We get it – 2020 was meant to be your year and this semester was not going to be like the last. We’re halfway through SEM1 and things are not quite going as planned. Don’t worry – it’s not just you. The transition to online learning has been a relief for some and a nuisance for others. For many of us, it’s been a struggle to just ‘sit down and do uni’ and despite being confined to our homes, there’s still a lot going on. The QUT Registrar has been quick with their COVID-19 updates, and the teaching staff are rolling out alternate modes of content delivery. Some units have made changes to assessment, others haven’t.
Are you a Law or Justice student? I have good news for you. You may have received an email from the faculty, just last week, announcing changes to the concessions process (extensions, deferred exams, and special consideration). This also means there are changes to the application forms, relating to COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know.
What is this five-day extension and how will it help me?
Applications based on COVID-19 impacts will be granted an automatic five-day extension. To put it simply – if you are a law and/or justice student who has had their capacity to successfully complete assessment, negatively impacted by COVID-19, select “COVID-19” as your reason for applying and you will not be required to supply documentation. Please keep in mind that by completing the declaration, you are declaring that your reasons are truthful, and you must be prepared to support your claim if you are asked to do so.
Will I have had to be diagnosed with COVID-19?
The short answer is no.
As students, our day to day is rapidly changing. In the midst of regulatory changes, which in themselves can be daunting and overwhelming, many of us have lost jobs; have lost homes; and had to confront a lot of adjustments in our personal and professional lives.
If you’re having trouble deciding whether your reasons are acceptable grounds for your declaration, I would recommend getting in touch with QUT Advocacy by sending an email to advocacy@qutguild.com or alternatively visiting their website. Not only can Advocacy help with your applications process, but they also specialise in review of grade applications; defending academic dishonesty allegations; defending student misconduct; and course complaints. A comprehensive list of their specialities can be found on their website.
My unit coordinator has already extended the due date for my assessment – can I still apply for the extension?
Yes. If COVID-19 has had a negative impact on your ability to complete your assessment by that new due date, irrespective of the change in date, you are still able to apply for an extension; special consideration; or deferment.
Still unsure and want to speak to someone other than your tutor?
The Law and Justice Student Support Team is still available via email at lawandjustice@qut.edu.au. Don’t feel comfortable with emails? You can send the team a message through Facebook.
Remember to keep a close eye on your emails (make sure you’re checking your Junk Mail every now and then, too) and your unit’s Blackboard announcements. These times are distressing, but it’s important to keep ourselves informed and up-do-date so that we can utilise resources when in need.
