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Student Handbook2019

This document is uncontrolled when printed Issue date: 21.11.2020 of 36TITLE: V5.1Student Handbook Last Issue Date: 25/01/2017S:\QualityA\SectionD\MDSTraining\Booklet\StudentHandbook.doc

Contents Page Number

Welcome 3

Contact Details 4

Pre-Enrolment 5

Post-Enrolment 5

Payment of Fees and Refunds 7

Consumer Protection 9

Access and Equity 9

Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) 10

Student Support 12

Rights and Responsibility 13

Giving Assessment Feedback to Students 15

Feedback from Students 17

Student Record Keeping and Privacy 19

Training and Assessment 21

Reasonable Adjustment 21

Demonstration of Competency and Resubmit 22

Marking Assessments 22

Cheating and Plagiarism 23

Assessment Methods and Tools 23

Assessments to assessors for marking 25

Support from Employers 25

Request for Extension 26

Equipment and Resources 26

Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer 28

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Flow Chart 31

Appeals 32

Complaints 33

Completion of Qualifications 34

Study Tips 35

Further Reading 36


Welcome from the Manager, Macarthur Disability Services (MDS) Training

Vanessa Vale

Macarthur Disability Services (MDS) Training is an

enterprise of Macarthur Disability Services Ltd, and we

would like to thank you for choosing to study with us.

Whether you are seeking to update or upgrade your skills,

our Training Team of friendly and dedicated staff will

assist you to achieve the skills and knowledge relevant to

your industry sector.

The purpose of this Student Handbook is to provide you

with the information you need to know while studying

with MDS Training. It contains relevant and important

processes and procedures, which directly affect you and help us maintain our high standard of

education delivery.

MDS Training focuses on providing, high quality, industry relevant, personalised educational

programs and services. Our aim is to support and encourage you as an adult learner and to be

as flexible as possible in our delivery to help you manage your study program with other work

and home commitments. So please let us know about your needs whenever they change.

It is important that you read the Student Handbook to identify and understand your rights

and responsibilities such as student and academic conduct, critical assessment information

and MDS Training policies and procedures that affect your enrolment and course completion.

If you require more information I invite you to make direct contact with our Training Team. I

am sure that your time with us will be both rewarding and enjoyable.


MDS TrainingContact Details

General Manager, Community, Mental Health & Training:

Julie Deane

The Team:

Vanessa Vale (Manager, MDS Training)

Adam Holstein (Education Coordinator and Trainer)

Cindy Cagney (Sector Support, Development & Training Coordinator and Trainer)

Carina Tidy (SSD Training Support Officer)

Physical Address:

Level 8/138 Queen St Campbelltown 2560

Postal Address:

PO Box 284 Campbelltown 2560

Training Rooms:

Level 8/138 Queen St Campbelltown 2560

Phone: 4621 8400 Fax: 4620 4048

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.mdstraining.com.au

ABN: 98 003 008 928

Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Registration Number: 70215

NSW ID: 208023


http://www.mdstraining.com.au/

mailto:[email protected]

Enrolment

1. Pre-Enrolment.MDS Training encourages students to read the Student Handbook before making the decision to enrol in a MDS Training Qualification course.

MDS Training provides brochures for all courses which contain detailed information regarding the qualification and course delivery. MDS Training staff is also available to discuss any aspect of the training with potential students in person, over the phone or by emailing us at [email protected] and website www.mdstraining.com.au

Enrolments are made via the Enrolment Form and Payment Plan which can be requested via email. An opportunity to disclose individual need is provided on this form. MDS Training recognises not everyone is comfortable to disclose disability or other support needs in this format. Therefore we encourage students to make an appointment to talk to the Manager or Training Support Officer regarding their particular support needs prior to enrolling.

Students may also be asked additional questions prior to commencing in a qualification in order to gather more information to determine support needs and/or suitability for a qualification. For example, students may need to undertake a language, literacy and numeracy assessment.

We also offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). To apply for RPL you will be required to discuss your suitability to undertake the RPL process with an MDS Training staff member. RPL fees are negotiated prior to enrolment.

2. Post-Enrolment On the first day of a course of study, students will undertake an Induction process where a MDS Training staff member will work through the Student Handbook and identify communication processes and explain other relevant information contained inside. Students will also receive and sign for the following documents: Complaint and Appeal procedure Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application Credit Transfer application Request for Extension Unique Student Identifier (USI) form Course Outline, Individual Study Plan or Timetable


http://www.mdstraining.com.au/


Enrolment

Online students Once the online student enrols into the online course and finance have in receipt the deposit from the student. Please give MDS Training administration 48hours to obtain and create a login and password to access the online learning platform. Once we have obtained the login details we will email the student.


Enrolment

3. Payment of Fees and Refunds.Enrolment Fees:MDS Training will require a minimum deposit of $500.00 from each individual student prior to the commencement of the course. However, you may elect to pay the amount in full should you choose.Once the course has commenced students who have paid a deposit can pay the balance of their fees using the following options: Deposit and regular progressive payments Deposit, mid payment and end payment Payroll deductions (for MDS Staff ONLY) Other negotiated terms

The Enrolment Form and Payment Plan contain the payment plan details and a clear explanation of the agreement. This is viewed prior to committing to enrolling in a course so students have a clear understanding of the financial commitment they are undertaking. A separate payment and information sheet is also available to prospective students and on the website.

Please note: signing the enrolment form and agreeing to the terms of direct credit and deposits is legally binding. This can be enforced even if you leave the course of study.

Administrative Fees:If a student requires replacement copies of their resource materials and/or assessment tools the following charges will apply: $15 for any resource or assessment tool of less than 50 pages $30 for any resource or assessment tool of more than 50 pages

If a student requires a Certificate or Statement of Attainment to be re-issued, a fee of $75.00 for administration and processing of the replacement certificate or statement may apply. Students will also be required to complete an authority to release information to authenticate their request. Any student requests to wave this fee will be determined on a case by case basis contingent on: How long ago the qualification/statement was originally issued Reason for re-issue

MDS Training does not offer reduced rates to the cost of qualifications if you are eligible for one or more Credit Transfers.

Requests for Refunds received more than 10 days prior to the course commencement date will incur a fee of $250.

Please Note: Administrative Fees may be waived upon evidence provided by the student indicating hardship or other individual circumstances.


Enrolment

4. Consumer Protection.As a MDS Training student, your investment in your education and training is protected by: Macarthur Disability Services (MDS) processes, customer service commitment and

excellent reputation to protect consumers and handle complaints:i. Complaints and Appeals Information (Update April 2015)

ii. Payment and Refund Information (Updated April 2015)

MDS Training agreement as a Registered Training Organisations (RTO) to be consistent with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) Standards for RTOs 2015:

i. clear and accurate information regarding the delivery of Qualifications by MDS Training

ii. Learners are aware of their rights and responsibilitiesiii. Learners are aware of the complaints and appeals processiv. Learners have any concerns about their training or assessment addressed

promptly and equitably

Australian Consumer Law (ACL) guarantees on goods and services

5. Access and Equity. MDS Training acknowledges the diversity of its students and our commitment to inclusivity and social justice. MDS Training aims to respond to our students individual learning needs and to support MDS Training staff and contractors to do the same.

A flyer or brochure containing details regarding the inherent requirements of the course/qualification will be provided prior to enrolment in order to aid students to make an informed decision.

Prospective students can also make an appointment to speak to MDS Training staff regarding enrolment issues, study requirements, individual support needs or any other concerns.

Where students are asked on the enrolment form to provide information related to support needs, this information will be documented and the Course Trainer/Assessor will be advised. If a conversation or meeting is required to discuss eligibility or specific support needs the Manager MDS Training will organise this.

MDS Training will provide Reasonable Adjustment for students with a disability which will enable successful study and training outcomes. Students may be required to provide medical evidence to support a claim for reasonable adjustment.

If more enrolments are received than numbers permitted the enrolments will occur on a first come, first served basis as long as the student meets specified essential eligibility This document is uncontrolled when printed Issue date: 21.11.2020 of 36TITLE: V5.1Student Handbook Last Issue Date: 25/01/2017S:\QualityA\SectionD\MDSTraining\Booklet\StudentHandbook.doc

Enrolment

criteria for the course. In other words, if pre-requisites are required the students able to satisfy or demonstrate this requirement. If a course has funding conditions, all potential students must meet these requirements which may include: Australian citizenship or permanent visa status At or over a certain age as stipulated by funding conditions Employed or unemployed as stipulated by funding conditions Other as stipulated by funding conditions and stated on brochure for course

It is further anticipated that students must have a level of English to the standard that allows them to adequately perform their job role and the selected Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level qualification for study. For more information refer to website http://www.aqf.edu.au/aqf/in-detail/aqf-levels/

Students can access the Manager MDS Training to discuss any issues related to access and equity. If the student is dissatisfied with the outcome, they are encouraged to speak with the Director Mental Health, Community and Training. If still dissatisfied, students can request to speak with the CEO of Macarthur Disability Services Ltd. Any concerns or issues related to access and equity will be investigated via the MDS Complaints procedure.

6. Workplace Health and Safety (WHS).As part of its WHS obligations, MDS Training is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of its students:

Work Health and Safety covers students onsite at any MDS controlled premises and off site at premises controlled by other organisations;

Health and well-being refers to general WHS such as safety in the classroom from hazards, however it also includes bullying and harassment concerns.

For example, on occasion, the content in some courses can be challenging (e.g. topic content in the Certificate IV Mental Health). All courses of this nature will offer an opportunity for the student to leave the room or receive tuition independently if the content is harmful to their health and well-being. Students are also offered an opportunity to debrief with MDS Training staff, or its Contractors, if they find the content overly challenging.

All students, staff and contractors are to maintain WHS standards at all times as outlined in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. This includes, but is not limited to:

Following all WHS instructions, general housekeeping and other reasonable requests from MDS Staff, MDS Training Staff/Contractors and Staff responsible for all off-site training venues

Reporting all hazards Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when directed


http://www.aqf.edu.au/aqf/in-detail/aqf-levels/

Enrolment

Using equipment appropriately Following emergency and evacuation procedures when directed Not engaging in discriminatory conduct Taking responsibility for their own safety and that of others Not being impaired in their ability to perform safely, competently and/or professionally

by alcohol or drugs including medically prescribed or over the counter drugs while studying onsite or offsite with MDS Training

If you see a hazard or risk, advise the trainer/assessor immediately All injuries to be reported to the Manager MDS Training or other suitable person if the

Manager is unavailable.


Students

7. Student Support. Students can contact the Manager MDS Training at any time to discuss additional support strategies. Students are also encouraged to speak to their trainer/assessor in the first instance regarding additional support that may be related, but not limited, to:

Disability Language Literacy and/or Numeracy Confidence in academic ability Study Strategies Financial constraints Study, work, life balance Unforeseen circumstances

If a trainer or assessor identifies that a student requires assistance they will speak to the student and recommend support strategies. This will always be offered confidentially and the student can decline any offers of assistance.

If support is requested by a student but is unable to be provided by MDS Training, referrals to other agencies or organisations will be provided.

Students can also utilise the Request for Extension Form to ask for more time in completing an assessment task or series of tasks. Extensions can ONLY be granted by the Manager MDS Training. All students are advised to discuss their extension needs with their trainer/assessor in the first instance and if they wish to submit an Extension for Request Form they are required to do so a minimum of 1 week prior to the due date via email to the Manager, MDS Training.

Submitting the Request for Extension Form should not be taken as approval. Approval or denial of the extension will be provided in writing along with any conditions or reasons why. It is strongly recommended that Requests for Extension Form contain all of the relevant information and any documentation to support a student’s claims for requiring an extension.

The Manager MDS Training will provide a written response within seven (7) days of receiving the application. If an extension is granted it is expected that the work will be completed by the new due date. Students should be aware that it may be challenging for them to complete other units if they have not yet submitted work for an earlier unit.

If an extension of time is denied students can use the MDS Training Appeal Form to appeal this denial.


Students

Consideration to provide additional time, alternative methods, and reasonable adjustment are provided for a range of difficulties. Difficulties can be work-related or personal and may include, but not be limited to: Medical reasons Carer responsibilities Loss or bereavement Hardship or trauma including victim of crime, loss of income, disruption to domestic

arrangements Religious reasons Legal commitments (e.g. jury duty; court dates) Accidents or natural disasters Participation in sporting events at a state, national or international level Participation in a major cultural event

All information discussed and support strategies agreed to by the student and Manager MDS Training will be recorded in the students file.

8. Rights and Responsibilities of Students.Student Responsibilities include: Behave in a responsible and ethical manner and treat all MDS staff, contracted staff,

clients and other students with respect, fair-mindedness and courtesy at all times Providing truthful, accurate and complete information to MDS Training Ensure you are aware of course requirements Ensure you have received and retained a timetable, course outline or other plan

indicating session times and assessment due dates Acknowledge receipt and understanding of the following as part of your Student

Induction:i. Student Handbook

ii. Complaint and Appeal procedureiii. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicationiv. Credit Transfer applicationv. Request for Extension form

vi. Course outline or other timetablevii. Unique Student Identifier (USI) form

Complete and return the USI form (if relevant) Arrive on time and attend all relevant sessions Remain for duration of session Advise MDS Training by email [email protected] of changes in address or

other contact information as soon as possible Contact MDS Training by email [email protected] if you are unable to

attend a session Turn mobile phones off or onto silent mode while in the classroom




Students

Hand in assessments on the due date as per your Course Outline or complete a Request for Extension Form a minimum of 1 week prior to the due date and email to [email protected]

Maintain professional conduct at all times in the learning environment. This includes, but is not limited to:

i. Respect other learnersii. Refrain from harassment, discrimination or bullying of other learners

iii. Refrain from using offensive languageiv. Not talking over othersv. Engaging in any other behaviour which could offend, embarrass or threaten

others Follow adult learning principles, which are:

i. Participate in discussions and activitiesii. Take notes

iii. Ask relevant questionsiv. Engage with trainer and groupv. Encourage others

vi. Give people time to answer and provide their point of view Take responsibility for issues difficulties and problems you may experience as a student

and seek a solution by making contact with a relevant MDS Training person to assist you

Ensure work submitted is your own and that you have not plagiarised, or copied any other person’s work, without appropriate referencing

No smoking anywhere on MDS Training onsite or offsite training venues Follow other relevant MDS policies and procedures as discussed or provided in class

Student Rights include: Be treated fairly and with respect by MDS Training staff and fellow students Learn in an environment free of discrimination, bullying and harassment (see lodging a

Grievance). Pursue your educational goals in a supportive and stimulating atmosphere Where a disability has been disclosed, have access to reasonable adjustment processes Privacy and confidentiality concerning hardcopy and electronic records or documents

that contain personal information; conversations with MDS Training staff Have ready access to assessment procedures, facilitatior feedback and progressive

results

Monitoring Student Attendance and Progress:Students, who miss the first face to face session, without advising MDS Training, will be contacted by Manager MDS Training or a designated person to discuss support options as missing the first session may make study and progress challenging.



Students

Students who do not make an application for an extension of time, special consideration or reasonable adjustment and fall behind on a maximum of three (3) assessments will be contacted in writing and advised of a due date that MDS Training requires them to respond in respect of their intentions to continue the course.

Students who fall behind because they have not completed assessment and/or have not attended classes will also be contacted by MDS Training. Contact will include:

Initial attempt at phone contact and/or One attempt at email contact and/or Written letter to contact address One attempt at follow-up

If a student does not complete the qualification they are enrolled in, despite attempts to contact the student and the course date has ended, as per the timetable, course outline or individual study plan, additional fees may apply for completion or re-enrolment may be required.

Online students will be contacted once per month by the allocated trainer/assessor. First attempt by telephone, then an email will be sent to the student if they can’t be contacted by telephone. The student has one hour of support by the trainer/assessor allocated per month for each unit of competency in the qualification. All contact will be documented by the trainer/assessor using the correct forms.

For How-to guides and webinars on demand for the online learning platform please see link below:https://www.catapult-elearning.com/support-and-training

Please Note: In some cases, such as illness, mishap or moving away a student may not complete a course. If an alternative arrangement cannot be put into place to assist the student to complete the course, the student will be issued with a Statement of Attainment for all completed units.Giving Assessment Feedback to Students:MDS Training endeavours to provide assessment feedback to students using a balance of feedback methods:

Informal/Generic – via discussions, explanations, activities and workplace examples in class

Formal – written feedback sheets and emails Individual – personal verbal consultations with students Formative - (written or verbal) given early or mid-way through the course to assist

learning, improvement and risk taking Summative - (written) given at the end of a topic or assessment task to confirm

learning


Students

Students will be provided with appropriate, useful and written feedback for each assessment task submitted. Feedback is provided in a timely fashion to enable students to utilise feedback to enhance or improve their performance, check their progress and make adjustments if required.

Feedback is given to students confidentially by returning feedback sheets in sealed envelopes and ensuring that any verbal conversations are conducted in secure and private locations. Feedback from MDS Trainer/Assessors will be:

1. Constructive, timely and meaningful: providing descriptive feedback to students of how a ‘Competent’; ‘Resubmit’ or ‘Not

Yet Competent’ result was derived encouraging students to think critically about their work and to reflect on what they

need to do to improve it constructive by highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of an assessment task

and guiding students on what steps to take to improve their work timely and prompt by giving feedback while the assessed work is still fresh in a

student's mind, before the student moves on to the next task helping them see their learning in new ways and gain increased satisfaction from it helping to promote dialogue between staff and students

2. Effective and of high quality: identify and praise outstanding qualities in student work sensitive to the individual needs of the student keeping students “on target” for achievement guiding students to adapt and adjust their learning strategies motivating students to become independent and self-reflective learners, and better

critics of their own work encouraging students to utilise reflection, interaction and dialogue to improve their

learning outcomes and learning potential engaging students to act on feedback provided as a part of the assessment process

Please Note: MDS Training does not return originals of marked assessments to students. Instead, they are kept as part of the RTO’s retention requirements for completed student assessments in compliance with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).

Students will receive a written copy of their results and feedback on their assessment tasks for each unit of competency via the MDS Training Assessment Feedback Form.

Students will also be given opportunities to give and receive feedback about ongoing work with their Trainer/Assessor.

Issues and problems with assessment feedback:


Students

Feedback is valuable when it is received, understood and acted on. How students analyse, discuss and act on feedback is as important as the quality of the feedback itself (Nicol, 2010).

From time to time students may find assessment feedback unsatisfactory, for a wide range of reasons. For example a student may be concerned that for them:

the amount of detail of feedback did not give them a clear understanding of how to improve or what to do next

the feedback did not make sense to them the feedback message was not communicated in the most appropriate way to them

(oral vs. written)

Students are encouraged to speak to or email via [email protected] their Trainer/Assessor and/or Manager MDS Training if unclear on assessment requirements or the content of the feedback.

Receiving Feedback from Students:MDS Training takes student feedback very seriously. Feedback from students is treated confidentially and is considered part of MDS Training continuous improvement. Students are provided with regular formal opportunities to provide feedback. This includes:

Class Evaluation- Individual Unit or Cluster Set (at the end of each session) Mid Training Evaluation End Course Training Evaluation RPL Training Evaluation (for RPL Candidates only) AQTF Learner Questionnaire (sent with your Certificate and Transcript)

We ask that when students are completing a feedback form they present as much information as they can to support our continuous improvement, for example:

“Question 7 in assessment task one didn’t

make sense to me. I spoke to the assessor

and had it explained but if I couldn’t do

that I would have been wrong in my

answer”

“Questions are hard”; “Questions don’t

make sense”; “Questions are too wordy”;

“Time isn’t long enough”; I don’t

understand the trainer”.

Students are also encouraged to provide feedback at any time. Additional feedback can also be sent to the Manager MDS Training at [email protected]




Students

Feedback is collated, reported and actioned by the following Trainer/Assessor completes a Trainer Reflection report for any issues or concerns

indicated All feedback and reports are reviewed at the monthly MDS Training Registered

Training Organisation (RTO) Meeting MDS Training Professional Development sessions MDS Training Staff Development sessions


Students

Student Record Keeping and Privacy:Student enrolments and assessment results are recorded into the MDS Student Management system Wise.net and in the Students’ File. Privacy and confidentiality of student information and records is managed at all times.

Confidentiality also extends to the provision of information with regard to RPL and evidence submitted by students from their workplace (e.g. policies and procedures). It is recognised that these are used for competence purposes only and MDS Training will not use this information in any other way.

Access to information is in accordance with legislation and Commonwealth Privacy Act (1988) and amendments. Records of all of the assessment results will be kept by MDS Training. MDS Training staff are available to keep both trainers/assessors and students updated regarding the progress for all units attempted to date upon request. This request can be verbal, email or face to face. We will verify the information is going only to the student with an authority to release form.

Access to information is based on the following: MDS Training will comply with all legislated requirements regarding the storage and

distribution of information collected MDS Training will ensure it provides opportunities for students to access their

individual record in a timely fashion via the student record management system or via a staff member of MDS Training

Identification checks Completion of authority to request information forms

Collection of information is also in accordance with Commonwealth Privacy Act 1988 (and amendments):

All personal information which is collected is for student files and ensuring accuracy is able to be maintained for records management

Personal information is only provided to comply with regulatory authorities Personal information is not provided outside this framework

Outcomes from training may be communicated to various government authorities including but not limited to:

State Training Services National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) Australian Vocational Education and Training Research Association AVETRA Department of Education and Training (or its successor) ASQA (or its successor)

If a student’s fee for service has been paid for by their employer or as part of a traineeship, the employer may also be provided with the current status of the enrolled student.


Students

MDS Training is required to archive official records for each student as per the following:

Item Summary Retention periodStudent results Records are maintained in the

students file. The final assessment results page will be archived with the students file. This includes the enrolment form and all assessment instruments with results.

6 months for fee for service students

2 years from issue of qualification for traineeships

Other terms as specified in contracts

Student qualifications Records of this are maintained as per above and also in the student management system

30 years

Training records for qualifications

Attendance records, evaluations and summaries

2 years

Complaints and appeals

Any correspondence and all completed forms

7 years


Training and Assessment

9. Training and Assessment. Trainer/Assessors:All the training and assessment services provided by MDS Training will be provided by Trainers/Assessors who have: Accredited Tertiary and/or Vocational Qualifications in their relevant field; plus Training and Assessment Qualifications with a minimum Certificate IV in Training and

Assessment; plus Vocational Competence (i.e. broad industry knowledge and experience) and Current

Industry Skills; Other compliance as advised by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) in their

Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs)

In addition, all assessment will be conducted in accordance with the Training Package Assessment Guidelines and in conjunction with the relevant MDS Training Learning and Assessment Strategy.

Please Note: Assessment tasks involving demonstration, practicals, role plays or observations in the workplace will be booked in consultation with students, and if required employers.

Course Outline:Students will be provided with a Course Outline at the commencement of their qualification. The outline provides a course timetable which includes specific information on the workplace focus of each session including the unit or cluster of units that this will cover; session dates, trainer contact details and assessment due dates. The outline also explains the Assessment Tools that the student will be required to complete and/or gather as evidence of competency towards their qualification.

Reasonable Adjustment:MDS Training provides quality assessment tools which can be adjusted for students with individual needs. Students can approach their Trainer/Assessor to discuss the need for Reasonable Adjustment at any time during the course of their study. Students may be required to provide medical evidence to support a claim for reasonable adjustment. All reasonable adjustments must be approved by the Manager MDS Training.

Competency Based Assessment:MDS Training assessments are based on national benchmarks, called ‘competency standards’ which requires the collection of evidence and making judgements against specific criteria to a standard required in the workplace for the occupation or industry in which an individual is undertaking training. This is described as Competency based assessment.



Demonstration of Competency and Resubmit:The emphasis in VET assessment is on the student’s ability to perform practical tasks and describe/explain how and why these tasks are completed in certain ways. Students are expected to have a good standard of literacy for Certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma level qualifications in order to be able to explain themselves clearly in written English.

As a student progresses through a unit and completes the various assessment tasks, they are assessed on each task as ‘satisfactory’ or ‘not satisfactory’.

If a student is assessed as 'not satisfactory' they are given one (1) opportunity to resubmit. Your trainer will speak to you privately and give you constructive feedback to assist you in where you went wrong, and/or in what you forgot to do, and/or on why you should have done things in a different way. You will be provided with two weeks to resubmit the additional information. Students can negotiate additional time if required. If the student’s resubmission is deemed “Not Yet Competent” they have the right to appeal.

Once all tasks and resubmits for the unit have been completed, the outcome result of ‘Competent’ [C] or ‘Not yet competent’ [NYC] is recorded in the Student Record System.

Marking Assessments:Your Trainers/Assessors will make decisions about whether a task has been satisfactorily completed based on the following:

i. all the assessment task/s have been completed to a standard that satisfactorily meets the requirements set out in the units’ marking criteria;

ii. the student’s work is of a standard to be acceptable in the workplace in accordance with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level of the qualification (for more information on the AQF go to http://www.aqf.edu.au/aqf/in-detail/aqf-levels/

iii. all written assessment tasks include acceptable formatting, expression, language, spelling and grammar

iv. completed assessment tasks are the student’s own work, except as appropriately acknowledged by the use of referencing




Cheating and Plagiarism: Cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable and subject to disciplinary action. If a student is caught plagiarising the work of others it could result in exclusion from a course and forfeit of relevant enrolment fees.

Plagiarism is using the work and ideas of another person/s as if they were you own without giving proper credit you the source.

If students use materials from published authors, to support their assessment work, they mist cite and reference the works correctly. If the student does not know how to do this they need to advise the trainer/assessor and they will provide assistance or direct them to a referencing system on the internet.

Referencing is part of the written work which you submit. If you use someone else’s ideas (i.e. direct quotes and/or paraphrasing) to support your comments you need to reference this. If you look through books, journals and websites but do not take any ideas or quotes directly you can just add these names at the end of your work in a Bibliography. The following link shows you information on other suitable referencing http://www.citethisforme.com/harvard-referencing

Assessment Methods and Tools:Various assessment methods and tools will be utilised to meet the performance criteria; required skills and knowledge; and critical aspects for each unit in a qualification. These methods could include, but not be limited to:

Group work Project Work Role play in practice Scenarios Case studies Oral/written questions

Journals or diaries Presentations in class or workplace Practicals Questions and observations Portfolios Third Party Reports

Assessment methods and tools will be adjusted for individual need under reasonable adjustment requirements. If attendance is part of a course requirement, attendance records will be kept to indicate a student’s attendance. In addition, if classroom participation is used for assessment purposes a record will be retained of the participation in the student’s files.

Assessment tools also address employability skills which are: Communication Team work Problem solving Initiative and Enterprise Planning and Organising

Self-Management Learning Technology


http://www.citethisforme.com/harvard-referencing

Training an Assessment

Assessment tools also address the broad skills of competence which are: Performing the task or skill at the appropriate and acceptable AQF level Organising tasks (known as task management) Responding and reacting appropriately to the unexpected (known as contingency

management) Managing the tasks within the work role and working with others (known as job role

or environment skills) Being able to transfer the skills and knowledge to other and new situations (known

as transferability)

All assessment tools meet the principles of assessment which means they are: Valid - the assessment will assess what it claims to assess. Judgement is made about

competency against unit/s based on sufficient evidence and appropriate methods Reliable - the assessment process and procedures must be consistent and

dependable. They can vary from context to context however; assessment practice states that all assessment decisions would be the same when made by a group of assessors. This means that assessors are required to document their decision making and MDS Training has procedures for validation and moderation of unit/s and qualification/s.

Flexible - procedures are flexible and involve a variety of methods providing the student with a level of choice. Recognition of prior learning is also available for all units in all qualifications.

Fair - no one student will be disadvantaged by the assessment procedures.

The collection of evidence will also comply with the rules of evidence which means all evidence shall be:

Valid - students must be able to demonstrate competency which covers the broad range of knowledge, skills and the application as specified in the unit of competency.

Current - students demonstrate their knowledge, skills and application is current Sufficient - assessors must gather enough evidence to satisfy that the student is

competent across the performance criteria, elements, units and required skills and knowledge.

Authentic - that the assessor is satisfied that the work identified as the students’ is the actual work of the student.

Each assessment tool will provide information to the student regarding type of font, font size and in some cases word limits for written questions. In addition other explanations and instructions will be provided as required for individual tasks and/or assessment instruments.

It is expected that students will also demonstrate:



Coherent and logical flow and responses which satisfactorily address the assessment task/s

Appropriate grammar and spelling, as required for job role and the standard of the relevant qualification

Adherence to word limits when applicable

Due dates for assessments, along with the assessment methodologies to be used, are provided to students via timetables, course outlines or individual study plans.

Assessments to assessors for marking:When ALL assessment tasks are completed for each unit of competency students can submit their assessment for marking in a number of ways:

Posted to “MDS Training PO BOX 284 CAMPBELLTOWN NSW 2560”. It is best to send via registered post so your assessment can be tracked.

Emailed to [email protected] marked attention to the name of your Trainer/Assessor or the title of the qualification you are enrolled in. DO NOT email your work to individual staff or trainer email addresses.

Handed to the Trainer/Assessor in class. Students will be required to sign the attendance sheet and indicate the unit code/s of any submitted work.

On line learning assessments are accessed by your Trainer/Assessor via the on line learning platform.

Assessments MUST have the following components completed and attached prior to being submitted to MDS Training:

Cover sheet signed and dated ALL tasks for each unit of competency completed including Third Party Report from

Workplace Supervisors if required Resubmit Form (if relevant)

Please Note: Students are advised to keep a copy of their work.

Support from employers:An information booklet is provided to employers in order to assist them to complete Third Party Reports. The booklet contains information on the support required as well as assistance and information on how to coach and support staff who are studying at MDS Training. Students are required to provide the details of their nominated supervisor at induction/first classroom session.

Online learning students can request a login and password from MDS Training for their employer to access Third Party Reports online.




Request for an Extension:The Request for Extension form is made available:

as part of the Induction Kit provided on the first day of class from the Trainer/Assessor from a staff member of MDS Training on the MDS Training website

Students are required to complete the form and hand in as soon as practical before the due date of the task.

Submitting a Request for an Extension Form should not be taken as approval. Students are encouraged to discuss the submission with a relevant person. Approval or denial of the extension will be provided in writing along with reasons why. It is strongly recommended that submissions for extension contain all of the relevant paperwork to support a student’s claims for requiring an extension. The Manager MDS Training will provide a written response within seven (7) days of receiving the application. If an extension is granted it is anticipated the work will be completed by the new due date. Extensions are granted with additional time lines which may or may not work their way through the remainder of the course. In some courses, it will be challenging for students to complete other units if they have not yet submitted work for an earlier unit.

If a student’s fee for service has been paid for by their employer or as part of a traineeship, the employer will be advised by MDS Training of the extension request and outcome. MDS Training will also provide revised timetables or individual study plans to organisations that have paid enrolment fees for their staff.

Equipment and Resources:As of 2016 MDS Training students will be provided with Participants Guides for each unit of competency they are enrolled in (subject to their availability). These guides have been sourced from Smallprint Australia Pty. Ltd. which own all copyright on its products as detailed in the Copyright Act 1968. For more information regarding copyright please read page 2 of your Participant Guide.

Additional resources are provided to all participants in MDS Training courses. These resources will vary dependent on length of course and nature of qualification. Students may also be directed to various books, articles, web links or e-learning resources.

MDS Training has a resource room on site which students can access by liaising with reception staff on Level 8, Head Office. If students require additional support a trainer/assessor may recommend additional resources upon request.



Each of the training rooms, located at MDS Head Office, is equipped with a laptop connection, whiteboard, data projector and internet access. The rooms have suitable tables and chairs, sufficient space along with a tea/coffee station.

The following list is optional reading using the Harvard Referencing Citation System. Students are not required to purchase these:

Arnott, G. (2011). The Disability Support Worker. Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson Australia.

Croft, H. (2011). Caring in the Community. Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson Australia. Long, SW. (2005). Caring for People with Challenging Behaviours, Essential Skills and

Successful Strategies in Long-Term Care. USA: Health Professions Press. Donnelly, J. W., Eburne, N. and Kittlesoh, M., 2001. Mental Health, Dimensions of Self-

Esteem and Emotional Well-Being. Massachusetts USA: Allyn & Bacon. Palmer, G. R. and Short, S. D. (2000). Health Care and Public Policy. 3rd ed. South Yarra,

Australia: Macmillan Publishers Australia Pty Ltd. Talbot, L. and Verrinder, G. (2005). Promoting Health. 3rd ed. Marrickville, Australia:

Elsevier Dubrin, A. J., Dalglish, C. and Miller, P. (2006). Leadership. 2nd Asia Pacific ed. Sydney,

Australia: John Wiley and Sons. Cole, K. (2001). Supervision, 2nd ed. Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson Education Australia. Cole, K. (2009). Management Theory and Practice. Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson

Education Australia.


Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT) Applications

10. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT) Applications.

Application Process:To apply for RPL you will be required to:

Discuss your suitability to undertake the RPL process with the MDS Training Manager or an appointed staff member

Candidates must complete an enrolment form indicating preferred method is RPL. Request an Application for RPL Form Request an RPL Kit:

Pre enrolment questions Performance criteria for competency outcomes related to their selected

unit/s and qualification/s for the recognition process Guidelines and information for possible sources of evidence ‘Big picture’ questions

Candidates for RPL must document their claim for competency with sufficient detail to enable the assessor to decide on the outcomes with regard to the RPL process. Candidates will be interviewed to discuss the recognition process, the likely costs and the support which is available. This information will provide enough detail to determine if pursuing the recognition pathway is a valid opportunity for the candidates. If appropriate, candidates may be required to participate in a language, literacy and numeracy assessment.

To apply for Credit Transfer (CT) you will be required to: Request an Application for CT Form Provide evidence that you have completed a unit of commence that is equivalent to

the unit that you are requesting a CT for Evidence provided must be certified by a Justice of the Peace (JP)

MDS Training has systems in place to enable consideration of participants’ prior learning and offers recognition of prior learning to all applicants on enrolment.

All clients may have prior learning relevant to their proposed course of study developed through their previous formal or informal training, work experience and/or life experience. Competencies already held by individuals can be formally assessed against the units of competency in the relevant Training Package. MDS Training will provide adequate information, support and opportunities for participants to engage in the RPL process upon enrolment. However, it is recognised participants can apply for RPL at any time during their enrolment.



Initial support is provided to candidates to ensure realistic expectations about RPL, to identify relevant courses and to provide information about learning outcomes and assessment benchmarks for consideration by participants. Initial support includes:

Providing a comfortable environment Participating in individual interviews or group sessions if relevant Providing participants with opportunities to clarify their objectives and express their

concerns or issues regarding the process and procedure The support and guidance of a skilled staff member with knowledge and expertise

regarding the units/qualification/course A period of enrolment for RPL which does not exceed 12 months from date of

enrolment

Fees:Fee information will be discussed with the candidate once the initial enrolment application has been received and discussion has occurred with the candidate. Fees are determined on a case by case basis. Recognition of other qualifications or statements of attainment incurs no fees. Fees are payable whether the RPL outcome is achieved or if a candidate remains unsuccessful.

Assessment:Support is provided throughout the RPL process to the candidate. Once the application is received, the RPL tool relevant to the unit/s and/or qualification is provided and the types of evidence and assistance are discussed.

Evidence submission:Once the evidence is submitted it will be reviewed by an assessor in line with the Rules of Evidence. Constructive feedback will be provided to the candidate. Generally an interview with the candidate will occur to:

Clarify evidence is complete Ensure candidate understands the evidence provided Ensure the rules of evidence have been addressed Ensure the four dimensions of competence have been addressed Support the assessor to make decisions regarding competence based on a holistic

approach to the qualification requirements and unit outcomes

Please Note: Candidates are provided with two opportunities to achieve competence.



Assessment decision:Candidates will be provided with information regarding their RPL application and evidence. Constructive feedback will be provided. Candidates may make a second submission based on the constructive feedback and any other discussion with the assessor. Candidates may also be presented with other options if unsuccessful now or at second submission, these include:

Statement of attainment for completed units Face to face sessions Flexible pathway courses Completion of other assessment tools as required to demonstrate competence

Recognition of Qualifications issued by other Registered Training Organisations:In accordance with regulatory requirements MDS Training recognises all AQF Qualifications and Statements of Attainment issued by other Registered Training Organisations. There are no additional fees associated with the recognition of AQF qualifications and Statements of Attainment via credit transfer. MDS Training does not offer a discount for credit transfers to the course/qualification costs.

Students can indicate on the enrolment form they may have credit transfer/s and a representative from MDS Training will speak with them

MDS Training will recognise all qualifications issued by other RTO’s An application form is available for all courses and assistance can be provided to

complete the application for recognition and credit transfer It is also recognised students may do this at any stage during a course where the

outcome is a nationally recognised qualification This form is provided at induction to support and encourage application and also on

the website




Candidate approaches RTO for advice regarding RPL

Conversation/Interview with candidate on suitability for RPL

Suitable for RPL

1. Candidate is provided with application form plus RPL Kit relevant to unit/s ; qualification/s; 2. Assessor may also organise worksite visit, 3rd Party reports, photographs or interview

Candidate reviews package

Evidence is submitted

Evidence is reviewed in accorance with the Rules of Evidence;

decision is made and feedback provided to the candidate

Cadidate is successful

Candidate is not successful

RTO liaises with candidate to identify gaps and outline resubmission

process and timeframe

1. Candidate gathers and resubmits additional evidence; 2. Assessor may also visit worksite, conduct interviews or other to support resubmission including a project or individual assessment

RPL is granted

Resubmitted evidence is reviewed and decision is made

RTO rejects RPL and advises candidate with reasons and feedback; support

offered for other options

Not Suitable for RPL

RTO advises candidate not suitable - support and

options provided

Complaints and Appeals

11. Complaints and Appeals ProcessAppeals:MDS Training will always act with fairness in mind and attempt to resolve all appeals in the shortest time frame.

If a student is dissatisfied with an assessment decision, they can submit a student appeal within ten (10) days of receiving their assessment outcome. This appeal can address an initial decision regarding a task/s of Not Satisfactory or a resubmit decision of Not Yet Competent.

The Complaint or Appeal form is made available: as part of the Induction Kit provided on the first day of class from the Trainer/Assessor from a staff member of MDS Training on the MDS Training website

Once the form is received the Manager MDS Training will re-examine the evidence and come to a decision. It may be that an independent assessor, with appropriate qualifications is used in the review of the assessment outcomes. This could include contacting another Registered Training Organisation, convening a panel or accessing an independent person. There are no charges for this process for the student. Once a decision is reached the student will be advised of the outcomes. If a student is still dissatisfied with the result they can appeal this decision to the Director Community, Mental Health and Training.

A fee may apply if re-assessment is required and/or the final due date for assessment has passed. This will only apply to students who submit assessment/s late and then it requires re-assessment due to an appeals process.

All candidates have the right to appeal an assessment result and request re-assessment.

Students can also appeal a RPL decision by utilising the above procedure.

Appeal against extension denial:Students can also appeal against a decision regarding extension if they are dissatisfied with the outcome. Again, this must be lodged within ten (10) days of receiving the decision regarding an extension. The same process applies as the appeal decision described above.


Complaints and Appeals

Complaints:MDS Training will always act with fairness in mind and attempt to resolve all complaints in the shortest time frame regarding issues related to training, the training environment, and assessment. A procedure related to complaints has been developed and is provided to all students at induction and additional forms are available as specified on the previous page.

The process for complaint is:i. complete the form

ii. email to the Manager MDS Training at [email protected]. The Manager will respond within seven (7) working days to the complaint in

writing via emailiv. All attempts to resolve the issue in no more than thirty (30) days will involve

procedural fairness and a transparent approach

In order to resolve the issue at hand a mediation discussion meeting may be convened between the parties concerned. If the complaint is related to issues between the student and Trainer/Assessor they will be directed to speak to the person first. If they are not happy with the outcome the Manager MDS Training will commence investigations. Investigation may include discussions with other students, other stakeholders, the trainer/assessor and the student.

Please Note: Students are advised to document any issue of concern with as much detail as possible.

Any planned outcomes and how this will be actioned are documented onto the complaint form in consultation with the person who has initiated the complaint.

All complaints/appeals will be entered into a Complaints Register which is managed by the Manager MDS Training. The register will include all details of the complaint/appeal and outcomes, action and closure information. The register will be reviewed at the next schedule meeting of the trainers/assessors, in order to explore if there are trends and other areas of concern and to ensure continuous improvement. The register may also be reviewed for audit and professional development purposes.

If a student is dissatisfied with the complaint outcome they may seek resolution with the General Manager Community, Mental Health and training or the CEO of MDS Ltd. A third party such as the Human Rights Commission or the Anti-Discrimination (NSW) board may also be suitable and if fees apply this will be at the students’ expense. It is anticipated this will be discussed with the student before the complaint is escalated to any of these levels.



12. CompletionCompletion of qualifications:Students will be issued with a nationally recognised Qualification within thirty (30) days of being signed off as having completed all units in the qualification, being deemed competent and the relevant fees have been paid in full.

A Statement of Attainment will be issued if a student is: Enrolled in only one or more units, but less than a full qualification Exits from a course prior to completion of all of the units and has been deemed

competent in one or more units All relevant fees have been paid in full

A student may also be deemed as only achieving a Statement of Attainment if they abandon a course before it is complete, have outstanding assessments or do not respond to contact.

Qualifications and Statements of Attainment will be issued with the following items: The name, national RTO code and logo of MDS Training The code and title of the qualification The Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) logo Transcript or record of results

In issuing certificates MDS Training follows the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Issuance Policy. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that:

Graduates receive the certification documentation to which they are entitled AQF qualifications are correctly identified in certification documentation AQF qualifications are protected against fraudulent issuance A clear distinction can be made between AQF qualifications and non-AQF

qualifications Certification documentation is used consistently across the education and training

sectors, and Graduates and others are confident that the qualifications they have been awarded

are part of Australia’s national qualifications framework.

Qualifications and Statement of Attainments will be posted to the home address of the student as recorded in the Student Management System.

Please Note: Qualifications and Statement of Attainments will be posted to the home address of the student as recorded in the Student Management System.

Study Tips

13. Study TipsTry to spend a little time studying each day: Set up a quiet place Be organized Manage your time effectively - schedules or calendars of your regular routines can help

you stay on top of things Allocate a regular study time with regular breaks Set a study goal (e.g. complete part A or a certain number of questions) Read and re read the questions Circle the key words Write in draft form first Re read your answer to see if it is responding to the question

Take an active role: Ask questions and listen actively See your Trainer/Assessor in the first instance if you experience difficulties, are

confused, need clarification or have questions; speak to the Manager MDS Training if not happy with this information or still unclear

Accept constructive feedback as a positive mechanism for reassuring you and supporting you to move forward in your course

Begin assessments right away to allow for time to research, revise, and draft your work. Review the AQF level for your Qualification and ensure your work meets this standard

http://www.aqf.edu.au/aqf/in-detail/aqf-levels/ Trainers/Assessors and the Manager MDS Training will comment on drafts within

reasonable limits and timeframes Schedule regular reviews and updates with your Trainer/Assessors Find out what amenities your workplace and training provider has to offer; e.g. MDS

has, subject to availability, a communication room with computers

Attend class prepared, and take good notes: Try not to miss a class, or get behind in your assignments. If you get too far behind, it

can be difficult to catch up Review and edit your notes as soon as possible after classes

Develop an awareness of how you learn: Understanding your personality type http://www.my-personality-test.com/personality-

type/?killsession and/or preferred learning style http://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/will help you focus your energies in the most productive way, and alert you to areas where you may need help

Take care of yourself: Make your well-being a priority - eat and sleep well so that you can better focus on

your studies

14. Further Reading

http://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/

http://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/

http://www.my-personality-test.com/personality-type/?killsession

http://www.my-personality-test.com/personality-type/?killsession


Completion

Nicol, D. (2010). From monologue to dialogue: improving written feedback processes in mass higher education. Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education 35(5), 501–517.


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