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Teaching philosophy

Bentley campus

Innovative, flexible and relevant.
Curtin's teaching philosophy.

Through productive partnerships, Curtin strives for excellence in teaching and learning, developing graduates as lifelong learners who are able to make positive contributions to society. Attractive, innovative curricula for students and teachers is thoroughly evaluated and revised to maintain relevance, addressing the learners' needs.

In recent years a major focus for our education programs has been the concept of developing learner-centred flexibility. This remains central in our planning and is linked to our emphasis on quality enhancement and commitment to excellence.

Curtin's philosophy of excellent teaching and learning

At Curtin, excellent learning and teaching is founded on and aspires to:

  1. Student learning through an outcomes-focused approach;
  2. Flexibility and innovation;
  3. Creative and appropriate applications of technology;
  4. Appreciation of cultural diversity; and
  5. Research-based pedagogical practices.

Curtin students' learning experiences include:

  1. Intellectually challenging learning outcomes;
  2. Engaging learning environments;
  3. Flexible learning opportunities;
  4. Assessment which aligns with learning outcomes; and
  5. Systematic evaluation of teaching and learning.

Within the Curtin learning partnership, staff and students:

  1. Pursue expertise and innovation in their disciplines;
  2. Are self-directed, motivated and active learners;
  3. Demonstrate exemplary learning and teaching practices;
  4. Reflect on improving learning and teaching practices; and
  5. Work within Curtin's Guiding Ethical Principles.

Curtin graduates demonstrate evidence, as appropriate to their disciplines, that they can:

  1. Apply discipline knowledge, principles and concepts;
  2. Think critically, creatively and reflectively;
  3. Access, evaluate and synthesise information;
  4. Communicate effectively;
  5. Use technologies appropriately;
  6. Utilise lifelong learning skills;
  7. Recognise and apply international perspectives;
  8. Demonstrate cultural awareness and understanding; and
  9. Apply professional skills.

In addition, graduates of research degrees demonstrate the ability to create knowledge through research.

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On the side

"Learning and innovation go hand in hand. The arrogance of success is to think that what you did yesterday will be sufficient for tomorrow." - William Pollard, Historian