The University of Western Web viewFaculty of Science – Science Teaching & Learning Committee Agenda 27th February 2014Page 14

FACULTY OF SCIENCESCIENCE TEACHING AND LEARNING COMMITTEE – F45712

MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD 27 FEBRUARY 2014

PRESENT

Associate Professor Peter Hammond, Assistant Professor James Fogarty, Professor Geoff Meyer, Associate Professor Martha Ludwig, Associate Professor Patrick Finnegan, Professor Jon Evans, Dr Paul Maginn, Associate Professor Paul Abbott, Associate Professor Nicola Mitchell, Professor Paul Fournier, Associate Professor Guan Tay, Professor Jingbo Wang, Ms Marjan Heibloem, Ms Jenny Gamble, Ms Kay Horn, Ms Merrilee Albatis, Mr Alex Bennett, Ms Amelia Dacre, Ms Jan Taylor

1. APOLOGIES

W/Professor Brendan Waddell, Assistant Professor Julian Clifton, Mr Martin Anderson

2. WELCOME

The Chair welcomed Members and invitees to the meeting.

3. DECLARATIONS OF POTENTIAL OR PERCEIVED CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - REF: F45712

No conflicts of interest were declared.

4. MINUTES (NOVEMBER 2013) – REF: F45712

It was

RESOLVED 1/2014

to confirm the minutes of the Teaching and Learning Committee of 7 November 2013 as a true and correct record of the meeting.

5. ACTIONS IN PROGRESS

ITEM DUE DATE / RESPONSIBILITY

STATUS

CRT Project Associate Dean T&L Assoc Prof Peter Whipp has reviewed some teaching staff. Item complete.

Assessment Items and Weighting Paper Faculty Response

Associate Dean T&LProject Manager (Curriculum Development)

A draft paper will be prepared by Ms Marjan Heibloem for consideration by T&L Committee for submission to APS in due course. This item is ongoing

Honours Programs & Units Deputy Dean Significant changes are likely in Honours enrolments in 2015. Both APHB and Chem&Biochem are likely to experience a marked increase in enrolments. A meeting with the relevant HOSs was held in November 2013. This item is ongoing.

Turnitin Deputy DeanFaculty Manager (Academic)

Faculty policy required. Enquiries to be made to determine if other institutions have a policy. Item is on hold and will be progressed at a later date. A new Single Campus account has been created for 2014.

Maths Pre-Requisite for BSc Majors Deputy Dean See agenda item 23.

ITEM DUE DATE / RESPONSIBILITY

STATUS

Science Union – LMS Unit Deputy Dean Faculty agreed Science Union to have an LMS unit established as a means of communication with all Science students. CATL advised that automatic enrolment for all Science students is not possible. Science Union would like to pursue further. CATL response copied to Science Union.

Database of Units that use Animal/ Human Material

Science Student OfficeFaculty Manager (Academic)

A database of relevant units to be kept in the SSO. This item is ongoing.

Authoritative source of the unit outline

Science Student Office Based on feedback, there is a preference for LMS however LMS is not universally accessible. This item is ongoing.

School Boards of Examiners Faculty Office An optional Faculty template for process to be devised to encourage consistency amongst the various School Boards of Examiners. This item is ongoing.

Deferral policy for admission to postgraduate coursework courses

Schools Schools to advise SSO of any postgraduate science courses that should be included in the list of courses that would not normally be considered for deferral. Item complete.

Undergraduate Prizes from Convocation

Deputy DeanProject Manager (Curriculum Development)

Total of $2250 available. Faculty to consider offering three prizes of $750 each by grouping majors into themes. See item 8.

UWA Education Futures Deputy Dean Written reports from each of the working groups were collated and forwarded to the Dean of Coursework Studies in December.

ITEMS FOR THE ATTENTION OF THE ACADEMIC POLICY SERVICES:

PART I: ITEMS FOR COMMUNICATION TO BE DEALT WITH EN BLOCNone.

PART II: ITEMS FOR DECISION TO BE DEALT WITH EN BLOCNone.

PART III: ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND DECISION

6. HEINRICH HEINE UNIVERSITY – STUDENT EXCHANGE AGREEMENT

Members were advised that an application has been received from the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry (SCB) for a Student Exchange Agreement with Heinrich Heine University (HHU), Düsseldorf, Germany.

The Department of Biology at Heinrich Heine Universität (HHU) is a research and teaching active institute. Research is world class at all levels of biology from the molecular to ecosystems, involving animals, plants and microbes. UWA and HHU students will gain international

Faculty of Science – Science Teaching & Learning Committee Agenda 27th February 2014 Page 2

experience at world class universities, expanding their academic networks and scientific communities.

A number of units at HHU are offered in English. Other Schools (e.g. Animal Biology and Plant Biology) are likely to benefit from the Agreement which should result in up to 10 students being exchanged annually over one or two semesters. The Study Abroad office will be responsible for the administration.

Members were provided with the application and accompanying forms (Attachments B, C & D to the Agenda).

It was

RESOLVED 2/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the Student Exchange Agreement with Heinrich Heine University be approved.

7. TEACHING AND LEARNING AWARDS – ESTABLISHMENT OF FACULTY COMMITTEE

The aim of these awards is to recognize, promote and reward excellent and innovative teaching and support of teaching within Science. Winners of Faculty Teaching Awards will be considered for nomination for UWA Teaching Awards and subsequently for possible nomination to the Australian Office for Learning and Teaching (OLT) Awards.

Current guidelines require a judging panel consisting of the Associate Dean (Teaching & Learning) as Chair, co-opted members of the T&L Committee that represent all schools, Associate Dean T&L from another Faculty, a Faculty Manager and two students enrolled in science (one postgraduate, one undergraduate). If one of the members has submitted an application they will be asked to step down from the committee. In addition, if there is a conflict of interest the member will be asked to withdraw from the respective consideration.

Further details can be found at www.science.uwa.edu.au/students/teaching-learning/science-awards.

It was

RESOLVED 3/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the establishment of a Faculty of Science Teaching and Learning Awards Committee be approved.

8. FACULTY OF SCIENCE PRIZE REVIEW

Members were advised that the Faculty of Science is currently reviewing all of its prizes in collaboration with staff from the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. As part of the review, any existing prize governed by regulations will be converted to a prize governed by conditions as appropriate. However, if a prize is no longer current, it will be rescinded. Staff from the Office of Development and Alumni Relations will consult with prize donors as required throughout the review. In several instances, two or three prizes from one donor have had to be merged in order to meet the minimum prize value.

Members were provided with details of the prizes for consideration (Attachment E to the Agenda).

Prizes to be rescinded

a) Alcoa Prize in Natural Resource Management [F3671]

Donor stopped funding the prize


http://www.science.uwa.edu.au/students/teaching-learning/science-awards

http://www.science.uwa.edu.au/students/teaching-learning/science-awards

b) Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prizes [F1878]

Prize will be re-established under a different name

c) Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prizes for Achievement (Natural and Agricultural Sciences) [F2151]

Prize will be re-established under a different name

d) Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences Medal [F1874]

Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences no longer exists

It was

RESOLVED 4/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the Alcoa Prize in Natural Resource Manager [F3671], Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prizes [F1878], Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prizes for Achievement (Natural and Agricultural Sciences) [F2151] and Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences Medal [F1874] be rescinded.

Prizes to be rescinded and re-established with conditions

a) A.J. Marshall Memorial Prize [F1634]

b) Alan Meyer Posner Memorial Prize in Soil Science [F2000]

c) Aubrey Nicholls Honours Prize in Zoology [F1881]

d) Australian Psychological Society Prize in Psychology [F1949]

e) Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Prize [F7808]

f) Digby Fitzhardinge Memorial Prize [F1908]

g) Geoffrey Blee Prizes [F797]

h) Nate and Dora Shilkin Prize [F9550]

i) Tesla Prize and Medal in Experimental Physics [F8740]

It was

RESOLVED 5/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the A.J. Marshall Memorial Prize [F1634], Alan Meyer Posner Memorial Prize in Soil Science [F2000], Aubrey Nicholls Honours Prize in Zoology [F1881], Australian Psychological Society Prize in Psychology [F1949], Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Prize [F7808], Digby Fitzhardinge Memorial Prize [F1908], Geoffrey Blee Prizes [F797], Nate and Dora Shilkin Prize [F9550] and Tesla Prize and Medal in Experimental Physics [F8740] be rescinded and re-established with conditions.

Prizes to be moved out of endowment

a) Science Union Prize in Biology [F1915]

b) Science Union Prize in Geography [F1916]

c) Science Union Prize in Geology [F1917]


Close the endowment for all three prizes and move the funds to a diminishing capital account. Prizes will continue to be awarded from 2013 and 2014. The value will be half of what’s in the fund each year and the prizes will be rescinded after 2014.

It was

RESOLVED 6/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the endowment for the Science Union Prize in Biology [F1915], Science Union Prize in Geography [F1916], Science Union Prize in Geology [F1917] be closed and the funds moved to a diminishing capital account; that the prizes continue to be awarded from 2013 and 2014 with the value half of what is in the fund each year and that the prizes be rescinded after 2014.

Prizes governed by conditions that require amendments

a) C.F.H. and E.A. Jenkins Prizes [F25233]

b) David Evans Memorial Prize in Agriculture [F2051]

c) Lex Parker Prize in Terrestrial Ecosystems [F2121]

d) Oceanic Consulting Marine Science Prize [F25235]

e) Westernex Prize in Field Geology [F1868]

It was

RESOLVED 7/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the C.F.H. and E.A. Jenkins Prizes [F25233], David Evans Memorial Prize in Agriculture [F2051], Lex Parker Prize in Terrestrial Ecosystems [F2121], Oceanic Consulting Marine Science Prize [F25235] and Westernex Prize in Field Geology [F1868] which are all governed by conditions be amended.

New prizes to be established

a) Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Biological and Earth Sciences [Fxxxx]

b) Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Biomedical Sciences [Fxxxx]

c) Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Physical Sciences [Fxxxx]

d) Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Psychological and Sport Sciences [Fxxxx]

It was

RESOLVED 8/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Biological and Earth Sciences [Fxxxx], Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Biomedical Sciences [Fxxxx], Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Physical Sciences [Fxxxx] and Convocation, the UWA Graduates Association Prize for Achievement in Psychological and Sport Sciences [Fxxxx] be established.


9. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE MASTER OF BIOTECHNOLOGY (COURSEWORK)

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment F to the Agenda) from the Faculty of Science, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Master of Biotechnology, with the Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology (24 points) and the Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (48 points) as exit awards. Phase 1 proposals for exit awards are not required. An overview of the structure and a diagram of possible pathways were also provided in the Attachment.

This is a signature program designed to set UWA apart from other Universities by offering a thorough grounding in state of the art biotechnology and combining this with training in enterprise and commercialisation. This includes developing the theory of genetics and molecular biology in parallel with skills training in practical techniques such as genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, recombinant DNA methods, and basic and advanced bioinformatics. Current streams include the application of biotechnology to Plant and Animal Breeding, Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics and Genomics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Marine and Freshwater Biotechnology.

An important market advantage stems from the incorporation of commercialisation and enterprise, business planning and company spin out into the course. This cross-Faculty course will draw on the expertise of staff in the UWA business school, business angels and mentors in biotechnology spin outs to provide the academic and business skills graduates need to make a significant contribution to the biotechnology sector now and into the future. There are also opportunities for students to chase electives from other faculties.

The minimum volume of learning for the degree is 72 points (1.5 years full time) for students with a cognate background, with the possibility of an additional 24 points of conversion units (Levels 1-5).

This structure of the course draws on the expertise of research groups spanning two faculties (Science and Business), four schools (Chemistry and Biochemistry, Animal Biology, Plant Biology and Earth and Environment), two institutes (Agriculture and Oceans) and two centres (Plant Energy Biology and the Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management). Thus the program will be delivered by experts who are at the international forefront in the technology and applications of the course content. This strong research and technology base is combined with experts in business and commercialisation to add elements of commercialisation and enterprise to what is currently a unique training opportunity in Australia. A key concept of the course is to provide the next generation of biotechnologists with the skills required to generate biotechnological solutions and to bring them to market.

While the proposed degree is primarily a Masters by Coursework, it is envisaged to build in the possibility of including a 24 point Dissertation, by either allowing high achieving students to substitute the optional units for a research dissertation, or allowing high achieving students from a cognate area to complete up to 96 points within the degree and thus providing additional space for research, or a combination of both.

In addition, Honours in Biotechnology will be established, from 2015, which (unlike the Master of Biotechnology by Coursework) will be primarily aimed at students interested in pursuing research career in Biotechnology. These students can, after having completed Honours, proceed with either a PhD or the Master of Science (by Thesis and Coursework).

The projected enrolment is 25-30 students in 2015, rising to 50-80 within 5 years. Of these cohorts at least 60% are expected to be international students.

Members were advised that this proposal was the outcome of wide discussion and that for those students with a preference for research could do units concurrently offered in Honours Biotechnology as the same units were offered in both the Honours program and the proposed Masters.


In discussion it was suggested that there could be two streams: one which included enterprise and commercialization and one for pure Science. However it was noted that the proposal was the outcome of a number of discussions during which the possibility of two streams had been considered.

It was

RESOLVED 9/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Master of Biotechnology (Coursework) be approved subject to further consideration given to the suggestion of two streams.

10. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE MASTER OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES (COURSEWORK)

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment G to the Agenda), from the School of Earth and Environment, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Master of Development Studies, as well as the related Graduate Certificate in Development Studies (24 points) and the Graduate Diploma in Development Studies (48 points). Phase 1 proposals for the Certificate and Diploma have not been attached, as they are largely duplicates of the Masters proposal.

The aim of this course is to provide students with grounding in international development concepts, theories and approaches. Students are equipped with the analytical and practical skills they need to engage critically in development issues and debates from an interdisciplinary perspective, and to work across broad areas of development policy, research and practice.


The Master of Development Studies will have 3 Specialisations and is a collaborative venture between - initially - 3 Schools and 2 Faculties: Earth and Environment; Agricultural and Resource Economics; Social Sciences.

Enrolment numbers are expected to rise from 10 per year in 2015 to 25-30 from 2018 onwards, the majority of which are likely to be international students.

It was

RESOLVED 10/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Master of Development Studies (Coursework) be approved.

11. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE MASTER OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE (COURSEWORK)

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment H to the Agenda), from the School of Earth and Environment, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Master of Geographic Information Science, as well as the related Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science (24 points) and the Graduate Diploma in Geographic Information Science (48 points). Phase 1 proposals for the Certificate and Diploma have not been attached, as they are largely duplicates of the Masters proposal.

The Masters in Geographic Information Science allows for the development of technical and research skills applicable to range of disciplines relying on the use of spatial analytic techniques. The course provides for grounding in both theory and application, equipping students with the skills necessary to compete in the spatial industry.


The course will cover applications of GIS and remote sensing technologies, cartography and geovisualisation, and spatial programming. Graduates therefore will be competent in advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) computing skills, GIS and remote sensing operations, and implementation and management of GIS projects.


Enrolment numbers are expected to rise from 10 per year in 2015 to 25-30 from 2018 onwards, the majority of which are likely to be international students.

It was

RESOLVED 11/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Masters in Geographic Information Science (Coursework) be approved.

12. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE MASTER OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE (COURSEWORK)

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment I to the Agenda), from the Faculty of Science, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Master of Biomedical Science, as well as the related Graduate Certificate in Biomedical Science (24 points) and the Graduate Diploma in Biomedical Science (48 points). Phase 1 proposals for the Certificate and Diploma have not been attached, as they are largely duplicates of the Masters proposal.

This course is for students who have completed an undergraduate degree with a major in a biomedical or health-related science. It provides these students with the opportunity to pursue advanced study in one of more of these disciplines. The following specialisations are available: Anatomy & Human Biology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Exercise & Health Science, Microbiology & Immunology, Neuroscience, Pathology, Pharmacology, and Physiology.


Enrolment numbers are expected to rise from 50 per year in 2015 to 75 from 2018 onwards; 30-40% are likely to be international students.

In discussion it was noted that the Faculty is still awaiting feedback from the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences (FMDHS) as to the extent of the initial involvement of its disciplines. Although the description lists the specialisations that will be included (some from FMDHS), at this stage the Faculty can only be sure about our own disciplines (Anatomy and Human Biology, Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Neuroscience).

Concerns were raised by the Member representing the School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology (AP&HB) regarding the availability of sufficient staff to teach this course. It was also suggested that like some other Schools a quota could be applied to the AP&HB Honours program and for those students who did not get in to Honours, they could consider the Masters.

It was

RESOLVED 12/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Master of Biomedical Science (Coursework) be approved subject to confirmation from the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences of their involvement and with consideration given to the concerns raised regarding staff availability.


13. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCE (COURSEWORK)

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment J to the Agenda), from the Faculty of Science, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Master of Health Science, as well as the related Graduate Certificate in Health Science (24 points) and the Graduate Diploma in Health Science (48 points). Phase 1 proposals for the Certificate and Diploma have not been attached, as they are largely duplicates of the Masters proposal.

The proposed Master of Health Science is designed to fill the significant gap left by the loss of the Bachelor of Health Science. The BHlthSc has been a very successful 4-year, undergraduate program in which students take a double major in Population Health and a relevant Science discipline. This unique combination is enhanced by completion of an industry-based practicum in the final year.

The proposed Masters program encompasses a range of medical and health disciplines that underpin advances crucial to human health and wellbeing. These are complimented by a Population Health focus which draws out the relevance of the Science disciplines to the health industry (i.e. health promotion, delivery and administration). Finally, a capstone feature of the program is a direct link to industry via a practicum within a health-related enterprise. Graduates will be well positioned to pursue careers in the health industry, with opportunities in health promotion, administration and delivery.


Enrolment numbers are expected to rise from 50 per year in 2015 to 75 from 2018 onwards; 30-40% are likely to be international students.

In discussion it was agreed that the proposal should include those students with a Health Science background as well as those with a Biomedical Science background. It was also agreed that the Schools of Sport Science, Exercise and Health and Psychology should be represented in the proposal.

It was

RESOLVED 13/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Master of Health Science (Coursework) be approved subject to consideration of the points raised regarding including those students with a Health Science background and the representation of the School of Sport Science, Exercise and Health and the School of Psychology.

14. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE MASTER OF BIOLOGICAL ARTS (COURSEWORK AND DISSERTATION)

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment K to the Agenda) , from the School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Master of Biological Arts, with the related Graduate Certificate in Health Science (24 points) and the Graduate Diploma in Health Science (48 points) as exit awards. Phase 1 proposals for exit awards are not required.

The course is designed for experienced art practitioners, scientists, and humanities scholars who wish to engage with creative bioresearch. The course focuses on recent advances in the life sciences, both in theory and practice. Emphasis is placed on critical thought, ethical and cultural issues and cross-disciplinary experimentation in art and science. Students have access to scientific laboratories, techniques and expertise. Students will take both existing art and science units and a core of SymbioticA units together with a major project and dissertation.



In discussion, concern was raised with regard to the enrolment numbers which are expected to rise from 2-3 per year in 2015 to 5 from 2018 onwards. It was noted that the School is unable accommodate more than 5 students per year.

It was

RESOLVED 14/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Master of Biological Arts (Coursework and Dissertation) be approved subject to consideration of the estimated enrolment numbers.

15. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment L to the Agenda), from the School of Psychology, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology.

This Graduate Diploma serves as a bridging degree to allow individuals who are qualified as Clinical Neuropsychologists, with the Psychology Board of Australia and have completed at least a Masters Degree or equivalent in Clinical Neuropsychology, to up skill in Clinical Psychology, allowing them eligibility for endorsement as a Clinical Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) / AHPRA.

The minimum volume of learning for the degree is 24 points, with the possibility of an additional 24 points of level 4 and 5 units that teach introductory content. The expected enrolment is 2-4 students per year. However it was noted that although enrolments would be low the units offered would be drawn from the existing Master of Psychology.

It was

RESOLVED 15/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology be approved.

16. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment M to the Agenda), from the School of Psychology, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Graduate Diploma in Clinical Neuropsychology.

This Graduate Diploma serves as a bridging degree to allow individuals who are qualified as Clinical Psychologists, with the Psychology Board of Australia and have completed at least a Masters Degree or equivalent in Clinical Psychology, to up skill in Clinical Neuropsychology, allowing them eligibility for endorsement as a Clinical Neuropsychologist with AHPRA.

The minimum volume of learning for the degree is 24 points, with the possibility of an additional 24 points of level 4 and 5 units that teach introductory content. The expected enrolment is 2-4 students per year. However it was noted that although enrolments would be low the units offered would be drawn from the existing Master of Psychology.


It was

RESOLVED 16/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Graduate Diploma in Clinical Neuropsychology be approved.

17. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN AUTISM DIAGNOSIS

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment N to the Agenda), from the School of Psychology, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Graduate Certificate in Autism Diagnosis.

This course will provide graduates trained in psychology, speech pathology, paediatrics, or psychiatry with the specialist knowledge and clinical skills required to participate in team-based diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The minimum volume of learning for the degree is 24 points. The expected enrolment is 15 students per year, increasing to 30 per year.

It was

RESOLVED 17/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Graduate Certificate in Autism Diagnosis be approved.

18. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPUTING

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment O to the Agenda), from the School of Physics, for the establishment – from 2015 – of the Graduate Certificate in High Performance Computing.

This certificate aims to address this learning gap through a series of four units that will equip science and engineering MSc and PhD students with a high level of numerical and computational literacy and, in particular, valuable skills in solving complex scientific problems using state-of-the-art computing facilities. Specifically, students will learn the necessary numerical analysis methods as well as programming languages; become familiar with a variety of visualisation and data analysis techniques; learn to use networked computer systems, shared resources and a variety of operating systems; and demonstrate mastery of parallel programming concepts by solving scientific computing problems in student's core discipline.

The minimum volume of learning for the certificate is 24 points. The expected enrolment is initially 10 students per year increasing to 25 students per year. It was noted that although the responsible organization entity for the proposal is the School of Physics, this is a cross-School initiative with the Schools of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Earth and Environment.

In addition, four new units have been proposed for the Graduate Certificate:

SHPC4001 Principles of Scientific Computing

SHPC4002 High Performance Computing

SHPC5001 Advanced Scientific Computation

SHPC5002 High Performance Scientific Computing

Executive Officer’s Note: the proposals for the four new units were omitted from the Agenda but were circulated to Members after the meeting. The proposals will be provided to the Science Executive Committee on Tuesday 4th March 2014 for approval.


It was

RESOLVED 18/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Graduate Certificate in High Performance Computing be approved.

19. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN DIGITAL FORENSICS

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment P to the Agenda), from the Centre for Forensic Science for the establishment- from 2015- of the Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics.

This course meets the need for a practical qualification that delivers the required knowledge to undertake digital forensic work. The academic objectives are: (1) advanced knowledge of relevant protocols for the handling, storage and transport of digital forensic evidence; (2) comprehensive understanding of the underlying theories and principles of the chosen discipline; (3) highly developed knowledge of the methods, protocols and technologies utilised in the chosen field; (4) an ability to identify a wide range of alternative methods available and their advantages and disadvantages; (5) an appreciation of the origins of the discipline chosen and its range of applications to complex problems of a digital forensic nature; (6) detailed knowledge of the current state of the discipline and issues relating to its acceptance in the law enforcement and legal communities, including what measures can be put in place to overcome these issues; (7) knowledge of the current limitations of the discipline and how they may affect the interpretation of evidence; (8) an understanding of the Australian legal system, especially as it pertains to scientific or technical evidence, and a basic understanding of legal systems in other countries; and (9) further practical experience in conveying complex scientific or technical evidence to a lay person in both a written and oral format.

The minimum volume of learning for the certificate is 24 points. The expected enrolment is 10-12 students per year.

It was

RESOLVED 19/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics be approved.

20. PHASE 1 PROPOSAL FOR THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN FORENSIC INTELLIGENCE

Members were provided with a phase 1 proposal (Attachment Q), from the Centre for Forensic Science for the establishment- from 2015- of the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Intelligence.

Forensic intelligence is the process of assimilating crime scene evidence within the context of indexed datasets of forensic information. This course meets the need for a practical qualification that delivers the required knowledge to assimilate interrelated information to undertake criminal and civil investigations. Innovation in forensic methodologies is leading to greater quantities of high quality data, leading to the need to develop tools to decipher this information. In consultation with local law enforcement agencies, a gap in this area of knowledge has become evident. The proposed course in forensic intelligence was conceived for law enforcement agents or for those seeking to work in the area.

The minimum volume of learning for the certificate is 24 points. The expected enrolment is 10-12 students per year.


It was

RESOLVED 20/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the phase 1 proposal for the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Intelligence be approved.

21. NEW HONOURS PROPOSAL IN SPORT SCIENCE, EXERCISE AND HEALTH

The proposed Honours program provides interdisciplinary research skills and advanced knowledge in a select sub-discipline area (exercise physiology/biochemistry, biomechanics, motor development, exercise and health psychology or activity promotion). This educational experience provides an ideal background for continuance to a PhD or other professional-based research degrees.

Attachment R to the Agenda provides the Phase 2 proposal and all new unit proposals.

The School has submitted the following new unit proposals

SSEH4602 Research Methods – core unit

SSEH4603 Data Analysis – core unit

SSEH4604 Research Communication in SSEH – core unit

SSEH4711 Honours Dissertation Part 1 (6 pts) – core unit

SSEH4712 Honours Dissertation Part 2 (18 pts) – core unit

The Honours program uses the following existing units:

SSEH4633 Advanced Biomechanical Methods (ID4539) – option

SSEH4644 Advanced Exercise Physiology (ID3993) – option

SSEH4564 Advanced Concepts in Motor Control and Learning (ID4523) – option

SSEH4664 Exercise and Health Physiology (ID4524) – option

In discussion it was agreed that an 18 point (SSEH4712) would create issues for part-time students and it was recommended that the School revise the two new Honours Dissertation units (SSEH4711 and SSEH4712) as four 6 point units.

In addition, it was noted that SSEH4604 (Research Communication in SSEH) could be replaced by SCIE4481 (Good, Bogus and Corrupted Science) subject to that unit being approved.

It was

RESOLVED 21/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the proposed Honours in Sport Science, Exercise and Health be approved subject to the revision of the two Honours Dissertation units (SSEH4711 and SSEH4712) as four 6 point units and the possible replacement of SSEH 4604 with SCIE4481.

22. NEW UNIT PROPOSAL SCIE4481 GOOD, BOGUS AND CORRUPTED SCIENCE

Members were provided with a proposal (Attachment S to the Agenda) from the School of Sport Science, Exercise and Health and the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry for the establishment of the Level 4 unit “SCIE4481 Good, Bogus and Corrupted Science”, from 2015.

In this age of unsurpassed scientific enlightenment, it is of concern that so many individuals, regulatory bodies, learned institutions, and governments fall prey to the misleading messages of bogus science and corrupted science. The primary goal of this unit is to sensitise students to this


reality and provide them with the skills to not only distinguish genuine scientific findings from spurious ones, but also understand why and how the industries and institutions supporting corrupted and bogus science flourish.

It is intended that this unit be available to all postgraduate courses and Honours courses in the Faculty of Science as well as other Faculties. However it was noted that this should be a semester 2 unit not semester 1 as per the proposal.

It was

RESOLVED 212/2014

to recommend to the Science Executive Committee that the proposal for the new unit SCIE4481 Good, Bogus and Corrupted Science be approved.

23. MATHS PRE-REQUISITE FOR BSC MAJORS

Members were reminded that this item had been on the Teaching and Learning Committee Agenda since July 2013 and the matter remains unresolved.

As previously discussed, the assumed entry requirement of Math 2C/2D or higher for the BSc is not formally in place. Recently Members had been asked to advise the following, consistent with the TISC guides for 2014, 2015 and 2016:

(i) the core UWA unit(s) in which the Maths prerequisite is to be set (ii) the prerequisite to set (iii) a short rationale for the choice.

In addition the above information is also required for any Major with prerequisites in the TISC guides in other WACE subjects, if the WACE subjects are not already declared as prerequisites in the UWA Handbook entries of the core unit(s) of the Major.

Furthermore, the same information is required for the 2017 TISC guide however the 2017 cohort will be the first to enroll at UWA with an Australian Curriculum background and those students will need to make their Australian Curriculum choices in mid-2014.

Responses had been received from the Schools of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology; Animal Biology; Chemistry and Biochemistry; Physics; Psychology; and Sports Science, Exercise and Health (Attachment T to the Agenda) and it was clear from these and from previous discussions that views were wide-ranging; some Schools considered 2C/2D a requirement for some units, some Schools had no requirement whilst another School believed 2C/2D was not high enough.

However it was agreed that the easiest way to resolve the issue would be to have 2C/D as a requirement for the BSc.

Members were asked to take this item back to their Schools for urgent discussion as this would be an item for discussion and decision on the Science Executive Committee Agenda at the meeting on Tuesday 4 March 2014. Schools were advised that any prerequisites should be at Level 1 (and possibly Level 2 subject to confirmation) and that co-requisites were an option.

24. E-SPOT QUESTIONNAIRES

Members were reminded that from semester 2, 2013 academic staff were able to order their questionnaires via an on-line system which allowed them to either choose on-line or paper based surveys although the on-line SPOT questionnaires were only available for individual lecturers teaching a unit and for those units on LMS.


Schools were recently advised that information was now required for the units being offered between 24 February to 21 June 2014 for semester 1 and those units ended on 29 September 2014 for TRI 2. On-line SPOT questionnaires are still only available for individual lecturers.

Staff in the School of Sport Science, Exercise and Health are concerned that the response rate for on-line questionnaires will be low and that staff who use the questionnaires to improve teaching will acquire little or no useful information.

This item was held over until the next Teaching and Learning Committee meeting.

25. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

There was no other business.

26. NEXT MEETING

The next meeting of this Committee is scheduled for Thursday, 27th March 2014 commencing at 3:00 pm in the Faculty of Science Board Room, Ground Floor, Central Agriculture Building.


Documents

The University of Western Web viewFaculty of Science – Science Teaching & Learning Committee Agenda 27th February 2014Page 14