Mr Stephen Parsons

As Deputy Director: Student Learning Services in the Learning and Teaching Unit (LTU) I have oversight of a range of professional teams providing services for UniSA students across all campuses. The teams include Career Services, Counselling Services, and Disability Services, as well as the Campus Support Services teams on each metropolitan campus (comprised of Campus Support Officers, International Student Officers and Administrative Officers).

These teams provide a range of one-to-one consultations and workshops for students, as well as working closely with staff across the University to provide an environment which supports student success. LTU staff have a particular interest in the orientation and transition of students to university, and we place an emphasis on working with students to develop independent learning skills.

I have been in the role of Deputy Director: Student Learning Services since October 2008. Previous to this I spent 3 years as Manager: International Relations & Market Development in UniSA International, where I worked with staff from across the University to establish and maintain relationships with key institutions and government bodies in countries where UniSA was seeking to expand its linkages.

My background is in international education and international development. From 2003 to early 2005 I worked on a United Nations Governance and Public Administration Reform project in Lao PDR, supporting Lao Government officials in human resource management/development improvements.

From mid-1997 to 2002 I worked for Australian Volunteers International in the Sydney and Melbourne offices, the last 3 years as Senior Manager of Australian Operations.

I was with the Centre for Applied Linguistics in the University of South Australia from 1990 to mid-1997, with management responsibilities in the area of international relations.

I also spent time as an English language teacher trainer in Vietnam, and 2 years as an English teacher in Botswana through Australian Volunteers International.

I have a Bachelor degree in Education, and a Master of Arts with a specialisation in International Development.