The great SIS debacle

The premature and unduly hasty introduction of the new Student Information System (SIS) in TAFE has led to massive disruption to student enrolments, attendance recording, assessment and reporting of results.

We are certain that all of you have your stories to tell, as did TAFE Divisional Council Delegates last Friday evening. Aside from the fact that lecturers are teaching classes for which students have not been able to enrol or pay, there are the totally unacceptable incidents of TAFE and PS Act staff being abused by frustrated students because the system simply isn't working.

A communication to TAFE staff who are involved in consultation on Information Services sums it all up: "It was felt that the current environment is not conducive to beginning the consultation process – SIS issues have created a very challenging environment "

Of immediate concern to the union is the stress that this situation is creating for union members. Under no circumstances should staff have to tolerate abuse and any incidents should be reported to TAFE management immediately and if not handled appropriately, should be reported to the AEU.