About learning and teaching
The University of the Sunshine Coast values and supports outstanding teaching, and works hard to create a learning environment in which students have every opportunity to flourish.
A plan for learning and teaching
The
Learning and Teaching Plan 2009-2011 articulates key objectives and strategies for learning and teaching. It was developed by Learning and Teaching Management Committee and it provides a framework for the University’s developments in learning and teaching. Also, the
Learning and Teaching Governing Policy articulates the principles that underpin learning and teaching at USC, including the University's approach to
Graduate Attributes.
Engaged learning
Programs are designed to allow students ample opportunities to engage with their discipline, profession and community. These include
work integrated learning,
entrepreneurship, opportunities to
study overseas and a strong emphasis on face-to-face teaching and personalised support for students and their learning.
Outstanding teachers
Academic and support staff at USC are nationally recognised for their commitment to student learning. Since 2006, University staff members have received 11 Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning from the Australian Learning and Teaching Council. The University was the only public institution in Queensland to earn
5 stars for teaching quality in the 2010 Good Universities Guide. *
Scholarship of teaching and learning
Staff at USC are encouraged and supported to research aspects of student learning; and to adopt evidence-based improvements to curriculum, pedagogy and student support. An internal teaching grant scheme and extensive support for Australian Learning and Teaching Council grant, award and fellowship applicants, sets staff up to conduct engaged and relevant research and development projects related to student learning.
Expanding program offerings
In recent years, the range of program offerings at USC has increased dramatically, in response to regional demand, national skills shortages and identified opportunities for social and economic contributions to the Sunshine Coast region. Since 2008, new programs have included Nutrition and Dietetics, Sustainability, Nursing, Commerce, Engineering, Computer-based Design, Paramedic Science, Regional and Urban Planning, Occupational Therapy, Mental Health Nursing, Social Work, Psychology, and a new Executive MBA program. This has seen unprecedented growth in student numbers; with the mid-year intake in 2009, the University’s largest ever.
Supporting staff
The University boasts a highly engaged Learning and Teaching Management Committee, and an active and responsive Office of Learning and Teaching. Staff are supported by way of an expanding professional development program, targeted academic development support, an annual
Vice-Chancellor's Learning and Teaching Colloquium, extensive support for grants and awards applicants, and a range of strategic projects to enhance learning and teaching.
Learning and teaching is within the portfolio of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor supported by the Office of Learning and Teaching within Teaching and Research Services.
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