In search of 'graduateness'

Reframing equity of student experience, a transformational approach

Abstract

This poster depicts key considerations around adopting a transformational approach to curriculum renewal at Charles Sturt University. This enhancement of the student experience must be built on a transformation of the university organisation culture and working practices of academic and support staff alike. Entitled the Charles Sturt University Degree Initiative (CSUDI) the process necessitates a shared sense of responsibility for planning the total student experience amongst those who coordinate and teach a course to create a distinct "CSU student experience" culminating in "CSU graduateness". In a nutshell the aim is for CSU undergraduates, in addition to an in-depth understanding of their chosen disciplines and professions, to have their studies underpinned with integrated and embedded principles equipping them for the modern world. Whilst the CSUDI is clearly the mechanism for the "student experience" to happen - unless the transformational design-based approach to curriculum renewal is truly collaborative, incorporates a wider vision, and a different approach, the concept of "graduateness" will not take place.