2 March 2014 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… We're relatively tolerant here at The Scan and certainly optimistic so we like this project. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… The Science of Character explores the fascinating research behind character development -- science that proves that if you focus on certain character strengths (self-control, courage, curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, to name a few), and encourage others to do the same, it leads to happiness and well-being. So, what are your character strengths and what would you like to develop? It turns out if you'd like to develop your wisdom, find your strengths in creativity, curiosity, love of … [Read more...]
Stirring and shaking Australia’s tertiary sector – and the economy
02/03/2014 by
26 February 2014 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… In her address to the National Press Club, one of the set pieces of the annual Universities Australia Conference, UA chair Sandra Harding noted what a bizarre year 2013 was with five ministers and multiple policy gyrations. She emphasised, as chairs of UA tend to, that putting public money into higher education is more investment than expenditure, and she ran out the numbers to prove it. But she posed an interesting question: Are we trapped by the very language we use – and the behaviour that language invites? I wonder whether, at some deep, even subconscious, level we have been acting on the basis we are 'done' somehow, … [Read more...]
University of the world
02/03/2014 by
Times Higher Education | 2 March 2014 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… An online university established to take higher education to disadvantaged students around the world has received accreditation. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… An online university established to take higher education to disadvantaged students around the world has received accreditation. The University of the People, which offers undergraduate degrees in computer science and business administration, has been accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council in the US just in time for its first graduating class, which is due to complete its studies in … [Read more...]
Sackings at national research centre slammed
02/03/2014 by
The Age | 2 March 2014 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… A distinguished scientist and innovator has launched a stinging criticism of a decision to sack more than half the workforce at a high-tech research centre, describing it as a ''disaster''. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… In a rare display of outspokenness, Professor Graeme Clark, the inventor of the cochlear implant (the "bionic ear"), said cutting jobs at the National Information Communications Technology Centre (NICTA) could compromise Australia's standing as a biomedical research powerhouse and hinder the development of the next generation of researchers. A researcher at NICTA, … [Read more...]
Lee Dow on TEQSA reform
02/03/2014 by
2 March 2014 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Professor Kwong Lee Dow who, with Professor Valerie Braithwaite, undertook the review of higher education regulation, provided The Scan with the following comments on government legislation to restructure and refocus the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Given that the Bill follows the recommendations which our Review had prepared for the previous government, it is not surprising that I am in agreement with the key elements of the Bill. A starting point is the decision to amend the current Act, and not to start afresh through abolition and the creation then of a … [Read more...]
UWS celebrates 25 Years
02/03/2014 by
University of Western Sydney ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Officially founded on 1 January 1989, the University of Western Sydney is in fact the result of decades of effort by the people of Western Sydney and their representatives to enjoy the same advantages available to other Australians. Steward of many of the West’s most significant traditions and built structures, the University is ‘owned’ by its people in a truly remarkable way. The University acknowledges over 200 cumulative years of bringing knowledge to life in Greater Western Sydney from our heritage and member institutions. UWS also recognises the generations of knowledge held by the traditional owners … [Read more...]
NCVER News #321
02/03/2014 by
27 February 2014 Early bird registration closes for NCVER Research Forum Get in quick to take advantage of early bird discount for NCVER's national research forum Realising our potential: widening participation through education and training. The program features leading social campaigner Dr Jonathon Welch and researchers who've examined the role of education and training in transforming the lives of young people, Indigenous students and skilled migrants. The forum will close with an interactive panel session at which you can have your say! Get in quick... Submit your paper for the 23rd National VET Research Conference 'No Frills' Practitioners and researchers are invited to … [Read more...]
