Why the Southern Cross Model? How one University’s Curriculum was Transformed

Abstract

In 2019, Southern Cross University commenced a process of deep reflection on the academic outcomes and engagement of its students. Over the preceding five years, the attrition and success rates of the University's students were consistently worse than the Australian public university sector averages for those years, and in some years worse than the Australian Regional University Network's (RUN) averages. Southern Cross decided to confront these long-standing issues through major curriculum reform across the institution. A period of consultation followed, leading to the collaborative development of the Southern Cross Model. Through adoption of a community of practice and a university-wide academic design working group, the SCM aims to provide students with a more focused learning experience with guided, active learning at its heart that builds communities of inquiry, and delivered through immersive 6-week teaching periods. This paper outlines the core concepts underpinning the Southern Cross Model and how those are expressed in practice.