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Academic Committee Minutes 1/2019 Thursday 14 March 2019

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GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY

ACADEMIC COMMITTEE

A meeting of the Academic Committee of the Griffith University Council was held at 10:00am on Thursday, 14 March 2019 in Council Chambers, Room 2.01/2.02, Leneen Forde Chancellery (G34), Gold Coast campus.

MINUTES

PRESENT: APOLOGIES: Professor Debra Henly (Chair) Professor Charles Arcodia (a/Head of Dept, Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management) Professor Bonnie Barber Professor Sue Berners-Price Professor Ruth Bereson (a/PVC, Arts, Education and Law)

Professor Martin Betts Professor Nick Buys Professor Elizabeth Cardell Professor Fabrizio Carmignani Professor James Carson Professor Derrick Cherrie Dr Aysin Dedekorkut Dr Lakal Dissabandara Professor Rob Ellis Professor David Ellwood Professor Carolyn Evans Associate Professor Elisabeth Findlay Professor Mark Forwood Ms Kathy Grgic Professor Ross Guest Professor Scott Harrison Associate Professor Margo Lane Professor Fred Leusch (a/Head of School, Environment and Science) Professor Alf Lizzio Professor Wendy Loughlin Professor Robert Love Ms Roshni Mathew Dr Christine McDonald Professor Sara McGaughey Ms Kassidy-Rose McMahon Professor Ruth McPhail Professor Sherif Mohamed Professor David Neumann Ms Linda O’Brien Professor Analise O’Donovan (a/PVC, Griffith Health) Professor Ned Pankhurst Professor Robert Sang (a/PVC, Griffith Sciences) Professor Fran Sheldon Professor Bela Stantic Professor Sarah Todd Professor Michael Townsley Professor Herman Van Eyken Professor Scott Weaven Associate Professor Leanne Wiseman

Mr Mark Fisher (Secretary)

Professor Debra Anderson Professor Mark Brimble Mr Peter Bryant Ms Vimbaishe Chibanga Professor Graham Cuskelly Professor Andrew Davey Professor Gerry Docherty Dr Amir Etemad Shahidi Professor Rebecca Ford Associate Professor Albert Gabric Professor David Grant Associate Professor Robyn Hollander Professor Donna McAuliffe Professor Paul Mazerolle Professor George Mellick Ms Naseema Mustapha Professor Andrew O’Neill Professor Donna Pendergast Professor Sheena Reilly Dr Naveen Sharma Professor Andrew Smith Professor Rosemary Stockdale Ms Maureen Sullivan Associate Professor Mohan Thite Professor Joan Vaccaro Associate Professor Thea van de Mortel (a/Head of School, Nursing and Midwifery) Dr Benjamin Weeks Associate Professor Michelle Whitford Professor Therese Wilson



1.0 COMMITTEE QUORUM

1.1 At the scheduled meeting time, a quorum of the Committee was present (44 members in attendance, including the Chair - current requirement for quorum: 36 members).

2.0 DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTERESTS

2.1 Nil.

3.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

3.1 The minutes of the 4/2018 meeting were taken as read and confirmed.

4.0 MEMBERSHIP 4.1 The Committee noted the following new* members:

Membership Category Member

Vice Chancellor and President Professor Carolyn Evans

Acting Head of Department (Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management) [until 16 June 2019]

Professor Charles Arcodia

Elected academic staff member (AEL) Associate Professor Elisabeth Findlay

Elected academic staff member (AEL) Associate Professor Leanne Wiseman

Elected academic staff member (GBS) Professor Sara McGaughey

Elected academic staff member (HTH) Associate Professor Margo Lane

Elected RHD candidate Ms Vimbaishe Chibanga

Elected Postgraduate coursework student Ms Naseema Mustapha

Elected Undergraduate student (AEL) Ms Kassidy-Rose McMahon

Elected Undergraduate student (HTH) Ms Roshni Mathew

* Professor Joan Vaccaro re-elected to the position of academic staff member (SCG) for a continuing term until 31 December 2020.

SECTION A: RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS TO COUNCIL

5.0 REVIEW OF THE SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES, LANGUAGES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE

5.1 The Committee noted that the School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science was reviewed during May 2018. An independent review committee, comprising three committee members external to the University and one committee member internal to Griffith University reviewed the School.

5.2 The Review was conducted in accordance with the University Reviews Policy

(2016/0000215) and University Reviews Guidelines (2017/0000456). In addressing the terms of reference for the review, the Review Committee conducted an evaluation of the specific functions, current performance and future plans of the School.

5.3 Members were provided with the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of

Humanities, Languages and Social Science (2018/0002863) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science (2019/1002049), prepared in consultation by the Pro Vice Chancellor (Arts, Education and Law) and the Head of the School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science.



5.4 The Committee noted that, at its 2/2019 meeting on 20 February 2019, the Executive Group endorsed the Review Report and the Implementation Plan. The Acting Pro Vice Chancellor (Arts, Education and Law), Professor Ruth Bereson, provided members with a brief contextual background to the review and an overview of the Review Panel’s findings, affirmations and commendations, notably including:

• the collegial ethos of the School and the positive and diligent leadership of the Head of School and the leadership team;

• the extent of research excellence, and positive relationship between the School and the Griffith Centre for Cultural and Social Research (GCSCR);

• the continuous renewal of research capacity, and effective management of HDR training pathways and HDR outcomes/completions;

• the School’s success in student mobility within the internationalisation area; and

• advances in Equity, particularly the promotion of women and appointment of women to senior roles.

5.5 The Head of School, Professor James Carson, drew attention to the significant

synergies between the School’s self-review process and the Review Panel’s appraisal providing a positive platform for constructive outcomes. Principal points noted in the translation of this through progressing the Implementation Plan recommendations included:

• enhancing the strategic focus of the School’s identification with Social Justice, themed as “making social justice matter” and as “a School for a better world”;

• developing a research strategy with clear targets supporting the career performance management of researchers and distinguishing the School’s research strategy from the GCSCR;

• reducing duplication and increasing efficiencies across degrees, modes of delivery and campuses;

• undertaking a collaborative approach to developing a long-term strategy to ensure the sustainability of the School’s language programs; and

• addressing the challenges associated with expanding industry partnerships. 5.6 Members provided feedback, with suggestions particularly noted regarding:

• the importance of clarity concerning responsibilities for research performance (associated with the nexus between the School and the GCSCR, and including management of HDR candidates); and

• the potential opportunities to be explored regarding initiatives for the implementation of Recommendation 6 – developing a long-term strategy to sustain and enhance the delivery of language programs.

Resolution 5.7 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the Report of the Committee

Reviewing the School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science (2018/0002863) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science (2019/1002049).

6.0 REVIEW OF THE SCHOOL OF APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY

6.1 The Committee noted that the School of Applied Psychology was reviewed during June 2018. An independent review committee, comprising three committee members external to the University and one committee member internal to Griffith University reviewed the School.


(2016/0000215) and University Reviews Guidelines (2017/0000262). In addressing the terms of reference for the review, the Review Committee conducted an evaluation of the specific functions, current performance and future plans of the School.



6.3 Members were provided with the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of

Applied Psychology (2019/0004642) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of Applied Psychology (2019/1002031), prepared in consultation by the Pro Vice Chancellor (Health) and the Head of the School of Applied Psychology.

6.4 The Committee noted that, at its 1/2019 meeting on 6 February 2019, the Executive

Group endorsed the Review Report and the Implementation Plan. The Acting Pro Vice Chancellor (Health), Professor Analise O’Donovan, provided members with a brief contextual background to the review and the Review Panel’s engagement.

6.5 The Head of School, Professor David Neumann, highlighted for the Committee a

number of the Review Panel’s commendations and affirmations. Comprised among them, the Panel acknowledged:

• the School’s high commitment to research productivity and excellence, along with positive HDR candidate feedback on their supervision, the commendable completion numbers and strong demand for HDR places in key areas;

• the progress achieved with supporting sustained quality and quantity of publications;

• the successes associated with student satisfaction and preparedness, and the effective structures supporting program delivery;

• the impressive blended learning and teaching for first year students; and

• the strong partnerships with industry supporting teaching and work integrated learning (WIL), which in turn facilitates placement of students and a positive profile in the community.;

6.6 Principal points noted in regard to the Implementation Plan recommendations

included:

• exploring options for the introduction of a separate academic calendar (for the School’s postgraduate programs, to more effectively accommodate student placements);

• implementing campus-specific delivery of the Master of Clinical Psychology (2019);

• refining and strengthening the School’s research strategy and more clearly articulating outcomes associated with the quality and impact of research activities (including further improvement in the volume of quality publications);

• enhancing curriculum as an intervention measure to systematically address concerns regarding student retention (at the Mount Gravatt campus); and

• establishing clear internationalisation goals. 6.7 Members provided feedback, in particular, the requirement for an amendment to the

Implementation Plan, removing from the listed responsible officers under Recommendation 7, the reference to the ‘Director, Griffith International’ (p. 10).


Reviewing the School of Applied Psychology (2019/0004642) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of Applied Psychology (2019/1002059), subject to the noted edit under Recommendation 7.

[Subsequent to the meeting, the noted edit (removing from Recommendation 7, reference to the ‘Director, Griffith International’ under the listed responsible officers [p. 10]) was updated in the version of The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the School of Applied Psychology (2019/1002059) submitted to University Council.]



7.0 REVIEW OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM, SPORT AND HOTEL MANAGEMENT 7.1 The Committee noted that the Department of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management

was reviewed during August 2018. An independent review committee, comprising three committee members external to the University and one committee member internal to Griffith University reviewed the Department.


(2016/0000215) and University Reviews Guidelines (2017/0000262). In addressing the terms of reference for the review, the Review Committee conducted an evaluation of the specific functions, current performance and future plans of the Department.

7.3 Members were provided with the Report of the Committee Reviewing the Department

of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management (2018/0002868) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the Department of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management (2019/0004641), prepared in consultation by the Pro Vice Chancellor (Business) and the Head of the Department of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management.


Group endorsed the Review Report and the Implementation Plan. On behalf of the Pro Vice Chancellor (Business), the Dean (Academic) Professor Fabrizio Carmignani, provided members with a brief contextual background to the review and an overview of the Review Panel’s findings, commendations and affirmations. Noting particularly, the Panel’s recognition of:

• the strong international standing evidenced by the Global rankings achieved, especially in the field of Tourism;

• the strategic investment in supporting the Department’s future leadership, through important professorial appointments;

• the clear alignment of the Department’s strategic plan with that of the Group;

• the innovative approach to program delivery, particularly postgraduate coursework programs;

• the strong and enduring support from industry; and

• the student recruitment successes of the Department (noting also the need to diversify further the cohort composition).

7.5 The Acting Head of Department, Professor Charles Arcodia, informed the Committee

on progress with executing the Implementation Plan recommendations. Key points included:

• enhancing cross-disciplinary research endeavours to facilitate a strengthening of research activity in all fields and domains within the School;

• extending the scope of experiential learning within both undergraduate and postgraduate curricula;

• implementing strategic initiatives to facilitate effective staff development and mentoring programs;

• building on established industry links and tapping into WIL as a mechanism for better profiling professional identity for students;

• developing a Department engagement strategy consistent with the University’s goals and priorities in the area; and

• leveraging opportunities to think strategically about continuous improvement. Resolution 7.6 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the Report of the Committee

Reviewing the Department of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management (2018/0002868) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing the Department of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management (2019/0004641).



8.0 REVIEW OF ACADEMIC SERVICES 8.1 The Committee noted that Academic Services was reviewed during September 2018.

An independent review committee, comprising three committee members external to the University and one committee member internal to Griffith University reviewed the Academic Services section of Academic Administration.


(2016/0000215) and University Reviews Guidelines (2017/0000456). In addressing the terms of reference for the review, the Review Committee conducted an evaluation of the specific functions, current performance and future plans for Academic Services.

8.3 Members were provided with the Report of the Committee Reviewing Academic

Services (2018/0002873) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing Academic Services (2019/1002050), prepared in consultation by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) and the Academic Registrar.


Group endorsed the Review Report and the Implementation Plan. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Debra Henly, provided members with a brief contextual background to the review and an overview of the Review Panel’s findings, commendations and affirmations. Points of note included:

• the substantial and highly-valued corporate knowledge and policy expertise of the Deputy Academic Registrar and Academic Registrar;

• the key role performed by the Academic Services Consultants, recognised for their outstanding facilitation of effective communications between the four academic groups and central administration, and for their support of transformative processes;

• the significant and well-respected work of the Student Integrity team in their guidance with navigating to achieve commendable resolutions for complex student issues; and

• the efficient management and servicing of central processes supporting innovative program development, approval and external accreditation.

8.5 The Chair observed the significant risk factors apparent for the University regarding

the retention and transfer of corporate knowledge associated with the leadership and activities of Academic Services. Members were advised that appropriate measures were in the process of being developed for effective succession and suitable senior support for targeted strategic initiatives.

8.6 The Academic Registrar, Ms Kathy Grgic, apprised the Committee on key actions

connected with progressing the Implementation Plan recommendations. Members were advised also of the concurrent considerations associated with the imminent broader review to be undertaken of Academic Administration. Factors of note included:

• the importance of aligning reforms, renewed structures and the staff profile to best serve the University’s next Strategic Plan (currently being developed);

• ensuring compliance, service and agility are balanced suitably in the systematic review of the Policy Library; and

• facilitating further opportunities for effective and innovative partnering and collaborative engagement.

8.7 The Implementation Plan recommendations included the proposed establishment of

the Student and Academic Policy Standing Committee as a sub-committee of Academic Committee. Members were referred to the Constitution (2019/1002033), prepared for consideration by Academic Committee.



8.8 The Committee was advised that the proposal to establish the Student and Academic Policy Standing Committee has arisen in response to the identified need for a more nuanced approach to processes associated with risk management, compliance matters and the development and review of applicable policies.


Reviewing Academic Services (2018/0002873) and The Response to the Report of the Committee Reviewing Academic Services (2019/1002050).

8.10 Academic Committee approved the establishment of the Student and Academic Policy

Standing Committee and the proposed Committee Constitution (2019/1002033).

9.0 18 MONTH IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS REPORT: REVIEW OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND ASIAN STUDIES

9.1 Academic Committee was advised that, in accordance with the University Reviews

Policy (2016/0000125) and University Review Guidelines (2013/0014757), academic and administrative elements are required to report implementation progress 18 months post review.

9.2 The Review of the Department of International Business and Asian Studies – 18 Month Progress Report (2018/0002875) was provided to the Committee for consideration and proposed endorsement.

Resolution 9.3 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the Review of the

Department of International Business and Asian Studies – 18 Month Progress Report (2018/0002875).

10.0 18 MONTH IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS REPORT: REVIEW OF LEARNING FUTURES

10.1 The Review of the Learning Futures – 18 Month Progress Report (2018/0002872) was provided to Academic Committee for consideration and proposed endorsement, in accordance with the University Reviews Policy (2016/0000125) and University Review Guidelines (2013/0014757).

Resolution 10.2 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the Review of the Learning

Futures – 18 Month Progress Report (2018/0002872).

11.0 STUDENT COMMUNICATION POLICY

11.1 Academic Committee was provided with the revised Student Communication Policy (2019/1002044) and for consideration and proposed approval. The updated Schedule A: SMS for Current Students Guidelines (2019/1002024) accompanied the revised Policy document, together with the following guidelines, provided for reference:

• Schedule B: Current Student Broadcast Email Guidelines (2019/1002026)

• Schedule C: myOrientation Guidelines (2019/1002027); and

• Schedule D: myGriffith Guidelines (2019/1002028). 11.2 The Chair informed members on the contextual background leading to the

comprehensive review of the Policy and provided a brief overview of the proposed revisions. The Committee was reminded of the 2017 PwC Review of Student and Academic Administration and the subsequent systematic examination of Griffith



University’s communications with current students, conducted in accordance with the outcomes from the PwC Review.

11.3 The 2018 establishment of the Student Communication (Current Students) Steering

Committee, as a sub-committee of Learning and Teaching Committee was also noted. Members observed that the Steering Committee’s primary role is oversight of (and the on-going enhancement of) the quality and consistency of Griffith’s communications with current students. The Steering Committee is Co-Chaired by the Dean, Learning and Student Outcomes, and the Academic Registrar. Supporting strategies include: development of a communications plan (to drive improvements); tighter curation of CMS content; and implementing a restructured communication framework.

11.4 Academic Committee was advised that the updated policy outlines the over-arching

principles for communications with students, and that the proposed revisions were primarily intended to streamline administrative-related communications, to enable an effective process for aggregating multiple messages and identifying officers principally responsible for the categorised listings. The amended document sought to provide coherence. It was emphasised that communications between course convenors and their students were outside the scope of the Student Communication Policy.

11.5 The Academic Registrar underlined the point concerning the distinction between the

two portals for the respective forms of communication with students:

myGriffith – administrative-related messages

Learning@griffith – academic matters;

and noted that different protocols applied to communications associated with crisis and emergency situations.

11.6 In response to a query concerning student to University inquiries, it was agreed that

the Student Inquiry Framework would be brought forward to Academic Committee, via Learning and Teaching Committee. Members were advised that effective data curation was of fundamental importance for the smooth management of and timely response to in-bound inquiries.

11.7 The Committee considered several further points and the following edits to the policy

were supported:

removal of “are two way and” from the sentence “Communications between the University and its students are two way and …” (refer section 1 Content, p.2);

replace “enabling successful transition” with “enabling successful transmission of information” (refer section 1 Content, p.2);

additional wording inserted “(including course-related communications between course convenors and their students)” , further emphasising that course convenor communications to students were not within the scope of the Policy (refer section 2 Scope, p.2);

definitions to be added for “aggregations”, “Aggregator” and “Approver”; and

consistent reference to “HDR candidate” to be applied throughout document. Resolutions 11.8 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Student Communication Policy

(2019/1002061), subject to the noted edits (refer 11.7, above). 11.9 Academic Committee resolved to approve the updated Schedule A: SMS for Current

Students Guidelines (2019/1002024). 11.10 Academic Committee resolved to note the new guidelines developed to accompany

the Student Communication Policy (2019/1002061), subject to inclusion of revisions consistent with the edits included under section 1 of the policy:



Schedule B: Current Student Broadcast Email Guidelines (2019/1002062)

Schedule C: myOrientation Guidelines (2019/1002063); and

Schedule D: myGriffith Guidelines (2019/1002064). 11.11 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the following amendments to

the Approving Authorities for University Policies:

SMS for Current Students Guidelines Academic Committee

Student Communication Policy – Schedule A: SMS for Current Students Guidelines

Student Communication Policy – Schedule B: Broadcast Email for Current Students Guidelines

Student Communication Policy – Schedule C: myOrientation Guidelines

Student Communication Policy - Schedule D: myGriffith Guidelines

Academic Registrar

12.0 ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT POLICY – HIGHER DEGREE RESEARCH CANDIDATES

12.1 The amended Academic Misconduct Policy – Higher Degree Research Candidates (2019/1002035) was provided to Academic Committee for consideration and proposed endorsement.

12.2 The Committee noted that the proposed changes, drafted in consultation with the

Office for Research, were necessary to ensure clear alignment with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (2018) and the University’s corresponding policy document: The Responsible Conduct of Research (2018/9006116). The following revisions were also included:

updating references to ‘related documents’ and ‘enterprise agreements (section 1);

clarifying the wording for minor and unintentional acts (that fall under the definition of HDR academic misconduct); and

revising the reference to Research Integrity Advisors (section 5) to align with the description provided in The Responsible Conduct of Research policy document.

Resolution 12.3 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the revised Academic

Misconduct Policy – Higher Degree Research Candidates (2019/1002035).

13.0 ACADEMIC COMMITTEE CONSTITUTION

13.1 The Committee was asked to consider the proposed endorsement of revisions to the Academic Committee Constitution (2019/1002010). Members were advised that the amendments were confined to:

• an update of the Membership (refer section 5, p. 3), to include the Chair, University Appeals Committee and the Dean, Griffith Graduate Research School; and

• an addition (refer section 12, p. 5), listing the sub-committees reporting to Academic Committee.

Resolution 13.2 Academic Committee resolved to recommend to Council the revised Academic

Committee Constitution (2019/1002010).



SECTION B: ACTION UNDER DELEGATED AUTHORITY

14.0 STUDENT ADMINISTRATION POLICY 14.1 The revised Student Administration Policy (2018/9005061) was presented to

Academic Committee for consideration and proposed approval. Members were advised that the updated Policy included proposed revisions arising as a result of changed arrangements for the Pearson Alliance Programs. Accordingly, Schedule A of the Policy had been removed. The purpose of the Schedule had been to identify different dates applying to courses offered in the Pearson programs than those applicable to other Griffith courses under the standard Academic Calendar (for census dates, course add and course drop dates).

14.2 The Committee noted that, subsequent to the publication of Schedule A, the

Academic Calendar Procedure was created, with a definition for the “Six Week Teaching Calendar”. Consequently, this presented the opportunity to remove Schedule A and include the applicable information into the Policy (under Table 1, refer page 8). Members observed that this amendment has the added benefit of removing the need for further amendments if future programs operate using the six week teaching periods.

Resolution 14.3 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Student Administration Policy

(2018/9005061), with immediate effect. [Subsequent to the meeting, further revisions associated with the approved updates were identified as necessary before proceeding to publication of the amended policy. Consequently, a proposal for consideration of the integrated changes will be submitted to the 2/2019 Academic Committee meeting.]

15.0 PROGRAM APPROVAL AND REVIEW POLICY 15.1 The revised Program Approval and Review Policy (2018/9005184) was presented to

Academic Committee for consideration and proposed approval. Members noted that the updated document included revisions endorsed by Programs Committee to update content in alignment with current terminology and to specify how often an ‘in depth’ program review should occur.

Resolution 15.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Program Approval and Review

Policy (2018/9005184), with immediate effect.

16.0 UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS ADMISSION POLICY 16.1 The revised Undergraduate Programs Admission Policy (2019/1002038) was

presented to Academic Committee for consideration and proposed approval. Members were informed that the updated document included proposed minor revisions to the wording of clause 3.10.2 (under sub-section 3.10 English Language Entry Requirements – refer p. 9), consistent with changes to the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) and Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE).

16.2 The Committee noted that the Vice President (Global) had approved the proposed

updates, advised by the Griffith English Language Institute (GELI). The revisions incorporate the re-named Cambridge CAE and CPE exams and equivalent scores,



determined by the Qualifications for higher education: A guide to setting your admissions requirements.

Resolution 16.3 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Undergraduate Programs

Admission Policy (2019/1002038), with immediate effect.

17.0 POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMS ADMISSION POLICY 17.1 The revised Postgraduate Programs Admission Policy (2019/1002039) was presented

to Academic Committee for consideration and proposed approval. Members were informed that the updated document included proposed minor revisions to the wording of Section 4 English Language Requirements (refer p. 5), consistent with changes to the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) and Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE).

17.2 The Committee noted that the Vice President (Global) had approved the proposed

updates, advised by the Griffith English Language Institute (GELI). The revisions incorporate the re-named Cambridge CAE and CPE exams and equivalent scores, determined by the Qualifications for higher education: A guide to setting your admissions requirements.

Resolution 17.3 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Postgraduate Programs

Admission Policy (2019/1002039), with immediate effect.

18.0 HIGHER DEGREE RESEARCH POLICY 18.1 The revised Higher Degree Research Policy (2019/1002041) was presented to

Academic Committee for consideration and proposed approval. Members noted that the document updates included minor revisions to:

the wording of sub-section 7.5 English Language Requirements (refer p. 11), consistent with changes to the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) and Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE); and

the list of Related documents (refer p. 1) had also been updated, to include the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (2018).

18.2 The Committee observed that the Vice President (Global) had approved the proposed

updates, advised by the Griffith English Language Institute (GELI). The revisions incorporate the re-named Cambridge CAE and CPE exams and equivalent scores, determined by the Qualifications for higher education: A guide to setting your admissions requirements.

Resolution 18.3 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Higher Degree Research Policy

(2019/1002041), with immediate effect.

19.0 ASSESSMENT POLICY 19.1 Academic Committee was asked to consider approval of the Assessment Policy

(2019/1002025), which included a proposed minor revision to the wording of clause 9.1.1 (under Section 9 Special Consideration and Deferred Assessment – refer p. 8). Members noted that the update was intended to provide improved clarity on the specific meaning of “attempted” in the context of when special consideration is applicable.



19.2 The Committee was advised that the proposed wording revision (below) had been

endorsed by Learning and Teaching Committee, on recommendation from Assessment Committee:

An application for special consideration for an assessment item or examination is applicable only where an assessment item has been submitted, or an examination has been attended.

Resolution 19.3 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Assessment Policy

(2019/1002025), with immediate effect.

20.0 END OF TRIMESTER CENTRALLY ADMINISTERED EXAMINATION POLICY AND PROCEDURES

20.1 Academic Committee noted the Chair’s executive action in approving required

changes to the End of Trimester Centrally Administered Examination Policy and Procedures (2019/1002048).

20.2 Members observed that the approved changes to the Policy and Procedures had

been proposed in response to negative student feedback, increased health and safety risks for proctors attending examinations, and additional administration costs. The updates were limited to the following scheduling amendments:

Section 3 - scheduled examination times on weekdays and Saturdays revised to be between 8.00am and 9.00pm; and

Section 4 - where a student has two examinations on the one day, there shall be no examination in the 6.30pm session of the prior day, and no examination in the 8.00am session on the following day.

Resolution 20.3 Academic Committee resolved to ratify the Chair’s executive action in approving the

revised End of Trimester Centrally Administered Examination Policy and Procedures (2019/1002048).

SECTION C: RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS TO OTHER COMMITTEES

Nil

SECTION D: MATTERS NOTED, CONSIDERED OR REMAINING UNDER DISCUSSION

21.0 PRESENTATION – THE SCHOOL OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

21.1 Professor Bela Stantic, Head, School of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), gave a presentation on how the School is placed currently, and provided an overview of the vision for research and education into the future.

21.2 Academic Committee was informed on the size, composition and structure of and

governance arrangements in place for the contemporary School, which has undergone significant organisational transformation over the last five years. It was noted that the number of students enrolled in the School’s programs is equally balanced between domestic and international students.



21.3 Members were apprised of ICT’s top ranking at Griffith in 2018 for Employability, and this has served to further support recruitment material used by the School which highlights the strong position enjoyed by graduates in terms of career opportunities and job vacancies related to their qualifications.

21.4 Professor Stantic summarised the new and revised programs offered by the School,

enrolment levels, and drew attention to particular highlights, such as:

the new (2019) Bachelor of Intelligent Digital Technologies being the first program of its kind offered in Australia, with an initial intake of 20 students;

the revitalised Bachelor of Information Technology attracting the highest number of students enrolled in any program in the Griffith Sciences Group; and

the Master of Information Technology projected to enrol the highest number of students for any postgraduate coursework program in Griffith Sciences.

21.5 Key research strengths associated with the Institute for Integrated and Intelligent

Systems (IIIS) were featured, including the prominence of activities aligned with Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing, and the significant publication profile of the School’s researchers (including a number of notable younger staff members).

21.6 The Committee was advised that the biggest challenge for the School was the need to

effectively address levels of growth in student numbers and teaching load which would be difficult to sustain successfully. Measures being developed to alleviate the situation included strategically targetted marketing to non-school-leavers and further diversification associated with international recruitment.

21.7 Members were informed that the priorities for the School, over the next few years,

would include:

continued recruitment of world class academics to further enhance the School’s research profile and putting in place effective incentives to retain high achievers;

measures to raise the School’s world ranking into the top 100;

exploring opportunities for more prominent involvement with the Digital Campus;

growing specific program areas (e.g. Bachelor of Intelligent Digital Technologies, Data Science double degrees), and introducing Data Analytics at the postgraduate coursework program level

exploring cross-disciplinary collaboration opportunities, particularly to support increasing and diversifying research grant income; and

raising the number and quality of HDR candidates and improving timely completion rates.

21.8 Academic Committee discussion following the presentation focussed on points

associated with.

ethical, social and legal dimensions associated with big data and artificial intelligence, and potential opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaborations in this area and with data analytics;

retention issues relating to transitioning from pre-requisites to assumed knowledge;

leveraging opportunities for increased collaboration with industry partners and advancing potential funding support and undergraduate work integrated learning opportunities arising from this;

exploring a range of prospects for developing innovative, inter-Group double degrees (noting the Data Science degree structure was designed to partner easily with other programs); and

the potential for the ICT School to be an important and valued contributor to advancing the Digital First Strategy.



21.9 Academic Committee noted the presentation on the School of Information and Communication Technology.

22.0 VICE CHANCELLOR’S REPORT

22.1 Academic Committee noted the former Vice Chancellor’s report to the 3 December 2018 meeting of University Council.

22.2 The University’s new Vice Chancellor, Professor Carolyn Evans, thanked members for their valued service, particularly the role played by the Committee in relation to assuring the University’s academic standards. Professor Evans provided the Committee with a brief account of the initial six weeks of tenure as Vice Chancellor – characterised by the positive, welcoming and friendly reception received from staff, students and the broader Griffith community; and the dynamic prospects for the future of University.

22.3 The Vice Chancellor updated members on recent conversations focussed on the up-coming federal election (expected for May) and key issues associated with higher education funding and policy proposals. This included:

22.3.1 The sequence of submissions to the Commonwealth (six in five weeks), including the University’s responses to the ‘Performance-based funding for the Commonwealth Grant Scheme’ discussion paper; and the consultation paper on the ‘Reallocation of Commonwealth supported places for enabling, sub-bachelor and postgraduate courses’.

22.3.2 The improved prospect for any advancement of the proposed performance-based funding model to include a more nuanced approach acknowledging the sector-complexities and particular missions of individual universities.

22.3.3 The likelihood of little change regarding the national situation, until June at the earliest, in view of the Commonwealth government being in caretaker mode over the campaigning and election period.

22.4 Professor Evans also commented on the thoughtful feedback received from staff in response to the call for submissions on the Creating our Future: Griffith beyond 50 discussion paper; framed by the unifying principles of excellence, ethics and engagement; and the key themes of:

teaching and learning;

research;

campuses and infrastructure; and

staff and values.

23.0 CHAIR’S REPORT

23.1 The Committee was informed by the Chair on the following reasons to celebrate:

23.1.1 National University Teaching Awards – the outstanding success achieved by Griffith, attaining two Australian Awards for University Teaching and four Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning in the 2018 round.

Dr Kevin Larkin, from the School of Education and Professional Studies, was named 2018 Australian University Teacher of the Year (also receiving an AAUT Award for Teaching Excellence in the Social and Behavioural Sciences category).

The Go Health Go Griffith Program from Griffith Health implemented by Associate Professor Suzzanne Owen (Lead), Associate Professor Helen Massa, Lyn Armit (Queensland Health) and Education Queensland received an AAUT Award for Programs and Teams that Enhance Learning.



Four 2018 Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning winners:

o Dr Irene Bartlett, Queensland Conservatorium

o Associate Professor Sarah Cresswell, School of Environment and Science

o Dr Vinod Gopalan, School of Medicine and School of Medical Science; and

o Dr Diana Tolmie, Queensland Conservatorium.

23.1.2 Athena SWAN Bronze Institutional Award – in December 2018, Griffith University was recognised for its commitment to addressing gender inequality in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine), being among the first Australian institutions to receive an Award.

23.1.3 Trimester 1, 2019 admissions – current analysis indicates the University is well-placed, including figures for international admissions.

23.2 Professor Henly also briefed members on the up-coming Safe Campuses ‘Themed Week’ (1st to 5th April); and the Griffith University Integrity Program aimed at strengthening the institution’s integrity culture and capability (being co-sponsored by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) and the Vice President, Corporate Services)

24.0 BUSINESS ARISING OUT OF THE PREVIOUS MINUTES

Nil.

25.0 DIGITAL FIRST STRATEGY – FOUNDATIONAL COURSE DESIGN STANDARDS 25.1 Academic Committee recalled that, at its 4/2018 meeting (15 November 2018),

members were apprised of key developments associated with the Digital First Strategy Implementation. This included both a progress update on the Griffith Learning and Teaching Framework and consideration of the preliminary Foundational Course Design Standards, developed to facilitate the effective course implementation in Blackboard Ultra.

25.2 The Committee noted at its November 2018 meeting that, the Framework outlines the

context for dynamic transition, with an emphasis on embedding a Griffith education environment that is ‘student-centred and learning focussed’. At that meeting, members also observed the eight evidence-informed principles proposed to provide optimal conditions for student learning and the success of Griffith graduates.

25.3 Subsequently, at the Digital First campus briefing sessions held in December 2018,

the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) informed participants on the development of the Foundational Course Design Standards. An open invitation was issued to the Griffith community to provide feedback on the draft Standards. The close-off date for submissions was 4 February 2019.

25.4 The Chair informed the Committee that the primary purpose at present was to ensure

the University had the under-pinning pedagogy right before further implementation occurred. The revised Foundational Course Design Standards (2019/1002043) represented stage one of this process, with the development of Program Standards to follow, along with Enhanced Course Design Standards. The Dean, Learning Futures expanded upon this overview of the Digital First genealogy and the transformative design process associated with it.

25.5 The key points considered during the discussion that followed included:

the level of minimum standards for resourcing changes associated with particular courses (especially those delivered in extremely large undergraduate programs);



the reiteration that the Standards represented a living document accompanying a transformative process;

the recognition that conventional course delivery and expectations concerning patterns of student participation remained the preferred model for a significant proportion of academics; and

contemporary methods for student networking (e.g. social media) represented a primary vehicle for encouraging increased participation.

25.6 Academic Committee noted the document and endorsed the revised Foundational

Course Design Standards (2019/1002043).

26.0 OFFICE OF THE STUDENT OMBUDSMAN – ANNUAL REPORT 2018 26.1 Members were provided with the Annual Report 2018 to Academic Committee from

the Office of the Student Ombudsman (2019/1002053).

Resolution 26.2 Academic Committee noted the Annual Report 2017 to Academic Committee from the

Office of the Student.

27.0 BOARD OF GRADUATE RESEARCH CONSTITUTION 27.1 Members were provided with the revised version of the Board of Graduate Research

Constitution (2019/1002034), which included the Board’s recommended update to appropriately recognise the change of role title for the Graduate Research Development Consultant (refer section 6, p. 2).

Resolution 27.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Board of Graduate Research

Constitution (2019/1002034), with immediate effect.

28.0 LEARNING AND TEACHING COMMITTEE CONSTITUTION 28.1 Members were provided with the revised version of the Learning and Teaching

Committee Constitution (2019/1002052), which included updated reference to the Assessment Committee (replacing University Assessment Committee). Academic Committee noted that the change of name removed duplication of the ‘UAC’ acronym, formerly shared with the University Appeals Committee (a constituted sub-committee of Academic Committee).

Resolution 28.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Learning and Teaching

Committee Constitution (2019/1002052), with immediate effect.

29.0 PROGRAMS COMMITTEE CONSTITUTION 29.1 Members were provided with the revised version of the Programs Committee

Constitution (2019/1002051), which included an update to the Committee’s membership (refer section 5(e)&(f), p. 2), endorsed by the Pro Vice Chancellor (Arts, Education and Law Group) and approved by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic).

Resolution



29.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the revised Programs Committee Constitution (2019/1002051), with immediate effect.

30.0 BOARD OF GRADUATE RESEARCH – 2018 ANNUAL REPORT & 2019 WORK PLAN 30.1 Members observed that, in accordance with the Board of Graduate Research

Constitution (sections 18 and 19), the 2018 Annual Report of the Board of Graduate Research (2019/1002036), which included the Board’s proposed 2019 Work Plan, was submitted for consideration by Academic Committee.

Resolution 30.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the 2018 Annual Report of the Board of

Graduate Research (2019/1002036) and proposed 2019 Work Plan.

31.0 LEARNING AND TEACHING COMMITTEE – 2018 ANNUAL REPORT & 2019 WORK PLAN 31.1 Members observed that, in accordance with the Learning and Teaching Committee

Constitution (sections 17 and 18), the Learning and Teaching Committee Annual Report for 2018 (2018/9006135) and proposed 2019 Work Plan (2019/1002046) were submitted for consideration by Academic Committee.

Resolution 31.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the Learning and Teaching Committee

Annual Report for 2018 (2018/9006135) and proposed 2019 Work Plan (2019/1002046).

32.0 PROGRAMS COMMITTEE – 2018 ANNUAL REPORT & 2019 WORK PLAN 32.1 Members observed that, in accordance with the Programs Committee Constitution

(sections 14 and 15), the Programs Committee 2018 Annual Report (2018/9007033) and proposed 2019 Work Plan (2018/9007034) were submitted for consideration by Academic Committee.

Resolution 32.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the Programs Committee 2018 Annual

Report (2018/9007033) and proposed 2019 Work Plan (2018/9007034).

33.0 RESEARCH COMMITTEE – 2018 ANNUAL REPORT & 2019 WORK PLAN 33.1 Members observed that, in accordance with the Research Committee Constitution

(sections 16 and 17), the Research Committee 2018 Annual Report (2019/1002037), including the Committee’s proposed 2019 Work Plan, was submitted for consideration by Academic Committee.

33.2 Academic Committee resolved to approve the Research Committee 2018 Annual

Report (2019/1002037) and proposed 2019 Work Plan.

Resolution

34.0 REPORTS OF SUB-COMMITTEES OF THE ACADEMIC COMMITTEE AND OTHER COMMITTEES

34.1 The minutes submitted from the following committees were noted.



a) Board of Graduate Research (8/2018)

b) Board of Graduate Research (1/2019)

c) Learning and Teaching Committee (8/2018)

d) Learning and Teaching Committee (1/2019)

e) Programs Committee (8/2018)

f) Programs Committee (9/2018)

g) Programs Committee (1/2019)

h) Research Committee (1/2019).

35.0 OTHER BUSINESS

Nil.

36.0 2019 COMMITTEE MEETING DATES

36.1 Academic Committee noted the remaining meetings dates for 2019.

*will go ahead if business warrants

37.0 CLOSE OF MEETING 37.1 The Chair declared the meeting closed at 12:00noon.

Meeting Date Campus Confirmed Venue

16 May Nathan N54_2.02

18 July Gold Coast G34_2.02

19 September Nathan N54_2.02

14 November Gold Coast G34_2.02

12 December * Nathan N54_2.02

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