Teaching and assessment methods

CSU is committed to the flexible delivery of learning and teaching methods. Depending on your course and whether you study on campus or by distance education, you'll enjoy a variety of teaching modes such as tutorials, online learning, practical experience and laboratory work.

On campus

Typical teaching methods include:

• lectures
• tutorials
• laboratory work
• field trips
• excursions
• workplace learning and field placements.

Attendance at all classes for on campus students is compulsory, as this is one of the ways your performance in each subject will be assessed. Other methods of assessment may include assignments, mid-session and final examination, class presentations, attendance at tutorials and laboratory work.

You will normally be expected to purchase the textbook(s) for your subjects. Each campus has a large library where you will be able to consult the recommended readings and other references prescribed for each subject.

You will also receive information and other resources relevant to the subject (which may include general online resources) and have access to modern computing facilities.

Practical experience

Some courses include a period of compulsory practical experience. This experience can be part of an individual subject or may be offered in block form. For more information, visit the relevant online course brochure.

Prior to commencing any period of practical experience, students in some courses may be required to undertake a criminal records check and/or medical examinations.

More about on campus learning and teaching

Distance education

The University's extensive online environment provides you with access to the services and facilities you will need during your time as a CSU student. As a distance education student, these online facilities and services will form an essential component of your study, and will also meet many of your administrative and social needs as a student.

The University's extensive online environment provides you with access to the services and facilities you will need during your time as a CSU student. As a distance education student, these online facilities and services will form an essential component of your study, and will also meet many of your administrative and social needs as a student.

More about distance education learning and teaching

Assessment tasks

On campus

Formative:

• self evaluation
• exercises
• multiple choice and true/false questions participation in tutorialsforums and discussions

Feedback plays a significant role here, allowing students to improve their knowledge and skills. The intent rather than the task is the determinant of the formative aspect of assessment.

Summative:

• examinations
• essays
• reports
• presentations
• assignments
• practical performance

Summative assessment may include formative components and assessment of affective as well as cognitive outcomes. Summative assessment shall not measure skill and/or understandings that are not pre-requisites for admission to the University, or not covered in the subject or its pre-requisites.

More about on campus assessment

Distance education

Distance education students are assessed through a combination of methods that vary depending on the course being undertaken. In some subjects, an assessment may be held online, giving instant feedback to the student on their performance.

Assessment can include:

• short answer questions
• practical work, field or laboratory work as part of a residential school
• forum participation
• exams.

More about distance education assessment