The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Marnie Hughes-Warrington and Head of the ANU School of Music Professor Adrian Walter gave a press conference on May 3 2012 regarding proposed changes to the ANU School of Music Bachelor of Music program.

The following update provides further information about the proposed changes and how to engage in the consultation process.

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In 2010 the School of Music undertook a strategic planning process during which it sought to radically redefine its role. It committed to:

“…deliver a distinctive and innovative tertiary music program, drawing on cutting-edge pedagogical practice, educational technologies, and national and international partnerships to provide world-class education in both elite music practice and scholarship, and more broadly-based educational pathways to meet the needs of the Australian National University, the local and regional community, and the creative industries….” Towards 2013 – a vision for a 21st Century Music School (Adrian Walter, 2010)

To realise this vision, the School has undertaken to introduce a program architecture for the 2013 curriculum with a strong focus on graduate destinations. It is proposed that educational facilitators will use technologically-enhanced learning methodologies, in partnership with a broad range of practitioners to deliver enhanced student experiences and learning outcomes. A Bachelor of Music curriculum developed within these principles will prepare students for key roles as 21st Century music professionals. The revised program will be characterised by the connections and relationships with the local, national and international music communities that already provide a foundation for authentic and immersive learning. Within the proposed model students will have access to specialist instrumental and vocal tuition on a 1:1 basis via a Professional Development Allowance.

These proposed changes are at the course level not the program level, although many courses are likely to be amended. The University is making a commitment to existing students that they will be able to complete their degree or discuss the possibility of transfer to new degree requirements or other arrangements. The University is currently consulting with staff on a revised curriculum via a formal Change Management proposal. The proposal document provides details of the specific proposal for a range of stakeholders, the consultation period closes on the 25th May, 2012. Input to the proposed curriculum model should be forwarded to somconsult@anu.edu.au. If you would like a copy of the ANU School of Music Change Management Project proposal document please email your request to somconsult@anu.edu.au.   

Note: The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) has asked its members - or other interested contributors - to copy any 'somconsult' correspondence to its email act@nteu.org.au