How To Be A Successful Student At London Metrophyan University

Transcription

1 City Campus Course Handbook Foundation Degree (FdA) Interior Design The Cass Faculty of Art, Architecture & Design For admission to Certificate Level in

2 Undergraduate Academic Year Activity Starts Ends Teaching weeks Induction Programme and enrolment 24 September September 2012 Teaching (Autumn Term) 1 October December 2012 Christmas vacation 24 December January 2013 Teaching (Spring term) 7 January March 2013 Examinations 21 January January 2013 Easter vacation 25 March April 2013 Teaching (Summer term) 8 April May Examinations 13 May May Resit examinations 18 July August 2013 Reassessment Coursework Deadline July 2013 Undergraduate Term Dates Term Dates Starts Ends Autumn 24 September December 2012 Spring 7 January March 2013 Summer 8 April June 2013 In addition to these fixed dates, please note the following events during the year: April/May Confirmation of modules to be taken in the next academic year. Publication of exam timetable the for May exam period. June/July Publication of module results. Publication of reassessment exam timetable. Continuing students may print off a record of their modules and results from Evision; official certified transcripts available on request from the Undergraduate Offices (fee payable). All students completing their award will be sent official transcripts August Instructions for re-enrolment sent to continuing students September Publication of results of July reassessments or late assessments Exact dates and deadlines available via

3 KEY CONTACTS Undergraduate Office: Central House, Room CE2-03; Faculty Administrative Office: Room CR2-07, 41 Commercial Road, London, E1 1LA. Tel: /1842 Course Leader: Suzanne Smeeth-Poaros Course Leader s Office: CR s.smeeth-poaros@londonmet.ac.uk Main Teaching location: City (Commercial Road) Commercial Road, London, E1 1LA. Personal Academic Tutor: John Keefe. j.keefe@londonmet.ac.uk London Metropolitan University Student Charter This year we are delighted to launch our Student Charter which sets out a number of reciprocal commitments to improve our learning environment and your experience as a student. From US, you can expect From YOU, we will expect you to... to be part of a real community of learning in London with diverse staff and students collaborating and working in partnership us to be welcoming, open and professional in all our dealings with you trained, creative and engaging teachers 1. engage with the London Met community of learning in a respectful, honest and constructive manner 2. a 30 week long teaching year and an average of 10 to 12 hours class contact time a week (as a full time undergraduate student) in the first 3 weeks of your module, clear explanations of what you have to do and how we will mark your coursework and exams constructive oral or written feedback on your coursework, normally within 15 working days 4. teaching in an interactive way and using contemporary technologies excellent learning resources and high quality facilities and services specialised support to seek placements, internships or voluntary activities clear and readily available complaints and disciplinary procedures advice and support on issues that are affecting you in your studies a safe environment in which energy and other resources are conserved your opinions, on any feedback we ask of you, to be taken seriously access to a wide range of societies, events and sports facilities support with careers advice and employment skills during your studies and beyond 7. be aware of and abide by the University s regulations and codes of conduct be prepared for classes, participate actively and respect the learning rights of other students attend all your classes and to spend 3 hours on studying and preparing for each hour you spend in class understand the objectives and purpose of your coursework and exams and plan your studies accordingly hand in your coursework on time, engage in feedback and incorporate it into your subsequent coursework and exams engage in out-of-class work using our online facilities use a variety of resources available to support your studies be proactive and take advantage of these career development opportunities solve problems informally and locally first before using the formal University procedures be proactive and reasonable in seeking out support when you are in need take responsibility for promoting a safe environment and the conservation of resources tell us how we are doing so we can improve our services for you take part in University life and network with peers 15. continue to engage with us after your studies through our alumni network

4 CONTENTS UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC YEAR KEY CONTACTS LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT CHARTER USING YOUR HANDBOOK SECTION 1 WELCOME TO YOUR COURSE AND FACULTY 1.1 Introduction to your Faculty 1.2 Introduction to your Course SECTION 2 UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE COURSES 2.1 Key features of Undergraduate Degree Courses 2.1 Credit for previous learning 2.2 Modules 2.3 Module registration, course planning and approval 2.4 Open Language Programme SECTION 3 BEING A STUDENT 3.1 Induction Programme Checklist 3.2 Your first Term 3.3 Attendance, academic engagement and employment 3.4 Your Timetable 3.5 Studying 3.6 Feedback on your assessments 3.7 Building Careers SECTION 4 COMMUNICATION, INFORMATION AND ADVICE 4.1 Your University IT Account 4.2 Communication 4.3 Your Contact Details 4.4 Evision 4.5 WebLearn Online module resources 4.6 Undergraduate Office 4.7 Academic Support and Personal Academic Tutors (PATs) 4.8 Learning Development support 4.9 Course Leader 4.10 Module Lecturers SECTION 5 YOUR VOICE COUNTS 5.1 StARS 5.2 Course Committees 5.3 Students views on modules and courses 5.4 Students Union SECTION 6 A-Z ESSENTIALS 6.1 Academic Liaison Librarians 6.2 Academic Misconduct 6.3 Academic Regulations 6.4 Assessment Board Appeals 6.5 Communication 6.6 Complaints 6.7 Course Transfers 6.8 Coursework extensions 6.9 Coursework submission 6.10 Criminal Convictions

5 Criteria for Awards Disabilities and Dyslexia Enrolment and Re-enrolment Examination Papers Examination Timetable Evision ICT Services Intermission of Studies Libraries and Special Collections Marking and grades Mitigating Circumstances Mode of Study Progression Publication of Results and Transcripts Reassessment Retaking a module Student Conduct Student and Staff Charters Student Services Terms and Conditions Volunteering WebLearn Online module resources Withdrawal from a module SECTION 7 THE KEY FEATURES OF YOUR COURSE 7.1 Course Specification 7.2 Additional Course Related Information INDEX OF KEY ONLINE INFORMATION

6 Using Your Handbook Your Course Handbook contains a wealth of information. Some of it will be of more relevance to you later in the course than at the start of your studies. It covers many of the questions you will have about your course and how to locate additional information or advice. For more detailed information you will sometimes need to consult other sources, including: University Student Handbook - for details of important University regulations and procedures. It also provides information on university life and the support services available. The University Student Handbook can be accessed at: Undergraduate Students webpage a comprehensive on-line resource for undergraduate students. Provides information about, course structures, modules and timetables. Please see: Module Catalogue provides comprehensive details of all modules in the University s undergraduate portfolio. Please see: The Course Specification (Section 7.1 of this handbook) defines the key features of your course, its aims, structure and learning outcomes, and identifies all the modules you must study for your award. All undergraduate courses are governed by the University s Academic Regulations It is your responsibility to be fully aware of the regulations, which govern your studies as an undergraduate student of the University. We provide guidance on most aspects of the Academic Regulations via our website, including our online Student Handbook; if you are unsure please contact your Undergraduate Office or ask your Personal Academic Tutor. Your course may have some additional course specific regulations or may be governed by a Professional Body. Where relevant, these are included in paragraph 30 of the Course Specification (Section 7.1) of this Handbook. When you join London Metropolitan University as a student, you and the University form a formal relationship and you become a member of our academic community. The terms and conditions given at: govern the relationship between you the University and it is your responsibility to read and understand this important information. If there are aspects of the terms and conditions you do not understand please contact the University Secretary s Office. Other important policies that may apply during your study at the University can be found at: You should also note that occasionally, the details in this Handbook, including the Course Specification, may subsequently be amended or revised, in order to improve the Course. We would encourage you to participate as a Student Representative for your year of the course (see Section 5.1). We welcome comments about the course or any suggestions for improvements. We wish you every success in your studies.

7 SECTION 1 WELCOME TO YOUR COURSE AND FACULTY 1.1 Introduction to your Faculty Welcome to The Cass. The FdA Furniture is part of the Sir John Cass Faculty of Art, Architecture and Design, a vibrant community committed to the highest quality of teaching and research in the service of clearly defined social, material and creative aims. The Faculty is at the forefront of contemporary developments in art, architecture and design education and practice and has established a high reputation for the quality of its courses that run from pre-degree level through to professional and postgraduate qualification and include a number of research-oriented Masters-level programmes and PhD by project. The Faculty has a powerful academic agenda offering flexibility and choice with a particular emphasis on the relevance of art and design within contemporary culture including valuable work in areas subject to social deprivation and political change. The teaching programmes we offer are innovative yet relevant to the needs of contemporary graduates. Our staff are drawn from some of London s best artists, designers and architecture practices. The Faculty was formed on 1st August 2012 through the merging of the Faculty of Architecture & Spatial Design and the Sir John Cass Faculty of Art, Media and Design. This is a very exciting moment. The prospect of coordination and collaboration with students from other disciplines and access to further extensive and specialist facilities and staff will be of great benefit. The arrival of the first phase of the Architecture students into the campus at Aldgate will extend and enhance that prospect. We are committed to engaging with the culture we serve and are a part of. We are active agents in the regeneration of our immediate locality and in the future of the London Region. We enjoy close links with the individuals and organisations shaping London and undertake collaborative projects with them. As well as engaging with live projects locally we work in areas subject to change across the globe. We are a uniquely cosmopolitan community. Students bring with them many different types of background qualifications, experiences and cultures. This diversity is deliberately encouraged and is seen as a vital ingredient in our creative ethos and one to which the courses in the Faculty are designed to respond and value. We are actively involved in initiatives that explore ways in which under-represented groups can gain greater access to the art, architecture and design professions and see this as a priority if practitioners are to be capable of answering the needs of all members of society. Ultimately we seek, value and empower students who want to do something positive with their skills - find opportunities to create, build. teach and write; to win competitions or clients; make a team or a policy; devise clever innovations or harness the will of a community. For further information on the activities of the Faculty including lectures, exhibitions, student work and current teachers, please log on to our website, Facilities & Location The Faculty is based in four buildings; Central House, Commercial Road and Metworks at Aldgate and Spring House on the Holloway Road. The FdA Furniture course is based at Commercial Road in Aldgate. There are exceptional workshops facilities at both Aldgate and Spring House and various IT/CAD suites and media areas in each building which we anticipate students using throughout their course. There are specialist libraries at Commercial Road in Aldgate and at the Learning Centre, Holloway Road. There is a technical library at Spring House and Materials library at Commercial Road. Lecture and Gallery spaces at each site are used for teaching and for hosting public events, lectures, exhibitions and conferences throughout the year.

8 Courses have dedicated studio spaces and can book the common areas for presentations, events and exhibitions. Certain studios encourage and expect students to work within the building for all or part of the year. These spaces vary in size and are used amongst other things for design tutorials, seminars and presentations. There are Cafes, open throughout the academic year, in each of the buildings Information, publicity and commentary on events within the Faculty can be found at Introduction to your Course We hope you enjoy your course and find it stimulating and rewarding. The academic, technical and administrative staff are committed to helping you make the most of the course. This handbook will help you to do that. Please read it and keep it safely for future reference. We are always open to comments and suggestions: please communicate them to us directly or through your Student Representative. The Foundation Degree in Interior Design delivers the contemporary knowledge and skills you will require to succesfully begin a career in the diverse field of Interior Design. The course enables the very best in skill, knowledge and creativity to students and celebrates their achievements. As graduates you will be well positioned for professional entry or continued study. Our course strives to offer its students a focused two year experience with quality design outcomes. It provides a strong grounding in the principles of Interior and Spatial design, to enable progression to further study and prepare for career development within the interior and architectural professions. The course is structured and taught in an integrated and holistic way, ensuring that the range of skills and knowledge you will acquire relate to projects that are carefully designed to reflect the profession. The course allows you to exercise choice reflecting your interests and allows staff to rapidly respond to competitions and live project opportunities, and developments in our professional sectors. The course is skill intensive and focussed but experienced in a supportive atmosphere. Projects span a range of themes and scales; from design for community and workplace, to design for retail and leisure. Collaborative themes are strong, and there are a number of exciting opportunities for cross collaboration within the Faculty and School of Design. Each year the course comprises 4 year long (30 weeks, 30 credit) modules in the areas of design concept realisation, creative industry practice, contextual studies and professional practice. Disciplinary design skills are developed at the beginning of the course, moving to a studio-based system in the final year. The design 'studio' develops through a combination of lectures, seminars, study trips, critiques, workshops and tutorials. Design project briefs develop year to year along with contemporary practice, and access to 'state of the art' production techniques. The first year of the course is designed to give you a core set of subject specific skills and knowledge in order to foster your independence as a student and as a design practitioner. In the second year you will join a design studio led by a member of staff. The studio will have a theme linking a series of discipline specific projects and it is within the studio that you will experience learning in a way that reflects ways of working with colleagues and clients in the profession. It is the studio system that enables us to offer choice through the range of projects on offer, and by being able to rapidly react to opportunities and needs that arise. Should you progress to the final year of a related BA Honours degree, the studio system continues there allowing you to further enrich and deepen your knowledge with the assistance of the staff and our industry partners. You will have the chance to go on study visits related to your chosen field as well as meeting and learning from industry professionals at various stages. The Faculty runs a series of lectures and seminars by leading figures in all our disciplines, you are invited and encouraged to attend as many as you can. You will have opportunities at different times and in different ways to exhibit your work, this is very important as this will be the beginning of the portfolio you will leave the course with in order to get employment, clients or commissions. In addition, as a student on this course, upon successful completion you will have the opportunity to progress and continue your studies for a further year and progress to the final year of a related BA Honours Degree. We hope you enjoy your course and find it stimulating and rewarding. Section 7 sets down the key features of your course, including your Course Specification. Your Course Specification may have a work placement as a compulsory element or you may be able to choose it as an optional

9 module. The placements aim to enhance your work based skills and to enable you to bring these reflections productively to bear on your studies.

10 SECTION Undergraduate Degree Courses Key features of Foundation Degree Courses The University s undergraduate degree courses are part of a common credit accumulation system. Students build up the credits needed for a foundation degree, module by module and must successfully complete the requirements of each level before progressing to the next. Standard modules carry 30 credits and a foundation degree comprises 240 credits. Study can be full time or part time. Your foundation degree course is organised into two levels: Level 4 represents the introductory level of your course. It provides a firm foundation for more advanced study of your subject. Guided by your Personal Academic Tutor you also begin a process of personal development planning which will include devising strategies to enable you to reach your academic potential. Level 4 modules are normally studied during the first year of a full time Foundation Degree course. Level 5 develops your intellectual and imaginative powers, your understanding, judgement and problem solving skills, as well as your communication skills and a deepening awareness of your subject. It builds on what you have already learned and gives more opportunity to specialise. At this level of the course there is a particular focus on your future employability and on the development of professional practice in your discipline(s), Level 5 modules are normally studied during the second year of a full time Foundation degree course. The academic year is split into three terms, with 30 weeks of contact with lecturers. The Autumn term runs from September to December, the Spring term, from January to March and the Summer term from April to June. Full time students normally study 120 credits per year, while part-time students take up to 90 credits in a year. Your foundation degree contains is made up of core modules, which are compulsory (see Section 7.1). 2.1 Credit for previous learning If you already hold a qualification (for example from another university), that may exempt you from part of your course, you may apply for Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL). Similarly, if you have undertaken work, paid or voluntary, that has resulted in learning skills or knowledge equivalent to a module you will be studying, you may apply for Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Collectively these are known as Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). If you wish to claim for APL please contact your Undergraduate Office.

11 2.2 Modules Your Foundation Degree is comprised of a programme of core modules, which you must study in order to meet the requirements of your award. 2.3 Module registration, course planning and approval If you are studying full time, your programme for your first year (level 4) is already set while part-time students and those entering with credit will have sessions to register modules as part of the Induction Programme. As a new student you will probably have already seen your personal timetable on-line and the structure of classes will be described as part of the Induction Programme, which will include the times and rooms for lectures, seminars and other taught classes. Please get in touch with your Undergraduate Office if you are not sure where you should be going. Part-time students may need to confirm their modules via their Undergraduate Office; advice or support in planning your programme is available, in the first instance, by your Course Administrator in your Undergraduate Office. You may be referred to your Personal Academic Tutor, if required. Once your programme is confirmed an individual personal timetable is generated for you and can be viewed on-line. You can check your list of registered modules, and your results, on line using Evision (Section 4.4 below). You can attend only those modules for which you have registered and if you miss the registration deadline you may not be allowed to register your preferred modules. Once registered, there is a very limited opportunity (i.e. no later than the end of week 2 of the academic year) in which to change, or withdraw from, modules. These rules minimise disruption and aid planning. It is your responsibility to ensure you have an approved programme of study, which, for full time students will, normally consists of 120 credits per year. Part time students study up to 90 credits of modules per year. Further information and a guide to module registration can be found online: The Module Catalogue gives the full list of modules available: FURTHER LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES 2.4 Open Language Programme Extension of Knowledge includes Open Language Programme (OLP) modules. They range from complete beginner to graduate level in the following languages: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish and Brazilian Portugese. If your course structure includes option modules and you wish to study a modern language, you ll need to be assessed and registered at the appropriate level. Please ask your Personal Academic Tutor for advice and visit to view the arrangements for assessments and further information.

12 SECTION BEING A STUDENT Induction Programme Checklist Following your Induction Programme and Course Introductory Meetings, you should check that you have received the following: an ID card (including library number and computer network username) a programme of study confirming your registered modules a personal timetable the location of your Undergraduate Office the location of your Faculty Administrative Office the location of your main Learning Centre (Library) and IT facilities the name of your Personal Academic Tutor the name of your Course Leader If you miss your Induction Programme you still need to obtain all of the above items and there will be a Late Induction session for you. Contact your designated Undergraduate Office to ensure that you know what to do and where to go. It is very important that you complete the enrolment process as this is what activates your status as a student and ensures, for example, that you appear on your module class lists. 3.2 Your first Term Classes commence on 1 October 2012 and your timetable will list all the classes that you are required to attend. You will meet the module lecturers, who will often be giving the main lecture for the module, and your module tutors, who will take your group tutorials/seminars/workshops. During the first term you will also meet your Personal Academic Tutor (refer section 4.7). 3.3 Attendance, academic engagement and employment In order to succeed on your course you should attend all classes and attempt all assessments, indeed the University requires this of you. Whilst some absences may be unavoidable you should always let your Module Leader know in advance and you must to catch up on what you have missed. Attendance at classes is recorded and is reviewed on a regular basis. You can view this via your Evision account. If you miss too many classes, your Module Leader can withdraw you from that module. If your attendance is not satisfactory over your whole programme, you may risk having your enrolment terminated. Please note - for international students, the University is required by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) to confirm that you are in regular attendance. Failure to attend classes may lead to the UKBA cancelling your student visa. We recognise that you may need to undertake part-time work, but strongly advise you not to take employment of more than 15 hours a week if you are a full-time student (should you need to take employment of more than 15 hours per week we recommend you register as a part-time student). The University s Employment Service, in Student Services, can help you find a suitable part-time job that can enhance your employability and complement your studies Your Timetable The University timetable operates from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm, Monday to Friday Provided that you enrolled at the required time, your timetable will be available on-line and the structure of classes will be explained during your Induction Programme. Your timetable will change each year and will be available after you have re-enrolled. For your personal timetable, visit: If you do not have a complete timetable please contact your Undergraduate Office without delay.

13 3.5 Studying Your course will provide opportunities to learn new skills and acquire knowledge in your chosen subject areas. To make the most of the opportunities available, you need to organise and plan your learning to help you manage your time effectively see the guidance provided on the Study Hub website: Undertaking academic study at undergraduate level may be new and very different from your previous study experiences. Assessment is a key aspect of this learning. Successful completion of coursework and examinations is crucial to the achievement of an award at the end of your course. There are various types of assessment and modules often involve a combination of examination and coursework or presentation. It is important that you understand clearly the various expectations and deadlines for each item of assessment. Every module has a Module Booklet, which explains how and when you will be assessed. You must attend all timetabled classes and you will also need to study in your own time. You should expect to spend 10 hours per week on each module, making a commitment of approximately 40 hours per week for a fulltime student, which should be planned in your diary. Please be respectful of the learning environment and remember to switch off your mobile phone before entering classes and study areas. Be prepared for lectures and tutorials by doing any reading or exercises in advance. Always make notes. Review these after the class and if there is anything you do not understand, ask your tutor. All tutors have office hours and their contact details are in the Module Booklet. Check assignment deadlines and examination dates, note them carefully in your diary and begin assignments early. You will enjoy researching and planning your work if you allow yourself plenty of time. Make sure that you understand what you need to do and plan how you will tackle it. If anything needs clarification, seek advice from your module lecturer. In summary: plan your learning strategy; allocate enough time; attend all of your module lectures, tutorials and other sessions; start assignments well in advance; seek advice and help when you need it; use the learning resources offered; and, enjoy the learning experience! 3.6 Feedback on your assessments Assessment feedback is a critical part of your learning experience and supports successful achievement on your course. Feedback can be: diagnostic it provides an indicator of your aptitude and preparedness for study and can identify your strengths and areas for improvement. formative it provides you with feedback on progress on your work. The work may or may not contribute to the overall module grade. summative it provides comments in respect of your performance in relation to intended learning outcomes and requirements for a piece of assessment. During your course you will probably receive feedback in a number of ways: in teaching sessions to the whole class or to you individually; orally or in writing; written using a feedback sheet on your work; via WebLearn, the online space for modules; during the module as well as at the end. You are entitled to receive feedback on all assessments, normally within 15 working days of submission. For assignments submitted during the module (where feedback can be delivered within timetabled class sessions) the module team will help you to understand how to improve future submissions. For end of module assignments feedback may be given on-line but you can request a meeting with your module tutors to help you understand why they have awarded the grades you received. All arrangements for coursework and feedback return will normally be stated in module booklets. This should include: due dates for coursework submission;

14 3.7 dates when coursework feedback will be distributed in class dates when coursework feedback can be collected from the module lecturer or the Undergraduate Office the format by which assessment feedback will be given; the process by which end of module coursework can be collected following the publication of the result concerned. Building Careers Your future employment is important. We prepare you for transition to employment by providing you with opportunities to develop the qualities and skills that employers need, and to train your mind to deal with complex questions. You will have the chance to develop teamwork, communication and presentational skills throughout your course. In your final year you may carry out a problem-solving project. You need to be effective and adaptable in challenging times, so we offer career planning services and lots of opportunities to develop yourself to get on the job ladder. To facilitate this further, our Student Services organise recruitment fairs where you have the opportunity to meet with employers directly. To see more details on how we prepare you for employability visit:

15 SECTION COMMUNICATION, INFORMATION AND ADVICE Your University IT Account You use the same account to access all University IT systems. Your account name is printed at the top of on the ID card that you receive at enrolment and is 7 characters in length (e.g. ABC1234). Your password will be set initially to be your date of birth (DDMMYYYY) so you should change to something secure when you first log in. You can change your password and set details for resetting your password at: Communication We do our best to keep you informed of what you need to know at all times. We use the Web to provide much of the information you need so it is essential to familiarise yourself with the University website. At other times we will use to contact you so it is essential that you check your University on a regular basis. 4.3 Your Contact Details The University will contact you by letter, phone, or , perhaps to arrange a meeting, to provide you with information, or to respond to a query. It is therefore essential that you keep your contact details up to date on your student Evision account. Increasingly, we use to communicate and keep you informed. You will also have been allocated a University address, which is your 7 character account (see 4.1 above) e.g. ABC1234@my.londonmet.ac.uk. Even if you already have an account that you will continue to use you should regularly check your London Met account or set up an auto forward, as important messages will be sent to your University address. 4.4 Evision Evision is the University s online facility that allows you to access your personal student record, and is where you print your coursework submission sheets and other forms that you may need. You also re-enrol via Evision and view information showing your attendance at classes. You can view your: Personal and contact details (can be updated online) Registered modules Enrolment and progression Details of your Personal Academic Tutor Tuition fee details Record of coursework deadlines and submissions Mitigating Circumstances and appeals decisions Module results (available from notified date of publication) Details of final award For more information please check: WebLearn Online module resources WebLearn provides online support for your modules, enabling you to communicate with your tutor and other students. Course materials, information and assessments are available on WebLearn as well as study programmes materials and such as Writing and Communicating at University. WebLearn requires your user name and password and can be accessed at: Undergraduate Office All students are allocated to an Undergraduate Office and a Personal Academic Tutor. During your Induction Programme, you will be informed of the location of your Undergraduate Office for your course (this information is also detailed on your offer letter) and the member of teaching staff who is to be your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT).

16 The Undergraduate Office is the key administrative service to support you in your studies throughout your time at the University. It will be here that you go with timetable queries, to plan your modules, to hand in your coursework, to collect letters you may need, and to ask any questions about your studies. Even if it is not the office you need, the staff will be able to direct you to the right office or service. You should also contact your Undergraduate Office in relation to the following issues: Queries about your enrolment status, the fees that you have been charged or if you have not received your student loan; Module Registration and queries about your timetable or the requirements for your course; If your ID card is not working or, or if it has been lost or stolen; The results for your modules, including result queries, claims for mitigating circumstances, appeals, and advice about examination arrangements; Advice on claiming credit for previous study or experience; Applications to the Access to Learning Fund and information about University bursaries (a bursary is a grant made to full-time students by the University that does not have to be repaid); Obtain standard letters and council tax exemption certificates; Visa extension letters for international students; Advice on the consequences of transferring, intermitting or withdrawing from your course. Each group of courses has a Course Administrator and you will become familiar with them throughout your time at the University. Your Undergraduate Office will also contact you if you are missing classes or not submitting work on time. The offices are open throughout the academic year but can also be contacted by phone or see When contacting your Undergraduate Office, please always quote your student number as it enables staff to access your information quickly and so respond to your query. 4.7 Academic Support and Personal Academic Tutors (PATs) As part of our absolute commitment to student experience and achievement, every student is allocated a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) who is a member of the teaching staff from the faculty responsible for the course. PATs ensure provision of effective systems for student support to enable positive student engagement, achievement and progression. The PATs work throughout the year and are supported by teams of course administrators, who also provide Academic Registry services. PATs offer pastoral support and advice to a designated cohort of students in matters related to programme planning and the student experience. They work closely with Course Leaders within an integrated network of support services provided by the Careers Service, Student Services and the Centre for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching (CELT). 4.8 Learning Development support A range of learning development support is available to all students wishing to make the most of their time studying at University. This includes: advice from module lecturers; assistance from Academic Liaison Librarians for particular subject areas see: opportunities provided by Faculties, such as programmes organised during "activity weeks", and, where offered locally, student peer-mentor schemes or study support workshops or online clinics; online tools, resources and advice for developing writing, presentation, critical analysis and other academic and study skills, available via the Study Hub, a dedicated CELT website for students: pre-term Preparation for Study courses/workshops and other term-time sessions offered by the Centre for the Enhancement of Learning & Teaching (CELT) the annual Get Ahead Student Conference organised (Spring term) by CELT

17 4.9 Course Leader Your Course Leader is responsible for the day-to-day organisation of your course. They will work closely with your Personal Academic Tutor if you are having difficulties with any part of the course, as well as with the Course Administrator in the Undergraduate Office Module Lecturers Module lecturers are members of academic staff who lead the modules contributing to your programme of study and are key to your learning experience. They should be your first port of call for academic advice on any topics you do not understand following a lecture or seminar. All Module lecturers have office hours these are set times during the week when they are available for consultation. For each module there will be a Module Booklet. The module lecturer and your seminar tutors also confirm your attendance at classes each week and you can view the data they submit via your Evision account.

18 SECTION YOUR VOICE COUNTS StARS Feedback from students is vital to the University to find out how well the teaching, guidance and other services are working. This is obtained in different ways, including via Student Academic Representatives (StARs) who, supported by the Students Union, provide direct feedback from students on the course and raise any issues on their behalf. You will have the opportunity to stand for election as a StAR or to elect a fellow student. 5.2 Course Committees A Course Committee is normally convened each term to review a set of modules and courses and provide quality assurance. Key staff, including module and course lecturers, attend these meetings and student input is received via your StARs. 5.3 Students views on modules and courses Students views are obtained by a variety of means such as focus groups and web-based questionnaires. While staff welcome informal feedback from students, Module Lecturers produce formal monitoring reports which cover areas such as teaching, student feedback and assessment. Reports and action points agreed are available from both module and course reviews. 5.4 Students Union The University is proud to work with the Students Union. You can contact the Students Union about any course, student, pastoral or social issue. To contact the Students Union please access:

19 SECTION A-Z ESSENTIALS Academic Liaison Librarians Academic liaison librarians are qualified to provide learning support and information skills training and ensure that the appropriate information resources you need are available throughout your course. Your dedicated librarian can help you acquire valuable information literacy skills which will enable you to locate, retrieve, evaluate and use the most relevant resources for your research for specific assignments and projects. They publish guides and online tutorials to resources specific to your subject area which are a good starting point when you need support. To access subject guides and find your academic liaison librarian go to: Academic Misconduct You are responsible for ensuring that all work submitted is your own, and that it is appropriately referenced. The University does not tolerate cheating of any kind. You are strongly advised to familiarise yourself with the Academic Misconduct Procedures, which list a range of categories of academic misconduct and associated penalties, covering instances of academic misconduct (plagiarism, collusion, exam cheating). From the outset of your studies you should receive information and guidance on referencing conventions and group work activities to ensure that you do not contravene the University s Procedures. If you are unsure about referencing, paraphrasing or group work activities (and what may constitute collusion in such activities), you should seek advice as soon as possible from the Module Tutor, your PAT or the Students Union. An interactive guide on preventing plagiarism containing student views on plagiarism, interactive demonstrations on how to reference and quizzes can be accessed at: Further information can be accessed at: Academic Regulations We provide guidance on most aspects of the Academic Regulations via our website, including our online Student Handbook; if you are unsure please contact your Undergraduate Office or ask your Personal Academic Tutor. If you wish to access the University s Academic Regulations, they can be found at: Assessment Board Appeals There are only two grounds on which students may appeal against the outcome of an assessment board decision. These are specific and an appeal may not be made in respect of an academic judgement. The University operates a strict 10 working day deadline for submission of appeals, following the publication of the result(s) concerned. Prior to submitting an Appeal you should familiarise yourself with the procedures for the submission of Appeals, which can be found at: Communication We do our best to keep you informed of what you need to know at all times. We use the Web to provide much of the information you need so it is essential to familiarise yourself with the University website. At other times we will use to contact you so it is essential that you check your University on a regular basis.

20 6.6 Complaints The University is committed to providing a high quality service to its learning community. If you have concerns about the service you have received we want to hear about it. We will use your feedback as an opportunity to help you and to learn how we may improve our service. Further information about how to make a complaint and how the University will deal with your complaint can be found at Course Transfers If you intend to change course, you should seek advice from your Undergraduate Office. Do not stop attending your course until a transfer has been agreed and confirmed in writing to you. 6.8 Coursework extensions If you have exceptional reasons which prevent you from submitting your coursework on time, you may request an extension of up to five working days. Requests must be submitted before the deadline for the coursework concerned and the process applies only to first submissions (i.e. it does not apply to reassessments). Further information and details on how to request an extension please visit: Coursework submission When handing in coursework you must ensure that you have understood and followed all the instructions provided by the module lecturer. Your coursework should be accompanied by a securely attached barcoded coursework coversheet printed from Evision. Unless you are given formal guidance to do otherwise (e.g. for some design work or work to be submitted via WebLearn), where possible submit your coursework to the Undergraduate Office in the building the module is taught. Work handed in to tutors prior to, or on the confirmed coursework deadline date, does not constitute a valid submission and will not be recorded on your student record and you will not receive an receipt. It is important that you retain both your submission receipt (this is an electronic receipt sent to your University address and also available to view on your Evision account) and a copy of the coursework until the results are published on Evision. Full details of the coursework submission process, including how to obtain coursework cover sheets, can be accessed at: Criminal Convictions If you are a student with a current criminal conviction or you are convicted of an offence during your study, you must notify the University. If you have a spent conviction but are studying on a course which is exempt from the 1974 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and/or requires a CRB check you must also inform the University immediately. For more information see the University's policy at: Criteria for Awards The Undergraduate Awards Framework, the list of all of the University s undergraduate awards, can be found at the beginning of Section 3.1 of the Academic Regulations. Section 3.2 of the Academic Regulations details the minimum criteria for each of undergraduate award Disabilities and Dyslexia Our Disabilities and Dyslexia Service can assist you if you have a disability, long-term medical or mental health condition or Specific Learning Difficulties (e.g. dyslexia). Support can include:

21 Special examination arrangements Specialist tutoring, communication support and /or note takers Exam adjustments, alternative assessment arrangements, extended assessment deadlines Extended library loans Help with finding an academic support worker Accessibility related classroom adjustments Screening for a Specific Learning Difficulty Internal needs assessment report, to identify needs to Academic Staff Assistance to apply for study-related funding If you are eligible for support, the Advisers can help you obtain a range of adjustments depending on the level of need identified. These may include: Please Note 1. There are some aspects of course assessment that cannot be changed. These are known as competence criteria. To be identified as competence criteria the assessed items must be essential to the course and all students must be able to fulfil these criteria. Although in such situations it may not be possible to alter the format of the assessment, you may still be entitled to adjustments (e.g. extra time or an amanuensis). 2. While the Service can provide screenings for a Specific Learning Difficulty, adjustments and extra support can be arranged only after a full assessment is made. The University is unable to pay for this but, in some cases, can make a contribution to the cost. You may be entitled to government allowances. You are strongly advised to contact the DDS for help with funding applications. For further information: Enrolment and Re-enrolment Enrolment is an annual process. The first time you enrol you will need to provide evidence of your identity and the qualifications which formed the basis of your offer from the University. You will also need to pay your tuition fees or demonstrate how these will be paid. The University ID card you receive at enrolment contains your library number and computer network username and allows entry to the University s buildings. Provided you fully completed the enrolment requirements your card should work throughout the year. If it stops working then please seek advice from your Undergraduate Office. By signing the enrolment form you confirm that you accept and will follow the University s regulations If you are studying on a part-time basis over more than one academic year or need to return to complete your studies, you will need to re-enrol online usually from around mid-august. Re-enrolment is necessary for your ID card to be reactivated for the new academic year. There will be a deadline for this so it is important that you complete this before the start of the next academic year Examination Papers Past examination papers are available online at: Examination Timetable Examinations take place between 13 May May The examination timetable is published three weeks prior to the start of the examination period at: Evision Evision is the University s online facility that allows you to access your personal student record, and is where you print your coursework coversheets and other forms that you may need. You also re-enrol via Evision and view information showing your attendance at classes. You can view your: