Conference brings valuable experience for AusAID students

For USQ AusAID students Paz Rosali and Abigail Fernando, the 3rd International Conference on Pedagogies and Learning is more than just an opportunity to get ahead in their studies.

Both Paz and ‘Abi' have volunteered as members of the executive committee for the Conference, which they hope will give them valuable experience and also help both students find future employment in their native Philippines.

Held from 27-29 September 2007 at USQ's Springfield campus, the Conference will explore the dynamics and dilemmas of pedagogy in practice.

'Having been part of this committee, we will get professional credits for our ranking/promotion portfolio back in our respective universities in the Philippines,' Paz said.

'Assisting in this conference gives us professional credentials and we both feel that this will be a significant experience for us.'

Both students are completing a Master in Education, majoring in Curriculum and Pedagogy and will also presenting a paper at the Conference.

'During the Conference we have been asked to do a lot of administration stuff, but most importantly we will be presenting a paper as well,' Paz said.

'We are excited about doing our tasks as committee members and more to that is being anxious for our presentation.'

Paz added that opportunities like this would not have been possible without AusAID and that their experience in Australia would assist them when they returned to their home country.

'As AusAID scholars we find studying at USQ an experience of a lifetime. The academic style is different from the Philippines, thus, we found it challenging but greatly enriching.'

'The use of technology also poses another learning challenge to us, but we have now adjusted to it, consequently giving us the confidence to use it when we go back teaching.'

A number of keynote speakers will lead discussion at the Conference hosted by USQ, including Youth Off the Streets founder Father Chris Reilly.

For more information on conference registration or submission deadlines, visit http://www.usq.edu.au/education/research/conf/pedagogies2007/default.htm or contact Michele McGill on telephone +61 7 4631 2351 or mcgill@usq.edu.au

Media Contact: Josh Ada, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 1628