Course Title: Apply GIS software to spatial problems
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term2 2023
Course Code: GEOM5188C
Course Title: Apply GIS software to spatial problems
Important Information:
Please note that this course may have compulsory in-person attendance requirements for some teaching activities.
To participate in any RMIT course in-person activities or assessment, you will need to comply with RMIT vaccination requirements which are applicable during the duration of the course. This RMIT requirement includes being vaccinated against COVID-19 or holding a valid medical exemption.
Please read this RMIT Enrolment Procedure as it has important information regarding COVID vaccination and your study at RMIT: https://policies.rmit.edu.au/document/view.php?id=209.
Please read the Student website for additional requirements of in-person attendance: https://www.rmit.edu.au/covid/coming-to-campus
Please check your Canvas course shell closer to when the course starts to see if this course requires mandatory in-person attendance. The delivery method of the course might have to change quickly in response to changes in the local state/national directive regarding in-person course attendance.
School: 530T Built Environment and Sustainability
Campus: City Campus
Program: C4417 - Certificate IV in Surveying and Spatial Information Services
Course Contact: Matthew Sweeney
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4105
Course Contact Email: matthew.sweeney@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Greg Patterson
Spatial and Surveying Teacher
School of Vocational Engineering, Health & Science
RMIT University, MELBOURNE 3001
Victoria, Australia
Email: gregory.patterson@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 70
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
None
Course Description
In this course you will develop the skills and knowledge required to use geographic information system (GIS) software applications to show spatial patterns and relationships for identified issues. This includes integrating various sources of spatial information using spatial overlay techniques and analysis of data.
The course also includes using univariate statistics to explore datasets, and spatial and attribute queries to generate results and reports.
This course is suitable for entry-level technicians who use a broad range of cognitive, technical and communication skills to select and apply a range of methods, tools, materials and information to complete routine and non-routine activities and provide and transmit solutions to a variety of predictable and sometimes unpredictable problems.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
CPPSSI4035 Apply GIS software to spatial problems |
Element: |
1. Prepare for spatial analysis |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Clarify task requirements to address the issue under consideration with appropriate persons. 1.2 Apply appropriate work practices for safe screen-based work. 1.3 Access, interpret and manipulate spatial datasets to confirm they are in acceptable format to meet task requirements. 1.4 Identify and resolve routine spatial data problems or irregularities with geometry and attributes and resolve with appropriate persons. 1.5 Use spatial and attribute queries to select features from vector and aspatial text databases. 1.6 Determine accuracy of query results on vector and raster datasets by cross-referencing in tabular and cartographic view. 1.7 Generate and use univariate statistics to explore the dataset. |
Element: |
2. Undertake spatial analysis |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Manipulate existing data and integrate new data according to task requirements. 2.2 Use vector and raster geoprocessing techniques to generate results relating to spatial task. 2.3 Check that outputs of analysis are correct and applicable. |
Element: |
3. Produce reports |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Compile information on the limitations and assumptions of the datasets and the geoprocessing techniques used according to task and organisational requirements. 3.2 Present summary statistics and results using tabular, cartographic and graphic methods according to task requirements. 3.3 Incorporate results for all sources into reports according to organisational requirements. 3.4 Comply with legislative and ethical requirements for producing reports based on spatial data analysis. |
Element: |
4. Finalise data analysis |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Check output spatial data for completeness and manipulate where necessary according to organisational requirements. 4.2 Create metadata according to organisational requirements. 4.3 Store spatial data in a secure location and record details according to organisational requirements. 4.4 Comply with organisational requirements for documentation and storage relating to audit trails, naming standards, templates and version control. |
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements.
Details of Learning Activities
This will include:
- Planning and documenting project requirements
- Undertake spatial analysis using spatial software applications
- Produce statistical reports based on the analysis of data
- Completing documentation and finalising project requirements
The total number of scheduled hours of teaching, learning and assessment involved in this course includes all planned activities (face to face classes, lectures, workshops and seminars; workplace visits, online learning and other forms of structured teaching and learning). It also covers the amount of effort necessary to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, observation of work performance, discussions with supervisors and others providing third party evidence and one on one and group assessment sessions with students.
Teaching Schedule
Syllabus - Spatial Software Applications
The following syllabus provides you with this course's Training and Assessment schedule. Refer to this page to find out what themes will be discussed each week and when assessments are due. You will also find important information on census dates, excursions and practices. While we endeavour to deliver and assess in line with this syllabus, we reserve the right to make changes to accommodate unexpected circumstances.
Session/Date |
Theme |
Assessments |
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10-16 July |
Lesson Title: Introduction to Spatial Software Applications Description: During this session, you will be introduced to the assessment, and the teacher will provide a thorough overview of the assessment documentation, including its requirements and expectations. In addition, software licenses will be distributed to you, allowing you to access and utilize the required software on your home computers for the assessment. Furthermore, you will be informed about additional training opportunities available to you, such as LinkedIn Training, which offers a range of courses and resources to further enhance your skills and knowledge in the subject area. This will enable you to expand your learning beyond the classroom and gain valuable insights from various educational platforms. |
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17-23 July |
Lesson Title: Defining project requirements and key components Description: During this session, you will be introduced to the "Project Scoping Document," which serves as a comprehensive guide for defining the project requirements and key components that need to be addressed in collaboration with the client. The document will cover various essential areas, including objectives, purpose, positional accuracy, validation methods, legislative requirements, spatial references, spatial datasets including Digital elevation models, analysis requirements,, metadata standards, backup schedule, upload requirements, Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) requirements when working on screen-based equipment, geoprocessing workflow, and the clarification and confirmation of task requirements. By thoroughly discussing these areas, we aim to establish a clear understanding of the project scope and ensure alignment between all stakeholders involved. |
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24-30 July |
Lesson Title: Initial meeting requirement with client (Continued) Description: During this session, you will will be assigned an assessment task that involves participating in a meeting with the client. The purpose of the meeting is to engage in extensive discussions and document all project requirements, while also addressing a series of questions. The main objective of these discussions and documentation is to establish a clear and precise understanding of the project scope, ensuring alignment among all stakeholders. This meticulous process will facilitate effective planning and execution of the assessment task, ultimately leading to a successful outcome. By successfully completing these tasks, you will demonstrate their proficiency in understanding and managing project requirements, as well as their ability to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders. |
Assessment 1 Client Requirements
Section B – Marking Guide A1 – A2 |
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31 July - 6 August |
Lesson Title: Obtain and validate spatial datasets Description: In this session, you will engage in an assessment task focused on downloading and validating spatial datasets for a project using industry-accepted methods. Before starting the task, you will receive training on the appropriate methods for obtaining and validating spatial datasets. You will also become familiar with the relevant GIS software. This training will cover important aspects such as documenting the dataset's details like name, version number or currency date, format type, geometry, source location, spatial reference (projection, datum, and coordinate system), determined accuracy, discrepancies, suitability, and limitations. In addition to the practical task, you will be required to answer knowledge questions, demonstrating their understanding of the subject matter. By successfully completing these tasks, you will showcase their proficiency in obtaining, validating, and managing spatial datasets, as well as your comprehension of the underlying concepts and principles. |
Assessment 1 Data Validation Sheet (Attachment 2) Section B – Marking Guide B1, B7 Knowledge Questions Question 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12 |
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7-13 August |
Lesson Title: Resolve Errors Description: In this session, you will engage in an assessment task focused on resolving spatial data problems and irregularities, particularly related to geometry and attribute errors. To effectively address these issues, you will undergo training to enable you to identify and rectify data quality issues associated with the data obtained. By familiarizing themselves with these techniques, you will acquire the necessary skills to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the spatial data, thereby enhancing its overall quality and usability. By successfully completing these tasks, you will demonstrate your proficiency in identifying and resolving spatial data problems, showcasing their ability to maintain high-quality datasets that meet the required standards. |
Assessment 1 Resolve Errors Section B – Marking Guide B2 |
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14-20 August
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Lesson Title: Calculate and interpret univariate statistics Description: In this session, you will engage in an assessment task focused on analyzing graves within the Riverside Cemetery, Queenbeyan NSW. The task involves designing and creating a graph and table to visually represent and present the total number of graves for different religions in the cemetery. You will receive training on the analysis techniques and tools needed for this task. You will learn how to analyze the data and calculate various univariate statistics for each religion group. The statistics to be determined include the minimum value, maximum value, summary statistics (such as count and sum), mean, median, range, mode, and standard deviation. Upon completing the analysis, you will validate the results with the teacher to ensure accuracy and enhance their understanding of the findings. By successfully completing these tasks, you will demonstrate their proficiency in data analysis, graph creation, and calculation of univariate statistics. This assessment will showcase your ability to work with real-world data, interpret statistical measures, and effectively present their findings in a graphical format. It will also demonstrate their skills in utilizing appropriate tools and techniques for data analysis and visualization. |
Assessment 1 Calculate and interpret univariate statistics Section B – Marking Guide B3, B7 Knowledge Questions Question 2, 8, 9, 10, 13 |
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21-27 August |
Lesson Title: Create Thematic layer Description: In this session, you will engage in an assessment task focused on utilizing a digital elevation model (DEM) to generate a thematic layer and contour lines, along with their corresponding elevation values. To successfully complete this task, you will receive training in applying geoprocessing techniques within a geographical information system (GIS) software. You will learn how to use the software tools and functions to process the DEM data and create the desired thematic layer and contour lines. By successfully completing these tasks, you will demonstrate your proficiency in working with DEM data, applying geoprocessing techniques, and generating informative thematic layers and contour lines. This assessment will showcase your ability to analyze and visualize elevation data effectively using GIS technology, which is a valuable skill in various geospatial applications and industries. |
Assessment 1 Create Thematic layer
Section B – Marking Guide B4, B7
Knowledge Questions Question 11 |
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Mid-semester break 28 August - 3 September |
The Mid-semester break is a scheduled break in the semester. No teaching or assessment will occur during this time. Also, your Trainer/Assessor won't be available during this time. If you need to contact them, please email them via your student email account, and they will respond once they return from the break. |
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4-10 September |
Lesson Title: Metadata report Description: In this session, you will be assigned an assessment task focused on creating a metadata statement for the Riverside Cemetery report in accordance with ISO standards. The task involves filling in the necessary metadata fields to ensure compliance with the specified ISO standards, thereby providing comprehensive information about the report and its contents. To successfully complete this task, you will receive training on metadata creation and understanding the relevant attribute fields that need to be populated. This training will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately document and describe the report in compliance with ISO standards. Additionally, as part of the session, you will be expected to answer a knowledge question, demonstrating their understanding of metadata creation and the significance of associated attribute fields. This will further assess the your comprehension of metadata standards and their ability to effectively document and organize information. By successfully completing these tasks, you will showcase your proficiency in creating metadata statements that adhere to ISO standards. This demonstrates your ability to accurately document and describe the Riverside Cemetery report, ensuring effective data management and facilitating information retrieval in accordance with industry best practices. |
Assessment 1 Metadata report
Section B – Marking Guide B5, B7
Knowledge Questions Question 6 |
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11-17 September |
Lesson Title: Finalise and submit project assessment Description: In this session, you will be assigned an assessment task that involves finalizing all documentation related to your project. This includes ensuring that all required documents, reports, or presentations are completed and reviewed for accuracy and completeness. You will also need to complete the 'Submission of Completed Work' document, which includes providing a summary of the work done and any additional information required for submission. Furthermore, as part of the assessment task, you will be required to upload all necessary materials onto the Canvas platform. This includes submitting the completed documents, reports, or presentations in the designated format specified by the instructor. By successfully completing this task and submitting all required materials, you will demonstrate your ability to effectively organize and finalize project documentation, ensuring that all necessary information is provided for assessment. You will also showcase your proficiency in utilizing the Canvas platform to submit their work in a timely and accurate manner. |
Assessment 1 Submission of completed work document
Section B – Marking Guide B6, B8 |
Term 2 |
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18-24 September |
Lesson Title: Initial meeting and data validation Description: During this session, you will be presented with an assessment task where they will have a meeting with the client to discuss and document the project requirements. The focus will be on understanding the client's needs and expectations for the project. Additionally, you will be tasked with downloading and validating the necessary spatial datasets for the project. This will involve using industry-accepted methods to ensure the accuracy and quality of the data. By successfully completing these tasks, you will contribute to the foundation of a well-informed and structured project. |
Assessment 2 Clarify Requirements, Worked safely during activity and Access and check spatial data Section B – Marking Guide A1, A2, B1 |
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25 September - 1 October |
Lesson Title: Resolve Errors Description: In this session, you will engage in an assessment task focused on resolving spatial data problems and irregularities, particularly related to geometry and attribute errors. To effectively address these issues, you will undergo training to enable you to identify and rectify data quality issues associated with the data obtained. By familiarizing yourself with these techniques, you will acquire the necessary skills to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the spatial data, thereby enhancing its overall quality and usability. By successfully completing these tasks, you will demonstrate their proficiency in identifying and resolving spatial data problems, showcasing your ability to maintain high-quality datasets that meet the required standards. |
Assessment 2 Resolve Errors
Section B – Marking Guide B2 |
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2-8 October |
Lesson Title: Calculate and interpret univariate statistics Description: In this session, you will be assigned an assessment task focused on examining the impact of roads on the Koala population. The task involves designing and creating a graph that visually represents the relationship between roads and Koala sightings. The graph will include a scatterplot with a trendline and the associated correlation coefficient value. Additionally, you will receive training in analysing the provided dataset to calculate various univariate statistics for the Koala sighting numbers. The statistics to be determined include the minimum value, maximum value, summary statistics (such as count and sum), mean, median, range, mode, and standard deviation. Upon completing the task, you will validate the results with the teacher to ensure accuracy and understanding of the analysis. By successfully completing these tasks, you will demonstrate your proficiency in data visualization, statistical analysis, and interpreting the relationship between roads and the Koala population. |
Assessment 2 Calculate and interpret univariate statistics
Section B – Marking Guide B3 |
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9-15 October |
Lesson Title: Thematic map showing koala density Description: In this session, you will be assigned an assessment task that involves utilizing geoprocessing techniques within Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to manipulate and edit Koala data. The main objective is to create a thematic map showcasing the density of Koalas. This map will be integrated with aerial photography, satellite imagery, or a map serving as a background. To successfully complete this task, you will receive training in applying geoprocessing techniques within a geographical information system (GIS) software. You will learn how to use the software tools and functions to process the data and create the desired thematic layer. By successfully completing this task, you will demonstrate your proficiency in applying geoprocessing techniques, data manipulation, and map creation using GIS software. You will showcase your ability to effectively represent and visualize Koala density information in a thematic map, integrating it with other spatial data sources for enhanced context and presentation. |
Assessment 2 Thematic map showing koala density
Section B – Marking Guide B4 |
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16-22 October |
Lesson Title: Create Metadata Description: During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task that focuses on creating a metadata statement for Riverside Cemetery Analysis Report, following the ISO standards. The task entails filling in the required metadata fields, adhering to the specified ISO standards, to provide comprehensive information about the contents. To ensure the successful completion of the task, the student will receive training on metadata creation and understanding the relevant attribute fields that need to be populated. This training will equip the student with the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately document and describe the report in compliance with ISO standards. By successfully completing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in creating metadata statements that adhere to ISO standards, showcasing their ability to accurately document geospatial datasets and facilitate effective data management practices. |
Assessment 2 Metadata report
Section B – Marking Guide B5 |
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23-29 October |
Lesson Title: Submission of completed work document Description: In this session, you will be assigned an assessment task focused on completing and reviewing all project documentation. You will need to ensure that all required documents, reports, or presentations are finalized with accuracy and completeness. Additionally, you will be responsible for completing the 'Submission of Completed Work' document, which includes summarizing the work done and providing any additional information necessary for submission. By successfully completing this task, you will demonstrate your proficiency in organizing and finalizing project documentation to meet the required standards. You will showcase your attention to detail and ability to effectively communicate the key aspects of your work. |
Assessment 2 Submission of completed work document, Store spatial data and documentation Section B – Marking Guide B6 |
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30 October - 5 November |
Lesson Title: Store spatial data and documentation Description: In this session, you will be assigned an assessment task that involves completing all necessary requirements and uploading all completed documentation onto the Canvas platform. You will be responsible for reviewing and finalizing all project components, ensuring that all requirements are met and all documentation is complete. This includes checking for accuracy, proper formatting, and adherence to guidelines. Upon completion, you will need to upload all the finalized documentation onto the Canvas platform. This will involve organizing the files, naming them appropriately, and submitting them in the designated location. By successfully completing this task, you will demonstrate your ability to effectively manage and submit your work, showcasing your attention to detail and adherence to submission requirements. |
Assessment 2 Store spatial data and documentation Section B – Marking Guide B7 |
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6-12 November |
Lesson Title: Revision and feedback on work completed Description: In this session, the students will be provided feedback on their assessments and will be required to update any areas identified as not meeting requirements |
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13-19 November |
Lesson Title: Assessment marking and finalising results Description: Final grades will be provided to students and RPO completed with final results |
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Official Results Release DateLinks to an external site. 27 November |
Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
All email communications will be sent to your RMIT email address and you must regularly check your RMIT emails.
Students will be able to access course information and learning materials through the Learning Hub and may be provided with additional materials in class. Lists of relevant reference books, resources in the library and accessible Internet sites will be provided where possible. You will also use equipment and software packages in the laboratory for the project work. During the course, you will be directed to websites to enhance your knowledge and understanding of difficult concepts
Check the Library Subject Guides: http://rmit.libguides.com/geospatial
Overview of Assessment
Assessment for this course is ongoing throughout the semester. Your knowledge and understanding of course content is assessed through participation in class exercises, oral presentations and through the application of learned skills and insights to your written tasks. Full assessment briefs will be provided and can be found on CANVAS.
Assessment task number 1: Spatial Analysis Portfolio
Assessment task number 2: Environmental factors affecting Koalas.
Assessment Tasks
| Assessment number | Assessment type | Week Due |
| Assessment 1 | Riverside Cemetery flood analysis report |
Week 9 |
| Assessment 2 | Environmental Factors Affecting Koalas | Week 16 |
Assessment Matrix
Mapping Assessments to the Unit of Competency – Instructions
Performance Evidence | ||
A person demonstrating competency in this unit must satisfy the requirements below |
Assessment Task 1 Riverside Cemetery flood analysis report |
Assessment Task 2 Environmental Factors affecting Koalas |
To demonstrate competency a candidate must meet the elements and performance criteria of this unit by using geographic information system (GIS) software applications to integrate data and show spatial patterns and relationships for identified issues for two different projects. |
Assessment Task 1 |
Assessment Task 2 |
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PE1. The candidate must manage and manipulate the following, presenting the results accurately and meaningfully using maps, tables and graphs:
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B4 |
B4 |
Assessment conditions |
Describe how assessments meet the assessment conditions |
Assessors must meet the requirements for assessors contained in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations. |
RMIT employment requires all trainers and assessors to comply with the Standards for RTOs in respect to holding the TAE40116, or higher VE qualification including any necessary updated units. All employees must show currency within their vocational specialty along with their professional employment.
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Competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated environment that accurately reflects performance in a real workplace setting where these skills and knowledge would be performed. |
Assessments reflect the workspace environment. Assessors to have appropriate industry experience and knowledge. Students have access to computers with the latest GIS software packages during scheduled class times that comply with current industry practices.
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Candidates must have access to: | |
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computer with access to GIS software applications printer and other hardware necessary for work tasks.
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All labs will have the appropriate computers and software installed. Software that students required include:
Students will have access to additional software through Office 365. The students can sign in with your RMIT email address and password. |
Other Information
Interim Results
After you have submitted an assessment, you will receive an interim result. This is displayed in the Grades section of this Canvas shell. These will be as follows:
Results |
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Satisfactory (S) |
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Not Yet Satisfactory (NYS) |
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Did Not Submit (DNS) |
You will receive this result when you have not submitted your assessment by the due date or time. Your Trainer/Assessor, the Program Coordinator or the Program Manager cannot overturn this interim result. An approved Special Consideration is required to allow further opportunities to complete the assessment. Additionally, moderation panels cannot overturn this result either. |
Note: You must achieve a Satisfactory (S) result for every assessment in this course in order to pass.
Interim results will inform the moderation panel of their decision as to whether or not you are deemed competent and can pass the course. Your final and official result will be published via My Results on RMIT's website. It is your responsibility to check your final results. Your Trainer/Assessor, the Program Coordinator or the Program Manager will not inform you of your final result.
Resubmission Policy:
After you submit your assessment, your Trainer/Assessor will review your submission. If you have met all the requirements of the assessment task, you will receive an S result in your Grades section of this course.
If the Trainer/Assessor determines that you have not met the assessment requirements, you will receive an NYS result in the Grades section. In this case, your Trainer/Assessor will provide you with the following opportunities to resubmit:
- Project/Practical-Based Assessment Task: One Resubmission per assessment.
- Knowledge-Based Assessment Task (Tests): Two Resubmissions per assessment
Important: If you do not submit an assessment by its due date or time, you are not entitled to a resubmission. You will only receive an opportunity to submit an assessment that you have failed to submit on time if you provide an approved Special Consideration. Your Trainer/Assessor, Program Coordinator & Program Manager or the Moderation panel cannot overturn a DNS result without approved Special Consideration.
*Resubmissions cannot be accepted via email or as attachments to the comments of another assessment. Any work submitted in this manner will not be accepted or recognised, regardless of the circumstances. All resubmissions must be uploaded via the original submission folder and by the due date and time set by the Trainer/Assessor.
**Your Trainer/Assessor, Program Coordinator or Program Manager cannot issue further resubmission opportunities beyond those stated here. You will only be provided with further opportunities based on the successful application for Special Consideration or upon the course moderation panel's review and decision at the course's end.
Attendance:
You are required to attend a minimum of 85% of your classes. If you miss classes, you will need to provide a medical certificate to your Trainer/Assessor for classes that result in you not meeting the 85% requirement.
If you fail to attend the minimum required classes and engage in each class, your trainer/assessor will not accept your assessment submissions. You will be required to attend an in-person interview with your trainer/assessor at a time determined by them. Failure to attend this interview will result in your assessment being rejected. Additionally, the trainer/assessor reserves the right to reject your assessment based on the interview's outcome. This is required to ensure RMIT meets the Standards set for RTOs to ensure the validity of your work.
Course Overview: Access Course Overview