Sessional Development Project

Sessional academics, a diverse group including Masters and PhD students, honours students, retired academics, industry professionals, senior hospital specialists, judges and retired teachers, make a significant contribution to the university’s education programs, and are often the front-line contact for students. Between 2004 and 2008, the university employed 7972 different individuals with an average of about 4000 each year to undertake casual academic work (see summary sessional data April 2007 - March 2008, rtf 381kb). The widespread reliance on sessional academics has important implications for quality of teaching, the student experience and student retention.

The University as a whole has lacked an institutional approach to the professional development of sessional academics, and the aim of the Sessional Development Project is to develop a university-wide framework for the training and support of sessional academic staff.

Consultation drafts

Documentation associated with the project can be downloaded below and your comments are welcome. T he following are available:

The consultation report (rtf 481kb) summarising the outcomes of widespread consultation with faculties and other key stakeholders, and the major issues identified. 

The final recommendations and actions to date (doc 128kb) following a forum with Associate Deans (Education) on 17 June 2008.

A draft template for a common application form (doc 71kb) for sessionals that can be adapted by faculties

For further information about the Sessional Development Project, see the briefing paper (rtf 59kb) or contact Kristina.Macrae@adm.monash.edu.au.