Curtin adopts innovative new model for curriculum development

C158/08
A new “triple-i” curriculum model at Curtin University of Technology will meet student and industry needs by ensuring industry links, intercultural and Indigenous awareness, and interdisciplinary study are clearly embedded within each course.
“The new model will meet both students’ expectations of career focussed courses and the increasing demand by industry for our highly employable graduates,” said Curtin’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket.
“It will benefit both our students and employers, and is one of the ways Curtin is addressing the skills shortage.”
Professor Beverley Oliver, Director of Teaching and Learning at Curtin, said the model built on and enhanced the factors which already differentiate Curtin from other universities. Professor Oliver heads the Curriculum 2010 project under which the new model was developed.
“Curtin is already known for its links with business and industry, and these will be enhanced and expanded through the new model with increased work placements, internships and work-integrated learning.
“Research shows students studying at university are very career focussed, and involvement with industry as part of their course ensures they acquire knowledge and skills directly relevant to their field.
“This also has obvious advantages for industry, ensuring graduates are highly skilled and employable.”
Professor Oliver said the new model would also enhance Curtin’s acknowledged expertise in international and indigenous education, ensuring students graduated with an awareness of other cultures and the ability to work with them.
“This awareness will be contextualised, embedded and assessed in every course. With the newly industrialised nations of China and India experiencing strong growth, there will be an increasing global demand for graduates with knowledge and skills that allow them to cross cultural divides.”
The third aspect of the model is a focus on interdisciplinary education, which will enable students to combine courses across three broad areas including arts, business and science.
“In the ‘triple-i’ model, students will be able to select majors from across Faculties,” said Professor Oliver.
“For example, a student might choose a double major in business and fashion and textile design, or science and journalism. This greater interdisciplinary mix within professional and accredited courses, and particularly postgraduate courses, offers graduates a more diverse knowledge base, enabling them to acquire the specific skills and knowledge they need for their immediate career, or more choice further down the track.”
Contact: Professor Beverley Oliver, Director Teaching and Learning, Curtin, 9266 2292, 0418 926 426, b.oliver@curtin.edu.au or Lisa Mayer, PR Coordinator, Curtin, 08 9266 1930, 0401 103 755 l.mayer@curtin.edu.au