include two days’ work based placement at NAB each week for six months, with the potential for an offer of employment at the end of the program.
Mr Collison said Industry Scholarship students will undertake a variety of bank-specific work experience activities in the retail and branch network. “They will also learn general business banking and financial analysis skills, undergo internal training, take part in networking sessions and spend time at NAB’s Sydney head office,” he added.
Ms Samuels said “We look forward to facilitating a pathway for students to integrate their learning and gain experience with NAB. It is exciting that we have established a business relationship with NAB and welcome them as an Industry Sponsor.”
Find out more about Industry Scholarships offered through UoN.
Setting you up for success
Need some extra cash?
Check out CareerHub for part time and casual job opportunities in the community and on-campus. Browse the job listings on CareerHub to see what's on offer and subscribe to job alerts via Twitter.
CareerHub has some useful information sheets with tips on how to find work and write job applications. You can also book an appointment with a Careers Service counsellor to get help on updating your resume. Otherwise just turn up to a drop-in session at the Callaghan campus, daily times are listed on CareerHub.
Workshops are also listed in CareerHub. These are offered by the Careers Service to help you to develop skills needed for job hunting.
The Careers Service is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Where to find the Careers Service
Newcastle Campus - Student Services Building SC2.12
Central Coast Campus - Student Support Unit
Newcastle is home away from home for Heidi and David
Often one is asked to take the path less travelled, or to rise to the challenge when life decides to throw a curve ball our way. Others seek out the challenge and jump feet first into new situations.
Imagine jumping feet first into a new University, in a different country, with different teaching and way of life where you may even have to consider embracing a new language and culture that completely contrasts to your norm.
Thousands of students do this at the University of Newcastle each Semester, choosing the casual vibes, the beach and the friendly mosquitos to share their lives with, all for a new experience.
Heidi Rodenberger is one said student who has chosen to complete part of her Bachelor of Education degree here on a 6-month exchange program to the University of Newcastle from San Jose in California, USA. She says, “Choosing to study at UoN was an easy option due to the special education electives and options to do minors in psychology and anthropology. I also knew the Australian beach cross city culture Newcastle has to offer would be fun”.
Heidi values the interpersonal skills and growth she has experienced during her time here. “Being here has been the absolute highlight of my university experience. Other than learning in the classroom, I have learned so much about Australian culture and about myself while being here. It’s a beautiful campus in a beautiful location and I would encourage any other students to study here", says Heidi.
David Uka is a student from Malawi who has elected to spend his entire degree at the University of Newcastle. Studying a Bachelor of Law/ Bachelor of Business combined degree; David has embraced Newcastle and all it has to give.
“Newcastle provides the best of both worlds that Australia has to offer,” explains David, “it has a friendly and easy going environment and many work opportunities.”
Experience Newcastle from a new perspective by befriending an international student. It could provide you with a new perspective on your home without even leaving the country, as you learn why it has became a home away from home for others.
UoN releases its NeW Directions 2013-2015
We’ve set some ambitious targets in education to provide a great learning experience both on and off campus; and our targets in research will strengthen our contribution and standing to our regions, nationally and internationally. Through NeW Directions, our aim is to make sure that the degree you carry from UoN maintains and grows in value in the years ahead.
International Office
The University's International Office provides a range of welfare and support services to students studying here from overseas. They also offer all students with practical advice on how to develop their cross cultural experience.
The International Office has a new ‘Welcome Lounge’ that has computer terminals, lounges, coffee tables, a kitchenette and access to friendly and supportive staff to assist International Students during their stay in Australia.
The International Office is open between 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Find the International Office on our campus map.
New to the library?
If the library is new to you, then take a look at this quick guide to get familiar with the excellent resources that are here to help you with your studies. There are also library tours happening at both the Callaghan and Ourimbah Campuses during the first week of Semester 2. See what dates and times they’re on. You might also be interested in joining an Open Foundation Tour.
The mobile version of the library's web pages might come in handy, too.
FREE PUBLIC LECTURE FROM THE AUSTRALIAN NOBEL PRIZE WINNER WHO ATE HIS OWN EXPERIMENT
On April 4, the Faculty of Health are inviting you to join us at our Callaghan campus and hear from an Australian Nobel Prize winner. Nobel Laureate Barry J. Marshall AC will be presenting a free public lecture reflecting on winning the Nobel Prize for Physiology and Medicine in 2005 with his colleague Nobel Laureate J. Robin Warren./p>
Nobel Laureate Marshall famously swallowed a highly toxic bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, to prove that it caused peptic ulcer disease and soon became known around the world as “the man who ate his own experiment”. Up until that time the scientific community were adamant that peptic ulcers were caused by stress or other lifestyle indicators and so this discovery changed the way gastric ulcers, and other diseases caused by H. pylori, are treated.
Marshall and Warren’s work is acknowledged as a significant medical discovery and is compared to the development of the polio vaccine and the eradication of smallpox. The pair received their Nobel Prize in a ceremony in Sweden and you can watch them receiving their awards here.
Nobel Laureate Marshall will be presenting as part of the David Maddison Lecture series which commemorates the contributions of Professor David Maddison, the Foundation Dean of Medicine at the Newcastle Medical School.
Friends and family are also welcome to this public lecture but RSVPs are essential. Click here for further details.
The Faculty of Health looks forward to seeing you there.
A short film comp
What would a new student need to know about using technology at UoN? Create a short movie that is positive, fun and helpful that can be used as a resource to assist new students with technology at Uni such as Facebook, Twitter, Blackboard and Mobile Learn, MyHub, The University web site, the Library, Echo, computer labs, WiFi etc. Your movie needs to include the competition signature item (a seahorse) and accessible from YouTube.
1st Prize $1,500, 2nd Prize $1,000, 3rd Prize $500.
Entries must be in before 5pm, 29 October 2012. Winners will be determined by a panel and prizes presented on, Friday 16 November 2012 at 5:30pm in HB15.
ENTRY FORMSend your form and YouTube link to Kit.Messham-Muir@newcastle.edu.au
You can also post your video and forms to:
The One Minute Movie Competition
Mailbox 28, Room HA92
Hunter Building
School of Education
University of Newcastle
University Drive
Callaghan NSW 2308
Further information Rachel.Buchanan@newcastle.edu.au
Online feedback - easy, confidential and it works!
Online feedback:
It's easy - do it at uni, do it at home, do it on your PC or iPad. Save it and come back to it, or do it all at once - it'll only takes a few minutes.
It's confidential - No matter what, you won't be identified. We only download the feedback, not your details.
It works - Student feedback makes a difference. This website features some of the improvements we've made since 2009 - check them out.
If you are a first year student the Commencing Student Survey has been sent to your student email. For all students, check your student diary for other important survey dates like the Student Feedback on Courses.
Our libraries are opened the longest in the country
Over $8 million is spent every year to maintain resources like books, journals, databases, AV and ebooks - so you can find the information you need for study.
In addition, since 2009 $7.5 million has been invested in major upgrades to areas in the Auchmuty, Huxley and the Central Coast. Check out the Flowers room at Auchmuty, the Huxley information Common and the new Central Coast extension.
Did you know UoN libraries have the longest opening hours of any Australian University?
We made the following improvements after you told us what you wanted in a Library Survey:
- Increased library seating space by an extra 515 seats
- Installed bigger, faster printers (and more of them)
- Provided more computers to bring the total to over 1000
- Extended loan time on AV material to 7 days and many 3-day loans to 2 weeks
- Made available 40 laptops for loan
- Reorganised the collection at Huxley and Auchmuty to make it easier to find things
- Added 300,000 ebooks and over 80,000 journals to databases
- Introduced noise zones for silent, quiet and group study
- Created more group study spaces and introduced a new easy online booking system
- Updated 1960s furniture.
Take part in the library survey open now until 12 August! Tell us what you think and go into the draw to win an iPad AND every participant gets a FREE coffee.... Click here to get started.
SSAF supporting students to PASS!
With the growing attendance and popularity of PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions), 2012 SSAF assistance allowed the program to be expanded for the benefit of students at both Callaghan and Central Coast Campuses.
PASS sessions are a non-compulsory 60 minute review session of course content run by a former student who has excelled in the course. Being an informal environment, students are encouraged to share notes, ask questions, engage in course content and discuss important topics with their peers.
"I did PASS for [Statistics for the Sciences] and found it really helpful. The [PASS leader] knew what we were going through and he made the concepts so much easier to understand. Everyone who goes is at different academic levels, but either way he made the content clear and I passed the course!" says Peta-Lee from the Central Coast Campus.
Research has shown the regular attendance at PASS has made significant and positive impact on student's results therefore, it was only natural that extra assistance was given to the program.
PASS is a free service for students, so to take advantage of this program click here.
Listen to what students have to say about this program!
"They are a place where I'm not ashamed to firstly admit I don't know something and secondly get help".
"I could clarify the concepts I found difficult”.
“The leader who ran the sessions was fantastic, down to earth, easy to understand”.
“After failing this subject last year, I made an effort to attend as many sessions as I could in order to pass this time and to get a “normal” explanation to some of the content".
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
PASS WITH FLYING COLOURS
Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) are voluntary, weekly, informal sessions that allow students studying to review class work among themselves. Sessions are led by a former student of the same course, often just one year ahead, who has excelled in the same course.
PASS are designed to be revision sessions run by students for students, where you are encouraged to discuss aspects of the course and find answers to your questions by talking with each other. Participants can ask all kinds of questions in PASS and work through the answers with their fellow peers and the PASS Leader.
Due to the success of PASS in 2011 we have increased the number of programs this year (2012) by double. PASS subjects are now connected to a number of first year courses across faculties, most with 2 or 3 sessions a week!
Get a list of Pass courses and timetables.
Enrolling into PASS is a bit different to other courses. Watch this video to see how to register.
Free support services to ensure you are happy and healthy.
Physio students work with Waratahs
Physiotherapy students Felicity Charlier and Elizabeth Chilton had the opportunity to put their education into action at a rugby clinic in Tamworth run by the NSW Waratahs for local schoolboy rugby players. The services the student provided must have had the right effect as the Waratahs went on the beat Samoa that night 83 - 5.
Felicity and Elizabeth had the opportunity to discuss what to include in a sports physiotherapy kit and observe the drills and activities that the Waratah players took the school children through. Thankfully there were no major injuries to report.
Felicity is at the University Department of Rural Health in Tamworth for her full fourth year of study and will complete four clinical placements in the area. Elizabeth spent five week on placement at a local private practice.
UoN Students recognised at 2013 Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Outgoing Award Ceremony
The Awards aim to promote knowledge, education links and enduring ties between Australia and our neighbours. They also provide an opportunity for Australian universities and the Australian Government to work in partnership to identify and reward high calibre scholars.
As the holder of a full scholarship from the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, Trieu Nguyen Trinh completed a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a Master of Science in Pharmacy at the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University in Russia.
Prior to commencing his Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Award, Trieu Nguyen was employed as a Research and Development Specialist with Vimedimex Medi-pharma Joint Stock Company in Viet Nam.
Under his Award, Trieu Nguyen is undertaking a PhD at the University of Newcastle. His doctorate is focused on research and development of unique tools that address fundamental cell and molecular biology issues. It is expected the research will provide fundamental understanding for on-going research and development of new therapeutics for multiple diseases including cancer.
As a part of his Award, Trieu Nguyen has the option of undertaking an internship or work placement at the completion of his studies in Australia.
Glen Burton’s PhD in Civil Engineering is focussed on the development of fundamental soil mechanics principles that can be applied to both saturated and unsaturated soils.
Soil mechanics theory deals with the physical, mechanical and hydraulic behaviour of soils and seeks geotechnical solutions that safeguard the stability and life-long serviceability of structures.
“Classical soil mechanics primarily focuses on soils that are saturated with water,” said Glen. “In practice, soils are typically unsaturated and exhibit complex deformation, strength and hydraulic behaviours. These complex behaviours can have significant impacts on society, from large destructive landslides triggered by rainfall, to damage to residential house foundations from wetting and drying.”
The Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Award will enable Glen to spend 12 months undertaking research at Nagoya Institute of Technology (NIT), who are also actively engaged in both unsaturated soil laboratory testing and constitutive modelling.
The Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Awards are a category of the Australia Awards which brings the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education (DIISRTE), the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) scholarships together under the Australia Awards Program.
Program Advice
Not sure what to enrol in for Semester 1, 2013? Want to go from full-time to part-time study? Want to know about credit? Not sure if you’ve qualified to graduate?
If any of the above describes you, talk to your Program Officer today!
In fact your Program Officer is your go-to person for any questions you might have regarding the structure and requirements of your degree program. Program Officers can help you with any advice you might need, including:
- Advice on courses and enrolment to ensure you are meeting your program requirements
- Applications for Credit
- Applications for Cross-Institutional study
- General advice and support during your studies
- Ensuring you qualify to graduate from your degree program
Program Officers are located at each of the Student Hubs on UoN campuses. You can also contact your Program Officer through UoN Enquiries on 49215000.
Research Week 30 July - 3 August
Come and find out how to be a part of our world-leading research.
You have probably heard a lot about UoN being a leading research University with world renown researchers. So how can you find out about being or investigating the next big thing in research? Come to Research Week! There will be information sessions about completing Masters, PhD and Honours degrees and the inspiring world of pursuing a research career in an area you are totally passionate about. Guest speakers will also present their innovative research currently happening in our community based health research centres. Check out the daily schedule here.
All attendees to the sessions will go into the draw to win an i-pad!
What would you spend most of your time researching on your new i-pad?
Results
Semester 2 results can be accessed from 10 December 2012. Trimester 3 is on 14 December 2012, Singapore Timester on 25 January 2013 and Block 6 on 25 January 2012
RoboCup
The University of Newcastle’s Faculty of Engineering and Built Environments is home to many interesting projects. One such project is NUbots – a team of robots that competes in the International Soccer RoboCup.
For 10 years the NuBots have participated in the Standard Platform league and this year will move into the Humanoid KidSize League. This transformation has meant some significant changes including moving the robots to a new platform, developing a new software system for the new platform and league rules, and changing the team dynamics bringing on four new students lead by one senior PhD student from the old team.
Newcastle’s NUbots team achieved a very respectable result at this year’s RoboCup in Mexico, placing 12th internationally.
The NUbots aren’t only about winning RoboCups, the ultimate aim is to develop and program the robots so that they can support humans with routine, as well as dangerous and expert tasks.
The ultimate goal of the Robocup initiative is to see robots advanced enough to play competitive soccer against humans and win!
The NUbots team are already hard at work preparing their robots for next years challenge in the Netherlands.
Do you want to be the face of your degree?
We are looking for enthusiastic and confident students from our three campuses to be employed on a casual basis for the Student Ambassador program.
As a Student Ambassador you will work with the Student Recruitment team and share your university experiences with prospective students through a range of face-to-face and online community activities.
To find out more information about what's involved, who they're looking for and how to apply, visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/studentambassadors
Applications close Thursday 14 March 2012.
Industry Scholarships Open
See what it's like to participate in industry relevant scholarships. Listen to scholars talk about their experience with Hunter Water.
Sponsor companies offer a combination of financial support and practical experience giving the University's Industry Scholars the edge. Contributions range between $6,000 and $75,000 to support student studies, depending on one of five flexible scholarship models available. Companies host scholars in their workplace for anywhere between 6 and 78 weeks over the course of their degrees. Scholarships are awarded competitively and many scholars are offered employment with their sponsor companies after graduation.
The scheme is supported by more than 80 companies across a range of fields including manufacturing, mining, electricity generation, surveying, media, local government, construction and finance.
The next scholarship intake will take place in October for placements in 2013.
More information can be found at the Industry Scholarships website.
Campus Security & Shuttle Bus Contact Numbers
Your safety is our top priority, so make it yours too and watch out for your friends. Try not to walk alone after dark, stick to pathways with emergency phone help points located across the Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.
Call Security if you need an escort to your car, bus stop or station, had something stolen, lost something or are in trouble and need help.
Security is available 24 hours a day, 7 days, rain, hail or shine at both Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.
Add Security numbers to your phone:
Newcastle - (02) 4921 5888
Central Coast - (02) 4348 4222
Know the safe walking paths and emergency phone locations.
Shuttle Bus
There is a free shuttle bus operating at Newcastle and Central Coast, and a Security escort available at the City precinct.
To arrange a shuttle bus pick up or escort call:
Newcastle - 0407 951 470
Central Coast - 0414 411 799
Newcastle City - 0400 243 022
Check Newcastle shuttle bus hours and days of operations.
Check Central Coast Pony Express and shuttle hours and days of operations.
Emergency police, fire, ambulance call 000 (free call).
It's never too early to get ahead of the game!
The Career Service is here to help you build a fulfilling career.
So you're in your degree, but where exactly can it take you? The Careers Service gives you the personal experience and interactive tools to research your degree options and identify occupational skill sets. The service also gives you regular updates on experience and paid work positions relevant to your career aspirations.
Keep an eye on upcoming CareersExpos.
Useful tools to help Shape Your Career
Workshops and advice CareerHub
Research where your degree can take you Degree to Careers
Have a go at these career learning modules
Smile you're on camera
To support our regional growth, the University’s video conferencing facilities have received a significant boost with the injection of approximately $2 million over the past year to enhance capabilities. The technology also includes upgrades to audio visual equipment in several key lecture theatres. Permanent video conferencing facilities have been installed in two 240 seat lecture theatres, one on the Central Coast and another in the General Purpose Building on the Callaghan campus, giving academics the capability to video conference lectures to you in various venues.
Both rooms, and the 420-seat lecture theatre in Computing and Information Sciences at Newcastle campus, have been fitted with new triple projection systems. These allow lecturers to run either a single projector for a straight forward presentation or two simultaneously if they want to use more than one delivery mode – for instance, a PowerPoint and a video conference link.
New step pads behind the lecterns control the camera angles, zooming to a tight shot when the lecturer is behind the lectern then reverting to a wide screen view once he or she steps away.
Video conferencing facilities across various University locations have been stepped up from standard to high definition clarity and new LCD Monitors installed at many of the end points. This will significantly improve the video reception between the campuses and Tamworth and the new Manning Education Centre at Taree.
EchoSystem has also been introduced to record lectures and upload them to Blackboard. EchoSystem was developed around the function of recording live events (specifically lectures) across an entire campus, and making streaming/download/audio and video podcast versions of these recordings available on-demand soon after the lecture.
THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE TIME CONCERTO COMPETITION
This innovative new venture celebrates musical virtuosity, collaboration, and cutting edge creativity in two unique events on right here in Newcastle.
CONCERT 1 - FRIDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2012
Don't miss out on the rare opportunity to witness five global locations performing simultaneously to create one exhilarating and extraordinary event. Including Newcastle Conservatorium Australia, Austria, Singapore, China and New Zealand.
Be part of a global audience right here in Newcastle where you will be immersed by visualisation and sound in a way that can't be achieved with a traditional live performance.
BUY TICKETSCONCERT 2 - SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER 2012
The second night of the International Space Time Concerto Competition series will be held at the University of Newcastle's Harold Lobb Concert Hall. Housing the competition's historical and innovation categories this showcase will propel traditional concerto forms into the 21st century with soloists performing alongside a symphonic orchestra. Virtuoso performances from the Romantic and 20th Century periods for the piano, trombone and violin will run alongside innovative new compositions involving light sculptures, video projections and jazz improvisation.
Don't miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity to see some of Australia's most talented performers in a unique and rare space.
Tickets are on sale now $35 / $20 (concession) inc booking fee through Ticketek
For more information visit the INTERNATIONAL SPACE TIME CONCERTO web site.
$5.5 million expansion of services for students approved for 2013
2013 will once again see a series of exciting projects and initiatives launched to enhance the student experience at UoN.
Funded by the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), the investment will focus on services and projects that look after the health and welfare of students, provide advice and support, and deliver recreational activities.
As in 2012, SSAF funded projects involve extensive student consultation and feedback. The SSAF Student Consultative Group, comprising elected student representatives, will continue to be a direct voice for students.
Funding this year will be allocated to long-term upgrades of social and recreational amenities, and include:
- The development of ‘fitness trails’ that take advantage of Callaghan’s bushland location and the natural setting of the Ourimbah Valley.
- Connecting students with services to help with accommodation, financial matters, legal concerns and employment.
- Setting up an advocacy office with qualified staff to support students’ interests and needs.
- Extending the careers service to improve students’ access to personal careers counselling, both face-to-face and online.
- Expanding informal and social learning spaces where students can relax and access wireless internet.
The SSAF funding will also support an expansion of the O Week program, and student events and activities throughout the year. We will provide regular updates via Experience Newcastle and Facebook in mid February.
Want to know more about the SSAF program? Visit the SSAF pages of the UoN website.
SSAF – allowing students to survive with the new Survival Stations
Everyone knows that surviving University can be tough therefore it was only natural that students would want a self-serve kitchen on campus. So 2012 SSAF funding saw the rise of the Survival Stations at the University of Newcastle.
Currently, the Survival Station at Shortland hub has been well received with feedback suggesting having more around all campuses as they are great for students to be self-sufficient.
“Love this spot. I was unable to find food I could eat on campus and love being able to reheat my own food here. Thanks for the hot water!” says Julie Lewis.
The Central Coast Survival Station has also been well received with students saying initiatives like these are a necessary part of University lifestyle.
"The stations are really good and necessary on campus. They save you money whilst you are at Uni." says Tim from the Central Coast campus.
So if you are a poor University student like so many others, don’t forget you now have FREE hot water for your two minute noddles.
Don’t forget to watch out for the new stations being implemented in 2013!
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
Students Feedback generates a light bulb moment for Professor Lester
Engaging holistically with student feedback in 2010 produced an outstanding turnaround for ABOR3500, Aboriginal Education, Policies and Issues. So much so that the course now sits above University average in the category students said needed the most improvement - Feedback on Assignments.
At wits end
This feedback from the students came as a surprise to Professor John Lester.
“I couldn't fathom why students were not happy with lecturer feedback, as we had gone to considerable lengths to strengthen this important area… I was at wits end trying to fathom what more we could provide”, Professor Lester said.
Digging deep
He took immediate steps to dig deeper, determined to find the source of this concern.
“So we went to the students to find out what more we could do. It quickly became evident that we had forgotten the most fundamental of procedures. We hadn't taken the time to explain how to access feedback on Blackboard!
“While this was a simple mistake, in the process of this analysis, other improvements were also discovered that further strengthen this area”, he said.
Solutions found
Together with his staff, it was decided that some adjustments to existing roles were needed, as well as development of training and resources, such as the ‘Casual Teaching Guidelines’ and a workshop for new tutors. These initiatives were implemented ready for the 2011 academic year.
The results have been remarkable. Professor Lester said this is testament to holistic engagement with student feedback and working together to find solutions.
'Invaluable student viewpoint'
This approach was applied across the Wollotuka Institute’s suite of courses, most of which also saw considerable improvement in 2011 SFC results.
In Semester 1 2010, 54.5% of courses rated above 4 out of 5 in terms of overall satisfaction in comparison to Semester 1 2011 which had risen to 77.8%.
An even more dramatic improvement was evidenced in Semester 2, where the percentage of courses scoring `above 4 out of 5 rose from 38.5% in 2010 to 88.9% in 2011!
“Amazing what you learn when you make the effort to look closely at this invaluable student viewpoint”, Professor Lester said.
Students supporting… Students!
The Student Mentor Program is an opportunity that should not be missed. Every new student will have some questions they need clarified at the beginning of semester, so take advice from someone who has been there and done that.
In the first few weeks of semester, the mentors are available to take their new buddy out for coffee on campus to have a chat about university life. Not only are mentors friendly and inclusive, they also offer support and encouragement based on their own knowledge and experiences.
Student Mentors make contact with new students via email every fortnight to see how they are going. If you are new to uni, it is important that you keep an eye on your UoN email to find out who your mentor is.
Alternatively, if you believe you are somebody who could be a positive Student Mentor, why not see what’s involved? To fit the role, mentors must have completed the first year of their undergraduate program and demonstrate their capability to maintain a Pass grade average. It’s a voluntary program that offers excellent experience for students, recognition on your AHEGS statement, iLead points and an attractive bullet point on their resumes.
Expressions of Interest are open for 2013 or email mentors@newcastle.edu.au for more information.
Studying with a fresh approach
Jacqui Scolari is one of a kind. Originally from Dubbo, she is fuelled with passion, determination and brings a positive perspective to everyone she engages with.
Commencing her Bachelor of Arts degree with a Major in English in 2011, Jacqui is a second year resident at International House, an environment that she appreciates thanks to the acceptance surrounding her cerebral palsy.
“People at University are immediately more mature and receptive of various disabilities. Perhaps this is because many degrees here involve learning more about them. This means I don’t have to explain my situation,” explains Jacqui.
Listening to Jacqui describe her many memories when asked to highlight her most memorable UoN experience to date, you can’t help but ask – what situation?
Jacqui is an influential and inspirational force at International House, jumping feet first into all aspects of residential and University life. Her independent and practical approach to her disability is refreshingly honest, as she cannot immediately pinpoint a challenge she has faced at the University of Newcastle.
“I didn’t even register with the Disability Service at the University of Newcastle until second semester. It just wasn’t something I felt I needed immediately but the assistance they provide is fantastic,” says Jacqui.
Cerebral Palsy may play a role in Jacqui’s life but it certainly does not define her. She is just an ordinary girl, who considers skipping class; loves the Wednesday student night and admired by her friends and peers. Jacqui embraces her Newcastle experience with a fresh approach everyday.
Stuff actually happens...
"I never used to bother responding to student feedback surveys, I just didn't think they made a difference. Then I started casual work at Uni with Planning Quality and Reporting, the Unit that manages these surveys.
The team reads every single response and stuff actually happens. In my three years at UoN, I have seen sign upgrades, increased security, better teaching, and improved services. Something that takes five minutes of our time actually results in things that really improve our experience".
-Jock Spence, Student, Bachelor Commerce and Law.
Read the Individual Course Reports to find out what students said in 2011 about the courses you have chosen
Surfest
Newcastle is home to Surfest, the largest annual festival of surfing in the Southern Hemisphere. The 2012 event was held in March and marked the festival’s 27th year. There were 800 national and international surfers that competed. Competitions include the Burton Toyota Pro (Men’s ASP 6-Star) and the Hunter Ports Women’s Classic (Women’s ASP 6-Star). For more information visit the Surfest website.
TAKE AIM
Academic Integrity is an essential part of university life. To support this there is now a required online course provided to all students via Blackboard on UoNline.
This new self-teaching module will assist students to gain a consistent understanding across a range of important University policies.
The module will cover a range of topics, including:
- Group work - how to work successfully as part of a team
- How to interact with Social Media as part of your studies
- What your responsibilities are as a student of UoN
- University expectations around referencing and plagiarism, and
- The Academic Integrity Policy
It's important that students commencing a new program from 2013 take the time to complete this module before the end of their first term of study. The module can be accessed from Blackboard.
Find out more about Academic Integrity and our Shared Values
Further information about the implementation of the University Academic Integrity Module can be obtained by emailing Keith Foggett, Learning Development Coordinator (Centre for Teaching and Learning) at keith.foggett@newcastle.edu.au
Team Sports at Uni
If you’re into sport, why not join a student team? You will have the opportunity to participate in many events, including the upcoming Australian University Games in Adelaide from 23-28 September 2012.
NUsport manages sporting clubs on the Newcastle campus by providing them with funding, advice and support. There’s lots of sporting clubs including Rugby, Hockey, Badminton, Jujutsu and Mountaineering and they are a great way to stay fit while having fun and meeting people.
Student-athletes achieved an amazing third place at the Eastern University Games in Tamworth recently during the Semester break. If you are keen to take part in the next big competition in September, find out who to contact for your sport and learn more about the Games. Adelaide will play host to 30 sports and over 40 universities when 7000 students descend on the South Australian Capital.
Also coming up on 16 September 2012 is the Australian University Championship – Distance Running. Head to the Sydney Running Festival website to register. You can compete for the Uni in the Marathon, Half-Marathon or the nine-kilometre Bridge Run categories.
So, what's your favourite sport?
The library - your study haven
If the hustle and bustle of home life is making it difficult to knuckle down and get into the study zone head down to the library, they’ve got everything you need to create an environment conducive to study.
To help you with your exam preparation the Auchmuty and Ourimbah Campus libraries opening hours have been extended. From May 25 until 11 June the Auchmuty Library will be open seven days a week until 10pm. Ourimbah will extend its weekend hours until 7pm on Saturday and Sunday from 26 May until 11 June.
Check out the website for more information.
If you need some help navigating the physical resources or online systems be sure to contact somebody at the library. ASAP Info provides access to a library expert via instant messaging between 10am and 4pm weekdays or you can send email, sms, visit the front desk or show up to a drop in session.
As is always the case the Information Commons in the Auchmuty, Newcastle City and Ourimbah Campus libraries are open 24 hours a day, and don’t forget in-built cafes provide caffeine hits on demand.
The stars of UoN
The Federal Government's Office of Learning and Teaching supports learning and teaching in higher education through grants, fellowships, awards and networks. Last year UoN received five Australian Learning and Teaching Council Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning.
One recipient was Dr Shane Dempsey and his team Daphne James and John Tessier who pioneered a transition to practice/workplace curriculum and written guides providing students with skills and increased awareness of the requirements of future graduate practice.
This project worked to ensure that new graduates of health professional programs are better prepared to engage in mandatory Continuing Professional Development, a requirement for ongoing professional registration.
Other UoN recipients of 2011 Citations for Outstanding Contributions to student learning were:
Dr Brendan Boyle, Newcastle Business School, Faculty of Business and Law
For excellence in the development and implementation of approaches to assessment, feedback and learning that foster independent learning amongst diverse student cohorts.
Dr Rachel Burke, School of Education, Faculty of Education and Arts
For innovative approaches to the promotion of greater linguistic awareness and expertise amongst trainee-teachers.
Dr Christian (Kit) Messham-Muir, School of Drama, Fine Art and Music, Faculty of Education and Arts
For inspiring and motivating first-year visual arts students through innovative teaching practices, redesigning course material and assessments and creating comprehensive online learning environments.
Dr Marcus Rodrigs, Newcastle Business School, Faculty of Business and Law
For the development of an active learning approach to influence, motivate, inspire, engage and support students of accounting.
UoN leacturer Michael Ondaatje was the recipient of the 2011 Australian Learning and Teaching Council Award for Teaching Excellence - Early Career.
Michael has been credited with developing stimulating, cutting edge curricula and is seen as highly effective at creating learning environments that set his students at ease, capitalise on their diversity and nurture their multiple talents.
Think Big - Time to Vote!
Our first BIG idea for the year was submitted by students who want to brighten up everyone’s day at Callaghan, by brightening up the Hunter Building Courtyard!
The courtyard at the Hunter Building is a central hub of student activity on the Hunter side of campus. It is close to classrooms, shops, facilities and the Huxley Library. At the moment, the courtyard is looking a bit dull and neglected; not great for a happy study break.
We have had a few suggestions on how to give the courtyard a facelift - coats of paint, potted plants, a mural, extra seating. Now is your chance to suggest ways to make the Hunter courtyard a little friendlier and brighter.
So let us know what you think about this BIG idea at the Think Big Facebook page.
Have you heard of Timebanking?
Looking for a unique way to be involved in your community? The University is working with the NSW Office of Communities to promote a volunteering scheme in our region called ‘Timebanking’, and you can learn all about it at a free BBQ hosted by the Uni’s Community Engagement office.
The Timebanking scheme allows the exchange of services between members. Maybe you’re good at gardening or dog walking. Provide these skills to a member of your community and you earn time credits which you can then use to receive services that are useful and valuable to you. Then look at what’s on offer from other members - guitar lessons, massage, language tuition – the possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
Want to know more? Come to the Auchmuty Courtyard on Wednesday 13 March, 2013 from 12 noon. Here you will meet the friendly members of the Uni’s Community Engagement Team, as well as Timebanking reps who will answer your questions and give you all the details you need.
Everyone can be part of Timebanking as everyone has something to give. Read more at Engage Newcastle.
If you have any questions contact the Community Engagement Office on 4921 8612 or engage@newcastle.edu.au
Life after graduation
Congratulations! You’ve just sat your final exam at uni – what’s next you ask?
Well, UoN still needs to be able to contact you so we can send you stuff like an invitation to your graduation. Therefore it’s pretty important you make sure your current contact details are lodged via gradlink. Did you know that as UoN graduate your UoN email address is yours for life?
Once you graduate, you automatically become a member of UoN's Global Alumni Network.
No matter where you go or what you do you stay connected with your global alumni community- it's a connection for life.
Did we mention joining the Alumni community is FREE? Plus you get a subscripton to the Alumni magazine and e-news, invitations to events and professional development programs in your city (Australia and beyond) and access to alumni achievers in your field.
Join UoN Alumni on Facebook and make sure your contact details are up-to-date on gradlink - don't miss out!
Toothy grins all round at the Central Coast
UoN's mobile dental service has hit the headlines appearing on NBN news.
The dental clinic on wheels will travel throughout the Central Coast until November offering members of the community check-ups with UoN oral health students.
Watch the news piece here.
Find out about other students
UoN experiences are enjoyed both on and off campus, and sharing these stories here through UoN Share reinforces the message that UoN is all about learning, knowing, joining in and having fun.
With over 36,000 students and 2,500 staff at UoN there is no shortage of great teaching and learning experiences.
We’ve only scratched the surface in terms of uncovering these great stories so have a look around this website and feel free to share your own experiences on Facebook.
Come back and visit soon to check out the latest info and see what others have said.
Share a memorable learning experience you have had at Uni with other students.
Time to knuckle down, do some planning and work out how you can get the best mark possible.
It’s hard to believe that we’re already finding ourselves at the pointy end of the semester. The time for final exams and assessments is upon us, as is the time to knuckle down, do some planning and work out how you can get the best mark possible.
Experience Newcastle UoN Study is all about providing you with the tools you need to get through these final weeks and exam time without too much stress. Start on the right foot by getting your exam prep down, attending final lectures and PASS sessions, creating revision timetables and hitting the library. Get some tips for responding to your exam format and find out where to go if you need some help. Make sure you’re all over the adverse circumstances requirements should something unexpected crop up and know where to go if you’re finding everything a bit overwhelming.
Good luck with your exams and final assessments!
Comment about your memorable study experience or tip.
Bar on the Hill Gigs
Bar on the Hill puts on gigs with some of the best bands in Australia.
You can pick up gig tickets from Bar on the Hill on the Hunter side and UContact on the Shortland side. Make sure you bring along your student card and Ucard if you have one for discounted tickets.
Find out what gigs are coming up.
UTV successfully launched with help from SSAF!
2012 saw the launch of the hotly anticipated web-based video channel UTV bought to you by U with assistance from SSAF and it is set to get a further boost via SSAF again in 2013 to broaden its availability to students.
UTV has been a successful web-based communication developed by the students for the students. The program keeps students up to date with what is happening on and off campus, provides essential information about the University and even allows students to showcase their talents on the channel.
“UTV provides students with a new platform to have their voices heard” says Chris, former volunteer at UTV.
You can check out many of the channels episodes at youtube.com/utvnewcastle and get a glimpse of what University life is like. You can also get involved with the UTV team – work experience looks great on your resume!
This is just one of the initiatives that SSAF has allowed students to develop and become involved with, receiving great feedback.
For more information click here or check out the Facebook or Twitter page.
This initiative is funded through SSAF after extensive consultation with students and representative student associations. SSAF is the Federal Governments Student Services Amenities fee. Find out more at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/services-and-amenities-fee/
An Australian first: virtual treatment room
In an Australian first, a virtual radiotherapy treatment room will be used to train student radiation therapists in the safe and effective delivery of high doses of radiation to affected cancer sites in the body.
The University of Newcastle will be home to the nation’s first virtual linear accelerator machine, which mimics the clinical radiation treatment technology currently used to treat cancer patients in Australian radiation oncology centres.
Life-size 3D visualisations of cancer patients, their internal organs and their cancer sites, are projected onto a virtual radiation therapy treatment machine with students able to drive the unit to deliver virtual treatments.
Time to VOTE
Vote for the students you want to become members of Council, Academic Senate, Faculty Board and the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) Student Consultative Group.
Read your candidate statements for all positions.
There was a great response to the recent call for nominations with over 60 valid nominations for the 38 positions. Excellent to see so many students keen to be involved in the decision-making processes of the University.
We are now conducting 11 ballots - one for Council, two for Academic Senate, five for Faculty Boards and three for the SSAF Consultative Group.
Voting papers may be collected and completed in the Student Hubs. Just show your Student ID Card to collect a voting paper and envelopes for each election you wish to vote in. Hand your completed voting paper(s) back to the Hub staff who will put them into the ballot box.
Can't get to a Hub? No problem. Postal votes are also available on request. Just send your address details to Jackie McIntosh (contact details below) specifying which elections you wish to vote in and we'll send the voting papers out to you.
For votes to be included in the ballot, all completed voting papers must be handed back to Hub staff or otherwise sent directly to reach the Returning Officer by no later than 5pm on Monday 5 November 2012.
Contact: Mrs Jackie McIntosh, Governance and Policy, Student Services Centre, Callaghan T: 0249216565 F: 0249217417 E: Jackie.Mcintosh@newcastle.edu.au
WHO WILL YOU BE VOTING FOR?
VOX POP at Graduation 2012
We asked students at this year’s graduation ceremony what their most memorable learning experience was during their degree– play video.
It seems that not knowing what to do next after graduating is a thing of the past. Many of the students we spoke to already had jobs, the majority accepting roles with companies they had taken work placement with through the Uni.
Another thing graduates had in common was the belief that their educational experience was not quite over. Reginald Baker, University Medallist from the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment reminded his peers that the challenge graduates now faced was to continue to grow.
“While we have finished our formal education, we haven’t finished our educational life,” he said.
Don’t forget, there’s always plenty of opportunity for graduates here at UoN, take a look at Kim van Netten, a chemical engineering graduate who’s currently completing a Research Higher Degree; Or Rebecca Gaston who’s looking at primary health care as part of her honours.
Look around this website, share the experiences and stories from some of our students, teachers and graduates. What’s been the highlight of your degree?
Watch out ducks about!
Please take care around Callaghan campus: the baby ducklings are out and about.
We want cutting edge online resources
You said you would like the Uni to develop key student support services online for more convenient options and extend access for students studying off campus.
SSAF will fund a virtual program for student support services purpose built for online delivery of our current services. Features of this online study centre will specifically include delivery of study skills sessions, library information sessions, PASS, the Careers service and health and welfare services.
UoN is looking at redesigning a number of these services to ensure a suitable alternative online experience is available using innovative technology including video content, voice, email, online whiteboards and text chat.
A mobile application for Apple IOS and Android will provide students with valuable tools required to support their needs on the go. Features will include interactive maps, Numail, timetables and transport, events, student diary, library loans, pc seeker, Blackboard, Ask UoN etc.
Find out more about the current services in these areas
Study skills – from the Centre of Teaching and Learning
PASS – peer assisted study sessions
What can the University spend SSAF on under Government legislation?
Many of the services and amenities you use today have been either wholly or partly funded by student fees in the past. These include the Bar on the Hill, Shortland Building and The Forum.
The provision of parking is not an amenity the University can use SSAF funding for; however, the University has submitted development plans for expansion of parking with local council. If these plans were accepted, the University would fund this project separately.
If you have a great idea on how SSAF can be used which fits with the legislation spending categories below submit it to Think Big Initiative.
The University is only able to spend the fee on the provision of the following services:
- providing food or drink to students on a campus of the higher education provider;
- supporting a sporting or other recreational activity by students;
- supporting the administration of a club most of whose members are students;
- caring for children of students;
- providing legal services to students;
- promoting the health or welfare of students;
- helping students secure accommodation;
- helping students obtain employment or advice on careers;
- helping students with their financial affairs;
- helping students obtain insurance against personal accidents;
- supporting debating by students;
- providing libraries and reading rooms (other than those provided for academic purposes) for students;
- supporting an artistic activity by students;
- supporting the production and dissemination to students of media whose content is provided by students;
- helping students develop skills for study, by means other than undertaking courses of study in which they are enrolled;
- advising on matters arising under the higher education provider’s rules (however described);
- advocating students’ interests in matters arising under the higher education provider’s rules (however described);
- giving students information to help them in their orientation; and
- helping meet the specific needs of overseas students relating to their welfare, accommodation and employment.
What is 2011 Medalist Daniel Ogburn up to?
Daniel Ogburn B.Math/B.Sci (Physics) B.Math (Hons) Class 1 and University Medalist is a recent (July 2011) graduate of Newcastle who has started a PhD in Quantum Gravity at UWA in Perth. As part of his introduction to the field and due to an exceptional talent, he has been in residence at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Ontario Canada during August and September.
This basic research centre is dedicated to exploring the world around us at its most fundamental level and was established by Mike Lazaridis, founder of Research in Motion and the innovator who was instrumental in launching the smart phone revolution with Blackberry.
Mike found himself in a position to help foster research and innovation in Canada by establishing a world-class institute devoted to theoretical physics. The PI takes exceptional young researchers and brings them up to speed with the latest developments
The Perimeter Scholars International Program is an independent self-organized program of the PSI Year 2012 at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, addressed by Stephen Hawking. Daniel was very happy to have had the chance to chat with the former Lucasian Professor and learn more about Hawking Radiation.
Photo by Ella Secara
What other famous Physicist held the Lucasian Chair of Mathematics at Cambridge University?
What’s with Watt Space?
Watt Space is a contemporary art space on Auckalnd Street in Newcastle that exhibits work by any of UoN’s talented students whether they are current or recent graduates.
The space provides you with an opportunity to experience exhibiting, curating and gallery management in a real gallery without the commercial pressures of the real world – that being said if you want to sell your work you’re more than welcome to.
“For a student artist, exhibiting work Is the best way to gain real-industry experience,” said Barbie, Bachelor of Fine Art student.
“It’s a priceless opportunity”.
Watt Space is located at the corner of Auckland and King Streets and new work is exhibited every three weeks and is open to the public.
For more information on current and up and coming exhibitions check out Watt Space on the website.
When I grow up I want to be a….
If you’re approaching the end of your undergraduate degree and you’re tossing up a career as a graduate in your area of study, or potentially sticking around uni to do a bit more learning, take a look at Kim van Netten a Chemical Engineering Graduate. Kim’s currently in the throes of a Research Higher Degree and discusses above the path that led her to making the decision to head back to uni after already doing a four year degree-something at the start of her undergraduate studies she didn’t think was a possibility.
If there is only one thing you take away from Kim’s presentation let it be this, “…do yourself a favour and get out there and experience as much as you can. The more you know now the easier your decision will be when the time comes”.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Support
The Wollotuka Institute offers a variety of programs and courses in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture, Education, History and Health.
These programs and courses are managed and taught by an experienced all-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, who are passionate and committed to advocating Indigenous learning. More than half of the courses offered are available online as well as on-campus. For more information about what you can study in Aboriginal Professional Practice visit 'What can I Study'.
Support and development services include tutorial assistance, scholarship and cadetship opportunities, introductory camps, accommodation assistance, counselling and academic and cultural support. Wollotuka also funds Indigenous students to participate in the annual Indigenous Games, which includes universities from all over Australia.
Students and staff will also have the opportunity to join Boot Camp, which is held every Tuesday and Thursday at 4pm. It’s $3 for students and $4 for staff per session and you can weigh-in to track your fitness progress within a friendly team environment.
Visit the Wollotuka Institute website for more information or like the Facebook page to get regular updates.
Yak
Yak is a fun on campus magazine that’s written by students, for students and is brought to you by the U. It comes out every month during Semester with a wide range of articles including entertainment, technology, support services, feature articles, spotted and vox pops.
You can pick it up from the Bar on the Hill, Shortland Building and Hunter Building (there are press points in each of the buildings), City Hub and Central Coast campus. Once you have picked up a copy show them some love on their facebook page or view the latest edition online.
Your very own student web channel
You said you wanted more support for student organisations as well as online and alternative delivery mechanisms for all students on and off campus. We are continuing to allocate funding to assist student clubs, societies and organisations so they can reach their full potential. SSAF will also kick-start a new project by students… FOR students! It’s UTV, your very own student web channel, reporting on all things important to students.
Brought to you by the U, UTV is an awesome way for you to keep up to date with what's happening on and off campus at UoN, and even showcase your production talents if you are in to that sort of thing.
UTV will be officially launching in late September, with regular programming shown at www.youtube.com/utvnewcastle. Programs will cover every corner of your uni experience, academic, social, and even the quirky and kind of odd. There will be news bulletins to keep you informed about what’s going on, and a raft of other programs to keep you in the know and entertained.
UTV will initially be based at Callaghan, but will cover topics for all students of UoN, wherever you are, even if you are studying online. Keep an eye on www.facebook.com/utvnewcastle for sneak peeks at upcoming shows, and get ready for the launch of this exciting project in September.
Every time you fill in a survey it makes an impact!
Every time you fill in a survey it makes an impact on how we enhance your experience at University. Over the past two years we have listened to you, addressed your feedback and focussed on improving student learning, teaching and the overall University experience.
In the past year:
YOU SAID you wanted an improvement to teaching standards in your courses.
WE DID invest in substantial resources to improve courses and degrees and committed ourselves to extensive work across the University in facilities and student support services. As a result, our graduates now rank Newcastle in the top half of the sector for Overall Satisfaction*, the top quarter of the sector for the Good Teaching Scale* and almost at the top of the sector for the Generic Skills Scale* when compares to all universities in Australia – an outstanding result.
YOU SAID you wanted up-to-date info on your courses that was easy to access.
WE DID work with your fellow students to improve the information on Blackboard for all courses. We created Program Blackboard sites for each degree program. We also set up a mobile app for Blackboard so now you can log in anytime, anywhere.
YOU SAID you want help from someone who has already successfully completed your course.
WE DID introduce Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) which is a learning support scheme for students by students. These have been successful and we will continue to expand PASS across the University in 2013.
YOU SAID you need to know more about what’s happening around the Uni.
WE DID create a UoN Students webpage, Facebook account, Twitter account and we installed 45 digital screens across campuses and students are now producing ‘Yak’ – a magazine for students, by students.
YOU SAID you want a relaxed place to hang out, do some group work or private study.
WE DID create chill-out areas for students to hang out for some alone time or with others.
THANK YOU for taking the time to fill out student surveys.
*Information and rankings from the Australian Graduate Survey 2012
You wanted a relaxed place to hang out
So we created indoor and outdoor chill-out areas at Callaghan Campus with comfortable lounges and wifi access. Use this great space if you need some time to relax by yourself, or hang out with a group of friends.
Check out some of the chill-out zones in the:
- Hunter Building on the concourse as well as the courtyard
- Science / Chemistry Building ground floor as well as levels 1 and 2
- Geology foyer and common room
- Maths (V) Building level 1 and the Maths Clinic
- Engineering Foyer of ES, EF and ground and level 1 of EA
- McMullin Building room MCG47 and McMullin courtyard
- ITC room 327
- CT foyer
- Wollotuka we created an outdoor seating area in a bushland setting with Aboriginal
artwork and signage.
You will also see new outdoor seating on both the Central Coast and Callaghan Campus'.
Check out where each of the chill-out zones are located on our maps.