Outcomes of the chemistry discipline network mapping exercises

Abstract

Standards, threshold learning outcomes and generic graduate outcomes are increasingly important at Australian Universities. The Chemistry Discipline Network has begun developing approaches to these issues and in this paper, we report our experiences and outcomes thus far. One Chemistry Discipline Network working group has completed the first snapshot map of all chemistry units of study offered in twelve universities across Australia, including content, delivery and assessment. We report some general patterns found and more possible questions that can be asked of the information base (http://www.chemnet.edu.au/?q=node/39). In addition, we have mapped the chemistry units offered in six universities against the chemistry TLOs (http://www.chemnet.edu.au/sites/default/files/files/Chemistry%20Threshold%20Learning%20Outcomes%20May%202011.pdf) while simultaneously identifying exemplar learning activities / objects and related assessment for each TLO. This process establishes possible practices and systems which will enable universities to demonstrate that the subjects and degrees meet TLO and standards audits, and also which systems ideally fit seamlessly within normal course development and review. The results of the two mapping exercises are proving invaluable as sources of both information and discussion of issues, including what does a student have to achieve to deserve a BSc in chemistry, and what sort of diversity should be encouraged between universities with different sub-discipline specialities. Using these results, we plan a good practice guide to help ensure that degrees will pass an audit. In conjunction with this we are working towards possible discipline agreed standards to submit to the standards authority.