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Frequently Asked Questions

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Common sense is important in effectively dealing with unexpected issues as they arise

What if a student is ill in class?

If a student becomes ill during a class:

  • Ensure that the student is in no immediate danger
  • If there is an immediate danger, either remove the source of danger or move the student
  • Call the RMIT Campus Nurse Service, RMIT Counseling Service, or an ambulance, or request a colleague to do so.
  • If you are alone in the area ring the Security Service to request help: 9925 3333 [emergency number], or after hours on 9925 3895, or 9925 -1460 [Business Building 108 securities contact].
  • Do not leave the student alone if at all possible.

What if a student is distressed in class?

If a student exhibits signs of distress, excuse yourself and the student from the class and try to determine the cause of the distress. When you have done this you may be able to direct the student to an appropriate support service such as counseling. Please remember that going to counseling is voluntary and you cannot demand a student goes. If you are unable to determine what the distress is about, ensure that the student goes home with a fellow student at the very least. If this distress occurs during daylight hours you can suggest they go to the RMIT Counseling Service.

What if a student is hostile?

In the very rare event that a student is, in your opinion, hostile and behaves dangerously in a classroom:

  • Try to remain calm
  • Dismiss the class
  • Move yourself to somewhere safe
  • Call Security on their emergency number (9925 3333)
  • Initiate the Student Discipline procedure Regulation 6.1.1 Student Discipline (PDF 182 Kb).

If this possibility concerns you, the RMIT Counseling website has a link to a brief paper from UCLA Berkeley on how to speak to a violent or aggressive student. If you would like to read it, go to the Student Services Group website and follow the links to Counseling Services.

It’s important to emphasise that this kind of behaviour is very rare.

What do I do when the timetable or the room changes?

If you have to change rooms or class times, you are required to inform the Program Leader and the students. Put a sign on the door of the room that you were to use which re-directs students to another location. If you are given advance warning of a change, notify the students by student email and written or verbal communication where possible.

What happens if I’m sick?

Ring the Program Leader if you are sick and unable to take a class. If you become ill while taking a class, inform the Program Leader and make your way home or to your doctor. (See School Specific information on this website.)

How do I communicate with students outside of class?

All students are given an email address when they enrol at RMIT. You can communicate with them through this email channel concerning their academic work. If students have problems with their email account, then communicate with them via local arrangements, such as pigeonholes or bulletin boards or the School Office notice boards. It is not appropriate for staff to communicate with students outside class for personal reasons.

Where do students hand in their assessment tasks?

Assignments are:

  • Collected in class from the students
  • Posted in a locked assignment box
  • Submitted via the DLS on or before the due date.

Check the specific procedure in your school with your Program Leader.

Note that administrative staff cannot collect assignments on your behalf.

When returning student assessment tasks, please make sure that you hand it directly to them. Don’t leave assessment items lying around in classrooms: assessable work whilst in your care is your responsibility.

What if a student wants to change their enrolment?

If a student approaches you to about changing their enrolment, refer them to the Program Leader. Enrolment changes can be arranged, but the Program Leader needs to track such changes to ensure that:

  • The correct number of courses are being undertaken
  • The student does not have an academic problem that requires attention
  • The student is eligible to change enrolment status, especially from full-time to part-time.

What if a student wants to cancel their enrolment?

You may encounter a student who wishes to cancel their enrolment. A number of students do this each year, usually because of financial difficulties, ill health or family issues. Students must see the Program Leader and complete a Cancellation of Enrolment Form.

Failure to cancel enrolment by the census date means a student remains liable for fees. Census dates for both HE and TAFE are usually 31 March for Semester 1, and 31 August for Semester 2.

If an international student cancels their enrolment, this also means that their student visa will be cancelled.

Should I be advising students on their academic progress?

You may be asked to advise students on their academic progress. This is very dependent on your local program procedures. Students may need advice on which elective courses or major or minor streams they need to pursue in their degree. This may or may not be part of your job role. Ask your Program Leader or Supervisor. You may also be responsible for providing written and verbal feedback to students in class.