11 December 2008

Michelle Hasler, who is currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Business Marketing via distance education at CSU won the prize for the best international marketing plan from a student in a NSW based university. The Austrade Export Plan Competition is open to all university students enrolled in an Australian tertiary institution. Students can submit either as individuals or as teams. Entrants prepare an export plan for an existing Australian business that produces goods or offers services with export potential, but has never exported.

Michelle’s plan analysed the viability of entry into the New Zealand marketplace as a first international venture for a small South Australian company Wellness & Lifestyles Australia which operates in the allied health industry. The preparation of an international marketing plan is a major requirement for study in the subject International Marketing which is a compulsory component of the Bachelor of Business Marketing.

According to Kath Attree, Lecturer in CSU’s School of Marketing & Management; Michelle undertook an enormous amount of research and prepared a very comprehensive and detailed plan. She thoroughly deserves the award.

On submitting the plan to Austrade, Michelle stated:

“Even if I don’t win the competition I have found the process very challenging and most of all it has proved a very valuable learning experience.
Hopefully one day I can put all these skills into practice.”

Congratulations Michelle.

31 October 2008
by Howard Jones, The Border Mail

Charles Sturt University's Thurgoona campus has expanded since 1997, when the then Governor-General, Sir William Deane, laid the foundation stone.

Yesterday the new Governor-General, Quentin Bryce, officially opened the $4.5 million School of Business and Information Technology as construction of several other projects continued.

The ceremony was attended by university Chancellor Lawrie Willett, Vice-Chancellor and President Ian Goulter and campus head Gall Whiteford.

Ms Bryce toured the school with its head, John Atkinson, while wetland scientist David Mitchell spoke to Ms Bryce about the campus wetlands.

There were some smiles from guests when Professor Mitchell walked through the rammed earth walls of the environment science school, waving his arms and explaining how it was designed to get rid of hot air.

Ms Bryce got a briefing on campus research and praised the university for its scholarship and research in social and environmental sustainability.

As a former principal of Women’s College at Sydney University she said the CSU campus was a superb place for students because it offers a mix for life, friendship and learning.

A learning commons base is under construction at the campus and should be ready next year, while 300 accommodation units are being built.

The university is spending $40 million on the campus development, including a refurbishment of the Gordon Beavan Building which is being vacated by the business school and library.

8 October 2008
by Professor Mark Farrell
Sub Dean MBA

Charles Sturt University and the University of Applied Sciences, Berne, Switzerland, have established a cooperative relationship which partly involves developing close links with the UASB EMBA and the CSU MBA. As part of the cooperation, in September, 2008, around 30 UASB EMBA students and around 15 CSU MBA students travelled to Shanghai to attend the module, "Doing Business in China", at the School of Management, Fudan University.

About Fudan University

The University was established by Ma Xiang-bo in 1905. "Fudan" found its lexical origin in the quotation "Heavenly light shines day after day" taken from "Annotations of Yu and Xia" (Yu Xia Zhuan) of Scholia of The Collection of Archaic Texts (Shang Shu Da Zhuan). Fudan is a member of Universitas 21, an international consortium of research-driven universities, and is considered as one of the top 5 universities in China.

The Guanghua Twin Towers [光华楼], standing in the center of the campus reach 140.5 meters high, which are reportedly the highest buildings ever constructed in a university campus in China.
Below is a photograph of the Library at Fudan.

Monday

The first task required students to deliver a 15 minute presentation on various aspects of Chinese culture. Topics included Buddhism, Confucianism, Chinese Calligraphy, and Taoism, Chinese music and Chinese deeds and discoveries. Students had prepared for this prior to arrival. For the CSU students, this meant collaborating via the Online Forum, telephone, and SMS. Both the Australian and the Swiss students did a good job, which was not easy, given the depth of the topics, and the time allowed. Full marks went to the Swiss presentation on Chinese music, which was both interesting, and very entertaining.

There then followed a lecture on business culture in China, by Professor He Xiyou. Professor He provided an in depth coverage of issues concerning business in China, addressing the nature of the market in China; the structure of the government in China; characteristics of the market in China; FDI in China, and the importance of organisational learning for foreign firms in China.

Following lunch, Mr Zheng Xiao Feng provided a lecture from the perspective of a business operator in China, and addressed the practical issues concerning the key success factors regarding the market entry strategy for international firms wishing to enter the China market. The importance of 'guanxi', which refers to the durable social connections and networks an individual uses to exchange favours for their own purposes.

In the late afternoon, the students continued to deliver more presentations regarding aspects of Chinese culture. In the evening, a welcome dinner was held at the Equatorial Hotel, providing the opportunity for everyone to get to know each other.

Tuesday

In the morning, Professor Min Chen delivered a very interesting lecture concerning multi national corporations sourcing strategies for China. Professor Chen is a Professor of international business at the American Graduate School of International Management at Thunderbird School of Global Management, where he teaches competitive strategy, comparative management and negotiation.

Following an outstanding lecture by Professor Chen, students, who were divided into mixed groups of Swiss and Australians, presented background information on the companies we were visiting. In the afternoon, the group went to Baosteel. Baosteel Group Corporation is the most competitive steel producer of China, and has been one of the Fortune Global 500 for five consecutive years from 2003 to 2007. The site visit included a tour through the factory where the steel is manufactured, and an overview from senior executive staff of Baosteel of the operations of Baosteel. The Australian students were particularly pleased to hear that Baosteel is a major purchaser of Australian iron ore.

Wednesday

We arrived at the Swiss Centre, in Shanghai. The morning session commenced with a fascinating presentation by Mr Nicholas Musy. Mr Musy is a Swiss national who has been living in the Shanghai area since 1986 and who has established and successfully implemented strategies for 50 Swiss companies and institutions. Mr Musy presented findings from the latest research conducted by the Swiss Center regarding preparing for the China market for international firms. There then followed a visit to Jansen, a Swiss company which specialises in high quality steel systems for doors, windows. Jansen was a supplier to the Bird’s Nest Olympic Stadium in Beijing. The site visit included an examination of a range of the company products, as well as a presentation on the strategies Jansen uses in China.

We then returned to the Swiss centre, and Mr Musy presented a brilliant lecture covering issues related to the challenges of attracting and retaining staff in China. Contrary to popular myth, while China has a large population, companies still face the challenge of recruiting qualified staff. Mr Musy provided a detailed account of the challenges facing foreign companies in China, based upon a recent survey carried out by Mr Musy and associates at the Swiss centre. Mr Musy then presented each student with a copy of the 235 page report 'The China Human Resources Paradox – Dealing Successfully with People Shortages in the Land of Billions.'

Finally, students delivered more presentations on companies to be visited, before we finally headed back to downtown Shanghai.

Thursday

In the morning, we visited Phonak Unitron Hearing. The Phonak Group comprises two hearing instrument divisions, Phonak and Unitron Hearing, as well as Phonak Communications, a developer of wireless communication devices for both hearing instrument and other applications. Sales are generated in over 70 countries around the world, with approximately 46% of sales derived from American markets, 45% from European markets and 8% from markets in Asia / Pacific. Products are manufactured in one of two main manufacturing sites in Switzerland and China. R&D is coordinated through two centers based in Switzerland and one in Canada. The Group is headquartered in Stäfa, Switzerland. The tour was organised by Frank Riedo, COO of Phonak, Unitron Hearing Systems who happens to be a graduate of the UASB EMBA and who undertook the Doing Business in China module in 2006. Mr Riedo was able to provide first hand knowledge of the challenges facing expatriates in doing business in China, including the issues that expatriate families face in adjusting to a vastly different culture.

After lunch, we went to the China-Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP). This is a high-profile bilateral cooperative project between the Chinese and Singapore governments. Major industrial clusters in SIP include electric and electronics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, precision engineering and new materials. SIP has also been adopting as well as adapting Singapore's experience in economic development and public administration. The park has become one of the youngest yet most vigorous development zones in China. SIP is expected to become one of the most competitive industrial parks in China. The SIP Integrated Free Trade Zone enjoys preferential policies in the area of taxation, customs, quarantine, and foreign exchange.

Friday

In the morning, Professor He Yanqun provided an interesting lecture on the challenges firms face in marketing within China. This was then followed by student presentations concerning the company visits. Each group had to provide an analysis of a company which was visited, including an assessment of the challenges facing the company, and what possible strategies could be adopted.

In the afternoon, we visited ABB. ABB is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impacts. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 107,000 people worldwide. ABB has a full range of business activities in China, including manufacturing, R&D, sales and service, with 10,000 employees, 26 joint ventures and wholly owned companies, and an extensive sales and service network across 30 cities.

In the evening, a farewell dinner was held at the Ramada Plaza. This provided an opportunity to thank the tour operator, Jerry, and the driver of the coach, who managed to steer a very large coach, through very small streets, whilst simultaneously competing with other drivers for the gap in front.

I would also like to say thank you to those staff at UASB and CSU who worked hard to ensure that the trip was an outstanding success. From UASB, Christoph Gloor, Daniel Bürgi and Jacqueline Ducret. From CSU, Lisa Howard. Without the hard work and dedication from these staff, the study module would not be the success that it was.

Finally, for those students interested in participating in the module, "Doing Business in China" we plan to offer this in 2009.

For further details on this module, contact Lisa Howard, (02) 6933 2535.

29 August 2008

Human resource management courses offered by the Charles Sturt University (CSU) Faculty of Business have been accredited by the National Accreditation Committee of the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI), the peak industry body.

The AHRI has accredited CSU's undergraduate Bachelor of Business – Human Resources Management (HRM) degree, and three postgraduate qualifications; the Graduate Certificate in HRM, the Graduate Diploma of HRM, and the Master of HRM.

Dean of CSU's Faculty of Business, Professor John Hicks, said that the Faculty considers that external endorsement of its courses is fundamental to ensuring the high quality of CSU programs.

"Human resource management is one of the flagship disciplines of the Faculty," Professor Hicks said.

"Success in achieving AHRI accreditation will give the Faculty even greater confidence in the potential success that this discipline area can help achieve as the Faculty strives to internationalise our teaching efforts.

"Human resource management has been selected as one of the specialisations that the University will mount when it begins teaching undergraduate business programs from its Burlington Campus in Ontario, Canada.

"In addition to outstanding teaching programs, the human resource management team are amongst the most prolific researchers in the University, ensuring that the Faculty is contributing significantly to the learning, teaching and research goals of the University Strategy."

Professor Hicks also noted that the accreditation of both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in human resource management by the AHRI was achieved by the hard work of the School of Commerce course coordinators, Ms Maria Farrell and Dr Padma Nathan, and with outstanding contributions to the development of the application from the academic and administrative staff on the Wagga Wagga Campus.

The AHRI accreditation is for a period of three years, beginning August 2008.

28 August 2008

CSU has formally signed an agreement with the massive US-based IT company EMC. EMC has historically pursued niche interests in storage technology but over the past five or so years, has begun an aggressive acquisition strategy to widen its horizons in order to become a leading information infrastructure provider.

EMC has long argued that there is a severe shortfall in the number of trained industry professionals to serve in the area of data storage, where the large amounts of data that companies are producing are causing problems. Taking the initiative, EMC has developed the EMC Academic Alliance to target this deficiency and Charles Sturt University has become the first Australian university to join that Alliance. Worldwide there are about 180 institutions now involved.

Under the terms of the agreement with EMC, CSU has been given full access to, and freedom of use of, the intellectual property encompassed within the Storage Technology Fundamentals course and it is our intention to use those materials in the development of a new subject in the Bachelor of Information Technology (and associated courses) to be known as ITC199 Storage Technology Foundations. As part of the agreement, members of the IT academic staff receive free training from EMC in the Storage Technology course. Dr Anthony Dean has already attended the course in Sydney and Oliver Burmeister is to attend in September. Both members are then to develop the new subject for its introduction in 2009.

Further to the Academic Alliance developments, CSU has also negotiated with EMC to offer a credit package, for entry into the Master of Information Technology degree. The package is targeted at those people who have reached the highest level of EMC certification in storage technology, which is known as Expert Level, and which is the highest of the three stages offered in their training and certification. About 3000 people employed by EMC or its partners have reached the Expert Level in storage technology certification and now these people will have access to the Master of Information Technology using their certification as a means to gain credit.

CSU was the first university to approach EMC with the credit package in mind. Following the ground breaking work by Dr Anthony Dean, School of Computing and Mathematics and Associate Professor John Messing, International School of Business, CSU has formally negotiated with EMC to begin marketing the credit package and the Master of I.T. to those people already at Expert Level for its introduction of its expected benefits in 2009. A further 20,000 to 22,000 people have also reached stages 1 or 2 in the storage technology certification process and it is likely that they will become beneficiaries of the negotiated package as they too reach Expert Level.

All of this bodes well for the IT courses offered by Charles Sturt University and enhances the industry orientation of courses already developed by the School of Computing and Mathematics.

Further information about the EMC agreements can be obtained from either:

• Email: Associate Professor John Messing
• Email: Dr Anthony Dean

Information about the new subject can be obtained from either:

• Email: Dr Anthony Dean
• Email: Oliver Burmeister

Photo: Seated: (L to R) Professor Ian Goulter, Vice Chancellor of CSU, Mr Tony Simonsen, (Global Services Director for EMC). Rear: (L to R) Dr Anthony Dean, Professor John Hicks, and Mr Christopher Pearson (Client Solutions Manager, EMC).

28 August 2008

Over the past few years the Faculty of Business has conducted a partnership program with four Chinese universities to offer CSU’s Bachelor of Business Studies.

The four partner universities are;

• Yangzhou University, which is located about a 5 hour train trip north-west of Shanghai, and not far from another major Chinese centre, Nanjing;
• Yunnan University of Finance and Economics, located in the city of Kunming, in the south-west of China;
• Tianjin University of Commerce, located about a 90 minute train trip south of Beijing; and
• Changchun Taxation College, located in the north-east of China, not far from Harbin.

Up till this year; the program has been conducted totally in China with staff at the partner institutions teaching Charles Sturt University subjects and staff from the International School of Business providing supplementary teaching.

From the beginning of 2008, the program changed shape and it is now run on an articulation basis with our partner institutions offering their own degree in conjunction with the CSU Bachelor of Business Studies. The overall program last for some four (4) years at the end of which time cross-credit is provided by both CSU and each Chinese partner, thus allowing students to graduate with both their Chinese university qualification and the CSU Bachelor of Business Studies degree.

Years 1 through 3 are undertaken and taught wholly at each Chinese partner and taught in English by Chinese staff. Subjects comprise English language, Chinese cultural and political subjects plus 16 100 and 200 level business subjects. In Year 4 students transfer to the CSU Bachelor of Business Studies degree and undertake a further 8 300 level business subjects designed specifically for the Chinese market and taught by both our Chinese partners, and by staff from the International School of Business known as International Program Coordinators.

The eight subjects and respective CSU staff are:

• MKT381 - Global Marketing
  MGT383 - Business and Financial Decisions
  Taught by Mr Anthony Jarratt
• HRM381 - Managing People Cross Culturally
  MGT386 - Managing Change Internationally
  Taught by Dr Bhanugopan Ramudu
• MGT381 - Project Management and Regional Economics
  MGT382 - Strategy and Corporate Governance
  Taught by Dr Robert Herriot
• MGT384 - Leadership and International Management
  MGT385 - Communications and Professional Ethics
  Taught by Mr Tony Bush

This is an extensive and intensive program with each staff member travelling to China twice per semester. Each teaching trip comprises 1 week’s teaching at each partner institution, plus the invigilation of exams.

In addition to the Bachelor of Business Studies program in China, opportunities also exist for Australian domestic students to undertake a semester of their degree at not only one of the four partner institutions in China, but also at any CSU offshore partner institution where English is not the native language. This involves students enrolling in four Language and Culture subjects. Subject content for these students involves; learning the language of the country they are visiting for the semester and undertaking four (4) small projects based around;

• Accounting;
• Economics;
• Marketing; and
• Management issues and challenges in the host location.

The subjects that students undertake are:

• BUS301 - Business Language and Culture (Economics)
  Taught by – Dr Robert Herriot
• BUS302 - Business Language and Culture (Marketing)
  Taught by – Mr Anthony Jarratt
• BUS303 - Business Language and Culture (Management)
  Taught by - Mr Anthony Bush
• BUS304 - Business Language and Culture (Accounting)
  Taught by - Professor Terry Heazlewood

These subjects are open to any Charles Sturt University undergraduate business student to undertake. Hence, should a distance student wish to do these subjects (in China or elsewhere) you are able to do so, but you would need to arrange for a semester off from your place of employment to undertake them on a full time basis at a CSU partner institution in a foreign location where English is NOT the native language.

Equally CSU undergraduate domestic business students (both full time on-campus and Distance Education) are able to enrol in any of the eight business subjects taught at our four Chinese partner institutions. Should a CSU undergraduate domestic business student wish to pursue this opportunity, they can attend any of the four partner institutions listed above. Subjects are packaged so you would need to enrol in 4 at a time.

Should this opportunity be of interest to you, please contact:

• Professor Alan Fish
  Head of School
  International School of Business
• Phone: (02) 6933 2527
• Email: afish@csu.edu.au

In addition to CSU conducting the Bachelor of Business Studies in China, our undergraduate degrees are also offered in Malaysia through HELP University College. Hence Malaysia presents a further opportunity for CSU Australian domestic students to experience an off shore educational opportunity and not necessarily undertaking the subjects listed earlier.

28 August 2008

Before the recent Security Camp (in conjunction with the SQL Server Camp) that was held over a recent weekend, Paul Nevin from Cybertrust was kind enough to give a presentation on Cyber War to staff and students of the School of Computing and Mathematics. He began by describing the time depicted in Tom Cruise's 2003 film "The Last Samurai". The Samurai was a warrior elite in Japan with more than 200 years of military power which started to decline in the 1860s. Part of their decline was caused by the failure to understand a new enemy using new technology. Paul says today many businesses are failing to recognise new security threats. He said it was important to understand these new threats so appropriate measures can be taken. Even with some companies spending large amounts on system security, cracks are still occurring. It is important to use risk assessment and not be product driven. No one product or even vendor is going to protect against all possible risks.

To begin Paul recommended a "know your enemy" strategy and described the different types of people engaged in system cracking. He first the described the "Script Kiddie" who is just in it for the fun, excitement and peer recognition and just uses pre-written computer programs for break-ins. Some script kiddies will learn how to do their own computer cracking and come to the notice of organised crime. An 18-year-old from Queensland posted images on a web site showing the results of a phishing attack he developed where about five thousand credit card records were stolen. This bragging let to his arrest. What was interesting was that he wasn't paid in cash but received an estimated $40,000-worth of stolen goods.

A phishing attack is a modern version of a con-artist ploy. If someone rings up and says they're from the bank or credit card company and asks for your details you have fallen for one of the oldest tricks in the book. The same problem is clicking a link in an e-mail message and going to a web site that appears to be that your normal financial institution and logging in. You may even be transferred to the correct web site with a message saying "login attempt failed try again" and not think anything of it but your login details have been captured. What is worse, if you have an online store and you receive a message saying something like "Pay protection money or else we shut down your store". They can shut down your online store by using armies of "zombie" computers, a botnet, all trying to access your store. Paul mentioned that online crime like this, according to the FBI, is bigger than the illegal drug trade and much safer for criminals as it can be done from the other side of the world. Some may advocate shutting down the internet to stop these problems. One could say we should shutdown petrol stations because they get held up and petrol is used in getaway cars and other crime.

Another type of enemy is the "Hacktivist". This person has no interest in money but has ideals which are different from an organisation's ideals or even a government or whole country. Paul noted the recent problem in Estonia, when a statue of a WWII soviet soldier was removed from a park in May this year. The government expected street protests. What they got was a month-long attack on their computer networks from what eventually determined to be a "loose federation of separate attackers" (see http://intentblog.com/archives/2007/05/cyber_warfare_b.html)

According Hon Michael W. Wynne, Secretary of the US Air Force: "Every minute of every day, Airmen in the United States Air Force are flying and fighting in cyberspace." Here in Australia, Professor Matthew Warren, Head of Deakin's School of Information Systems, said of the same cyber war scenario: "We are just seeing the start of new trend in cyber warfare and Australia could be at risk. We can expect to see an increase in cyber warfare attacks when political disagreements between countries occur… Australia needs to increase the funding and expand initiatives to protect critical infrastructure if it is to avoid a cyber war."

The era of Cyber Warfare is here and you may already be involved. For those that used to imagine being a spy, think now about a career in computer security.

28 August 2008

The School of Accounting and Computer Science is currently housing a 3D Visualisation Laboratory on their second floor. The facility contains a twin polarised projector system controlled by a CPU with a high end graphics card. A large silvered screen covers most of the far wall of the room, which allows the viewing of stereo images using a simple set of polarised glasses (rather than heavy and reasonably uncomfortable shutter glasses). The system projects polarised left and right images that can only be seen by the left and right eyes when wearing the appropriate glasses.

The facility has been used to conduct useability studies and has also been used to allow rookie race car drivers to drive Mt Panorama before hitting the streets. It should be noted that these drivers beat all staff and Games student scores by a very large margin. Currently PhD student, Rohan McAdam, is using the facility to conduct a study on the use of human movement as a form of computation.

28 August 2008

The School of Accounting and Computer Science is hosting a visiting scholar, Associate Professor Jun Zhang from the Institute for Pattern Recognition and Artificial Intelligence at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China. Professor Zhang's visit is sponsored by Chinese Government and he will stay in Bathurst from 7 August 2008 to 31 July 2009.

The purpose of his visit is to collaborate with Associate Professor Junbin Gao on the projects "Nonlinear Dimensionality Reduction Algorithms" and "Dynamic Kernel Models".

28 August 2008

Allen Benter, Richard Xu, Junbin Gao and Michael Antolovich have been working with Newcrest Mines and are about to sign off on a $900,000 project. The work will involve image processing and robotics. One of the projects will analyse the potential of image processing in determining rock size before material is collected and dropped into a crusher. If a large rock hits the crusher, production needs to stop until the rock is manually broken up. This leads to a significant reduction in efficiency and has a big impact on production costs.

A postdoctoral position and two high level PhD scholarships are part of this project and will boost the School of Accounting and Computer Science research profile.

28 August 2008

PhD student David Carr is conducting a survey of high school and university students. He is looking at the ability of a purpose built computer game to help teach difficult concepts in physics such as Einstein's Theory of Special Relativity.

David has spent considerable time studying ways of representing some of these concepts and has created a game based on the classic "Asteroids" game, which highlights some of the effects of near speed of light travel. A survey has been set up on a website where interested participants can download the game and complete a questionnaire, to measure if their understandings of the concepts have improved.

The next step will be the development of a 3D virtual environment for relativity, building on relativistic visualisation software developed at the ANU. Serious Games (games designed for training as well as entertainment) has become an internationally recognised field of study and David's work will make a significant contribution.

28 August 2008

As part of a strategic planning process for the IT/Computing area in the School of Accounting and Computer Science, the Head of the School, Associate Professor Ross Wilson led a meeting focusing on the School IT Research Strategic Planning with all the IT/Computing staff in the School. A thorough SWOT analysis was conducted at the meeting.

The following research areas were highlighted at the meeting as possible research focus areas for the next 5 years:

• Spatial Information and Image Processing
• Computer Vision and Computer Graphics
• Machine Learning and Data Mining
• Pattern Recognition and Classification
• Robotics and Intelligent Systems
• Complex Systems

28 August 2008

Junbin Gao is leading a small group including Matthew Robards, Philip Charlton, Xiaodi Huang, and Paul Kwan and Yi Guo from University of New England, working on the project of dimension reduction for complex data.

Reduction of data dimensionality, which creates more compact representations with fewer variables, is important in computer vision, document analysis, and other pattern recognition tasks. This project aims to apply kernel similarity measures based on the nonlinear information among data to dimension reduction problems.

In the past two years, they proposed a new technique, called Twin Kernel Embedding, to address fundamental problems of dimension reduction in data mining, and built up a unified framework for dimension reduction algorithms by including kernel similarity.

The group has published more than 15 papers since then including the applications in visualising protein data, web documents and fingerprint data. Now the group is looking at more fundamental problems in complex manifold learning from data which has broader applications in stock data analysis, AI life research and neuroscience.

It is anticipated that in the near future more talented postgraduate students can join the team for new exploration in modern complex data analysis research.

28 August 2008

The Faculty of Business is always seeking to improve the delivery of its courses and better meet the needs of students who study with us. The 15th International Conference on Learning, hosted by the University of Illinois, Chicago in June 2008 offered an excellent opportunity to explore the current learning environment from a range of perspectives.

The International Conference on Learning aims to foster inquiry and dialogue, and build knowledge on the nature and future of learning. This is particularly valuable for finding ways to enhance how we deliver our subjects and allows us to examine numerous alternative approaches. This year the conference attracted over 400 delegates from 34 countries, and offered avenues for discussion of learning and teaching strategies, diversity in subject delivery (including on-line subject delivery, blended learning, application of technology, and approaches to assessment), curriculum redesign, and knowledge management.

Dr Pamela Mathews contribution to this dialogue was a paper that examined the use of case-based reasoning in the teaching of an undergraduate strategic human resource management class. This teaching approach was selected as a means of providing students with a greater understanding of the subject content and an ability to relate learning to the workplace; and appears to be a successful strategy. The paper was well received by those attending the session, and has subsequently been published in The International Journal of Learning. For those interested finding our more about this approach to teaching the details are:

• Mathews, P, (2008) Case-based reasoning as a strategic teaching tool,
  The International Journal of Learning, Vol 15, No. 3, 17-28.

28 August 2008

The School of Accounting and Computer Science has excellent researchers in various Accounting and IT related areas. A large number of the School's staff are undertaking research and they have achieved great success in their research activities through high ranking publishing, attending international conferences and conducting collaborative and industrial partnership projects.

The School Research Committee met on Wednesday 28 June 2008 and discussed a range of issues related to the research within the School including new strategies to enhance the School research seminar, to further develop individual research plans and to encourage synergy on research in the School. The Committee also agreed that the School should conduct a two hour poster showcase of individual and group research activities in the school with an emphasis on exposing School research activities to the wider University community and industry representatives.

The showcase is expected to be held in the CPD on Thursday 2 October with 10-15 minute presentations given by relevant staff. All members of the Faculty are welcome to attend.

28 August 2008

A group of staff from the School of Accounting and Computer Science attended the Centre for Research in Complex Systems (CRiCS) Opening Symposium held on Thursday 7th August 2008 and each presented a talk on their current research projects and achievements.

• Jim Tulip: Multi-threaded Game Engines
• Michael Antolovich: Robotics
• Junbin Gao: Dimensionality Reduction and Twin Kernel Embedding
• Richard Xu: Computer Vision Experiments using PTZ Camera
• Pam Gray: eGanges Projects
• Terry Bossomaier: Reinforcement Learning and Human Expertise
• David Tien: Current Trends in Spatial Information

27 August 2008

Dr Xu is leading a computer vision research group at CSU. The team is comprised of several CSU staff, PhD, Honours and Project students. Our CSU computer vision laboratory has $100,000 worth of research equipment, including high speed cameras and a robotic tripod.

At CSU, we conduct cutting-edge, international level research projects in computer vision. If you are interested in our research projects or would like to join our research team as a PhD or Honours student, please send an email:

• rxu@csu.edu.au

20 August 2008

A portion of the infrastructure funds for IT was used to purchase five robotic bases, 9 Lego Mindstorm NXT kits, CPUs and equipment for an electronics lab. The equipment will support teaching and research in robotics at the Bathurst campus. The equipment is currently spread over a few offices, but a purpose built Laboratory is being built in S1 as part of the new CRiCS Facility. The construction of the laboratory has been delayed a number of times, but we are hoping to move into the facility as soon as it is ready sometime in 2008.

Wayne Moore and colleagues (including Brad Curry) worked on a pneumatic robotic leg since the 1990s. Wayne also introduced subjects that incorporated his work.

Two Honours students have completed projects in the last 3 years using their own equipment, showing that students have a strong interest in robotics. In 2007 Allen Benter organised a Robotics Interest group where undergraduate students met once a week to build and work with the new Lego Mindstorm kits. The School of Accounting and Computer Science is also preparing to sponsor the Western Area District RoboCup Junior tournaments and there are moves to organise workshops for School Teachers and/or their students.

20 August 2008

Following on from the Faculty of Business's success in hosting the second International Conference on Contemporary Business at the Fairmont Resort, Leura in September 2006, an edited monograph of some of the best papers presented has just been published by Australian Academic Press. Edited by Dr PK Basu and Associate Professor Grant O'Neill of the School of Marketing and Management, and Professor Tony Travaglione of Curtin University (formerly of the School of Marketing and Management), the book is titled:
Engagement and Change: Exploring Management, Economic and Finance Implications of a Globalising Environment.

The chapters deal with a range of critical issues currently facing businesses in our region. The chapters that make up this book have been written by academics that share beliefs about the need to better understand and enhance business practice and performance. Researchers from varied disciplines have addressed the effects of globalisation on organisations across the Asia-Oceania region and, in doing so, offer insights and recommendations for business leaders. They provide significant insight into many current business challenges and responses to globalisation in our region.

20 August 2008

Former Bachelor of Business (Honours) student Elizabeth Connoley and her supervisor Dr Troy Heffernan recently won the best paper in the Marketing and Communication stream at the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management Conference.

The paper is titled Relationship Building in Service Encounters: The Identification of Social Exchange Components That Lead to Repeat Intention in the Australian Public Hotel Industry.

This is a fantastic win for Liz as it comes so early in what will surely be a great academic career.

20 August 2008

Associate Professor Grant O'Neill, Head of the School of Marketing and Management, has recently returned from another visit to Western Australia where he is working with colleagues (Professor Steven McShane from the University of Western Australia and Professor Tony Travaglione from Curtin University) on a major research project at Main Roads Western Australia.

Having just completed a third workshop with senior managers at Main Roads, the research is confirming the complexity of organisational values and the difficulty of achieving values-driven behaviour in the workplace. That said, the workshops and other interventions at Main Roads are having a significant impact on the way managers understand and 'live' the values and the research team are confident their work will impact values enactment across the organisation.

20 August 2008

If you were 50 years old and over in the recent census, then you were classified as an 'older Australian'.

A research study for the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission back in 1999 found that while a lot of older Australians were aware of ATMs, EFTPOS, telephone banking, credit cards and the Internet, that did not also translate with understanding. The adoption of e-commerce by ethnic groups was far lower than with the rest of the sample, with language, absence of perceived need and security as the main deterrents.

The internet was still seen as a symbol of the new generation gap. Despite my nudging towards the use of any technology, many of my older stubborn relatives still uses the human face of the bank teller and their trusty passbook for bank transactions. No plastic, electronics, PIN numbers and passwords as overhead. To help answer your question, I will focus on that report and pose two questions of my own. It is up to you to do some thinking with me.

I wonder how much has changed since 1999?

Here is an extract from that 1999 report for you to consider as we ponder how much may have changed in the last eight years.

"ATMs were the most understood either practically or conceptually. EFTPOS was understood by most, but many people were uncertain about exactly what it did, other than cause delays in the supermarket queue.

"Most respondents similarly understood telephone banking, but others in the groups were surprised and impressed to discover what it could do for them.

"The Internet was something of a mystery. While most respondents had heard of it, or seen their enthusiastic grandchildren using it, few had a clear understanding of what it is, how to access it, or what it can do for them."

The report went on to examine what is was that prevented older Australians from accessing and using electronic commerce and identified four common barriers due physical access, attitude, affordability and awareness. The report added:

Physical barriers included "I don't have a computer" through to "I can't see the ATM screen." Attitudinal barriers include fear of change, fear of the unknown, fear of looking silly or slow, refusing to adopt change as a protest and refusing to adopt change as a statement of individualism. Affordability barriers include issues such as "I can't afford the computer, let alone the Internet charges" or "Why should I pay for the 'phone call when I can get served for nothing at the counter?" Awareness barriers are simply that some people don't know about e-commerce options. With EFTPOS the delays it causes in shop queues are a major deterrent.

Put simply, most respondents had a preference for human contact, as evidenced by comments from Melbourne respondents that the ticket machines on conductor-less trams were more confusing than electronic banking equipment.

How can older Australians be encouraged to use electronic commerce?

The report concluded that e-commerce must be seen as cheaper, faster & easier, with cost as being very important to those on a pension. The use of e-commerce that minimises fees and charges, thus cuts costs will encourage that use among older Australians.

Education is the other answer to that question.

You are never too old to learn so some older Australians choose to bridge the gap by getting some training through short courses like those offered locally by the local Community College and the local library. They now are power users in regular contact with grandchildren via e-mail and using Web sites for recipes, gardening tips, ABC TV shows or writing their family history.

CS[U Flix] Short Film Competition

30 June 2008

Topic: “Life as a Business Student with the School of Marketing and Management, Charles Sturt University”

Winners will be chosen from the following categories:

• The Distance Education experience of a School of Marketing and Management student.
• The On Campus experience of a School of Marketing and Management student.
• Post Graduate Distance Education experience of a School of Marketing and Management student.

Guest Judges Include:

• Rod McCulloch — Head of School of Communications
• Jimmy Foggo — Digital Media Producer for Fremantle Media Australia, Original web & mobile content for Australian Idol, Biggest Loser, Nerds FC and So You Think You Can Dance, Co-creator and currently producing first ever original web series for MySpace Australia.
• Mark Waters — Managing Director of PPS Sydney

CS[U FLIX] Briefing

Film Synopsis

• We are seeking films that address the experience and benefits of the School’s: distance study; postgraduate distance study; and, on-campus undergraduate study suitable for prospective student viewers.
• The three most ‘suitable, creative and entertaining’ films (as judged by a panel of Industry guests) will win this competition.
• The films will be used for promoting study with the School of Marketing and Management at Charles Sturt University Bathurst and should be between 2 and 3 minutes in duration. The winning films are for the use of the university and will be posted on the Charles Sturt University Website and You Tube.
• The films should positively portray the CSU experience and convey that completion of a Faculty of Business Degree offers many benefits, including:
  • an education that provides enduring benefit to graduates
  • workplace-relevant knowledge and skills
  • strong student support
• We want the films to emphasise that our subjects and courses are interesting and engaging but, more importantly, we want them to show how we are different: internationally focused and relevant but taught by staff that care and are responsive and available.
• They should also portray: the community and fun of campus life at Bathurst and/or Orange; friendliness of staff and fellow students; and, if possible, the overall learning experience from arrival or enrolment to completion of a subject or session or degree.
• Great music and lots of movement are essential. All music used in the films must be non copyright. For examples go to: http://www.music-media.fr

Judging Criteria:

1. Originality
2. Suitable for prospective students
3. Communicates message effectively

ALL ENTRANTS MUST BE REGISTERED WITH MEGAN GREIG (contact details below) AT THE FOUNDERS COTTAGE BY 4PM AUGUST 7.

All films must be in DVD Format and handed in to Megan Greig at Building N9 — The Founders Cottage — by 4PM FRIDAY August 15.

All entrants will receive a certificate of participation in CS[U FLIX]

TO ENTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

• Megan Greig
  Phone: (02) 6338 4166
  Email: mgreig@csu.edu.au
• Or download the flyer [PDF]

5 May 2008

Staff and students were recognised during the Charles Sturt University (CSU) Faculty of Business awards ceremony in Bathurst on Monday 5 May. The ceremony marked the awarding of academic prizes, the Dean's List Awards and the Faculty of Business’ Teaching Excellence Award.

Prizes, provided by community organisations and businesses, are awarded to students who show academic excellence during their studies at CSU. The Dean's List acknowledges outstanding academic performance by undergraduate students who have achieved high academic performance in their recent studies.

The CSU Faculty of Business’ Team Teaching Excellence Award for 2007 was presented to the School of Accounting & Computer Science accounting and community practice team, which is comprised of seven staff from the Bathurst based school, Assoc Prof Jayne Bisman, Kay Plummer, Warwick Baines, Ken Crofts, Nick Davis, Nick Pawsey, Donata Muntean and two staff from the Centre for Enhancing Learning and Teaching (CELT) Carole Hunter and Lynnette Flynn.

9 April 2008

The Ceremony to present Dean's List awards and Prizes to continuing students, was held on the Wagga Campus on Wednesday 9th April 2008 at the Wine & Food Industry Training Centre.

Students who achieve a Distinction or High Distinction in every subject undertaken during a session (or over two sessions if part time students) are nominated for the Dean's List. The Dean, Professor John Hicks, presented students who attended, with their Certificates after congratulating them on their achievements.

Students included on the Dean's List for studies completed in 2007 were:

• Emily ATTWOOD, Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)
• Nicholas BELLING, Bachelor of Information Technology
• Christopher BONEHAM, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Clare CAREY, Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Jae CHO, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Josip DUGANDZIC, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Karl GIESE, Bachelor of Information Technology
• Karen HEWSON, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Eamon KENDALL, Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Information Technology
• Benjamin LLOYD, Bachelor of Information Technology
• Zin LWIN, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Anthony MARTIN, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Carla MCDONALD, Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)
• James MCGEACHIE, Bachelor of Information Technology
• Sharee MCKENZIE, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Jaren TRELOAR, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Melinda VARLEY, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Jade WADE, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Scott WHITMORE, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)

Prizes for students in the School of Commerce are sponsored by:

• Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI)
• The Association of Taxation and Management Accountants (ATMA)
• LexisNexis
• CPA Australia
• Australian Credit Union Archives
• National Tertiary Education Union, and
• McGraw Hill Australia

The following students are recognised for their outstanding achievements in 2007.

• Lucy BARKER
  the AHRI prize for highest academic achievement in the Graduate Certificate in HRM
• Chad CARTER_ROSEWALL
  the Pearson Education Australia Prize for the Internal student with the best results in MGT100 Organisations and Management
• Jae CHO
  the CPA Australia award for best 2nd year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) the LexisNexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW301 Taxation Law (Principles) by a student enrolled in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) the CSU NTEU prize for achievement by a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student of the highest result in LAW301 Taxation Law
• Patricia CONNELL
  the CPA Australia award for best 1st year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Peter ELLIOT
  the Australian Credit Union Archives prize for the most outstanding record for graduating students in the MBA
• Lloyd FALEIRO
  the CPA Australia award for best 3rd year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Cynthia HOLLOWAY
  the Pearson Education Australia Prize for the Distance Education student with the best results in MGT100 Organisations and Management
• Christie LEWIS
  the LexisNexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW110 Business Law, by a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student
• Margo LISLE
  the LexisNexis prize for achieving the highest mark by a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in LAW220 Business Organisations Law
• Katrina LOGAN
  the ATMA prize for the best combined results by a continuing Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in ACC210 Management Accounting 1 and ACC310 Management Accounting 2
• Di PEI
  the ATMA prize for achievement of the best result by a graduating Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in LAW301 Taxation Law (Principles)
• Stephanie PURCELL
  the AHRI prize for the most outstanding graduating student in the Master of Human Resource Management
• Linda SMART
  the AHRI prize for the most outstanding graduating student in the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)

Prizes for students in the School of Computing and Mathematics are sponsored by:

• IT Masters
• School of Computing and Mathematics

The following students are recognised for their outstanding achievements in 2007.

• Brett COX
  The IT Masters - Master of Information Systems Security Award for the graduating student enrolled in the Master of Information Systems Security Course with the highest GPA
• Piers LANGABEER
  The IT Masters - Master of Systems Development Award for the graduating student enrolled in the Master of Systems Development Course with the highest GPA
• Benjamin LLOYD
  Max Lee Memorial Prize for Excellence in Second Year Information Technology for the student with highest point score in the second year subjects and who has achieved a distinction level standard enrolled in no less than six second year internal subjects in the Bachelor of Information Technology course or Bachelor of Information Technology/Bachelor of Business double degree course
• Stewart McMAHON
  School of Computing and Mathematics Bachelor of Information Technology Award for the graduating student enrolled in the Bachelor of Information Technology Course and Associated Double Degree programs with highest GPA
• Timothy NAPTHALI
  The IT Masters - Master of Networking and Systems Administration Award for the graduating student enrolled in the Master of Networking and Systems Administration Course with the highest GPA
• Usman Khan TAHIR
  School of Computing and Mathematics Master of Information Technology Award for graduating students enrolled in the master of Information Technology Course with the highest GPA

13 October 2007

On October 13-14, Charles Sturt University hosted the annual SQL Down Under Code Camp, in addition to the inaugural Security Camp OZ, community events showcasing database and security technologies.

More than 130 database and computer security professionals from all over Australia attended, addressed by experts from the USA and Australia on topics such as database administration, data mining, and cryptography. Apart from strengthening CSU's ties with the IT industry, the event also contributed to the local economy with attendees staying in motels and dining in restaurants throughout the region.

The event was also a great opportunity to market Charles Sturt University’s courses to a highly-targeted audience. Course coordinator Jason Howarth reports that already a few attendees have expressed interest in enrolling in the IT Masters program.

There was strong media interest in the event, which included radio, newspaper, and television coverage.

12 May 2008

A joint team from the School of Accounting and Computer Science the Centre for Enhancing Learning and Teaching and has won the 2007 Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence. The team members are Kay Plummer, Jayne Bisman, Warwick Baines, Ken Crofts, Nick Davis, Carol Hunter, Lynnette Flynn, Donata Muntean and Nick Pawsey who share a passion for creating positive, motivating learning environments that support our students’ journey towards becoming competent professional accounting practitioners.

While sharing a common philosophy and goals, we use a variety of innovative strategies and approaches depending on the subject’s needs. Exemplars of our computer– and paper–based teaching resources can be found at the following web address http://csusap.csu.edu.au/~chunter/. Strong themes in our work have been the use of the cognitive apprenticeship model to scaffold student learning, and reflective practice to situate learning within the student’s own context and encourage deeper engagement with content.

26 April 2007

The Ceremony to present Dean’s List awards and Prizes to continuing students, was held on the Wagga Campus on Thursday 26 April 2007 at the Wine & Food Industry Training Centre.

Students who achieve a Distinction or High Distinction in every subject undertaken during a session (or over two sessions if part time students) are nominated for the Dean’s List. The Dean, Professor John Hicks, presented students who attended, with their Certificates after congratulating them on their achievements.

Students included on the Dean’s List for 2007

• Belinda ADAMS, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Graham ARUNDEL, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Hayley BELL, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Nicholas BENDER, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Andrew BORG, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Emily BURT, Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)
• Patricia CONNELL, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Lisa COOTE, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Miranda DYASON, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Lloyd FALEIRO, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Le HAN, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Aidan JENKIN, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ian JOHNSON, Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)
• Belinda KAY, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Catherine MCCARRON, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Candice MCKENZIE, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Sharee MCKENZIE, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Agata PLEWA, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Timothy QUILTY, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Matthew RIORDAN, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Kirsty SIEGERT, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Vivian STEVENS, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Jaren TRELOAR, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Jill VOSS, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Scott WHITMORE, Bachelor of Business (Business Management)
• Genevieve WYTHES, Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)

Prizes for students in the School of Commerce are sponsored by:

• Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI)
• The Association of Taxation and Management Accountants (ATMA)
• Lexis Nexis
• CPA Australia
• Australian Credit Union Archives
• National Tertiary Education Union, and
• McGraw Hill Australia

The following students are recognised for their outstanding achievements in 2006.

Joanne CLARK

• the AHRI prize for highest academic achievement in the Graduate Certificate in HRM

Samara COLEMAN

• the ATMA prize for achievement of the best result by a graduating Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in LAW301 Taxation Law (Principles)

Julie DOWNIE

• the CPA Australia award for best 1st year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

Aidan JENKIN

• the Lexis Nexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW110 Business Law, by a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student
• the Pearson Education Australia Prize for the Internal student with the best results in MGT100 Organisations and Management

Sharee McKENZIE

• the CPA Australia award for best 2nd year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

Michelle McNEILLY

• the Lexis Nexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW301 Taxation Law (Principles) by a student enrolled in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and,
• the CSU NTEU prize for achievement by a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student of the highest result in LAW301 Taxation Law

Robert NICHOLLS

• the Australian Credit Union Archives prize for the most outstanding record for graduating students in the MBA

PRASAD

• the Pearson Education Australia Prize for the Distance Education student with the best results in MGT100 Organisations and Management.

Yuki SHIMIZU

• the ATMA prize for the best combined results by a continuing Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in ACC210 Management Accounting 1 and ACC310 Management Accounting 2

Natalie SPACKMAN

• the AHRI prize for the most outstanding graduating student in the Master of Human Resource Management

Craig TOOBY

• the AHRI prize for the most outstanding graduating student in the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)

Jill VOSS

• the CPA Australia award for best 3rd year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

Janine WORLEY

• the McGraw Hill International Business award for the highest achiever in MGT340 International Business Management

Yumin ZHOU

• the Lexis Nexis prize for achieving the highest mark by a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in LAW220 Business Organisations Law

Other Achievements

In addition to the School of Commerce prize listed above, Jill VOSS was also awarded the University Medal as selected by the University Medals Committee of the Academic Senate. Jill achieved a GPA of 6.81 in completing her study in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting).

Jill VOSS is also the recipient of the Faculty of Commerce Award for Outstanding Achievement, awarded to the graduating student with the most outstanding overall results on completion of their course.

5 December 2006

Professor Alan Fish who is the Head of the International School of Business and former PhD student Julie Cogin has been successfull at wining the award for the best Human Resource Management paper at the 2006 ANZAM Conference.

31 October 2006

The Faculty of Business's Professional Development Unit is now offering a three day course to discuss work choices and their impact on today's workforce. The three day program will be conducted by Charles Sturt University and Deacons Law Firm.

Further information is available at the Professional Development Unit website.

1 November 2006

Speaker:
Dr. Parikshit K Basu
School of Marketing & Management, CSU, Bathurst
(Based on a joint paper by Parikshit Basu, John Hicks and Richard Sappey)

Topic:
“Overview of an ‘Established Rural Regional Inland’ Australian Labour Market”

Date / Time:
Wednesday November 1 / 12.30–2pm

Venue:
Syndicate Room 2, CPD, Bathurst Campus

Abstract

While much attention is paid to the dimensions of and changes to national and state labour markets, the heterogeneity of regional labour markets is hardly documented in literature. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the operation of a local labour market (LLM) in the Central West of New South Wales (NSW), the oldest European–settled inland region of mainland Australia. In doing so, it seeks to contribute to the move towards a typology of labour markets that would be beneficial for policy formulations at different levels. Based on 2001 Census data and interviews with local councils, the Central West regional labour market can be identified as a diverse and low skill based market with strong impacts of migration. It can be tentatively defined as an ‘established rural regional inland’ type. This is the first and preliminary study of the series.

A light sandwich lunch will be served in the CPD from 12.30 pm. Any inquiries should be directed to either of the co–convenors of the seminar series;
Dr P. K. Basu (6338 4577) or
Associate Professor Mark Morrison (6338 4253).

24 October 2006

The Faculty of Business has signed a Memorandum of Understanding between Charles Sturt University and the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE). The Memorandum of Understanding is based “on the principle of mutual benefit and reciprocity.”

The agreement will see a collaborative effort based upon recruitment in CSU’s degree programmes and keeping and updating CSCSE’s Sino–Foreign Jointly–run Programmes Record, by registering jointly–run programmes in China at CSCSE.

Background information on CSCSE

The Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) was founded in 1989 and is a legally registered corporate body affiliated to the Ministry of Education (MOE), People’s Republic of China, specialised in offering a full range of services for international scholarly exchanges, including both Chinese students and scholars going abroad, returning from abroad from abroad and international students and scholars coming to study in China.

23 October 2006

The Faculty of Business very successfully hosted the 3rd International Conference on Contemporary Business (ICCB) on 21-22 September 2006 at Peppers Fairmont Resort, Leura. While opening the conference, Professor Ian Goulter, Vice Chancellor of CSU, noted that “Business academics have an obligation to seek to understand our changing business environment and facilitate economic growth and business performance”.

Over the two days about 110 delegates attended the ICCB and more than 100 academics presented their papers in 20 well-designed sessions. Participants came from a range of countries including China, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, South Africa, Scotland and the USA. The delegates particularly enjoyed the presentations of the seven invited speakers.

The magnificent Blue Mountains, and the fine accommodation and hospitality at Peppers Resort, provided a great environment in which to discuss ideas and relax. The venue and very good food made the entire event all the more enjoyable. Excellent entertainment provided by Theatre Sports during the conference dinner added extra fun, which was only heightened by some good CSU wines. It was a real pleasure to see the delegates engage with important issues and ideas while also having a relaxing stay in such pleasant surroundings. It made for what one participant referred to as a “really happy and friendly conference.”

“I really found the conference very worthwhile and I feel that the organization of it was top class”, Professor Clem Tisdell, one of the keynote speakers wrote after the conference. Professor John Hicks, Dean of the Faculty of Business at CSU proudly said, “... (ICCB) it was one of the most enjoyable conferences I have attended. The good spirit amongst the participants from different discipline backgrounds, the quality of the keynote speakers and the standard of the venue were all exceptional.” Professor Rupert Tipples from New Zealand observed, “I particularly liked the way in which papers with mutual interests were grouped.” Professor Boshoff from South Africa noted that the ICCB was “one of the best conferences I have attended in my long career.”

The ICCB demonstrated that high quality academic exchanges are possible within most enjoyable surroundings, and that serious intellectual discussions and good fun can co-exist.

The success of the ICCB reflected the virtually flawless conference administration and everything proceeded without a hitch across the two days. For this, thanks must go to the Conference co-convenors PK Basu, Grant O'Neill and Tony Travaglione, and to Jayne Bisman, Troy Heffernan, and Jasmine Williams for their support in the process of reviewing conference papers.

9 October 2006

Looking for something to make you stand out above the rest?

A graduate recruitment coordinator for a lager firm has the following response to some questions about her experience in interviewing graduates:

“In terms of what makes the best candidate – you cannot go past a student with a balanced mixture of sound academic achievement, quality work experience and involvement in other activities.”

The Faculty of Business recognises that many students have difficulty obtaining part time work in relevant fields and once obtained, find difficulty in managing both studies and work commitments. In order to redress this problem, the University, in association with members of industry and commerce, developed BUS370 Business Internship. The subject is a collaborative project between the University and employer sponsors, in which you will be given the opportunity to participate in work experience while completing your degree.

BUS370 Business Internship is a strongly recommended elective for all business students, including those enrolled in the Bachelor of Business Studies. Students in all of the Bachelor of Business (specialisations) & the Bachelor of Business Studies are encouraged to enroll in the subject in either their 4th or 5th session. It is, however also available to 6th session students. Note that those enrolled in the joint Bachelor of Human Movement / Bachelor of Business Studies may take this subject in their 8th session in the space on their schedule marked "any level 3 Business subject".

This subject will provide you with an ideal opportunity to gain valuable work experience and apply your course learning in a practical work environment; factors which many employers consider highly desirable when selecting employees. In addition, feedback from past students who have been able to obtain part–time work has indicated that work experience is also an invaluable source of reference in the more difficult and practical 3rd year subjects. You will also gain contacts which may be of considerable assistance for possible future employment. Furthermore, students gain valuable class experience in numerous work related skills: work attitude, professionalism, report writing, oral presentations, Occupational Health and Safety, resume writing, etc.

What is involved in the subject?

The subject involves the completion of 200 hours (about six weeks) of practical work experience, together with attendance at workshops/classes during session designed to aid your transition to the workplace, plus completion of a report and participation in a presentation reflecting on your experience. These tasks must be completed within the first few weeks of the session after enrolment (ie, first few weeks of Spring Session if enrolled for Autumn Session & first few weeks of Autumn Session if enrolled in Spring Session). One of the advantages of enrolment in Spring Session is that you will have all of the summer break to complete your work experience hours. This is a significantly longer break for completing the work experience than is available in the July break. Of course whatever session you choose, you will have the three–week mid session break which can be used to complete some of your hours. Also if you obtain work experience locally you may be able to complete some of the work during the session weeks (eg, one day a week) if that is suitable to the employer as well as to you.

There is no examination. Grades for the subject are SY (Satisfactory) or US (Unsatisfactory).

If you are concerned that completion of BUS370 will eliminate the possibility of a joint study, don't be. It would still be possible to arrange your study program so that joint study programs will not be affected. The maximum number of subjects required for a joint study is 5 and all Bachelor of Business (specialisations) require 6 electives. Thus, even if the joint study you intend to complete requires the use of 5 of your electives, you will still have one left for the internship. Note however, that because up to 2 subjects can be counted for both your joint study & your specialisation, in many cases you will only need to use 4 or in a few cases, just 3 of your electives for your joint study. THus there should be no problem with regard to fitting in the BUS370 subject for any Bachelor of Business or Bachelor of Business Studies students.

At present there are a variety of work assignments available covering commercial and public practice, local, regional and Sydney–based operations, and either regular weekly or block work experience commitments over the summer break. Thus, whatever your particular interest area, there is bound to be something for you.

So how do you get involved?

1. Prior to enrolling, you should discuss your enrolment with the subject coordinator Doug Rolfe.
   Note that you must have completed the 3rd session subjects for your specialisation. Thus, if you are only in 2nd session at this point, you will not be able to undertake the subject until you have completed the 3rd session subjects for your specialisation.
   Also note that the enrolment restrictions for the subject, as well as restricting enrolment to those up to at least 4th session subjects, will also indicate that enrolment will be for selected on–campus students. The subject coordinator will review enrolments to make sure that you are eligible, both in terms of subjects completed & other issues such as employment, study progress, availability of sponsors to accept you for the work experience, suitability for the internship, etc.
2. Once you have obtained permission from the subject coordinator to enroll, simply add BUS370 to your enrolment.

Subject Coordinator Contact Details:

• Doug Rolfe
• Building C2, Room 135
• drolfe@csu.edu.au
• 02 6338 4494

Please note:

• This subject is first available in Autumn Session 2007 (200740).
• It is only available to Albury/Thurgoona, Bathurst and Wagga Wagga internal students.

26 September 2006

With the nation focussing on skills shortages in the workplace, Charles Sturt University (CSU) researchers maintain that older employees could hold the key to meeting these shortages.

Professors Andy Smith, Eddie Oczkowski and Chris Selby–Smith from the University's Faculty of Business recently won a $70 000 grant from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) to study how employers can retain and better use skilled people already in their workplaces.

“With national unemployment currently around five per cent, Australia, like many other countries, has been plagued by chronic skills shortages in most sectors of the economy,” said research team leader Professor Smith.

“Employers consistently report that they cannot find employees with the right skills to fill job vacancies. In the past, employers have generally looked to government to help to solve the problem of skills shortages – usually by spending more money on training apprentices and trainees or increasing skilled immigration.

“But the research shows that the shortage of qualified workers is not due to a lack of apprentices and trainees. Since the mid 1990s, there has been a massive expansion in apprenticeships in Australia. We now have more apprentices and trainees per head of population than any other country. Nor will migration fill the gap – every country is chasing the same skills as we are.”

Professor Smith believes that solutions to the crisis could come from employers themselves.

“Often employers believe that their workforces should be trained in the skills that the business needs. The focus has tended to be on recruiting people, especially new young recruits with those skills, but we need to look also at retraining skilled people and using existing employee's skills more effectively.

“The rapid ageing of the Australian population is exacerbating this problem, forcing employers to think about using the latent skills and abilities of their existing, often older, workers. We are also confronted by the issue that sometimes employers have people with the right skills but they cannot retain them or use their skills effectively in the business because working conditions are poor.”

The study, consisting of a national employer survey and a series of case studies is due to finish in 2007.

NCVER is Australia’s principal research and evaluation organisation on vocational education and training in Australia and is a not–for–profit company owned by the Federal, State and territory ministers responsible for training.

This research project is part of a program managed by NCVER on behalf of the Australian, State and Territory governments, with funding provided through the Federal Department of Education, Science and Training.

Media Officer : Wes Ward
Telephone : 02 6051 9906

Media Note: Interviews with Professor Andy Smith, based on the University’s Wagga Wagga Campus, are available through CSU Media.

21 Sep 2006

A forum hosted by Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Orange will review Australia’s position within the Asian trade arena, especially Japan and China. Expert speakers, including keynote speaker and Australia’s Japanese Consul General Tsukasa Kawada, will provide up–to–date assessments of economic developments and trade opportunities in Asia.

Head of CSU Orange Campus, Professor Kevin Parton, believes the forum encapsulates the University’s strong relationship with Asia:

“The Asia Today forum highlights our continuing research and tour visits to Asia and provides a great opportunity for companies and entrepreneurs to review Australia's trade performance with Asia with the intention of trading with the region.”

Issues to be covered will range from a consideration of the general growth prospects in Japan and China through to detailed case studies on how to get started in exporting. The Asia Today forum runs from 9am to 2pm on Friday 22 September. The Orange forum complements an international academic business conference also hosted by CSU that focuses on trade with China, being held on 21 and 22 September in the NSW Blue Mountains.

Media Officer: Holly–Amber Manning
Telephone: 02 6365 7813

Media Note: For interviews with Professor Kevin Parton, contact CSU Media.
Further details on the Asia Today forum are available from Christine or telephone 02 6360 8400.

18 September 2006

Business relations and comparisons between Australia and China is a major focus at an international business conference being hosted this week by Charles Sturt University (CSU).

International speakers from South Africa, Scotland, the United States of America, China, Thailand, Malaysia and New Zealand will join leading Australian business management and economic experts at the Third International Conference on Contemporary Business, to be held in the NSW Blue Mountains, west of Sydney.

In examining the growing business links between Australia and China, over 100 speakers will also address such diverse topics as:

• Regional business issues in Australia and overseas;
• ethical business practice;
• governance, leadership and emotional intelligence in modern businesses;
• the future of marketing;
• international economics and finance;
• emerging trends in people management;
• social responsibility in business; and,
• international and national issues in accounting.

One of the conference convenors and Acting Head of CSU’s School of Marketing and Management, Dr Grant O’Neill, said the discussions on economic relations between Australia and China were particularly relevant given the proposed Free Trade Agreement between the two trading countries.

“The conference will gather together some of the foremost economic and business academics in Australia and Asia, and this will allow them the opportunity to explore the latest ideas and issues in their areas while assisting research networks to be formed.

“In the last two years China has accounted for a quarter of world growth in global trade. As part of our Asia Pacific community it is critical that Australia understands the emergence of China as a major trade partner and that we work to support and develop relationships with China as an economic powerhouse.

“The conference theme, Engagement and Change: Managing in a Free Trade Environment, reflects a critical issue currently facing businesses in the Asia-Pacific region. Business academics have an obligation to seek to understand our rapidly changing business environment and facilitate economic growth and business performance.” Dr O’Neill

The conference will be held at the Peppers Fairmont Resort, Leura, NSW, on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 September, with the meeting to be officially opened by Charles Sturt University Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Goulter at 8.30am on 21 September.

Media Officer: Elizabeth Heath
Telephone: 02 6338 4787

18 Sep 2006

The recent meetings of the world’s leading economic countries have attracted world leaders and their critics. A book edited by a Charles Sturt University (CSU) academic and his British colleague attempts to address the motivations for protests against globalization – the growing gap between rich and poor countries as the world's economy and trade becomes more integrated across national boundaries.

The book, titled Trade, Growth and Inequality in the Era of Globalization, was co–edited by Associate Professor Kishor Sharma from CSU’s Faculty of Business and Professor Oliver Morrissey from University of Nottingham, UK, and combines their considerable experience in assessing economies worldwide.

Professor Sharma asserts that although living standards in developed countries have increased considerably in recent years, one fifth of the world's population, nearly all in developing countries, still live below the poverty line.

“I believe poverty and inequity are the roots of civil unrest in many developing countries and we, living in developed countries, are also feeling its effects. Addressing poverty and inequity should be our top priority to ensure the long term peace and harmony in society.

“Poor people in these countries are struggling to even meet the basic necessities of life – 1.7 billion people today live on less that US$1 per day which is unacceptable in the era of globalization. If globalization is supposed to spread the increasing wealth, why has it failed to benefit these people, and what can we do about it?” Professor Sharma says.

Sharma and Morrissey have gathered examples from 11 developing countries in Africa, Central Asia and Latin America to show if globalization has benefited these countries, and why – or why not.

Leading experts from Australia, Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa have investigated the link between trade, economic growth and inequality in Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Myanmar, Brazil, Bolivia and Mexico.

“The economies explored vary from the relatively ‘open’ economies of Brazil and South Africa to the centrally controlled economies of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. We hope these will provide useful lessons and policy insights for international aid agencies, academics and policy makers worldwide.

“The book also provides a much needed comparative study of the link between globalization, growth and inequality, and assesses how it affects growth and inequality and poverty in developing and transition countries.”

Published by Routledge (UK), the book will be launched by CSU’s Vice–Chancellor Professor Ian Goulter at the Third International Conference in Contemporary Business at Peppers’ Fairmont Resort, Leura in the NSW Blue Mountains on Thursday 21 September.

This book follows a previous assessment of Asian countries edited by Professor Sharma.

Media Officer : Corporate Communication and Media Team
Telephone : 02 6933 2207

Media Note: For interviews with Associate Professor Kishor Sharma contact CSU Media. The book will be officially launched by CSU Vice–Chancellor Professor Ian Goulter at the Third International Conference in Contemporary Business at Peppers’ Fairmont Resort, Leura on Thursday 21 September, starting at 9.30am.

12 Sep 2006

Charles Sturt University (CSU) Council last week inducted four new members. Ms Geraldine Kennett is currently enrolled at CSU in the Doctorate of Business Administration course. “I am originally from the country, so an inland University appeals to me. CSU is in a position to address some of the skills shortages and population and demographic issues in regional Australia.” Ms Kennett is the Membership Strategy Manager at the Australian Industry Group and an affiliate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

The other new Council members are Dr Robert Macklin, an elected staff member from the Faculty of Business, Ms Heather Bell who is Acting Head of CSU’s Dubbo Campus, and primary education student Mr Mitchell Elks, who said “as an undergraduate student living on campus, I want to have a voice, and being on the Council helps me do that. I also want to ensure that the best interests of CSU students are being considered in the University’s decisions.”

Media Officer : Wes Ward
Telephone : 02 6051 9906

Media Note: For interviews or print quality photographs, contact CSU Media.

MEMO FROM THE POST GRADUATE COURSE COORDINATOR

11 September 2006

Dear MBA Students

Please note the registrations for the Compulsory Workshops for the core subjects will be closing soon. If you are enrolled in any of the following subjects, please register your attendance or apply for an exemption prior to the closing date. Registration forms and application forms for exemption can be found at the Workshop Form website

Registrations have now closed for:

• MBA502
• MBA503
• MBA504
• MBA505

However it is not too late to register for the following workshops:

Registrations close Friday, 15 September for:
MBA506 – held 22 & 23 September
MBA508 – held 24 & 25 September

The workshops are held at the Shangri–La Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney and will run from 9.30 am – 5.30 pm daily. Morning and afternoon tea will be provided.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Lisa Howard
Acting Coordinator, Postgraduate Programs
Charles Sturt University
Phone: 02 6933 2535
Fax: 02 6933 4141
Email: Lisa Howard

15 Aug 2006

Commonwealth Learning Scholarships for Charles Sturt University (CSU) students studying on all CSU’s campuses in 2007 are now open for applications. The Federally–funded scholarships aim to improve access for students from geographically remote locations or lower socio–economic circumstances to a university education. The program includes accommodation scholarships worth over $4 000 per year for up to four years; and education scholarships worth over $2 000 per year for up to four years. In 2006 CSU students were successful in gaining 105 accommodation scholarships and 128 education scholarships. In addition the University has funded 30 new Professional Placement Equity Scholarships as part of the CSU's leadership in practical and industry based training. The scholarships are aimed at assisting CSU students to take part in compulsory professional placements required for their courses. Applications for Professional Placement Scholarship support close on Friday 25 August. Worth a total of $30 000, each successful applicant is eligible for up to $1 000 each.

Author: Wes Ward

Media Note: Contact CSU Media for interviews. For further information, eligibility criteria and an application form for the Commonwealth Scholarships, visit the scholarship web site. For further information on the placement scholarships, go to the professional placement web site.

02 Aug 2006

Central West businesses performed better in the June quarter than the preceding quarter, according to the latest Reliance Credit Union business survey released on Wednesday 2 August by Charles Sturt University's Western Research Institute (WRI).

“Interestingly, Central West businesses still expect to improve their performance again in the September quarter, even though interest rates rose yesterday. It is expected, however, that regional NSW business will be less affected by the rise in terest rates than Sydney due to smaller mortgages and less business debt,”
said WRI CEO, Tom Murphy.

It was noted that fuels costs were the most negative influence on business activity, particularly transport. All business sectors except agriculture showed positive performance in June. The business survey, sponsored by Reliance Credit Union and the Central West Regional Development Board, was returned by over 400 businesses including mining, agriculture, tourist, retail and transport industries across regional NSW.

Author: Elizabeth Heath
Telephone : 02 6338 4787

Media Note:
For interviews with WRI CEO Tom Murphy, contact CSU Media.

18 Jul 2006

Charles Sturt University’s (CSU’s) emphasis on professional experience as an integral part of CSU courses is being put into practice in the University's Careers Service – with practical success. This year for the first time, CSU’s Careers Service offered two paid, internships for final-year students to give them valuable work experience opportunities. Final-year Bachelor of Commerce student, Casandra Barnes, of Cumnock, NSW, has just completed her six-month internship as a marketing assistant in the CSU Careers Service and begins her first career job with Liverpool Plains Shire Council based in Quirindi this week.

“The hands-on experience working at the Careers Service was fantastic and taught me so much about what’s involved in a professional job. I’m sure it made the difference when I applied for my first professional position.’ Cassandra Barnes

During her internship Casandra was responsible for marketing the Careers Service to first-year students; coordinating and promoting careers events; running online student forums and producing an online careers newsletter. Casandra, 23, starts her new job as a Community Economic Development Officer with the Liverpool Plains Shire Council in Quirindi this week. She will complete her final two subjects towards her degree by distance education. Paul Worsfold, Senior Career Development Officer with the Careers Service said practicum experience was a high priority for CSU as it strives to be a national leader in producing ‘job ready’ graduates.

“The Careers Service understands the importance of professional experience which is why it promotes vacation work opportunities to students. We are also seeking to involve students who want complementary work experiences and career development activities outside of formal teaching requirements.” Mr Worsfold

Media Officer : Virginia Gawler
Telephone : 02 6933 4254

Media Note: Paul Worsfold and Casandra Barnes are both available for interview. Contact CSU Media.

27 Jun 2006

Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Professional Development Unit (PDU) has been contracted by the NSW Aboriginal Land Council to develop a training and development strategy for Aboriginal Land Councils. The PDU will evaluate the current training packages, make recommendations for the development of new ones to fill any gaps and provide recommendations regarding delivery schedules and methods.

Pat Bradbery, manager of the PDU at Bathurst CSU, says this is an important step for the PDU in its efforts to develop targeted business–related courses for Indigenous people.

“The PDU will ensure the training is aligned with the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (ALRA) with the object of making the local Aboriginal Land Councils more effective and efficient in carrying out their work which primarily is to acquire and manage land on behalf of Aboriginal people.” Pat Bradbery

He says the strategy can‘t be the same for all as Land Councils can vary considerably. “It certainly is an interesting project because of the ALRA requirements. It is very different to developing a training strategy for a corporate customer. Because of the community involvement in Local Aboriginal Land Councils, we need to be conscious of what the executive wants as well as what the rank and file members desire,” Mr Bradbery added.

Author: Elizabeth Heath

20 June 2006

Central West businesses are lining up to attend a Charles Sturt University (CSU) Debt Collection workshop next week which will save them time and money when it comes to dealing with bad debts. The workshop will offer advice on debt collection options and procedures involved; effective systems to minimise and prevent bad debts in your business and, as a last resort, steps in debt collection which involve the court. The workshop will be run by Antony Smith, an Adjunct Lecturer in the Faculty of Business at CSU Orange Campus.

“I've discovered in my time that people in small businesses don't really understand the debt collection process so they tend to put things off as long as they can, hoping they won't have to do anything about it. Debt is made a lot worse by the passage of time so we felt it was important to run a short course on how to manage debt collection.”
Antony Smith

There are two workshops next week at CSU Orange Campus on Tuesday June 27 and Thursday June 29 from 6pm to 8pm and one on Saturday, July 1 from 9am to 1pm. The cost of the workshop is $80. Places are limited, for more information contact the program coordinator on 02 6365 7813.

06 June 2006

Charles Sturt University's (CSU) engagement with local communities is being demonstrated in Bathurst where third–year CSU marketing students are presenting their ideas to several Bathurst businesses this month. The most challenging project is the Royal Bathurst Show which is changing dates for the first time in over 120 years and hoping to attract a younger crowd. “I see regional engagement as a really important part of the University,” said Andrew Mashman from CSU's School of Marketing and Management. “The Show is the biggest community event in the Bathurst calendar and the date change is very important. In doing this project, the students get to understand the stakeholders in the Bathurst community much better.” At the same time, students in Internet Marketing are investigating the opportunities for several local businesses to start or grow their internet marketing strategies. Bachelor of Business (Marketing) graduate David Gibson says his involvement in last year's project helped land him a job in sales and marketing co–ordination. His advice to students this year?

“Definitely get involved as much as you can and include it in your resume. It does set you apart from other university graduates.”
David Gibson

26 May 2006

2006 Bathurst Scholarship Ceremony Photographs

Students recieving their awards
Mr Paul Toole, Deputy Mayor, Bathurst Regional Council awards Pamela Rudge the Bathurst Regional Council Scholarship. Pamela is a first year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Public Relations and Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies (double degree) at Charles Sturt University.	Associate Professor Ross Wilson, Head, School of Accounting, awards Jody Manners the CDH Darcy Kennedy Scholarship. Jody is a second year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) degree at Charles Sturt University.
Mr Lawrie Willett AO, Chancellor, Charles Sturt University, awards Therese Formosa the Charles Sturt Foundation Honours Scholarship. Therese is a honours year student in the Bachelor of Business (Finance) degree at Charles Sturt University.	Mr Lawrie Willett AO, Chancellor, Charles Sturt University, awards Imogen Kelly the Charles Sturt Foundation Marketing and Management Scholarship. Imogen is a second year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Advertising) / Bachelor of Business (Marketing) degree at Charles Sturt University.
Mr Lawrie Willett AO, Chancellor, Charles Sturt University, awards Lauren Taylor the Charles Sturt Foundation Marketing and Management Scholarship. Lauren is a second year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Public Relations and Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies (double degree) at Charles Sturt University.	Ms Margaret Glen, Member, Mitchell Foundation, awards Alysha Smith the Citigroup Scholarship Alysha is a first year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Public Relations and Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies (double degree) at Charles Sturt University.
Mr Tony Gordon, Member of the Mitchell Foundation, awards Felicity Dix the Dr Doug Stace Scholarship. Felicity is a third year student in the Bachelor of Business (Finance) degree at Charles Sturt University.	Dr John Reid AO awards David Paton the Dr John Reid Scholarship. David is a third year student in the Bachelor of Business Studies degree at Charles Sturt University.
Mr Rod McCulloch, Senior Lecturer, School of Communication, awards Amy Bennett the George Patterson Y&R Scholarship. Amy is a third year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Advertising) / Bachelor of Business (Marketing) degree at Charles Sturt University.	Mr Paul Toole, Deputy Mayor, Bathurst Regional Council awards Lauren Sharkey the Gordon Bullock Memorial Scholarship. Lauren is a second year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Public Relations and Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies (double degree) at Charles Sturt University.
Ms Heather Leembruggen, Acting President and Director, International Advertising Association awards Sophie Paton the International Advertising Association Scholarship. Sophie is a third year student in the Bachelor of Arts (Communication - Advertising) / Bachelor of Business (Marketing) degree at Charles Sturt University.	Mr Col Billington, President, Mitchell Emeritus Club and Mrs Marie Billington award Rachel Price the Mitchell Emeritus Club Scholarship. Rachel is a fourth year student in the Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Information Technology (double degree) at Charles Sturt University.
Mr Ross Wilson, Head, School of Accounting, awards Adrian Acheson the School of Accounting Scholarship.  Adrian is a third year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) degree at Charles Sturt University.	Associate Professor Greg Walker, Head, School of Marketing and Management awards Tobias Abbey the School of Marketing and Management Scholarship. Tobias is a third year student in the Bachelor of Business (Finance) degree at Charles Sturt University.

5 June 2006

The Faculty of Business is delighted to offer CSU MBA (distance education) students the opportunity to study ‘Doing Business in Europe/Switzerland’ Intensive Module in August 2006.

We are also pleased to announce that UASB have agreed to decrease the cost of the European business module by $500 reducing the overall cost to $3,000 (plus flights). As there are only 7 places left, please submit your application as per the attached information by Friday, 16 June 2006.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Lisa Howard or on 02 6933 2535

29 May 2006

An official ceremony held last Friday honoring a significant number of Commerce students who received scholarships for their achievements. Students from the School of Accounting and School of Marketing and Management students received scholarships at the Bathurst ceremony alongside students from the School of Communication, the School of Public Health and the School of Teacher Education. Commerce students who received scholarships on the Bathurst campus include:

Winner of the Bathurst Regional Council Scholarship – Pamela Rudge

Pamela is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Communication – Public Relations & Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies double degree. Pamela is a coordinator for the Australian Red Cross and plays an all important role in its corporately funded youth program. She was the youngest representative ever chosen for The Red Cross National Conference. Pamela initiated a breakfast program for disadvantaged youth and also launched her own business as a tennis coach, capitalising on her tennis skills. Pamela was awarded the Bathurst Regional Council Scholarship by Deputy Mayor Paul Toole.

Winner of the CDH Darcy Kennedy Scholarship – Jody Manners

Jody is studying the Bachelor of Business Accounting and is currently in her second year. Jody has volunteered as an O–Week leader, using her own experience of university life to help others and is also a volunteer member of the Woodlands Landcare Group, committing herself to restoring the Boundary Road Reserve. Pamela was awarded the CDH Darcy Kennedy Scholarship by Head of School of Accounting Professor Ross Wilson.

Winner of the Charles Sturt Foundation Honours Scholarship – Therese Formosa

Therese is currently studying honours to understand the amount of work that goes into academic research and to open up employment opportunities. She aims to conduct research into whether seeking financial advice from a financial planner will help a client achieve their financial objectives. Therese also has an interest in financial literacy. Therese is currently studying the Bachelor of Business Honours and was presented the Foundation Scholarship by Chancellor Lawrie Willett.

Winner of the First Charles Sturt Foundation Marketing & Management Scholarship – Imogen Kelly

Imogen Kelly was awarded the first Charles Sturt Foundation Marketing and Management Scholarship. Imogen is the executive of the business society on the Charles Sturt University Bathurst Campus and is hoping to achieve better opportunities for business in this role. Imogen also hopes to establish an advertising club for first and second year students who minor or major in the advertising course. Her ultimate goal is to establish an advertising agency of her own. Imogen is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Advertising) / Bachelor of Business Marketing double degree.

Winner of the Second Charles Sturt Foundation Marketing & Management Scholarship – Lauren Taylor

The second Charles Sturt Foundation Marketing and Management scholarship goes to Lauren Taylor. Lauren has been a leader in her local youth group since 2002. She joined the group with the hope of giving youth a more positive profile and to mentor younger people in the community. In this role Lauren has organised many events and raised much needed funds for the Scone Community and has been the recipient of the Masoni Care Young Achievers award and the Scone Young Citizen Award. Lauren is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Public Relations – Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies double degree.

Winner of the Citigroup Scholarship – Alysha Smith

Alysha played an integral role in the establishment of the Shout organisation, a school based charity dedicated to raising money for those who can't 'shout for themselves'. Her placement as chief coordinator of the publicity campaign saw her undertake management of a team of ten. Alysha has also been involved with Kids Help line, SIDS and Canteen and also established a South Australian debating team in 2003 which she continues to manage. Alysha is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Communication Public Relations – Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies double degree.

Winner of the Dr Doug Stace Scholarship – Felicity Dix

Felicity is in her third year of studying the Bachelor of Business – Finance and Banking and is actively involved in the Rotary Club of Orange and has been selected for a Rotary Youth Leadership Award. Felicity has also been involved in a young achievements business program, where she was elected general manager, giving her a great insight in to the functioning of a business.

Winner of the Dr Henry Nowik Scholarship – Darren Denmead

Darren has already graduated from Charles Sturt University once, completing his Bachelor of Business Marketing degree in 1997. Since then Darren has become the volunteer treasurer at his local pre–school, worked for vodafone and swapped roles with his wife, becoming a full time carer of his two children. Darren feels very proud to be joining the noble profession of teaching and looks with anticipation, excitement and pride.

Winner of the Dr John Reid Scholarship – David Paton

David knows only too well the meaning of the phrase: ‘you don't know what you've got until it's gone’. In 2001 David was involved in a motor vehicle accident which almost claimed his life. Following his accident, David had to learn to live again as the result of a serious brain injury. David enjoys involvement in the Bathurst Christian Student's Association and spreading the word that brain injury doesn't have to be the end of the world. David is studying the Bachelor of Business Studies and was presented his scholarship by Dr John Reid.

Winner of the George Patterson Y & R Scholarship – Amy Bennett

Amy was selected to be a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society in 2005 which has allowed her to become a leader within the University environment. Amy is dedicated to being an active community member and coordinates charity activities for the university as well as the Bathurst Community and hopes to make a name for herself during her advertising internship while achieving a leadership role within her community. Amy is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Communication – Advertising) / Bachelor of Business (Marketing) double degree and was presented her scholarship by Mr Rod McCulloch.

Winner of the Gordon Bullock Memorial Scholarship – Lauren Sharkey

Lauren is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Communication – Public Relations and Organisational Communication) / Bachelor of Business Studies double degree. Lauren's goals are to graduate, gain a position in a successful sporting organisation as a PR practitioner and ultimately to travel the world. Lauren is very involved in her local community in Narromine, participating as a member of the Narromine Youth Council in 2004 and 2005. Lauren was presented her scholarship by Bathurst Regional Council's deputy mayor Paul Toole.

Winner of the International Advertising Association Scholarship – Sophie Paton

Ms Heather Leembruggen was proud to present Sophie Paton with the International Advertising Association Scholarship. This year, the scholarship will be used to fund a professional industry internship program in New York with the international marketing communications group – BBDO in support of the IAA Professional Development Program. Sophie has already participated in the CSU International Exchange Program, spending six months studying at the University of Kentucky in the USA and is extremely dedicated to obtaining employment in the Advertising sector following graduation. Amy is currently studying the Bachelor of Arts (Communication – Advertising) / Bachelor of Business (Marketing) double degree.

Winner of the First Mitchell Emeritus Club Scholarship – Rachel Price

Col and Marie Billington presented the first Mitchell Emeritus Club Scholarship to Rachel Price. Rachel is studying the Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Information Technology double degree and is currently in her fourth year. Rachel was an active participant in fund raising and the peer support scheme during high school and aims to continue achieving high marks in her studies and participate in as much practical experience and work placement as possible.

Winner of the School of Accounting Scholarship – Adrian Acheson

Professor Ross Wilson, Head of School of Accounting presented Adrian Acheson with the School of Accounting Scholarship. Adrian's philosophy in life is – 'its' not what happens to you, it's what you do about it.' After losing three friends and sustaining serious injuries in the 2002 Bali Bombings, Adrian has gone on to live life to the full. Adrian was the face of the Royal North Shore Hospital Christmas Appeal in 2002, assisting in the raising of $100,000 for the new burns unit. He also played rugby for the Australian 15, a composite of Forbes Rugby and the Coogee Dolphin Players who played the curtain raiser for the Australian Barbarian Charity Match. Adrian aims to successfully complete his Accounting degree and graduate as a competitive candidate for work placement.

Winner of the School of Marketing & Management Scholarship – Tobias Abbey

Associate Professor Greg Walker, Head of Campus presented Tobias Abbey with the School of Marketing & Management Scholarship. Tobias is currently undertaking his third year of university studying the Bachelor of Business (Finance). Tobias is actively involved in the community, giving his time and support to the Spastic Centre and the Country Education Foundation. He lists his major goals for the future as completing an honours degree, gaining employment in the area of corporate finance, completing an MBAS and climbing Mount Everest.

• View the photo gallery here

15 May 2006

The Faculty of Business's Professional Development Unit is offering local government finance professionals the opportunity to participate in a one week intensive module at the Charles Sturt University Bathurst Campus. The module will run from Sunday June 4 to Friday June 9 2006.

Topics covered in the course

• Highlighting the importance of the Local Government Finance Professionals in the smooth operations of Council and the differences between the role of public and private sector accountants.
• Foundations of Good Accounting Systems
• Local Government Revenue Rates
• Local Government Revenue s64 & s94 Contributions Plans and Planning Agreements
• Local Government Revenue Grants and other
• FBT & GST
• Accounting for Assets, Liabilities Equity & Preparation of Balance Sheet
• Contributed Assets, Reserves and Restricted Assets
• Investment Best Practice
• Forward Financial Planning
• Management Plan and Internal Reporting
• DLG Presentation
• Asset Management
• AEIRFS and Code Update
• GPFRs and Special Schedules
• Consolidation of Funds and EOY Checklists
• LGFP Sustainable & Financial Health Check and Corporate Governance
• Audit Processes and Requirements
• LGFP Overview, Networks and Development
• Inquiry into Financial Sustainability of Local Government in NSW

Interested parties should download the application form [PDF]

Queries can be made to Lyn D'Arcy Evans

9 May 2006

Commerce students will have the opportunity to attend presentations by the Australian Tax Office at Bathurst, Wagga Wagga and Albury – Thurgoona Campuses next week. These highly valuable presentations give students advice on preparing applications, interviews and preparing for the workforce. Further details on the presentations is listed below.

Bathurst Campus

• Tuesday, May 16
• Australian Taxation Office (Canberra Office)
• Targeted students: graphic design, multimedia, communications, marketing
• 12 noon presentation including advice to students re: tips and hints on applying and interview skills – duration two hours.
• Venue: Student Services, Building N6

Wagga Wagga Campus

• Thursday, May 18
• Australian Taxation Office (Canberra)
• Targeted students: graphic design, multimedia, communications, marketing
• 1 pm presentation including advice to students re: tips and hints on applying and interview skills – duration 60 minutes.
• Venue: School of Commerce Seminar Room

Thurgoona Campus

• Wednesday, May 17
• Australian Taxation Office (Canberra)
• Targeted students: graphic design, multimedia, communications, marketing
• 3 pm presentation including advice to students re: tips and hints on applying and interview skills – duration 60 minutes. Venue: Room 111 in the CD Blake Lecture Theatre

For further information, login to the CSU CareerHub

5 May 2006

In 2005, Charles Sturt University and the University of Applied Sciences, Berne (UASB) offered an intensive module on Doing Business in Europe / Switzerland. We are delighted to offer to Charles Sturt University MBA students the opportunity to study this module in August 2006. Successful completion of the module will be granted the equivalent of credit for one elective subject in the MBA course at Charles Sturt University.

The fee is AUD$3,500 which includes tuition, lectures, study materials, travel guides, visits to companies, 12 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, lunch for all the days plus welcome dinner/farewell dinner, one sightseeing event, and bus transfers. Accommodation is pre–determined by the UASB and cannot be altered. Students must arrange and pay for their own flights and travel to Berne, plus_ any additional meals, tours, expenses, etc. This two–week module – commences on Sunday 6th August and concludes on Friday 18th August 2006 – is a combination of lectures, and site visits to companies, including Credit Suisse, Mercedes and Postbank. There is also opportunity to undertake tours of the region .

For those who have never been to Switzerland, it is a beautiful country, with many scenic attractions, and interesting places to visit. Those students who have completed the 2005 intensive module as well as those who have completed their elective component of their MBA studies are ineligible to apply.

To register your placement in this course, please contact Judy Wong

2 May 2006

The Journal of Internet Business, conducted through the Faculty of Business has released its latest issue with a paper discussing the habits of UK online banking customers. Entitled “Do all UK on–line banking customers want the same kind of service?”, the paper explores whether consumers are entirely convinced of the advantages of banking online as only a small percentage of transactions in the UK are made through the internet.

The full article is available here

1 May 2006

The Ceremony to present Deans List awards for 2005, and Prizes to continuing students, was held on the Wagga Campus on Thursday 27 April 2006 at the Wine & Food Industry Training Centre.

Students who achieve a Distinction or High Distinction in every subject undertaken during a session (or over two sessions if part time students) are nominated for the Dean's List. In any given semester, there are usually less than 20 students who achieve this outstanding academic record from all the students undertaking the undergraduate business courses offered from the Wagga Wagga campus.

For the 2005 Academic year, a total of 18 students were nominated for inclusion, 7 of whom were able to attend the presentation ceremony held on the Wagga Wagga campus on 27 April 2006.

The Dean presented students who attended with their Certificates after congratulating them on their achievements.

Recipients of Deans List awards for the 2005 Academic year were:

• Luke BANNERMAN from Reefton NSW who commenced his Bachelor of Business (Accounting) in 2005. In his first year of enrolment Luke achieved 1 HD and 3 DI grades across two semesters whilst studying as a part time internal student
• Francis CAMILLERI from Newport in Victoria who also commenced in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) in 2005. Francis is a full time distance education student who received the Dean's List award for achievement of 3 HD and 1 DI in his first session of enrolment.
• Elissa CLIFTON is a Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management) student from Coogee, who commenced her degree in 2003 as a part time student. Elissa has achieved DI or HD grades for all subjects completed to date and has now achieved her third Deans List Award. Elissa achieved 3 DI and 1 HD during 2005.
• Amy COLLINGRIDGE from Wagga graduated from the Bachelor of Business (Business Management) with Distinction at the recent graduation ceremony. Studying full time on campus, Amy has achieved 19 DI or HD (out of a possible 24) while undertaking her degree and received the Dean's List award for her achievements in the Autumn Session 2005 where 3 HD and 1 DI were achieved.
• Rachael DELAHAYE from Leopold in Victoria is recognised for having achieved 3 DI and 1 HD during the 2005 Academic year. Rachael is enrolled as a part time distance education student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) degree.
• Zoe DORRELL from Wagga recently graduated with Distinction from the Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Zoe has qualified for a Dean's List award in every session of enrolment that she has completed at CSU, since commencing her course in 2003. During 2005 Zoe achieved 4 HD and 4 DI grades, so received an award for each of the two sessions of enrolment.
• Julie DOWNIE is a first year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) from Caringbah NSW. Julie is studying by distance education, and has achieved 3 HD and 1 DI.
• Belinda DWYER from Wyoming NSW has achieved 2 HD and 2 DI during the 2005 Academic year. Belinda is enrolled in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) by distance education.
• Cassandra ELLIOTT from Wagga is a first year full time student in the Bachelor of Business (Business Management). Cassandra has achieved 7 DI in her first year of study and received a Dean's List award for achieving 4 of these during her first session of enrolment.
• Le HAN from Wagga receives two Dean's List awards. The achievement of 3 HD and 1 DI in the first session of 2005, and a further 3 HD and 1 DI in the second session of 2005 displays an outstanding achievement. Le has been a student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) since the middle of 2004 and adds these awards to the one achieved in the first session of enrolment.
• Xu HE also from Wagga is a full time student in the final year of the Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Xu has achieved 3 DI and 1 HD in the second session of 2005 and received a Dean's List award for this achievement.
• Sharee McKENZIE from Barellan commenced the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) as a full time student in 2004. Since the start of 2005 Sharee has studied part time by distance education and is recognised for the achievement of 4 HD awarded during the 2005 academic year.
• Gary OLIVER isa student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Gary commenced his studies with CSU in 2004 and transferred to the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) in 2005. He received a Deans List Award for his achievement of 2 High Distinctions and 2 Distinctions in 2005.
• Ryan PITTMAN is a part time student from Glenwood NSW. Glen is enrolled in the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management) by distance education and has achieved 3 HD and 2 DI in 2005.
• Tui SILVESTER, a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student from Wagga is recognised for her achievement of 1 HD and 3 DI during 2005. Tui is now completing her studies by distance education after completing her first year as a full time student.
• Kellie SMITH is a first year distance education student from Gorokan in NSW. Kellie has achieved 1 HD and 3 DI during 2005 towards the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management).
• Laura TABER is recognised for her achievement of 2 HD and 2 DI during 2005 whilst enrolled as a distance education student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting).
• Kit TAN from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has recently graduated with Distinction from the Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Kit received the Dean's List award for achievements in the Spring Session of 2005 where 4 DI were achieved.
• Craig TOOBY from Bathurst is in his final year of the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management). Craig has achieved 3 HD and 1 DI in the Autumn Session of 2005 and received the Dean's List award for those achievements.
• Jill VOSS is also in her final year of study. Jill is completing the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and received a Dean's List award for achievement of 2 HD and 2 DI in the Autumn Session of 2005.

Prizes for continuing students are sponsored by:

• Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI)
• The Association of Taxation and Management Accountants (ATMA)
• LexisNexis
• CPA Australia
• Australian Credit Union Archives
• National Tertiary Education Union, and
• McGraw Hill Australia

A total of 14 individual prizes have been awarded to students completing their studies through the Wagga Wagga campus. Prize winners for the 2005 Academic Year received their certificates at the combined ceremony on 27 April 2006, or if a graduating student, at the recent graduation ceremony. Prize winners are:

• Belinda ADAMS received the CPA Australia award for best 2nd year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Luke BANNERMAN and Coleen KUHN were jointly awarded the LexisNexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW110 Business Law
• Francis CAMILLERI received the CPA Australia award for best 1st year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Amy COLLINGRIDGE was awarded the McGraw Hill International Business award for the highest achiever in MGT340 International Business Management
• Zoe DORRELL received the CPA Australia award for best 3rd year student in the Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and also was awarded the ATMA prize for achievement of the best result by a graduating accounting student in LAW301 Taxation Law (Principles)
• Brian ENGLISH was awarded the Australian Credit Union Archives prize for the most outstanding record for graduating students in the MBA
• Simone FLETCHER received the AHRI prize for the most outstanding graduating student in the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)
• Le HAN was awarded the LexisNexis prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW220 Business Organisations Law and was also awarded the ATMA prize for the best combined results by a continuing Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student in ACC210 Management Accounting 1 and ACC310 Management Accounting 2
• Helen OBERG received the AHRI prize for the most outstanding graduating student in the Master of Human Resource Management
• Jill VOSS was awarded the LexisNexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in LAW301 Taxation Law (Principles) and was also awarded the CSU NTEU prize for achievement of the highest result in this subject

30 April 2006

The School of Business on Charles Sturt University Thurgoona Campus has awarded dozens of students prizes and Dean's List awards for excellence in academic performance. In a ceremony held on the 27th of April, the following students were commended for their efforts.

Presentation of Award Recipients

Association of Taxation and Management Accountants Prizes
Presented by Ms Dianne McGrath

• Best combined results in Management Accounting 1 & 2
  Mr Benjamin O'Connell
• Best results in Taxation Law (Principles)
  Ms Naomi Jones

Certified Practising Accountants of Australia Prizes
Presented by Ms Dianne McGrath

• Best First Year Student – Ms Jet Kenter
• Best Second Year Student – Ms Pauline Rodda

Financial Accounting Prize
Presented by Ms Dianne McGrath

• Ms Natasha Bartel

Worsley Partners Year 2 Best Regional Accounting Student
Presented by Mr Ross Griffith, Worsley Partners

• Ms Pauline Rodda

Lexis Nexis Prizes
Presented by Dr Bill Robbins

• Best result in Business Law – Ms Jet Kenter
• Best result in Business Organisations Law – Ms Pauline Rodda
• Best result in Taxation Law (Principles) - Ms Naomi Jones

School of Business Prize in Asia Pacific Business
Presented by Mr Ian Coghlan

• Ms Jessica Laura Long

School of Business Prize in International Business Management
Presented by Mr Ian Coghlan

• Mr Thomas Hepe

Australian Industry Group Prize for Industrial Relations
Presented by Mr Gerry Pels, Australian Industry Group

• Mr Gary Villiers

Dean's List Awards

Presentation Of Dean's List Recipients To Professor John Hicks, Dean, Faculty of Business
Ms Sue Petzke, Undergraduate Courses Manager, School of Business

The Dean's List Awards acknowledge the superior academic scholarship displayed by students who have achieved a grade of Distinction or High Distinction in all subjects taken in a single session if enrolled as a full-time student or two consecutive sessions if enrolled as a part-time student.

Recipients 2006

• Ms Kirsty Allars, Bachelor of Business (International Business Management)
• Mr Mitchell Brouwer, Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
• Mr Ben Butchart, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ms Claire Collier, Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
• Ms Correne Commins, Bachelor of Business (Tourism Management)
• Ms Juliet Connell, Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
• Ms Suzanne Dagseven, Bachelor of Business (International Business Management)
• Mr Michael Darmody, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Mr Michael Daws, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ms Kate Dawson, Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
• Ms Elizabeth Dunlop,Bachelor of Business (International Business Management)
• Mr Brenton Dunne, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ms Emma Gormly, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ms Jet Kenter, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ms Jessie Loughran, Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
• Ms Carolyn MacCabe, Bachelor of Business (Tourism Management)
• Ms Skye Packer, Bachelor of Business (International Business Management)
• Mr Ashley Redman, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Ms Donna Soroka, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Mr Brice Steele, Bachelor of Business (International Business Management)
• Ms Leah Stevenson, Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
• Mr Daniel Ulzhoefer, Bachelor of Business (International Business Management)

30 April 2006

The Professional Development Unit, Charles Sturt University in conjunction with acclaimed author Stephen Pirie will present an advanced one–day course on the nature, value and use of intuition in business, Wednesday May 31, 2006.

Overview:

Surveys of thousands of successful business owners, managers and entrepreneurs have revealed that intuition (gut feeling) or “just knowing” is pivotal to long–term business success.

But what is intuition?

Intuition is defined to be the ability to “understand or know something immediately without needing to think about it, learn it or discover it by using reason.” But how can we “just know” without needing to learn the facts? How can we, for example, ignore research, analysis and the latest market trends and yet still jump ahead of the game? How can we ‘just know’ to avoid disasters, accidents or bad investments?

Recent extraordinary advances in a relatively new science – quantum physics – has shown that intuition or the ability to “immediately know” has a robust scientific basis: it's called “non locality.” It's a “direct connectedness” that is now regarded as the “most profound discovery of science.”

These instant connections, now well confirmed both experimentally and theoretically, “are present not only in rare and exotic circumstances, but underlie all the events of everyday life.”

In other words, your intuition is your means of tapping non local connectivity that deeply and instantly connects you with other people and the world around you: ‘non locality’ is what enables you to “just know.”

A one day course for business leaders, managers and entrepreneurs is being held at Charles Sturt University to explain and workshop your intuition (gut feeling). The many profound implications and applications to business and personal life will be covered. Throughout the day questions will be invited and dialogue facilitated.

24 Apr 2006

It is a week of celebration this week at Charles Sturt University's (CSU) Albury–Wodonga Campus with a number of events highlighting the achievements of CSU students. The academic excellence of current allied health, business, environmental science and information technology students will be rewarded during prize giving ceremonies to be held around Albury this Thursday 27 and Friday 28 April.

Some of the University's top students will also be recognised at the CSU Foundation Scholarships evening where they will receive scholarships worth $2 000 to $6 000 from international and local businesses and organisations on this Thursday evening 27 April. Celebrations in the town will culminate on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 April at three formal graduation ceremonies for over 500 graduates to be held at the Albury Convention and Performing Arts Centre in central Albury.

Media Officer: Wes Ward
Telephone: 02 6051 9906

1 April 2006

CSU offers students an opportunity to study overseas and gain credits towards their degree. Full time students living in Australia can study at selected universities all over the world for one or two semesters without paying extra tuition fees.

We will pay you to study! Eligible students can apply for travel grants of $1500.00 to $5000.00

The international experience will:

• Expand your experiences and horizons
• Provide you with insights into another culture and society which you can't get from just travelling
• Provide you with an education setting that can facilitate the development of relevant career skills
• Enhance your employment opportunities when you graduate
• Contribute to your personal maturity, independence, self-knowledge and confidence

Now is the time to explore a new world and a new way of learning!

For more information visit CSU Exchange.
The next round of closing dates are 1 August 2006 and 1 March 2007.

28 March 2006

The Faculty of Business has released the first batch of the 2006 working paper series. The two papers released today discuss psychological contracts and depreciation. The first paper written by Branka Krivokapic-Skoko, Jodie Ivers & Grant O'Neill, (Working Paper 01/06) discusses how psychological contracts play an increasingly important role in contemporary employment relationships.

The second paper to be released from School of Accounting lecturer Robyn Pilcher is entitled "Depreciation as a 'smoothing' device - an appropriate objective for local authority reporting?" (Working Paper 02/06) and seeks to answer the question of whether local government councils in New South Wales deliberately manipulate depreciation allocation as a means of smoothing, maximising or minimising the reported operating result?

To read about these papers further go to: 2006 Seminar Series

10 March 2006

All scholarships and prizes from the CSU Foundation office have now closed for 2006. We wish all applicants who entered in the 2006 rounds the best of luck with their application. Applicants should know the outcome of their application via a my.csu Ebox notification later this month.

Applications for the 2007 round of scholarships will open in late 2006.

For further information go to: Scholarships web site

Engagement and Change: Managing in a Free Trade Environment

4 March 2006

The third International Conference on Contemporary Business (ICCB) is being hosted by Charles Sturt University at the Pepper's Fairmont Resort in Leura, NSW. The major theme of the conference is “Engagement and Change: Managing in a Free Trade Environment.” The conference will cover a variety of discipline areas including management, economics, marketing, finance and accounting.

A special focus will also be on the Australia-China relationship.

The conference will be held on the 21st & 22nd of September 2006 with registrations required by the 31st of August. Parties interested in submitting material need to do so by the 31st of May.

31 January 2006

A new subject entitled "Action Research Report" has been approved by the Faculty of Business Faculty Board. The subject will allow students to carry out a supervised action research project in their workplace. The selection of the project will be jointly carried out by the academic supervisor, the student and the employer.

The subject which runs over two sessions and can be studied independently or as part of a Masters program. Upon completion of the subject, students will have the skills and techniques necessary to perform a substantial action research activity that is of value to their employer.

Anyone interested in studying the Action Research Report subject (code MGT566) should contact info.csu on 1800 334 733.

10 January 2006

Charles Sturt University has approved the use of text and the CPA Australia logo on testamurs for graduates of the Master of Business Administration (Public Sector Management). It was agreed between Charles Sturt University's Academic Senate, Standing Committee and the Faculty of Business Faculty Board that the change to the testamurs is now permissable under the “Category B(d): CSU Courses Offered in Collaboration with Another Body: Acknowledgement in Text and with Logo” of the policy entitled Content and Design of Testamurs for CSU Awards in which CSU has an interest.

The addition of the CPA logo on the testamur is available to Master of Business Administration students who are enrolled in the CPA MBA (Public Sector Management) on the agreement that they meet the requirements of the course. Eligibility is based upon completion of the CPA program and have met the minimum required professional and relevant work experience.

More details on the MBA: MBA web site

Ref: FBC – 05/158

13 December 2005

In conjunction with the University of Applied Sciences Berne (Switzerland), the Faculty of Business will be offering a one week intensive module "Doing Business in China", in Shanghai in April 2006. The module will be delivered by staff of the Shanghai Antai School of Management, Jiao Tong University, one of the premiere universities in China.

Completion of the module will be granted the equivalent of credit for one elective subject in the CSU MBA. Places are strictly limited to a maximum of 15 CSU MBA students. Places will be allocated on a 'first come' basis. The total cost of the module is AU$2,500 including seven nights accommodation, course fees, local travel in China, breakfasts and lunches.

As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, China is one of the most exciting places to do buiness. Shanghai is a dynamic, vibrant city. This is a terrific opportunity to experience the Chinese culture, learn from first class Professors, and also earn credit in the CSU MBA.

Queries regarding this module should be directed to:

Judy Wong
Coordinator, Postgraduate Programs
Phone: (02) 6933 2535
Fax: (02) 6933 4306
Email: Judy Wong

14 September 2005

In a move to develop the standing of the Human Resource Management profession in the business community the Australian Human Resources Institute has recently undertaken the accreditation of both undergraduate and postgraduate human resource management courses offered by Australian university and TAFE programs. This move is designed to encourage consistency of outcomes achieved through qualifications and build confidence in the Australian HR profession.

During August 2005 the National Accreditation Committee (NAC) of the Australian Human Resources Institute granted Charles Sturt University Faculty of Business accreditation for the Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM). Within the newly structured MHRM student are able to gain a general master in human resource management or specialise in one of the following areas:

• Human Resource Development
• Management of Organisational Change
• Employment Relations
• International Human Resource Management
• Conflict and Dispute Resolution
• Evaluating the Human Resource Function
• Business Partnership

For further information on the MHRM please see the MHRM web site.

by Professor Mark Farrell

5 September 2005

Background

The module “Doing Business in Europe” is a program of the University of Applied Sciences, (UASB) Berne, Switzerland. CSU has an arrangement with UASB whereby CSU MBA students can undertake this module and receive credit for one subject in the CSU MBA.

Sunday 7/8/05

Day of Arrival – 21 MBA students descended on Zurich Airport, arriving from Australia and the Netherlands. A small number took the opportunity to do some sightseeing / shopping in London and Paris before their arrival. One of the students traveled from Holland to Berne by train, booking the tickets on the Internet. Unfortunately there is also a Berne in Germany, and yes, you guessed it! Some 800klms later, at the Berne in Switzerland, one tired student was relieved to finally arrive at the Hotel, with a story to tell.

Monday, 8/8/05

The first day began with Jacqueline Ducret, Assistant for MBA/DBA Programmes at UASB, meeting us at the Hotel and joining us for a short walk to the classroom. The Hotel was in a perfect location; five minutes walk to the classroom and 10 minutes walk from the University of Applied Sciences, Berne.

Professor Alexander Jungmeister gave a warm welcoming speech to the students, and provided an overview of the course. Professor Mark Farrell thanked Alexander and Jackie for organising the program. Then followed a lecture on "Cultural diversity and Business in Europe" by Dr Beda Bischof, Head of Intellectual Property Search, Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property. This was a great introduction to the course, and provided a real insight into the issues concerning different business cultures.

Following lunch. Dr Daniel Wüger, Senior Research Fellow of the World Trade Institute gave an overview of EU institutions and the Switzerland legal system. Dr Wüger's expertise, combined with his ability to explain complex issues, made a difficult subject enjoyable, and helped keep awake those students suffering from jet lag.

Tuesday, 9/8/05

Dr Mathias Völker presented a highly interactive session on setting up a company and business interest in Europe. This session required students to work in teams, analyse a scenario and present a solution(s). Many students commented on the valuable insight learned and greatly appreciated the knowledge and experience of Dr Völker.

Wednesday, 10/8/05

In the morning, Dr Markus Käeser provided an excellent lecture on Macroeconomics in Europe and Competitiveness. Following lunch, Professor Jungmeister took us to the nearby Paul Klee Museum.

Paul Klee is a famous German artist living in Switzerland with deep impact on Europe's culture, whose works are replete with allusions to dreams, music, and poetry. Klee was a banned artist through the Hitler regime in Germany and had to flee the country, illustrating so an important period of history for Europe, and still shaping the environment of today. The museum is a brand new building, opened in June 2005, and designed by the world famous architect Renzo Piano. Following a very interesting guided tour of a selection of the works of Paul Klee, we then spent two hours where we had the opportunity to meet leading Swiss business people who are graduates of the Executive MBA at UASB. A two hour forum provided an excellent opportunity for an exchange of ideas and insight into the respective business cultures and the challenges/opportunities of conducting business in Europe and Australia.

Following this session, Alexander entertained the group with a formal dinner in what is probably the leading restaurant in Berne, if not Switzerland. This provided further opportunities for all parties to network and develop potential business relationships. Some of the CSU DBA students who are studying the CSU DBA in conjunction with UASB were able to join us, including Marc Peter, Head of Marketing for Ebay, Austria and Switzerland, (Ebay Austria / Ebay Switzerland).

Marc gets a special mention because he has actually been to the Bathurst campus to study part of his DBA and he also helped to organize the PostFinance visit. This was truly a memorable evening and was greatly appreciated by the CSU group.

Thursday, 11/8/05

We departed the hotel around 8.30 am and headed to Zurich by coach. Around 90 minutes later we were entering the International Headquarters of Credit Suisse.

We were fortunate to be seated in the boardroom of one of the worlds leading financial institutions. The accompanying photograph shows the wonderful style and grandeur of this institution. There then followed two fascinating presentations by Directors Toni Scheiwiller and Hans Leupbach. The presentations offered a unique insight into the operations of a major financial institution. All of the group were most grateful for the excellent hospitality shown by Credit Suisse, and were most appreciative of the senior members sharing their day with us.

The remainder of the day enabled us to see some of the sights of Zurich, rated as one of the world's most livable cities. One of the students (who will remain nameless) bought a pair of shoes reduced from 450 Swiss francs to 99 – who says the Aussies can't spot a bargain!). Two other students took the opportunity to open a Swiss Bank Account with Credit Suisse, while one other went missing, and ended up catching the train back to Berne.

Friday, 12/8/05

A short drive into the city centre of Berne and we were at the Headquarters of PostFinance in the banking section of Swiss Post which has over 2 million customers, including over 300,000 companies relying of their financial services. Senior members of Post Finance gave presentations on the corporate strategy of PostFinance, marketing strategy, the marketing strategy towards the youth market and an overview of the financial payment system. This included a brief tour of the area which processes up to 40,000 payment slips per hour. The presentations were delivered by Martin Hügli, Head of Market Management, Markus Schawalder – Strategy Leader and Urs Krecht.

The remainder of the afternoon was free time with many of the students heading into the shops to stimulate the local economy.

Saturday, 13/8/05

This was a ‘free’ day allowing students the opportunity to undertake their own sightseeing. Students went to a number of places, including Germany. A number of intrepid explorers managed to visit Gruyere, famous for it's cream making (important to see for some students from the Dairy industries), and by all accounts, had a fantastic day. The Sub Dean MBA, met the Dean of the Faculty and his wife, and went on a short bicycle ride, which went longer than expected. Unlike Lance Armstrong, we thought it only wise to stop for some liquid refreshments after a couple of kilometres. Also unlike Lance, we realised only too late, the need for sturdy shorts when on a razor like saddle.

Sunday, 14/8/05

Sightseeing visit to Schilthorn and boat trip to Thun.

Alexander and Jackie met us at the Hotel around 8.30am and we departed by coach on a sightseeing tour. First stop was a trip up a mountain. Schilthorn is 2970 metres high. To get to the peak takes 32 minutes, via three separate cable car rides. From the top the views are simply stunning and can be seen from the accompanying photographs. Schilthorn is also famous for being part of the James Bond movie, 'On Her majesty's Secret Service', starring George Lazenby, the only Australian to play James Bond.

After the trip to the mountain, we went on a coach to the lake where we had a boat ride to Thun, a charming old town with many cafes, bars, and shops. Students also rode a ten–seater bike to demonstrate the art of leadership, teamwork, and free–loading, all at the same time!

Monday, 15/8/05

Monday morning commenced with a lecture on issues in Global Marketing and Marketing of High Technology products by Dr Pavel Kraus. Dr Kraus has over twenty years of experience working for Roche Pharmaceuticals in a number of roles, including marketing research and corporate communications.

After lunch we boarded a bus and drove to Basel for a site visit to the headquarters of Roche Pharmaceuticals.

During the visit, we went on a guided tour of the manufacturing plant, seeing how the many different pharmaceuticals are made and packaged. We also had the opportunity to see mobile robots in a fully automated factory, traversing the factory floor delivering packages. One of the robots appeared to be take quite a fancy to one of the female students, who screamed and jumped out of the way as it came in her general direction.

Senior managers of Roche delivered a fascinating presentation on the history of Roche and the overall corporate strategy. This was followed by a unique insight into the marketing of Roche products and services by Nick Smith, New Business Development Manager. The visit was enjoyed by everyone and afforded us a glimpse into the marketing of high tech products and services from the experts in the pharmaceutical industry. The whole afternoon was superb and Roche were kind enough to give each student a stylish credit card version of the Swiss army penknife, to commemorate the occasion.

Tuesday, 16/8/05

Much to my surprise all of the students managed to get up early in time for the 5.30 am bus departure. (My surprise is due to the manner in which our students contributed to the local Berne economy during the evening!)

The three and a half hour journey to the headquarters of Daimler Chrysler.

in Stuttgart, Germany, gave everyone the opportunity to catch up on some sleep.

Our first visit was to the factory that manufactures the A Class Mercedes. We were warmly greeted by the staff, and taken into the Consumer reception area. This was a very large showroom displaying several models, and other related Mercedes merchandise. Following a video presentation we then drove to the factory. We were guided along an overhead walkway and taken through the manufacturing process in building the A–Class. What become very obvious was the incredible attention to detail, the obsessive focus on quality, and the importance of occupational health and safety in an environment which includes large, powerful robots. The time to build each A–Class is 18 hours from start to finish. Each car is individually customised on the production line with only two cars out of 100,000 being made identical.

We then drove to the Daimler Chrysler Headquarters where Dr Maria Friae gave a presentation on the marketing strategy on the new B–Class (not yet available in Australia) and Mr Frank Zimmerman gave a presentation on the marketing strategy for the R–Class, which is a new compact Sports Tourer. The presentation included an opportunity to sit in and experience the cars. Needless to say, everyone was very impressed with most students now placing Mercedes firmly in their choice set. The entire visit was superbly hosted by Mr Ambrose Kluyskens, Foreign Liaison Officer, Sales and Customer Events. Following some refreshments we headed to the Daimler Chrysler Museum where we saw the first ever motor car and a wide variety of Mercedes Benz vehicles from the early 1900's to today's models. Everyone agreed that the entire day was a fantastic learning experience and, indeed, a privilege to hear from the experts in automobile engineering.

Wednesday, 17/8/05

Back in the classroom Dr Nicholas Koechlin delivered a fascinating lecture on Taxation issues in Switzerland and the EU, which gave students an insight into how to set up tax efficient business structures.

Night time was spent with students in study groups preparing for the exam which was to be held the next day.

Thursday, 18/8/05

Dr Mathias Völker delivered classes on the challenge of EU expansion in Eastern Europe and Dr Völker encouraged students to actively participate in class, requiring presentations, etc, leaving no room for any passengers! Fortunately, all of the students enjoyed his style and certainly appreciated his teaching methodology.

Later, students sate the final exam for the subject.

Later on in the afternoon, Alexander and I sat down to mark the exam papers. This was the last evening of the course, so Alexander had organised a farewell dinner at Bechburg Castle.

On the drive over to the castle, we informed the students that the exams had been marked, and that everyone has passed. There then erupted an almighty roar, which told us that there was trouble ahead if the Castle had run out of beer! Fortunately, preparations for the evening were already underway. Katharina Jungmeister and Eva Kraus, had decorated the entire dining room, and entry to the Castle. Candles were placed on each step of a winding staircase taking us into the magnificent dining room. The dining tables were festooned with decorations, creating a marvelous atmosphere.

This evening was heavy with rain as a large thunderstorm made its way across the surrounding landscape. Professor Cuno Wüthrich, Head Postgraduate Education at UASB gave a warm welcoming speech. Professor Christoph Gloor, Head of the Management Centre at UASB was also in attendance to welcome the students.

The meal was a European style barbeque, with all cooking done by a Swiss Chef. To show their appreciation of the programme, the students presented Jacqueline Ducret with a signed and framed photograph of the entire group, taken outside Daimler Chrysler HQ. Alexander was presented with an authentic didgeridoo. Unfortunately, he was unable to play it, so we look forward to hearing him next year. I was presented with a Paul Klee print and a book celebrating the works of Paul Klee. One of the MBA students, Reece Kershaw, was particularly envious, as he showed a real enthusiasm for modern art, in particular, the works of Paul Klee.

On the return journey to the Hotel, there was plenty of singing from the back seats of the bus. The older members of the group retired around midnight, with the remainder continuing the celebrations, and returning around 5 a.m.

Friday, 19/8/05

Alexander provided a 'wrap up' session of the program. All students were presented with a Certificate of completion of the module. Everyone shook hands, bade their farewells, and promised to keep in touch. Great friendships were established, and the feedback was positive.

Overall Summary

The entire course was a fantastic opportunity for Australian students to learn first hand, through classes and site visits, and meetings with Swiss business people. All of the lecturers put in a good deal of effort to ensure their material was relevant. Thanks are also due to Judy Wong who coordinated the administration in Australia, and Jacqueline Ducret, who did a splendid job in Switzerland. Special thanks to all of the companies and their staff who were most generous in sharing their time with us, and for providing such wonderful hospitality. Thanks also to Eva Kraus and Katharina Jungmeister for their superb efforts in decorating the Dining room in the Castle for the farewell dinner. Thanks to Professor Cuno Wüthrich, and Professor Christoph Gloor, for their support for the program, and generous hospitality. Finally, on behalf of all of the students, a special mention and thanks to Alexander Jungmeister. Alexander went to great lengths to ensure that everything went smoothly, which meant long days and not much rest for him.

Based on the success of the program, we plan to offer a similar program in Berne next year. We are also exploring options to offer a module on ‘Doing Business in China’ next year, in conjunction with the University of Applied Sciences Berne, and a leading Chinese University.

Feedback from CSU MBA students:

“It was a truly memorable experience…exceeded our expectations…these site visits and contacts we made are unforgettable. The interaction with others in Switzerland and other students – fabulous. The outings were exceptional.The quality of the CSU MBA program is remarkable and with courses being offered such as this, the quality and reputation is enhanced.”
Keri Murray, HR Manager – Training & development, Fluor Daniel B.V. (Engineering and construction) The Netherlands.

“A program that encompassed academic and "hands on" learning with the opportunity to meet European business people and to visit numerous world renowned businesses…the program overall exceeded my high expectations. Don't let the opportunity pass you bye. An outstanding exposure to European business and culture and access to outstanding Swiss business leaders. Thank you.”
Wes Maxwell, Manager, Port Phillip City Council – Melbourne Australia Building Surveying

"Grab it with both hands”
Mark Marshall, Process Improvement Officer , Queensland State Development.

“A great life experience that provides you with opportunities that you wouldn't normally have access to in Europe if you were to undertake independently.”
Greg Caust, Executive Manager, Commonwealth Bank – Finance.

“The entire program had an excellent mix of theory and real–life business experiences; Sign up – Sign up!”
Reece Kershaw, Senior Liaison Officer / Federal Agent, Australian Federal Police – Law enforcement; The Netherlands.

“Don't hesitate – too good an opportunity to pass up.”
Jodie Morgan, Finance Manager, Rich River Gold Club Ltd – NSW Club Industry.

“Just Do It! Nothing more to say”
Bruce Saunders, Project Manager, KAZ Group (IT Industry)

“Must do course! It was excellent. Experience of a lifetime.”
Sanjeshni Singh, Senior Account Executive, St George Bank Limited, (Banking and Finance).

“Very practical, organised, well structured and comprehensive. Combines theory practice as well as true exposure to the subject. Highly recommended.”
Dr Edward Mishricky, Medical Practitioner, Morgan Street Healthcare Clinic. Managing Director – Orthotrend.

“I believe the module is a great mix of theory and site visits all whilst taking in the culture of another country. I particularly enjoyed the visit to PostFinance from a purely "marketing" and job related perspective however can't go past the Credit Suisse boardroom and Mercedes plant tour as absolute highlights. Do it no questions – an experience to be remembered with many many applications for the work environment.”
Lee Brown, Marketing and Service Operations Manager, British Telecom.

“The networking and exposure to European business and business people is second to none. I have found this course extremely comprehensive and it has cemented my learnings from many other subjects into a European experience.”
Susan (Sue) McGinn OAM, Self employed dairy farmer, Company Director for Dairy Farmers Co–op and Holiday Coast Credit Union

“They should definitely take up the opportunity. You will learn far more by being in Europe than you ever could by reading about it.”
Zoe Piper, Analyst, Wilshire – Private markets Group (Private Equity).

“I deal with the national and international compliances, which involves negotiating with different cultures and understanding how they do business. This program appeared to provide an opportunity to gain greater knowledge in this area. Apart from the field trips. The program offered a good level of academic learning and flexibility. The excellent mix of classroom and field trips was a good way to not only provide network opportunities, but to experience things first hand.”
William Leslie, Process Development & Quality Manager, Virgin Blue Airlines.

“The diverse range of speakers and topics was stimulating, informative and well put together. Meeting and working with other MBA students and discussing the issues we were presented with enabled deeper understanding of the practical application. Group work was fantastic. Amazing value for money. The program has surpassed all my expectations! Fantastic!”
Jennifer Miller, Director – Global Mobility Services, PricewaterhouseCoopers Expatriate Human Resource Management.

“Be prepared for a lot of hard work and long days. But also be prepared for a very enriching cultural and learning experience. It is a wonderful opportunity to gain an insight into European Business.”
Roseanne Moss, Co–Director, Exact Recruitment Services Pty Ltd, Sydney.