Students
SPED8909 – Critical Reflection and Professional Experience for Practitioners in Sensory Disability
2024 – Session 2, In person-placement, On location
General Information
Download as PDF
| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
Sheridan Howell
Contact via 0436624517
NextSense Institute
8.30- 4.30 Tuesday and Thursday AEST
Unit Convenor
Alison Hawkins-Bond
Contact via 0419227368
NextSense Institute
8.30- 4.30 Tuesday and Friday
Administration
Celise Hill
Contact via 0405120463
NextSense Institute
8.30- 4.30 Monday- Friday. PT in Prof Exp role
Graduate Studies Coordinator
Tanya Kysa
Contact via 0484913641
NextSense Institute
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.30am-3pm
Administration
Shyam Howlin
Contact via 0410271299
NextSense Institute
Course Director
Susan Silveira
Contact via 0477202129
NextSense Institute
Monday to Friday 9-5pm
|
|---|---|
| Credit points |
Credit points
10
|
| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
40cp from SPED8900 - SPED8999
|
| Corequisites |
Corequisites
|
| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
|
| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit provides students with the opportunity to prepare for and then undertake the equivalent of 14 days of professional experiences in the field of sensory disability. As a means of understanding both diverse roles and a team approach, students complete a professional experience including both observation of professionals supporting people with sensory disability and online learning experiences relating to the student's chosen areas of interest. Central to this professional experience is a critical reflection model that guides and highlights the student's awareness regarding the role that research plays in strengthening their professional skills and knowledge. Using critical reflection students will demonstrate in the ePortfolio knowledge of professional practice that optimises outcomes for people with sensory disability. |
Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- ULO1: Analyse research in sensory disability and synthesise findings to make evidence based improvements in identified focus areas for improvement.
- ULO2: Critically reflect on level of professional practice in order to formulate a plan for improvement of service delivery to clients with a sensory disability
- ULO3: Using ePortfolio reflections evaluate the features of effective interdisciplinary team collaboration to support the needs of clients with a sensory disability.
- ULO4: Apply professional experience scenarios to support translation from a professional role grounded within health model, to a role that reflects person-centred approaches within the field of disability
General Assessment Information
Academic honesty
- At all times, students should be aware of and apply the Macquarie University policy on academic honesty (https://policies.mq.edu.au/document/view.php?id=3)
- Information on the acceptable and permitted use of generative artificial intelligence tools (GAIT) is outlined in the instructions for each unit assessment task
Assessment Presentation Guidelines
Please follow these guidelines when you submit each assignment:
- The assignment title page should include the student’s name, student number, unit code, title of the assessment.
- Allow a left and right-hand margin of at least 2cm in all assignments.
- Please type all assignments using a minimum of Arial, 12-point font and SINGLE spacing.
- Faculty assignment cover sheets are NOT required.
- Students should regularly save a copy of all assignments before submission.
- Students must use the Turnitin Similarity Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing and, in consideration of the report outcome, attend to any potential academic integrity issues, prior to submission of the final version of the assignment.
- Students are strongly encouraged to upload a draft copy of each assignment to Turnitin at least one week prior to the due date to obtain a Turnitin Similarity Report. The Turnitin Similarity Report provides students with a similarity index that may indicate if plagiarism has occurred. Students will be able to make amendments to their drafts prior to their final submission on the due date.
- For written assignments in SPED8909 a Turnitin Similarity Report should be reviewed but is NOT required to be submitted.
Assessment submission guidelines
- All assignments must be submitted through Turnitin as an accessible word document – do not submit as a pdf.
- It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all assignments are successfully submitted through Turnitin - students should carefully check that they submit the correct file for an assessment as no re-submissions will be accepted after the due date and time, including instances where students upload an incorrect file in error.
Application for Special Consideration – extensions
- Applications for Special Consideration - extensions must be made via AskMQ (https://ask.mq.edu.au/).
- It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assessments. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the unit convenor when assessments are missed.
Assessment marking
- Word limits are not applied to SPED8909 assignments.
- All assessments are marked using a rubric.
- Marking of all assessments is moderated by the Unit Convenor.
- Turnitin plagiarism detection software is used to check all written assessments.
University policy on grading
Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks
Assignments will be awarded a grade according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. SPED8909 is a pass/ fail unit. Students who demonstrate competency in their Professional Experience will be awarded an Ungraded Pass.
Descriptive criteria for awarding grades in the unit
In order to meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks.The following generic grade descriptors provide university-wide standards for awarding final grades.
|
Grade |
Descriptor |
|
P (Pass). |
Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes |
|
F (Fail) |
Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline. |
Note: If you fail a unit with a professional experience component, the fail grade will be on your transcript irrespective of the timing of the placement.
Withdrawing from this unit
If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator Tanya Kysa on 0484 913 641 or student.enquiries@nextsense.org.au, prior to withdrawing, for advice related to your progression. You can also seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before withdrawing as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact on your progression through the degree.
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by the Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to the student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| ePortfolio (block 1) | 50% | No | Sunday 15th September 2024 by 11.55pm |
| ePortfolio (block 2) | 50% | No | Sunday 3rd November 2024 by 11.55pm |
ePortfolio (block 1)
Assessment Type 1: Portfolio
Indicative Time on Task 2: 33 hours
Due: Sunday 15th September 2024 by 11.55pm
Weighting: 50%
Record of observations and learning experiences in the field of sensory disability
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Analyse research in sensory disability and synthesise findings to make evidence based improvements in identified focus areas for improvement.
- Critically reflect on level of professional practice in order to formulate a plan for improvement of service delivery to clients with a sensory disability
- Using ePortfolio reflections evaluate the features of effective interdisciplinary team collaboration to support the needs of clients with a sensory disability.
- Apply professional experience scenarios to support translation from a professional role grounded within health model, to a role that reflects person-centred approaches within the field of disability
ePortfolio (block 2)
Assessment Type 1: Portfolio
Indicative Time on Task 2: 33 hours
Due: Sunday 3rd November 2024 by 11.55pm
Weighting: 50%
Record of observations and learning experiences in the field of sensory disability
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Analyse research in sensory disability and synthesise findings to make evidence based improvements in identified focus areas for improvement.
- Critically reflect on level of professional practice in order to formulate a plan for improvement of service delivery to clients with a sensory disability
- Using ePortfolio reflections evaluate the features of effective interdisciplinary team collaboration to support the needs of clients with a sensory disability.
- Apply professional experience scenarios to support translation from a professional role grounded within health model, to a role that reflects person-centred approaches within the field of disability
1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:
- the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
- the Writing Centre for academic skills support.
2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation
Delivery and Resources
Required and recommended texts
Boud, D. (2001). Using journal writing to enhance reflective practice. New Directions for Adults and Continuing Education, 2001 (90), 9-18.
Boud, D. (1998). Promoting reflection in professional courses: The challenge of context. Studies in Higher Education, 23(2).
Electronic Communication
It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis. Communication may occur via:
- Official MQ Student Email Address
- The Dialogue function on iLearn
- Other iLearn communication functions
- Please make effective use of the online component of the unit and access iLearn regularly. Keep up to date with checking Announcements on at least a 2x weekly basis especially when on placement.
Information about the iLearn site
SPED8909 has a full web presence through iLearn. All requirements for this unit begin Session 2 Week 1, 2024. Students are expected to access the iLearn site and engage with unit materials regularly during session 2.
Support resources
Macquarie University has a range of services for students. If you are struggling with any aspect of academic life or career trajectory and skills, please refer to the comprehensive list of support services here.
Access and technical assistance
Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/tools-and-resources/ilearn. You will need to enter your student username and password.
Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help. Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk ph: 02 98504357 and 1800 67 4357 or log a request at help.mq.edu.au. OneHelp is the online IT support service for both students and staff.
This unit requires students to use several ICT and software skills:
- Internet access: The iLearn site contains materials for this unit; it is also required for the online submission of all assessment tasks, and for the use of Turnitin submission for ALL tasks.
- Word processing, visual representations, and document formatting: You are required to use an appropriate form of software to present your assignments.
- Uploading of assessment tasks to iLearn.
Unit Schedule
SPED8909 Important Dates for Session 2 2024
|
8 July – iLearn site opens |
|
22 July – Session commences |
|
25 July – Welcome session online |
|
28 July – Activity 1 & 2 due (end week 1) |
|
15 September – ePortfolio (block 1) due |
|
30 September – Tutorial 1 PPT due |
|
3 October – Tutorial 1 online |
|
21 October – Tutorial 2 PPT due |
|
24 October – Tutorial 2 online |
|
3 November – ePortfolio (block 2) due & Session ends |
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
- Academic Appeals Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progression Policy
- Assessment Policy
- Fitness to Practice Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
- Special Consideration Policy
Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.
To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct
Results
Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit connect.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
Academic Integrity
At Macquarie, we believe academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching and research. We recognise that meeting the expectations required to complete your assessments can be challenging. So, we offer you a range of resources and services to help you reach your potential, including free online writing and maths support, academic skills development and wellbeing consultations.
To be eligible to commence the placement component of this unit:
Students are responsible for ensuring that their evidence is current. Please be aware that you may need to update your training or credential prior to beginning your first placement. Students may need to withdraw from this unit if this has not been obtained in time. Students must be able to present evidence of completion of the following prior to Week 2:
- Proficiency in Auslan level 1 and the UEB Literacy training program (modules 1 & 2)
- A Working with Children Check or State/ Territory equivalent. For school placements this must be verified by supervising teacher overseeing the placement before you visit the school .
- Anaphylaxis training (practical or online training). Please note that Anaphylaxis training is only current for 2 years so students will need to update this, if lapsed
- Mandatory Child Protection online training
Fail Rule
This Professional Experience unit is a part of a professional course listed on Schedules 2 and 3 of the Academic Progression Policy. This course has additional requirements that are applicable for the full duration of the course, including course-specific inherent requirements, Fitness to Practice requirements and other compulsory course requirements. It also has rigorous academic progression standards. Inability to meet these requirements may result in a withdrawal of offer of admission and/or permanent exclusion from the course in accordance with the General Coursework Rules.
Professional Experience Unit Placement Expectations
- Students must have submitted all written assessment tasks and/or associated unit component requirements prior to the commencement of the block 1 placement.
- Students who are completing other units are expected to inform and negotiate with that unit convenor about their professional experience block dates and to discuss how that unit's requirements can be met.
- If a Student is identified being in need of additional support for Professional Practice and/or the ePortfolio, the School of Education’s ‘Additional Support’ procedure will be activated.
- Students may not be able to commence their placement until all alleged academic honesty breaches have been investigated and concluded.
- The timing of placements can vary. For placements early in the Session, Fail grades may be approved by the University prior to the end of Session for students who do not meet the placement expectations of the Unit.
Fitness to Practice requirements
- Macquarie University operates under a ‘Fitness to Practice’ model as specified in the University's Academic Progression Policy. For this Unit, this means that, when undertaking a placement, a student is declaring that they are able to demonstrate professional competence, acceptable professional behaviour, freedom from impairment, and compliance with program specific requirements needed for a student to practice properly and safely throughout their Practical, Clinical or Professional program or unit. It is the responsibility of the student to determine whether they are fit to undertake a placement. Therefore, if a student is feeling unfit to undertake a placement, they should not do so. For more information https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/academic-progression and for Fitness to Practice specifically https://policies.mq.edu.au/document/view.php?id=6
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
The Writing Centre
The Writing Centre provides resources to develop your English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.
- Workshops
- Chat with a WriteWISE peer writing leader
- Access StudyWISE
- Upload an assignment to Studiosity
- Complete the Academic Integrity Module
The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources.
Student Services and Support
Macquarie University offers a range of Student Support Services including:
- IT Support
- Accessibility and disability support with study
- Mental health support
- Safety support to respond to bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual assault
- Social support including information about finances, tenancy and legal issues
- Student Advocacy provides independent advice on MQ policies, procedures, and processes
Student Enquiries
Got a question? Ask us via the Service Connect Portal, or contact Service Connect.
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Unit information based on version 2024.03 of the Handbook