University of Eastern Finland Main Quality Manual Plan suunnittele Act kehitä Do tee Check arvioi 1
Contents 1 Mission, vision and strategy... 4 1.1 Mission, vision and strategy... 4 1.1.1 Programmes and other documents supplementing the university strategy... 5 1.2 University organization and administration... 5 1.3 Recognition of customer and interested party needs... 6 1.4 Quality policy and quality objectives... 7 1.5 Organization, implementation and documentation of quality management... 8 1.5.1 Organization and implementation... 8 1.5.2 Documentation... 8 2 Resources... 9 2.1 Personnel... 9 2.1.1 Human resources policy and strategic human resources planning... 9 2.1.2 Recruiting... 9 2.1.3 Health and safety at work... 9 2.1.4 Orientation and education... 10 2.1.5 Equality, parity and inclusiveness... 10 2.1.6 Working hours and compensation... 11 2.1.7 Development discussions... 11 2.1.8 Participation of personnel... 11 2.2 Students... 11 2.3 Funding... 11 2.3.1 The Ministry of Education and Culture s resource allocation mechanism... 12 2.3.2 Additional funding... 12 2.3.3 The university s internal allocation of funds... 12 2.4 Premises... 12 2.5 Equipment and research materials... 12 2.5.1 Equipment... 12 2.5.2 Research materials... 12 2.6 Safety matters... 13 2.7 Information security... 13 2.8 Laboratory quality systems... 13 3 Processes... 13 3.1 Key processes... 13 3.1.1 Strategic management and performance management -process... 13 3.2 Core processes... 16 3.2.1 Research process... 16 3.2.2 Educational process... 21 3.2.3 Process of social interaction and educational mission... 27 3.3 Support processes... 31 3.3.1 Administrative support processes... 31 3.3.2 Other support processes... 31 4 Assessment and development of operations... 33 4.1 Indicators and feedback systems... 33 4.2 Audits and assessments... 34 4.2.1 Internal audit... 34 2
4.2.2 External audit and benchmarking... 34 4.2.3 Management assessment... 34 4.2.4 Research assessment... 34 4.2.5 Assessment of education, instruction and learning... 35 4.2.6 Assessment of social interaction... 35 4.2.7 Other assessments... 35 4.3 Management of complaints and development targets... 35 4.4 Management reviews and development of operations... 36 3
1 Mission, vision and strategy 1.1 Mission, vision and strategy The University of Eastern Finland is a multidisciplinary university which started its operations on 1 January 2010. The university s administration approved a strategy and associated programme of measures in March, 2010. The university s strategy: http://www.uef.fi/uef/stragegia MISSION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN FINLAND The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is a multidisciplinary university which is internationally recognised for its high standard of research and education. The university has a strong profile in its areas of expertise and it takes a particular interest in promoting the regional development of eastern Finland. VALUES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN FINLAND The central values guiding the operations of the university are freedom of science, ethicality and justice. VISION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN FINLAND The University of Eastern Finland is an internationally recognised research and teaching university, which is among the top three most significant universities in Finland and among the leading 200 universities in the world. The operational principles of the University of Eastern Finland are based on internationality, multidisciplinarity and high quality. In addition, the administrative regulations emphasize cooperation, trust and respect for equality. 4
In research and education, the university focuses on its strong areas of expertise that are supported by a sufficiently extensive scientific foundation. The university supports, in accordance with the principles of a learning quality organization, the systematic development of all functions. The university is committed to the development and strengthening of staff expertise. Research-based, pedagogically effective teaching, the students' well-being, and support for their graduation are the principles for the organization of education. 1.1.1 Programmes and other documents supplementing the university strategy The university has a Finnish-language education strategy, human resources strategy, lifelong learning strategy, international activity strategy, communications strategy and an operational programme of sustainable development and responsibility. 1.2 University organization and administration The University of Eastern Finland is an independent public-law institution. The university s organization, administration and decision-making system are described in the administrative regulations. Organization chart of the University of Eastern Finland: http://www.uef.fi/c/document_library/get_file?uuid=0a3bc0b9-3559-43cc-a3fa- 874d30cde29d&groupId=10128 The university has four faculties: the Faculty of Philosophy, Faculty of Science and Forestry, Faculty of Health Sciences and Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies. In addition, there are two independent institutes: Aducate, which is the University of Eastern Finland s Centre for Training and Development, and the University Pharmacy. Service centres include the Language Centre, Library, Learning Centre and IT Centre. As part of the Faculty of Philosophy, there are two teacher training schools: Joensuu Teacher Training School and Savonlinna Teacher Training School. Each faculty, independent institute, service centre and teacher training school has its own supplementary quality manual in which its processes and functions are described in more precise detail. Further information about the faculties and units: http://www.uef.fi/tiedekunnat The university operates at three campuses, in Joensuu, Kuopio and Savonlinna. In accordance with the strategy, efforts have been made to construct an open and efficient administration. As mentioned in the Universities Act, those responsible for the management of the university are its Board, Rectors, University Collegiate Body, Faculty Councils and Deans. The management- and administration-related actors and their duties are described in section 3.1.1. Strategic management and performance management process. The university Board follows a four-position model. 5
The electoral regulations describe the election procedure. For administrative duties, the university has an Administration Centre (section 3.3.1). The management of administrative duties at the faculties' administration service centres, service centres and independent institutes is described in the quality manuals of each unit. The university also has a Research Council,Teaching Advisory Committee and Board of Appeal. Their functions are described in more precise detail in sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2. Other working groups of a permanent nature are: - The university s Advisory Board - Study Grants Board - Research Ethics Advisory Board - Commission of Health and Safety at Work - Equality Commission - Sustainable Development Advisory Board - Human Resources Development Support Group A final decision on permanent working groups has not yet been made. 1.3 Recognition of customer and interested party needs Internal customers consist of all members of the university community: students, staff and the university management. Students are important members of the university community in the university's operational development. Students expect student-centred teaching, which makes independent choices possible and supports critical thinking. They also desire a comfortable studying atmosphere, modern learning environments, and degrees that guarantee good workplaces as well as the opportunity to participate in preparatory working groups and decision-making bodies. The needs of those applying for education are also taken into account. University personnel represent an important internal customer. The staff expect open and inclusive action as well as a thoroughly secure employment relationship and working environment. The staff also require encouraging leadership and wage policies as well as sufficient and correctly targeted information to develop one s own activities. The university management such as the Board, University Collegiate Body, Rectors, Deans and Department Heads all need information about the university s processes, the needs of customer and interested parties, and the operational frameworks to support management and decision-making. The Ministry of Education and Culture is both a customer and an interested party for the university. The university will have negotiations with the Ministry of Education and Culture at the beginning of the three-year contract period. 6
The municipalities, federations of municipalities and congregations make up a significant interested party. The international scientific community and the previously mentioned interested parties as well as trade and industry and enterprises call for an innovative, ethical and relevant research contribution. Furthermore, they require that graduates master, in addition to their primary substantial skills, general academic abilities such as skills in teamwork, language, communication, the retrieval of new information and information technology. Research funders such as the EU, Academy of Finland and Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation (Tekes) in addition to national and international foundations are particularly important interested parties which, with their own policies and decisions, guide the research activity they finance. Research funders require high-standard research of excellent quality as well as good research management. Information concerning customers needs, experiences and satisfaction is collected and examined regularly in accordance with Chapter 4 of this quality manual. 1.4 Quality policy and quality objectives Quality policy and quality objectives approved by the university Board provide a starting point for the university s quality management system. The University of Eastern Finland s quality policy requires that - the quality management system supports carrying out the university's basic tasks in a reliable and high-quality manner which takes into account the needs of the individual, society and environment - strategic management and continuous operational development are based on analyses produced via evaluations and feedback - the university is an innovative, internationally respected and desired work and research community, as well as a reliable and long-term strategic partner - the university contributes to the well-being of the personnel and students, and pays attention in its operations to multiculturality, global responsibility and the principles of sustainable development The target of quality assurance and the quality management system is to - produce data about the implementation of the university s strategies and objectives - assist with creating shared procedures and common cultural practices for a learning quality organization in addition to distributing the best practices. - support the progress of core processes and the continuous improvement of research and learning results - support the principles of global responsibility, multiculturality, equality, justice and openness - communicate operational quality to the personnel, students, higher education communities and partners - develop and distribute skills and capacities relating to quality assurance and its evaluation. 7
1.5 Organization, implementation and documentation of quality management 1.5.1 Organization and implementation The University of Eastern Finland s quality management system is documented in the main quality manual and in its subordinate quality manuals respective to the faculties, independent institutes, service centres and the Administration Centre. Every member of personnel is for their part responsible for the university s high quality operation and results consistent with its objectives. Students are expected to take part in operational development by providing feedback and participating via their representatives in the operation of various university bodies. The university s quality management system follows the principles of continuous development and covers all university processes. The quality management system is developed on the basis of internal and external audits, evaluations and feedback, described in Chapter 4. 1.5.2 Documentation The university s documentation includes: 1) strategies, action plans and programmes of measures 2) meeting notices, minutes and memoranda 3) official statements 4) instructions and plans 5) documents related to the quality management system Documents are governed in accordance with the archive formation plan. In this quality manual, only the governance of documents relating to the quality management system is described in greater detail. Quality assurance has its own website on the intranet at https://www.uef.fi/intra/laatutyo and on the Internet at http://www.uef.fi/uef/laatutyo. The university Board approves the main quality manual and changes in its principles after the manual has been processed by the Cooperation Council and the Management Group (versions N.0, i.e. 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 ) The Rector approves the technical changes to the main quality manual (versions N.1, N.2, N.3 ), accepting them by signing the change page of the main quality manual s paper version. There is a valid, original, written version of the main quality manual in the university archive, a copy in the quality manager s room, and an electronic version at the web site of the university: https://www.uef.fi/intra/laatutyo/dokumentit 8
A non-supervised, abridged version of the main quality manual shall also be released in English in autumn, 2010. The quality manuals of the faculties and units will basically follow the structure of the main quality manual. 2 Resources The university employs about 2 700 people and has 13 000 students. The university s annual budget is about 221 M, of which 142 M is basic funding. Most of the facilities are situated at the three campuses. 2.1 Personnel 2.1.1 Human resources policy and strategic human resources planning In accordance with its strategy, the university carries out human-oriented and competitive human resources policy. The university has a human resources strategy that is approved by the Board. This strategy is based on operational and staff-related needs. The function of the university Human Resources Office is to enhance staff competence and job satisfaction. The university invests in equality between campuses and university units personnel. 2.1.2 Recruiting Human Resources Office assists faculties in recruiting capable personnel, arranges competitive biddings for recruiting-related compatibility testing services and provides instruction in recruitingrelated questions. 2.1.3 Health and safety at work The University comply the Occupational Safety and Health Act (http://www.finlex.fi/en/laki/kaannokset/2002/en20020738) and Act on Occupational Safety and Health Enforcement and Cooperation on Occupational Safety and Health at Workplace (http://www.finlex.fi/en/laki/kaannokset/2006/en20060044 The university carries out systematic risk assessment. Safety issues are also described in section 2.6 in greater detail. At the University of Eastern Finland, job satisfaction is seen as a ubiquitous principle. The development of job satisfaction is continuous and a part of management work. 9
The human resources development support group works as an interaction channel which brings forth needs and ways to develop job satisfaction. The university s developer network works as an intermediary between a unit's needs and job satisfaction work outlined by the management and the Human Resources Office. The university has provided guidelines to promote appropriate workplace behaviour. The Occupational Health Service is an important strategic partner in improving job satisfaction. University sports services are managed by sports secretaries appointed by the students' union, and they cover both student and personnel exercise. 2.1.4 Orientation and education Orientation at the beginning of a career is a part of competence development. Regular development discussions and the work community s shared meetings are the later basis for continuous development of individual employees and the work community. The work community i.e. the department is responsible for orientation. The duty of the department head is to take care of introducing a new employee to his/her job and to appoint a person responsible for orientation. The Human Resources Office produces common materials for the ones responsible for orientation, and organizes a Welcome event twice a year at the Joensuu and Kuopio campuses. In these events the university management, actors from various units and working methods are made familiar. Events are also organized for foreign employees in English as required. The employee is primarily responsible for the development of his/her own professional skills. In the annual development discussion between the employee and the supervisor, educational needs are specified. Furthermore, the form and content of education as well as possible reimbursement of education-related costs and work time applied are agreed. 2.1.5 Equality, parity and inclusiveness Eastern Finland s equality and parity programme has been made for the years 2010 2014. The university has an equality committee supervised by the Rector. Studying and teaching arrangements are realized so that various groups of the disabled and special learners obtain the support they need for studying. Student Services handles matters related to inclusive education. 10
2.1.6 Working hours and compensation The personnel s working hours are determined by the Working Hours Act and the collective agreements that supplement it. Depending on the employment relationship, compensation is usually specified as an hourly payment or as salary in euros, in accordance with the university salary system (YPJ). This is based on the demands of the work and the employee's personal performance level. 2.1.7 Development discussions Development discussions are carried out in accordance with the university s guidelines. Procedures are described in more precise detail in the quality manuals of the university units. 2.1.8 Participation of personnel The activity of the university community is based on openness in decision-making as well as individual respect and inclusiveness. The staff take part in the operation of the university bodies and working groups through employee representatives. The employees are encouraged to participate in their own development in addition to that of their units and the university as a whole. In addition, the units have their own meeting procedures which are more thoroughly described in their quality manuals. Act on Co-operation within Undertakings http://www.finlex.fi/en/laki/kaannokset/2007/en20070334 2.2 Students The students well-being and graduation are, according to the strategy, primary goals of the university. Students participation in decision-making and in the development of the university s functions is described in the administrative regulations. The possibility has been arranged for students to participate in the development of teaching in all faculties. The attention to student well-being is described in the basic education strategy and in the Student Services quality manual. 2.3 Funding The university s total funding is comprised of the State s basic funding addressed in the State budget directly to the universities as well as additional funding. The State s basic funding ensures adequate conditions for carrying out the university's statutory duties. A significant part of additional funding is research funding distributed on the basis of national competition. 11
2.3.1 The Ministry of Education and Culture s resource allocation mechanism The State s basic funding for university expenses is determined on the foundation of the same principles for all universities. Basic funding is allocated for universities as basic funding related to operational quality and extent as well as on the grounds of other objectives in educational and scientific policies. 2.3.2 Additional funding Of the university's total funding, the share of additional funding is about 40%. The most significant sources for additional funding are the Academy of Finland, Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation (Tekes), framework programme funding from the EU, structural funds and chargeable commercial operations. The university s researchers and research groups are primarily responsible for applying for additional funding. 2.3.3 The university s internal allocation of funds The principles of the university s internal allocation of funds follow the university strategy. They offer incentive and are based on openness and fairness. Strategic funding is allocated on the grounds of profitability and quality. 2.4 Premises The university has three campuses in Joensuu, Kuopio and Savonlinna as well as a research station in Mekrijärvi. University partners are also operating in the campus areas. 2.5 Equipment and research materials 2.5.1 Equipment The equipment register is maintained by the Facilities Management Office. The purchase of equipment and furniture is guided by the procurement guidelines. 2.5.2 Research materials The Research Council provides the guidelines in matters related to the rights to use research materials in 2010 2011. There are already biobank guidelines available in conjunction with Kuopio University Hospital. 12
2.6 Safety matters All employees and students are for their own part responsible for following existing instructions and directions in their work and studies as well as reporting about safety risks discovered. A summary of safety instructions has been prepared for each campus in the Safety Guide. The guide has been printed both in Finnish and English. It can also be found on the intranet: https://www.uef.fi/intra/tilahallinto/oppaat-ja-ohjeet. 2.7 Information security The IT Centre looks after the university s technical information security and development of general information security. The university s information security instructions: www.uef.fi/tike/tietoturvasaannot Other information security guidelines: www.uef.fi/tike/tietoturvallisuus/ 2.8 Laboratory quality systems The university s laboratory quality systems are described in greater detail in the quality manuals of the university units concerned. Laboratory operation is controlled by, for instance, the Chemicals Act, Chemicals Decree and Waste Act. 3 Processes 3.1 Key processes 3.1.1 Strategic management and performance management -process Strategic management and performance management are processes which significantly affect the university s core and auxiliary activities. The Universities Act and performance management by the Ministry of Education and Culture set general operational frames for the university. They emphasize the importance of strategic management and achieving planned results on the level of the university, faculties and university units. The university sees quality management as a central part of strategic management (Fig. 1). 13
Fig. 1. Strategic management, performance management and quality management at the University of Eastern Finland. Purpose of Person in charge: Quality objectives of To carry out the university s strategy and the development of processes and their quality. The activity is targeted and systematic. The university is capable of reacting quickly to changing circumstances and operational demands as well as improving its operational quality and effectiveness and achieving its central objectives. Rector - The university s strategic goals are achieved - The university s performance management system supports the faculties, independent institutes and service centres in achieving their strategic targets. The university and the Ministry of Education and Culture will have negotiations at the beginning of the three-year contract period in which the university s functional and quantitative objectives as well as their required appropriations will be agreed on. The university s internal performance management will take place with help from annual negotiations, strategic seminars and quarterly reports. Annual performance negotiations of faculties, the Administration Centre, independent institutes and service centres are handled by the university s management. Performance agreements are prepared according to negotiations. The deans have 14
performance negotiations with the faculty departments and the Director of Administration with the units of the Administration Centre. The Board s annual seminars and strategy seminars are a significant part of performance management process, ensuring sufficient quality and monitoring the implementation of the shared strategy. Annual management reviews and the monitoring of information produced by indicators and feedback systems are also a central part of the process of strategic management and performance management system. The review protocol is described in section 4.4. Regular development discussions are a part of the management system. Main actors Board Rector Management Group Director of Administration Head of Planning Quality Manager Dean Department Head; Director of Independent Institute or Service Centre Tasks - approves the strategy - outlines the operation of the university - responsible for strategy preparation and updating - has performance negotiations with the Deans and Director of Administration - supports the Rector in operative management - carries out management reviews - responsible for Administration Centre operations - has performance negotiations with Administration Centre units - engages in development discussions with Administration Centre directors - responsible for strategy preparation process - looks after the production of indicators for management reviews together with the Quality Manager - prepares operational indicators for the Board - responsible for the practical organization of management reviews - looks after the production of indicators for management reviews together with the Head of Planning - responsible for the preparation of his/her faculty s strategy and management reviews - engages in performance negotiations with the departments and sections of his/her faculty - responsible for the strategy work of his/her department, operational development and implementation of management reviews - engages in development discussions 15
The university s communications strategy, now under preparation, will direct the actions of the Communications and Media Relations Office and the university s communications. The university management arranges annual information events where all at the university have the possibility to discuss current topics with the top management. 3.2 Core processes According to the Universities Act, the mission of the university is: to promote free research and academic and artistic education, to provide higher education based research, and to educate students to serve their country and humanity. In carrying out their mission, the universities must promote lifelong learning, interact with surrounding society and promote the impact of research findings and artistic activities on society. In the performance of its duties, the university is to promote lifelong learning, maintain interaction with the rest of the society and promote the social impact of its research results. Education at the university is based on scientific research. The teachers engage in research and researchers also participate in teaching. A large part of the theses are made in research groups. The university s societal interaction and educational mission are seen especially via the processes related to education and research. 3.2.1 Research process The University of Eastern Finland is a multidisciplinary research university which distinguishes itself through its fields of expertise. The areas of expertise in research and fields in which research and education will be further strengthened have been specified in the university s strategy. Purpose of Person in charge: Quality objectives of To generate new information for national and international innovation and for the needs of society and education in accordance with the university strategy. Academic Rector - Research is carried out as part of the international science community. - Research is international and of high quality, and research funding is on a solid footing. - The research environment is modern and observes a high standard. - The university s postgraduate education is systematic and high in quality. - The career of a university researcher is attractive. All university staff are responsible for following the instructions formulated by the National Advisory Board on Research Ethics. Research ethics-based instructions: http://www.tenk.fi/eng/htk/htkeng.pdf 16
Most of the university s research is carried out in projects financed with additional funding. The most significant research funders are the Academy of Finland, Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation (Tekes) and the framework programmes of the EU. The process of additional funding is described in more precise detail in the Administration Centre s processes. Information regarding the university s research projects, publications and specialist tasks as well as visits by teachers and researchers is entered in the SoleCRIS research database. Main actors Tasks Academic Rector - serves as a chairperson for the Research Council. - appoints the Committee on Research Ethics (CORE) - responsible for following the guidelines of CORE (supervises good scientific practice, examines suspicions related to offences in good scientific practice and scientific fraud) - prioritizes certain research project applications on the university level Research Council - coordinates, evaluates and supports the research-related strategy work of the units - assesses the level and impact of the university s research - monitors and reviews the university s scientific publication work - helps to develop the university s national and international research collaboration - coordinates and develops the university s postgraduate education and the operation of graduate schools - coordinates and develops the procurement of supplementary research funding - improves research preconditions and promotes the researchers' career progress - coordinates the development and operation of large research infrastructures - develops the university's innovation work Dean - approves the faculty s future research projects and related agreements The faculty s research group (if one is - outlines, develops and evaluates the quality established by the faculty) Research and Innovation Services of the faculty s research process - offers expert services related to external funding and agreements - the tasks are described in more precise detail in the Administration Centre s quality manual 17
Responsible leader of the research project Researcher and graduate student The university s Research Ethics Committee North Savo Hospital District s Research Ethics Committee - leads research in the research project - responsible for project management and reporting tasks in accordance with the instructions of the funder and university - carries out high-quality research - adheres to good scientific practice in his/her work - evaluates the ethicality of human-targeted non-medical research projects and issues statements on them - evaluates, if needed, the ethicality of other research projects if the evaluation has not been imposed on other parties by legislation - promotes research-ethical training and provides guidelines related to researchethical questions at the university - works as an expert body in research-related ethical problem situations emerging at the university - maintains discussion associated with research ethics at the university - monitors and participates in the preparation of national research-related ethical guidelines and ensures its implementation at the University of Eastern Finland - assesses medical research projects and issues statements on them More information about the management of research projects and contracts can be found in the Administration Centre's quality manual (Research and Innovation Services) and in the university's jurisdiction order. 18
3.2.1.1 Postgraduate education process The University of Eastern Finland offers systematic, high-quality postgraduate education. Scientific postgraduate degrees in the university include licentiate and doctorate degrees. In some fields, it is also possible to complete a professional postgraduate degree. Purpose of Person in charge: Quality objectives of To offer postgraduates high-quality education for demanding expert and research work. Academic Rector - The university produces an annual number of postgraduate degrees as agreed with the Ministry of Education and Culture. - The postgraduate education and guidance offered by the university is efficient and of good quality. - All postgraduates belong to the UEF:s own graduate school operations. - Postgraduate degrees are completed mainly in five years. - Doctorate degrees are completed mainly before the student reaches 32 years of age. More detailed process descriptions are found at https://www.uef.fi/uef/jatkokoulutus Main actors Academic Rector Research Council Research Coordinator Tasks - evaluates and develops the university s postgraduate education - serves as a chairperson for the Research Council - coordinates, evaluates and develops the university s postgraduate education together with the faculties - decides on the curriculum of the university s common postgraduate education programme - decides on the funding of common postgraduate courses - coordinates the common postgraduate education programme and the operation of doctorate programmes - coordinates university level guidance associated with postgraduate education 19
Doctoral/Licentiate Thesis Supervisor Faculty The faculty s postgraduate education working group or similar unit (if one is established by the faculty) Department and section Language Centre and Library Doctoral programme Centre for International Relations Postgraduate student - responsible for scientific guidance in postgraduate education - responsible for the management of postgraduate education: - grants the right for postgraduate studies and degrees in addition to determining the structure of postgraduate degrees and requirements of doctoral/licentiate theses - evaluates and develops postgraduate education - a more detailed task description is found in the faculty s quality manual - arranges courses and guidance for postgraduate students - arranges common readiness skills education for postgraduate students - arranges courses and guidance for postgraduate students - evaluates and develops postgraduate education - prepares operational reports for funders and faculty - supports and promotes the postgraduate education process - administers the Fulbright and Mundus programmes - administers study grants for young researchers - engages in studying and doing research in accordance with his/her plans The faculties collect feedback and monitoring data annually from postgraduate students and use the feedback for operational development in accordance with section 4. The faculties shared postgraduate students feedback system shall be employed in autumn 2010. 20
3.2.1.2 Commissioned research Research carried out in the university s fields of expertise generates important scientific research results for the community, industry and business life. The research is connected with the innovation cluster of Eastern Finland along with the research utilizers. The process is also associated with the sub-processes of societal interaction and the educational mission. Purpose of Person in charge: Quality objectives of Commissioned research represents collaboration with the area s industry and trade as well as support for their development. Academic Rector The quality objectives of the process and the actors shall be described later. 3.2.2 Educational process As assessed in accordance with degree-granting rights, the University of Eastern Finland is one of Finland's most multidisciplinary universities. The teaching is developed with the student-centred learning process in mind. Pedagogically speaking, the teaching is high-quality and aligned, and multimodal teaching methods are incorporated. The adult education offering is also versatile and comprehensive. Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of It provides research-based education which is of high pedagogical quality and supports the graduation and well-being of students. Academic Rector - Versatile, high-quality education is attractive. - The university is known for its high-standard, research-based education that is in keeping with the requirements of the labour market. - Basic degree education provides the foundation for postgraduate education. - The university s researcher-instructors are motivated and pedagogically capable. - The university is committed to the principles of lifelong learning. - The students have the possibility to participate in the development of teaching in all faculties. 21
Most important actors Academic Rector Board Teaching Advisory Committee Faculty Council Faculty education work group / degree programme education work group (if the faculty establishes it) Cooperation group for other school levels Language Centre Person in charge of the degree programme Faculty s/department s educational work group Tasks - acts as the pedagogical director and chairperson of the Teaching Advisory Committee - responsible for the management of the implementation of the execution plan approved by the Board on the university level - decides on matters connected with education on the university level - plans, assesses and outlines the university s education - supports the development of the university s education - looks after matters connected with the physical, mental and social environment - handles the functions complying with the administrative regulations - plans, assesses and outlines the education of the faculty/degree programme - supports the development of the education of the faculty/degree programmes - coordinates and outlines the cooperation between the university and other school levels - plans and develops language and communications studies respective to degrees together with the faculties - looks after the language and communications studies respective to degrees as well as other language and communication studies required from the perspective of the university community - generates critical expertise from the internationalization perspective - Tasks to be specified later - looks after the planning, realization and assessment of education and related development work at the department 22
Student Services Centre for International Relations Teacher Student Teacher Training Schools University Pharmacy - provides general student counselling - handles registration at the university as well as tasks related to rights to study, student certificates, transcripts, study guides, upkeep of the student register and career services - administers international student exchange - looks after international agreements and the export of international education - implements teaching and guidance in accordance with the ratified curriculum - takes care of personal development in his/her profession - the study module manager of the Language Centre, Learning Centre and Library is responsible with the other teachers for the planning, realization, assessment and development work of their study modules - responsible for the progress of his/her studies - provides feedback - offers practical training connected with studies, described in its own quality manual - offers practical training connected with studies, described in its own quality manual The assessment and development of the educational process have been described in section 4.1. 3.2.2.1 Process of basic degree education In accordance with the university s strategy of basic degree education: 1. Education at the university is of high quality and compliant with the needs of society. Teaching at the university is based on scientific research, is high in quality and is socially relevant. The teaching is developed with the student-centred learning process in mind. 2. The processes linked with teaching are effective. 3. The educational structures are flexible. 4. Education is international. 5. The educational principle is based on lifelong learning. 6. The right to minor subject studying is mainly free. 7. Student well-being and graduation in accordance with the degree goals are first in priority. 23
Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of It provides research-based education which is of high pedagogical quality and supports the graduation and well-being of students. It generates the sort of expertise and readiness for students that allows them to function as specialists in Finnish society or international positions, or complete postgraduate studies. Academic Rector - Education is solidly based on research. - Students are encouraged to adopt critical, international and ethical thinking. - Students who are graduating have good knowledge- and proficiency-based readiness for working life as well as the developmental skills for lifelong learning and the ability to develop themselves. - The researcher-instructors are motivated and pedagogically capable. - The teaching methods are innovative and study guidance wellorganized. The faculties are responsible for the processes connected with their own degree programmes. The operations are described in the faculties quality manuals. Student guidance on their study path is presented in Figure 2. 24
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Fig. 2. Student guidance on their study path. Information connected with studying: http://www.uef.fi/studies/studying-at-uef 3.2.2.2 Processes related to non-degree and continuing education These are, for example, specialist medical training, specialist pharmacist training and specialist dentist training offered by the Faculty of Health Sciences as well as hospital chemist training and hospital physicist training offered by the Faculty of Science and Forestry. These are described in more precise detail in the quality manual of the faculty providing the education in question. 3.2.2.3 Separate processes for lifelong learning The promotion of lifelong learning is a function of the university as well as a general principle behind its operations. Open university education and continuing education are separate processes related to lifelong learning, the task of which is to flexibly respond to the increasingly versatile needs and demands of lifelong learning on the part of customers and the community. Open university education and continuing education at the University of Eastern Finland are arranged by Aducate, the Centre for Training and Development (http://www.aducate.fi/etusivu). Purpose of The objective of the separate processes connected with lifelong learning is to maintain and raise the professional know-how of the adult population, develop working life and, on its part, promote employment as well as serve the educational needs of the adult population. It supplements the degree system by offering, regardless of age and scholastic education, opportunities for study in accordance with the principle of lifelong learning and flexibly connects the expertise acquired thereby to the degree programmes. Person in charge of the Quality objectives of Director of Aducate - Aducate s strategy and its implementation programme as well as the implementation programme for lifelong learning complement the strategy of the university. They also help the staff to realize the developmental challenges of the strategy in accordance with the set targets. - In its areas of adult education expertise, the university is the leading national educator. - In implementing continuing education, the requirements of the region are taken into account. 26
3.2.3 Process of social interaction and educational mission The operations of the university are based on responsibility, and it develops its functions by taking the ecological, social, economic and ethical dimensions into account. Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of The purpose of cooperation is to promote and support the community, business life and Finland s international competitiveness as a whole. Rector - The university is regarded as an important actor and regional developer in the regions of Eastern Finland. - The university s research activity generates new enterprises and renews business life. - The university has high-quality, active national and international partnership agreements. - Open university and continuing education is productive. - University graduates work in the regions of Eastern Finland. The University of Eastern Finland has networked with national and international actors. The University functions as part of the research, development and innovation system in cooperation with business life, sector research institutes, general universities, universities of applied sciences and technical colleges. The process of social interaction and educational mission is divided into several sub-processes. Of these, many are linked closely with the processes of education and research. Sub-processes are handled in all faculties, at the Administration Centre and in independent institutes and service centres as described in their quality manuals. 3.2.3.1 Process of regional influence and interested party cooperation Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of - The university and its specialists participate in social discussion and decision-making, and the university responds together with interested parties on the expertise-related requirements of the future. Rector - The university is a desired partner and the representatives of its personnel are desired specialists. - The university functions in a reliable, goal-oriented manner with its strategic interested parties. University representatives participate in the development of the area and its regions by actively operating in cooperation bodies. 27
3.2.3.2 Process of internationalization and cooperation with neighbouring areas Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of - The university ensures the high standard of research and education by functioning in international interaction as part of the international scientific community. Academic Rector - The international importance and visibility of the university shall increase. - The university establishes foreign centres and satellite campuses. - The university strengthens its operations in strategic partnership relations with foreign universities. - The university has functional relations with its partner universities in St Petersburg and Petrozavodsk. - The university coordinates the national CBU consortium and operates actively therein. Most important actors Tasks Academic Rector - looks after the contentual development of the internationalization process - acts as chairperson in the international work group Rector - responsible for agreements between the institutions Board - decides on strategic policies Research and Innovation Services - looks after financial and contractual matters connected with international research funding Centre for International Relations - looks after international agreements and the export of international education - manages CBU operations - coordinates and develops international networks and partnerships Student Services - administers international student exchange Language Centre - arranges language and communications courses for students on exchange programmes In accordance with the international programme the university s strategic areas of cooperation in research and education are Europe, the neighbouring areas of Russia, North America and China, as well as the new openings, India and southern Africa. The process has also been described in section 3.3.1.7 and in the quality manual of the Administration Centre. 28
3.2.3.3 Educational cooperation process Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of - To create synergy effects and offer students flexible study paths. To respond to the expertise-related requirements of the future together with other educational actors as part of the lifelong learning process. Academic Rector - Lower and upper secondary school cooperation is continuous and active and makes the university well-known to secondary school students. - Cooperation with Mikkeli University of Applied Sciences, North Karelia University of Applied Sciences and Savonia University of Applied Sciences is versatile and supports the use of flexible study paths. Educational cooperation is realized by acting together with upper secondary schools, universities of applied sciences and employers. 3.2.3.4 Alumni activities Alumni activities refer to versatile liaisons with all who are interested in the University of Eastern Finland and its former institutions and with those who have graduated or functioned there. Purpose of Person in charge of the Quality objectives of - Supports the interaction between the university and its alumi, the university s business- and research-related cooperation, educational marketing, recognition and social impact, as well as working life equivalence with studying and the placement of graduates in the work world. The alumni operational process is connected with that of lifelong learning. Academic Rector - Alumni participate in the functions of the university as well as its development and efforts to make it well-known. - Alumni activities are rewarding both for graduates and the university itself. The process description as well as indicators and feedback systems are described in greater detail in the Administration Centre s Quality Manual. 29