Updated Code of Conduct

Latest update as of 18/04/2024

code-of-conduct.html

@@ -62,10 +62,12 @@ <h1 class="glitch-header" data-value="Code of Conduct_">Code of Conduct_</h1>
 
         <div class="content">
             <p>
-                This code of conduct was developed on April 15, 2024. We recognise that these terms may require revision and further amendments, which may be applied at a later date.
+                We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which this institute and its programs are run, the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and the many other Aboriginal peoples throughout Australia. We respect all elders, both past, present and emerging, and pay respects to their connection to land, sea and sky. We aim to continue their tradition of looking up at the night sky with curiosity, and wonder about our place in the universe through astronomy and deeply respect any people of Indigenous descent who will be involved in the A.S.T.R.A.L. Institute.
             </p>
             <p>
-                The code of conduct is split into three sections, each covering specific principles of the A.S.T.R.A.L. Institute. <b>Vision</b> highlights the basic principles and ethos of ASTRAL, from which the other aspects of the code of conduct stem. <b>Work</b> outlines work-related practices that ASTRAL members strive to uphold and aspire to. It covers the expectations and responsibilities of students and mentors in work-related environments. <b>Relationships</b> describes the expected behaviour of ASTRAL members, and the relationships between mentors, students, and parents of students to ensure a safe and positive environment to the benefit of all. Any individual who breaches this code will be encouraged to revisit their behaviour, understand their motivations for engaging in it, and provided an opportunity to improve their behaviour to avoid removal from the program. Below, you can go to any section, or simply continue scrolling to view the full code of conduct.
+                This code of conduct was developed on April 18, 2024. We recognise that these terms may require revision and further amendments, which may be applied at a later date.            </p>
+            <p>
+                The code of conduct is split into three sections, each covering specific principles of the ASTRAL Institute. <b>Vision</b> highlights the basic principles and ethos of ASTRAL, from which the other aspects of the code of conduct stem. <b>Work</b> outlines work-related practices that ASTRAL members strive to uphold and aspire to. It covers the expectations and responsibilities of students and mentors in work-related environments. <b>Relationships</b> describes the expected behaviour of ASTRAL members, and the relationships between mentors, students, and parents of students to ensure a safe and positive environment to the benefit of all. Any individual who breaches this code will be encouraged to revisit their behaviour, understand their motivations for engaging in it, and provided an opportunity to improve their behaviour to avoid removal from the program. Below, you can go to any section, or simply continue scrolling to view the full code of conduct. Below, you can go to any section, or simply continue scrolling to view the full code of conduct.
             </p>
             <div class="links vision">
                 <a onclick="lenis.scrollTo('.vision')">Vision</a>
@@ -99,11 +101,11 @@ <h3>Effective Feedback Mechanisms</h3>
                 <p>At ASTRAL, constructive criticism is defined by a set of key principles by which feedback is shared between members. These key principles include presenting feedback -</p>
                 <ul>
                     <li>With a positive outlook to encourage fellow team members</li>
-                    <li>Without the use of ad hominem language with the aim to demotivate students</li>
+                    <li>Without the use of ad hominem language that demotivates students</li>
                     <li>In a manner that addresses ASTRAL members politely and with respect</li>
                     <li>In a format that aims to celebrate the effort of students while addressing shortcomings as well.</li>
                 </ul>
-                <p>These key principles can be imagined as extensions of existing aspects of the code of conduct, namely the open and welcoming environment ASTRAL strives for in all their programs. At A.S.T.R.A.L, the need to provide constructive criticism over criticism only is stressed to ensure that no student is alienated or feels uncomfortable.</p>
+                <p>These key principles can be imagined as extensions of existing aspects of the code of conduct, namely the open and welcoming environment ASTRAL strives for in all their programs. At ASTRAL, the need to provide constructive criticism over criticism only is stressed to ensure that no student is alienated or feels uncomfortable.</p>
                 <h3>Team Orientation</h3>
                 <p>We prioritise team results over ranking individual achievements. As a team, we set clear S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely) that are amenable to everyone's circumstances. Individuals work as a collective team to strive to meet these goals in accordance with the code of conduct.</p>
                 <p>This emphasis of team orientation is in accordance with the vision of ASTRAL, specifically Leadership. However, ASTRAL opposes specific situations where teams can lead to negative consequences and the development of environments within ASTRAL programs that do not align with values in the code of conduct.</p>
@@ -121,7 +123,7 @@ <h3>Commitment to Learning</h3>
             <div>
                 <h2>Relationships</h2>
                 <h3>Safety</h3>
-                <p>In fostering relationships within the ASTRAL community, ensuring the safety and well-being of students is paramount. Parents are provided with reassurance through rigorous protocols, including the requirement for mentors to undergo a Working With Children Check (WWCC). Moreover, to maintain a secure environment, mentoring primarily occurs within team settings rather than one-on-one interactions. Parents are kept informed of any off-campus social activities, promoting transparency and parental involvement in their child's experiences. Additionally, semi-annual catch-up sessions provide a platform for parents or guardians to express any concerns and stay updated on their child's progress.</p>
+                <p>In fostering relationships within the ASTRAL community, ensuring the safety and well-being of students is paramount. Parents are provided with reassurance through rigorous protocols, including the requirement for mentors to undergo a Working With Children Check (WWCC). Moreover, to maintain a secure environment, mentoring primarily occurs within team settings rather than one-on-one interactions. Parents are kept informed of any off-campus social activities, promoting transparency and parental involvement in their child's experiences. Additionally, semi-annual catch-up sessions between the mentors and parental guardians will provide a platform to express any concerns and for parents and guardians to stay updated on their child's progress.</p>
                 <p>ASTRAL further prioritises the establishment of a safe space where students feel comfortable sharing their concerns with mentors. This environment is characterised by respectful social distance between mentors and students, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect. Students are encouraged to address mentors using appropriate titles, such as “Dr. Flynn”, fostering a culture of professionalism and respect for authority. This emphasis on self-awareness ensures that all individuals within the ASTRAL community feel empowered to contribute meaningfully to discussions and projects.</p>
                 <h3>Teamwork</h3>
                 <p>In alignment with ASTRAL's ethos of inclusivity, contributions from all team members are valued and celebrated. Open communication channels encourage individuals to speak freely, knowing that their ideas and questions will be welcomed without fear of belittlement. Furthermore, a supportive environment is cultivated wherein individuals feel comfortable seeking help when needed, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual assistance.</p>