Learning & Working Environment

The Department of Music is committed to ensuring all students, faculty and staff are able to study and work in an environment safe and free of discrimination and harassment.

The Department urges anyone who feels this policy has been or is being violated to:

• Discuss the matter with the person whose behaviour is causing concern; or
• If that discussion is unsatisfactory, or there is concern that direct discussion is inappropriate or threatening, discuss it with the Chair of the Department.

For additional advice or assistance regarding this policy you may contact the Student Ombudservice.

Definitions, as taken from the University's GFC Policy Manual, Section 44.5

Discrimination is any act or omission based on race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, age, ancestry, place of origin, family status, source of income, sexual orientation or political belief when that act or omission results in loss of or limit on opportunities to work or to fully participate in campus life or which offends the dignity of the person.

Harassment is conduct or comments which are intimidating, threatening, demeaning or abusive and may be accompanied by direct or implied threats to grades, status or job. Harassment can occur between people of differing authority or between people of similar authority. Harassment may be directed at an individual or at a group. Harassment has the impact of creating a work or study environment that is hostile and limits individuals in their pursuit of education, research or work goals.

Physical Contact Policy

The nature of teaching in the Department of Music may require the instructor to touch students in order to effectively convey aspects of instrumental, vocal or conducting technique. This physical contact is to be done in a manner that is understood to be appropriate by both the faculty member and the student. In order to ensure that this requirement is understood by everyone involved, instructors will inform students about the extent and nature of physical contact that may be required in a performance instruction course commencing on the first teaching session and ask students if they have any concerns about the types of physical contact that may be required.

Students should advise the teacher of any concerns they may have, either when they are first explained or at any time during the course. Students have the option of having another person of their choice present during teaching.

It is the responsibility of the instructor to ensure that as far as is practical, students' concerns are considered and that action is taken to eliminate those concerns during teaching.