Field Work and off-campus activities

Field Work and off campus activities are essentially university authorised/supervised activities undertaken at an off-campus location. The purpose may be work, study, research or an excursion. Staff coordinating these activities should be familiar with both university policies and the needs of their student cohort.

Staff responsibilities in organising and conducting field work and off-campus activities are clearly outlined in the University's Off Campus Travel and Work Policy. Additional supporting information is provided in the Fieldwork Safety Guide and Checklist : PDF : 52KB.

Whilst all University staff are obliged to follow University Environmental Health and Safety procedures, staff should also be aware that they are legally responsible for ensuring maximum access/flexibility with field work activities so the needs of all participants are considered. The Disability Standards for Education which provide a framework to guide the University in meeting its legal obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act indicate that "any activities that are not conducted in classrooms, and associated extra-curricular activities or activities that are part of the broader educational program, are designed to include the student (with a disability)".

Field work and off campus activities should provide the same learning opportunities for students with disabilities as their peers. Effective planning and an inclusive approach to the activities can make the experience positive for both students and staff.

In addition to University requirements regarding fieldwork activities, see links below, consideration of the following issues is beneficial when planning for the participation of students with disabilities.

• Notify the class of off-campus activities as early in the semester as possible. This allows students with disabilities who utilise support workers e.g. sign language interpreters, participation assistants time to make an additional booking request and maximises their chances of having support workers available
• Allocate time in class to discuss the activity and expectations of participants. This will allow students with disabilities to consider additional issues they may have
• Invite students to meet with you to discuss any particular issues that participation in the off-campus activity may raise. Students may disclose important information in such a meeting which will assist you in meeting their needs or planning acceptable alternatives
• When planning an off-campus activity consider issues such as access to venue/location, how students will be transported (is this accessible), accessible features (such as toilets)

For further information on students with disabilities and work placements please click here.

Links

Academic Board Working Group on Fieldwork Placements : PDF : 40KB.

top of page