foundation humanities, law and social sciences - september 2013
TRANSCRIPT
PROGRAMME HANDBOOK
FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE IN HUMANITIES, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCE
(FHLS)
COHORT 1
SEPTEMBER 2013
2
Welcome to INTO University of Exeter
Dear Student
We would like to welcome you to the city of Exeter, the University and INTO University of Exeter. We hope
very much that you will find your stay with us enjoyable and useful and that you will see great
improvements in your ability to read, write, speak and listen to the English language.
Our Foundation Programme has been designed with great care to meet your needs and based on many
years’ experience of teaching English and academic subjects to those who need it in order to progress to
further studies at the University of Exeter. In addition, we are familiar with the differing needs of the many
Foundation students who come to us for pre-university tuition. At the same time we value your comments
and suggestions as it is important that you keep us informed of your own particular needs.
You will find that the INTO University of Exeter is a busy place. The University has a growing number of
international students, and as well as our own full-time students, students come to us for tuition in English
and academic subjects and support from other departments and Colleges in the University. Of course, there
are several thousand British students on the campus too. So you will meet people from many cultures and
contexts and we hope that you will benefit from the opportunity to practise your English in many different
situations and with many different sorts of English speakers.
Devon is a very pleasant part of Britain in which to study. INTO University of Exeter organises a number of
trips to interesting places during the year. In addition, the International Society on campus also arranges
many events and trips for international students and you are strongly recommended to take advantage of
these.
We understand that at first you may find life difficult, since living in a new country can be both exciting and
strange. You will have to get used to the food, the people and, of course, the weather. But you will learn
best if you are happy and comfortable. So do not stay silent if you are worried about something or if you
have a problem. In this handbook you will find that there are many people who can help you.
We wish you a very happy stay in Exeter and look forward to working with you.
Helen Turner Robin Dixon
Foundation Programme Manager Assistant Programme Manager
Humanities, Law and Social Science Humanities, Law and Social Science
3
CONTENTS Welcome to INTO University of Exeter ............................................................................................................. 2
YEAR PROGRAMME ........................................................................................................................................... 4
PROGRAMME STAFF (Foundation Humanities, Law and Social Science) .......................................................... 5
STUDENT / STAFF EXPECTATIONS ...................................................................................................................... 6
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY ..................................................................................................................... 7
FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE IN HUMANITIES, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCE – PROGRAMME OVERVIEW ........... 9
ASSESSMENT INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................... 11
SCALING OF MARKS ......................................................................................................................................... 12
SUBMISSION OF COURSEWORK AND MARKING PROCEDURES ...................................................................... 13
PLAGIARISM AND COLLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 13
MITIGATION ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
FAILURE OF A MODULE ................................................................................................................................... 17
CONDONEMENT .............................................................................................................................................. 17
REFERRAL ......................................................................................................................................................... 17
REPEATING THE COURSE ................................................................................................................................. 17
EXTERNAL EXAMINERS .................................................................................................................................... 17
STUDENT ACADEMIC APPEALS ........................................................................................................................ 18
SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND STUDENTS’ LEARNING ................................................................................... 19
PROGRAMME EVALUATION AND REVIEW ...................................................................................................... 22
PROGRESSION TO YOUR UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE ..................................................................................... 22
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA .................................................................................................................................... 22
4
YEAR PROGRAMME Foundation Humanities, Law and Social Science (FHLS) September 2013
Week W/C Subject Information
1 16-Sep Welcome Week
2 23-Sep F1S1 - 2
3 30-Sep F1S1 - 3
4 07-Oct F1S1 - 4
5 14-Oct F1S1 - 5
6 21-Oct F1S1 - 6
7 28-Oct F1S1 - 7
8 04-Nov F1S1 - 8
9 11-Nov F1S1 - 9
10 18-Nov F1S1 - 10
11 25-Nov F1S1 - 11
12 02-Dec F1S1 - 12
13 09-Dec F1S1 - 13
14 16-Dec Assessment
15 23-Dec Break
16 30-Dec Break
17 06-Jan Break
18 13-Jan F1S2 - 18
19 20-Jan F1S2 - 19
20 27-Jan F1S2 - 20
21 03-Feb F1S2 - 21
22 10-Feb F1S2 - 22
23 17-Feb F1S2 - 23
24 24-Feb F1S2 - 24
25 03-Mar F1S2 - 25
26 10-Mar F1S2 - 26
27 17-Mar F1S2 - 27
28 24-Mar F1S2 - 28
29 31-Mar F1S2 - 29
30 07-Apr Assessment
31 14-Apr Break
32 21-Apr Break
33 28-Apr English Assessment
34 05-May
35 12-May English Assessment / Resit Revision
36 19-May Employability / Resit
37 26-May Employability
38 02-Jun Exam Board
5
PROGRAMME STAFF (Foundation Humanities, Law and Social Science)
Name Role Email
Angie BUCKINGHAM Lecturer (English for Academic Study) [email protected]
Andy HOLBROOK Programme Manager (Resources & Pre-sessional) [email protected]
Ben JACOB Module Leader + Lecturer (Film and Literary
Studies)
Carolyn WALKER Academic Director [email protected]
Charlotte-Ann RICHARDSON Student Services Coordinator (Visa/Activities) [email protected]
Dawn BIRD Programme Manager (Maths) [email protected]
Chloe SHARPE Assistant Director (International Office) [email protected]
Debbie CLARKE Coordinator (English, Listening & Speaking) &
Learning Support Officer
Edward MULLINS Programme Administrator and Examinations Officer [email protected]
Helen TERRY Welfare Officer
Helen TURNER Programme Manager (Humanities, Law and Social
Science & Science)
James MERRETT Programme Manager (English) [email protected]
Kari NEWBERRY Lecturer (English) [email protected]
Katrina MACNEILL International Liaison Officer [email protected]
Kirsty McCALL Lecturer (English) [email protected]
Marion FULCHER Academic Support Manager [email protected]
Martin DARLING Lecturer (English) [email protected]
Michelle TESTER-JONES Lecturer (Psychology) [email protected]
Paul ROGERS Module Leader (Psychology) + Lecturer (English for
Academic Study) + Programme Academic Support
Phil END Coordinator (English, Writing) [email protected]
Pippa WHITTON Assistant Programme Manager (English) [email protected]
Rachel RUSHTON Coordinator (English, Reading & Study Skills) [email protected]
Robin DIXON Assistant Programme Manager (Humanities, Law
and Social Science & Science)
Richard WILLIAMS Module Leader (History and World Politics and
International Relations)
Sarah PIKE Accommodation Officer [email protected]
Ugochukwu OBIBUAKU Module Leader and Lecturer (Law) [email protected]
6
STUDENT / STAFF EXPECTATIONS
As a student at INTO University of Exeter you are expected to: -
1. Attend punctually all the classes on your course.
2. Inform the Centre of reasons for any absence from classes.
3. Take an active part in classes.
4. Complete and submit homework assignments at the time they are required by your
teachers.
5. Think about your own language learning needs and keep your teachers informed about
them.
6. Be aware and considerate of the language learning needs of other students in your
classes.
7. Be sensitive to cultures other than your own.
8. Organise your time outside the classroom effectively and use opportunities to practise your
spoken and written English.
9. Discuss any problems connected with your classes directly with your teachers and/or
course co-ordinators.
10. Complete and submit evaluation questionnaires when asked to do so by your teachers.
11. Abide by University regulations when using IT facilities, both in the Learning Resource
Centre and elsewhere.
And you can expect the staff to provide you with: -
1. Information on the aims of the course.
2. Information on the content of your course.
3. Information on the aims of each lesson you attend.
4. Information on how your performance on your course will be assessed and reported.
5. Help with becoming used to the university and its facilities.
6. Advice on how to use the university’s student support services.
7. Advice and encouragement on how to study and practise your English outside class.
8. Comment and feedback on your progress throughout your course.
9. Help with your future study plans including applications for other courses.
10. Opportunities to discuss study and other problems in tutorials and at other times.
7
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY We take your studies very seriously and we expect you to attend 100% of your classes during your time at INTO University of Exeter. We will record your attendance for every class in your timetable. Also, you are expected to attend all classes on time. Please note that if you arrive 10 minutes late or more for a class, you will be allowed in only at the teacher’s discretion. However we do understand there may be times when you cannot attend classes. If you are unable to attend class because you are unwell, as early on the day as possible you need to inform INTO University of Exeter Reception, who will inform your Programme Manager. You can contact Reception by email or phone: E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01392 724282 We are sympathetic to students who are genuinely ill, but it is very important that you report your absence. If you fail to report your illness, your absence will be deemed unauthorised. When you return, you will need to complete a PERSONAL SICKNESS CERTIFICATE which can be found on the Programme Information page on ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3887
If you are unwell for longer than 5 teaching days, you will be expected to supply a doctor’s note (available from the University Health Centre) as well as your Personal Sickness Certificate. Sickness Certificates and doctor’s notes must be given to Reception immediately you return. If you know in advance that you have to be absent on particular days you will also need to complete a REQUEST FOR ABSENCE FORM to be authorized by your Programme Manager. This form can also be found on the Programme Information page on ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3887 Accepted reasons for absence and evidence you must provide
Reason Evidence required
Illness and health appointments; absences will only be authorized due to illness for up to five teaching days without supporting documentation.
If you are sick for five or more days, you will need to submit an NHS medical note. Documents that are not from an NHS Centre will not be accepted.
Visa/Police appointments Copy of appointment letter
Embassy visits Copy of appointment letter
Interview with host/prospective University Copy of all correspondence between the Centre, yourself and the university
Religious Observance This is only for specific cases as agreed by sponsors and Regional Managers
Compassionate Leave This will be assessed on a case by case basis by the welfare team and your programme manager
Attendance and Exams It is a University requirement for all programmes that you attend examinations, so make sure you know when, and where, your examinations are to be held.
8
If you are ill or absent during the exam period, you must submit a MITIGATION FORM together with medical or other evidence to the Programme Office. Your case will then be considered at a Mitigation Committee, which will decide whether you should be allowed a further opportunity to take the exam. If you do not give good reason for absence from exams, it will be considered that you have withdrawn from the University. For more information on Mitigation see page 15 below.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
If you fail to comply with the above policy without a proper explanation, you will be taken through the following warning stages. At each stage of the process you will meet with an appropriate member of academic staff to discuss why you have not been attending. The outcome of the meeting may result in you receiving a warning letter, a copy of which may be forwarded to your agent or sponsor. In addition, your attendance will then be monitored more closely. If you reach stage 4 of the warning process you will meet with the Academic Director who will decide whether you can continue with your studies or whether you will be withdrawn. Stage 1: If your attendance falls to 89% you will receive a letter enquiring why you have missed classes and if you are experiencing any difficulty. Your attendance will then be monitored more closely. Stage 2: If your attendance still does not improve you will be asked to meet your Programme Manager to explain why you have not been attending. A plan for your return to 100% attendance will be discussed with you, and you may be placed on report. You will also receive a first warning letter from your Welfare Officer, a copy of which will be forwarded to your parents/agent/sponsor. Stage 3: If your attendance still does not improve, a letter will be sent to you requesting that you meet with the Head of Student Services. At this meeting you will be issued with a final warning; a copy of this letter will be forwarded to your parents/agent/sponsor. Substantial improvements must be made from now on to avoid your exclusion from INTO University of Exeter with no refund. Stage 4: Any further unauthorised absences will result in a letter requesting that you meet with the Academic Director and requesting that you withdraw from INTO University of Exeter. PLEASE NOTE: All correspondence will be sent to your University/INTO e-mail address. You MUST check this on a daily basis.
9
FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE IN HUMANITIES, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCE – PROGRAMME OVERVIEW The Foundation Programme for International Students has a duration of one academic year and all studies will be carried out at the Streatham Campus of the University of Exeter. This programme, which is accredited by the British Accreditation Council, consists of 90 credits at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 3 and 30 credits at NQF Level 2. The modules are divided between the subject-specific studies (4 modules worth 80 credits) and study of English for Academic purposes (30 credits) and Study Skills (10 credits). The Foundation Certificate in Humanities, Law and Social Science consists of FOUR 20 credit modules, TWO of which are compulsory :
NQF Level 3 NQF Level 2
Subject module 1 – 20 credits Subject module 2 – 20 credits Subject module 3 – 20 credits Subject module 4 – 20 credits INT0028 Study Skills – 10 credits
INT0029 English for Academic Study – 30 credits
The modules are delivered over two semesters, compulsory modules in bold:
Semester 1 Semester 21
INT0002 Introduction to British History 1 INT0018 Introduction to English Law and the
English Legal System 1 INT0007 Foundation Mathematics [optional]* *Foundation Mathematics is compulsory for students wishing to study a Psychology degree
INT0003 Introduction to British History and Institutions 2
INT0019 Introduction to English Law and the English Legal System 2
INT0013 Introduction to Psychology INT0020 Mathematics 1 [optional]** INT0026 World Politics and International
Relations INT0027 Introduction to Film and Literary
Studies INT0028 Study Skills ** Mathematics 1 is only for students wishing to study a Psychology degree
INT0029 English for Academic Study
1 In semester 2 you will study two of the subject modules listed above: Module descriptions for the above modules can be found on ELE: Foundation Programme and Pathway Information http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3887 The award of the Foundation Certificate in Humanities, Law and Social Science requires that you achieve 120 credits with marks of at least 40% in all modules (but see condonement below). A mark of 70% or more overall in academic modules (NQF Level 3), and a minimum of 70% in the English module (NQF Level 2) will result in the award of a Distinction. All Colleges at the University of Exeter have set a requirement that you must reach for guaranteed progression to undergraduate study. (For more detail, see INTO University of Exeter prospectus 2013-14)
10
The award of the Foundation Certificate in Humanities, Law and Social Science will enable you to progress to undergraduate study at another University, dependent on the entry requirements of that institution.
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
The programme will be delivered using a range of learning opportunities and activities, including: Lectures Tutorials Seminars and seminar discussions Regular formative class work activities with feedback Individual and group presentations Online (e.g. ELE activities) Library based resources for individual research Directed private study
11
ASSESSMENT INFORMATION
Each module will be assessed by a combination of examination, coursework and course assessment tests (CA Test) with each grade being awarded as a percentage. You will be given information at the start of the module about these tasks and tests, which are also listed in the module descriptions. Most examinations and course assessment tests will be closed book. All work will be considered passed if a mark of 40% is achieved. To pass a module it is necessary to obtain an overall mark of 40%, not 40% in every element. Semester 1 Exams: Week commencing 16 December 2013 Semester 2 Exams: Week commencing 7 April 2014 Examinations for English Language Skills for Academic Study: will take place during the week commencing 16 December 2013, the week commencing 7 April 2014 and the weeks commencing 28 April 2014 and 12 May 2014. You are advised to refer to the module teachers and module descriptions for further information. Assessment is summative or formative. Summative assessment marks count towards your final mark in the module. Formative assessment does not count towards your final mark but is important as it gives an indication of your progress and provides an opportunity for lecturers to give you feedback and advice on how to improve your work. Subject modules – summative assessment
Module Coursework Exam
INT0002 British History 1 50% of module mark: Essay 50% of module mark
INT0018 Law 1 50% of module mark: Presentation 50% of module mark
INT0007 Foundation Maths 20% of module mark: 5 assignments 80% of module mark
Two exam papers
INT0003 British History 2 25% of module mark: Presentation
25% of module mark: Essay 50% of module mark
INT0019 Law 2 50% of module mark: Essay 50% of module mark
INT0013 Introduction to Psychology 50% of module mark: Essay 50% of module mark
Essay questions
INT0020 Mathematics 1 20% of module mark: 5 assignments 80% of module mark
Two exam papers
INT0026 World Politics and International Relations
25% of module mark: Presentation
25% of module mark: Essay 50% of module mark
INT0027 Film and Literary Studies 50% of module mark: Essay 50% of module mark
Information regarding specific module assignments will be provided by module teachers.
INT0028 Study Skills – summative assessment
Skills Assessment Semester Weighting in overall grade
Study skills 1000-1500 word written assignment 2 100%
12
INT0029 English for Academic Study – summative assessment
Skills Assessment Semester Weighting in overall grade
Reading Better of two prepared reading exams 1 + 2 20%
Writing Better of two tests 400-600 words
60 minute exam
1 + 2
2
15%
15%
Listening Better of two listening/notetaking exams 1 + 2 20%
Speaking 25 minute group seminar
15 minute group presentation on written assignment 2
15%
15%
The criteria for assessing each task will differ depending on the skill that is being assessed. As such, for each
piece of assessed work, the marking criteria will be explained when the task is set.
Use of Calculators Calculators can be used in the Foundation Mathematics and Mathematics 1 exams (for those wishing to study a Psychology degree). All calculators must be approved before you will be allowed to use them in your exams; you will be informed about the approval process.
Absence from Examinations
a) If you are absent from examination(s) with properly documented medical, or other extreme personal circumstances known to the Programme Manager, the examination(s) will normally be deferred on application for Mitigation (See page 13). These deferred examination result(s) will not be capped.
b) If you provide a reasonable explanation of your absence but you were not affected by medical, or other extreme personal circumstances, the examination may be deferred at the discretion of the Programme Manager. The deferred examination result(s) will be capped at 40%.
c) If you fail to provide the Programme Manager with a reasonable explanation for absence, the result for that examination will be 0%.
SCALING OF MARKS INTO University of Exeter reserves the right to scale marks in any subject. Scaling is the adjustment of a set of marks for an assessment, on a consistent basis and for a whole cohort, in order to ensure that they properly reflect the achievement of the candidates as defined by the assessment criteria. Scaling will usually be applied only to the marks for a particular component of the assessment when the marks of a group are affected in an unplanned way. Some examples of unexpected outcomes which may indicate the need to apply scaling mechanisms are:
• external forces unrelated to student performance have adversely affected a whole cohort; • a single assessment task or examination question proves to be problematic.
Scaling might involve:
• shifting the mean (to adjust for an unexpectedly or unreasonably low or high average); • adjusting the standard deviation (for a clearly defined and valid reason); • or a combination of the above.
13
It may be appropriate to scale marks either up or down.
SUBMISSION OF COURSEWORK AND MARKING PROCEDURES
Work that is to be submitted for formative assessment should be submitted under your name and group number. This work will not count towards the final mark of your module. It will be used to test your understanding of the content of the course and provide you with feedback in respect to your answers to the set questions. The feedback will be provided in the form of written or spoken comments regarding the structure, content or technical use of language. If queries still exist with respect to these comments they can be discussed with Programme Managers. Work that is submitted for summative assessment will count towards your final module mark. Where a single piece of work individually counts more than 5% of your module mark, it must be submitted under your student number for anonymous marking. Any other work can be submitted under your name. Submitted work will be divided into either work with an objective or subjective mark scheme. All work that has an objective mark scheme will have the breakdown of marks for each section shown on the assignment sheet. Work that is to be marked subjectively will be marked according to a set of marking criteria that your teacher will provide when the assessment is initially set. Where work within a subject-specific module is marked by more than one member of the teaching staff, all work will be assessed against the same standard set of criteria (which can be found at the end of this handbook). You are expected to submit all coursework by the set deadline. All deadlines will be published at the start of the module and also on the respective assignment briefs/cover sheets. Work submitted by the deadline will be marked and returned, with appropriate feedback, within three University weeks of the submission date. Work submitted up to two weeks late will be marked to a maximum of 40%. Submission of work after the two week period will result in a zero mark being awarded. No coursework will be marked if received after marked coursework has been returned to the other students. Unless you are told otherwise, work should be submitted to the Programme Office (I/2.05). Make sure you obtain a receipt for your work or that your submission is recorded by the Programme Office. This will be kept as an official record of submission and will be checked against the submitted work immediately following the submission deadline. You will also have to sign that the work is your own. The procedure is here: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3887
Non-submission of coursework will be investigated and dealt with according to University procedures.
Use of English For assessment purposes, in subject-specific modules answers will not be penalised for misuse of English language, except in cases where the misuse of language results in a poor or unclear argument or changes the content of the answer through an error in the use of technical language.
Double Marking Double marking will be carried out on at least 25% of all examination scripts and coursework tasks. In addition, all failures will be double marked.
PLAGIARISM AND COLLUSION
During your time with INTO University of Exeter and when you progress into the academic Colleges, you will be submitting a good deal of written work, much of which will contribute to your final results.
14
Plagiarism is defined as representing as your own the words or ideas of other people, whether published or not. In the university context it may take the form of, for example, copying parts of a textbook, web page or lecture handout into an essay without acknowledging the source, or copying another student’s work and passing it off as your own. Always acknowledge direct quotes or the ideas of other writers by naming the source. Do not permit your work to be copied by others. Internet plagiarism is dealt with in the same way as plagiarism from printed sources and search engines make it fairly easy to detect. The use of essay bank material for assessment purposes is not permitted under any circumstances.
Any case of cheating and/or plagiarism will be dealt with according to University procedures. See
http://www.ex.ac.uk/admin/academic/tls/tqa/plag1.htm.
Collusion is the representation of another’s work or ideas as one’s own without appropriate acknowledgement or referencing, where the owner of the work knows of the situation and both work towards the deceit of a third party (while in plagiarism the owner of the work does not knowingly allow the use of his or her work). Collusion is also dealt with under the University procedures. The Academic Misconduct Officer for INTO University of Exeter is Carolyn Walker, [email protected]
15
MITIGATION
For mitigation for exams or completed assignments,
You should complete an Application for mitigation form (available from the Programme Office or Reception) no later than one day after your examination or assignment submission deadline. Give the form to the Programme Office, together with written supporting evidence, such as a doctor’s letter or appointment card. The evidence you supply must be verifiable. A Mitigation Committee will consider your application as soon as possible. The Committee will decide, first, whether you have grounds for mitigation and, second, and decide what the necessary course of action should be. You will be notified of the decision as soon as possible. For an extension for an assignment,
Hand in the mitigation application to the programme office no later than one day BEFORE your assignment submission deadline together with your supporting evidence, such as a doctor’s letter. Your Programme Manager will consider your application and you will be notified of the decision as soon as possible. It is important to note the following:
The mitigation process cannot take place after you have received your assessment results. If you have to apply for mitigation later than one day after your assessment takes place you must supply written evidence in support of your late application. Your application will not be considered without this evidence. Mitigation cannot be considered where there has been academic misconduct. You should note that handing in work after the deadline without permission will result in marks being deducted from your work. You can appeal against the decision of the Mitigation Committee on certain grounds only (see STUDENT ACADEMIC APPEALS below). A member of the mitigation committee will be contacted and make a decision within 24 hours. The duly signed mitigation form will then be returned to you. This form must then be stapled to the front of your work as proof of the extension. If an application for extension is made after the deadline, extensions will only be granted if the nature of the problem precluded earlier application (e.g. transport problems). Extensions can only be granted by a member of the mitigation committee (see below). For extensions up to one week the committee quorum will be one member of the committee. Extensions of more than one week will require a quorum of two members of the committee. No member of the mitigation committee contacted with regards to an extension can be the marker of the piece of work. Mitigating circumstances will be granted on the following basis:
Illness: Self-certificated illness within 7 days of the deadline will receive an extension of up to 4 days. A medical certificated illness of one week or more within 3 weeks of the deadline will have an extension granted as appropriate to the problem. If you are regularly having health problems around deadlines you will be referred to the medical centre.
16
Absence from University: Unplanned absence within 4 days of the deadline for emergency purposes (e.g. to support a sick relative) will have an extension as appropriate, normally up to 4 days. Planned absence for social events such as weddings, sports events etc. will have no extension granted. Computer and Printing Problems: Good IT practice means that back-ups should be kept as both electronic and hard copies. No extension will be granted. Transport Problems: Breakdown/Failure of public transport will have an extension of one day granted, provided that reasonable steps were taken to arrive at the school on time. Other: Other circumstances that may arise will be considered on an individual basis by the committee.
The Mitigation Committee will consist of: Carolyn Walker (Academic Director) and Programme Managers. A Programme Administrator will take minutes.
In exceptional circumstances, you may appeal in writing against a penalty imposed for late submission of work. In such cases the appeal must be lodged with the Academic Director within 10 working days of the original submission date. In making an appeal the notes and exclusions above should be noted. The appeal will not be accepted if you had an adequate opportunity beforehand to submit an application for an extension. (See: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/staff/policies/calendar/part1/otherregs/appeals/)
Please see your Programme Manager for more information.
17
FAILURE OF A MODULE
Should you fail any subject-specific modules there are two possible outcomes – Condonement or Referral.
CONDONEMENT
This is the process that allows the Foundation Certificate to be awarded despite the failure to achieve 120 credits, provided that the overall mark of 40% has been achieved over the 120 credits of assessment including the marks for the failed and condoned modules. A maximum of 30 credits can be condoned. Where more than one condonable module is failed, the module with the highest mark will be condoned. You will not have the opportunity of reassessment in the condoned module. Failure in INT0029 English for Academic Study will not be condoned. This module will only be subject to referral. See http://www.admin.ex.ac.uk/academic/tls/tqa/ugexams2.htm for more information. If you have any condoned modules, however, you will not be able to progress to a degree at Exeter.
REFERRAL
This is the process whereby a further attempt at an individual examination, following an initial failure, is permitted without the requirement to repeat any attendance. Referral in any module will constitute a second formal examination – coursework may or may not be included in the re-assessment. See module descriptors for further details: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3887
You must complete all summative coursework before you are entitled to referral. The grade for the referred exam, and therefore the module grade, will be capped at 40%. Referred and deferred exams will normally be taken during the next exam period.
REPEATING THE COURSE
You will only be allowed to repeat the course in exceptional circumstances if you have not been awarded the Foundation Certificate. Repeating the course is at the discretion of the Academic Director on payment of full fees.
EXTERNAL EXAMINERS
Each course is required to appoint one or more external examiners, usually a member of staff from another university. These external examiners read and approve assessment materials, and also ensure that the academic quality of marking and feedback is maintained. Full details of the external examiners can be found at: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/staff/policies/calendar/part2/examiners/ However, please note that the contacting of external examiners by students regarding any aspect of their programmes of study is prohibited and will be treated as an offence under the University's Disciplinary Procedures. Externals are requested to inform the University's Examinations Office should such an occurrence take place.
18
STUDENT ACADEMIC APPEALS
INTO University of Exeter follows the rules on academic appeals set out in the Teaching Quality Assurance Manual of the University. The rules can be found here: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/staff/policies/calendar/part1/otherregs/appeals/ You can appeal against your formal assessment results on certain grounds, as follows: a) There were important circumstances affecting your performance of which a Board of Examiners had
not been aware before reaching its decision, but only if you can present reasonable grounds why such circumstances had not been presented to a Mitigation Committee or the Examination Board in advance of its meeting; and/or
b) There were procedural irregularities in the formal conduct of an assessment or in reaching another academic decision; and/or
c) There is evidence of prejudice or of bias on the part of one or more examiners and/or markers. Please note: you cannot appeal against a decision of an examination board, or the academic judgement of an internal or external assessor, unless you believe that this judgment was not made fairly or according to the correct University process. You cannot appeal because you are not happy with the academic judgement of the internal and/or external examiners. All marking and testing procedures follow certain guidelines. For example, a proportion of all work is second marked. This is usually enough to ensure that marking is fair. Please see your Programme Manager if you would like more information on marking procedures. If you wish to appeal against your assessment results, you must do so within 10 working days of being notified of an academic decision. Appeals lodged outside this period will not normally be considered unless there are fully justifiable reasons. You should use an Academic Appeals Form for your appeal, and this should be sent to the INTO University of Exeter Academic Director. The Academic Director will carry out investigations to determine whether there are grounds for appeal. The findings of these investigations will be considered in an Appeals Panel, where a recommendation will be made. You will be notified of the decision once the Appeals Panel has taken place. Finally you should be aware that, if you make unwarranted and unsubstantiated allegations concerning the reputation or conduct of members of staff, you may be subject to disciplinary proceedings.
19
SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND STUDENTS’ LEARNING Library, IT Services and Printing At Exeter, the University Library maintains its principal collections in the main library buildings on the Streatham and St Luke’s campuses, together with a number of specialist collections in certain Colleges. The total Library collection comprises over a million volumes and 3000 current periodical subscriptions. Information Technology (IT) Services provide a wide range of services throughout the Exeter campuses including open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week (including printing). Additionally, INTO has its own dedicated facilities in the Learning Resource Centre (Level 0). Helpdesks are maintained on the Streatham and St Luke’s campuses, while study bedrooms in INTO and University accommodation are linked to the University’s campus network. Printing can be carried out in the INTO Learning Resource Centre. Photocopying, booklet binding, etc. is available in the Print Shop located on the first floor of the Forum (up the stairs by SID:the Student Information Desk). Independent Learning The Learning Resource Centre (LRC) provides facilities for INTO students and teachers to work independently on their learning. It is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 6.00pm. Your programme will have a Guided Independent Learning programme for you to follow. The intention is to help you to find resources related to the class work you are doing and to deal with individual issues you may have that are not being taught in the main curriculum. For example, you may have particular pronunciation or grammar issues and one of your English teachers might ask you to come to the LRC for help. It may be that you need some help understanding the new vocabulary in one of your subject modules. Help and support is available from a teacher in the LRC. He/she can help with any learning challenge you may have and suggest a course of action to help you with it. The teacher on duty can also help you with any issues with regard to ELE (see below). The Lending section has books you can borrow for pleasure and to improve your reading speed. There are also some books about Business, Economics, Finance, Law and Engineering. The Reference Section has reference books, text books and work cards for:
most subject areas
grammar
vocabulary
reading comprehension
writing
study skills examination practice
The Computers Some of the Computers in the LRC can be used to develop your grammar, reading and other language skills. There is also special software for preparing for the IELTS exam. There is an Internet bar which you can use to access your email and do other things on the Internet. There are also dictionaries and encyclopaedias on the Computers and in book form.
20
.
Exeter Learning Environment (ELE) The University and the INTO Centre use an online learning platform called ELE http://vle.exeter.ac.uk to support subject and language learning. You will be shown how to use it and you will be expected to use it as part of your course. The site is available throughout the University and can be accessed from your accommodation. There are separate areas for each of the programmes and modules. You will need your University login and password to enter the sites. Resources include: Timetables Course programmes / schedules Programme handbook Coursework tasks, schedules and marking criteria Past exam papers Supporting academic resources to assist your studies Links to useful web sites Language practice Access to useful forms Overview of Regulations for using Computing Facilities
This is just a simplified summary and you should also read the full regulations available at: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/calendar/its/.
To use systems managed by IT Services, you will need to register. You will receive instructions
for how to do this when you receive your University ID card. Any user identification or password you are given is for you alone: don't tell anyone your
password and don't try to use anyone else's. Computing facilities can only be used for authorised purposes and special permission is needed to
use computers for personal, commercial or outside work. You must make sure you know how to use the equipment. You need permission to move
anything, to borrow anything or to connect any new hardware. Follow instructions for starting and finishing time on the computers. While you are using University computers, use only authorised software.
You must not damage, interfere with, or modify any hardware or software; if you do you may be charged for having it put right.
You must not load any new software onto INTO or University computers.
If you break these rules you may be breaking the criminal or civil law and will certainly be liable to disciplinary action. Tutoring It is University policy that all Colleges should have in place a system of academic and personal tutors for their students. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University’s TQA Manual. http://admin.exeter.ac.uk/academic/tls/tqa/Part%206/6B(2010)Personal%20Tutor%20System%20CoP%20FINAL.pdf
21
Student Support Services Additionally, the following units at Exeter between them provide a wide range of support services to all students:
University Wellbeing Service - available free of charge, to provide confidential help and support. Student Health Centre Study Skills Service - can provide one-to-one guidance and information on all aspects of academic
study and skills. Family Centre (Streatham campus) provides high quality care and education for early-years children
of students and staff. Student Advice Centre (the Forum) is your first port of call for free, impartial and confidential
advice on a range of issues: housing, finance, and academic matters. Students’ Guild is the students' union of the University of Exeter. Student complaints procedure. Chaplaincy supports and encourages students all students. The International Student Support Office supports non UK students across all University of Exeter
campuses. AccessAbility aims to provide advice, guidance, signposting to other services and, in some cases,
face-to-face assistance for those in need. The University is committed to supporting disabled students, staff and visitors on all its campuses.
Careers advice The University Careers Advisory service provides expert advice to all students to enable them to plan their futures, through guidance interviews, psychometric testing, employer presentations, skills events, practice job interviews and CV preparation. Towards the end of the programme you will be able to attend sessions designed to increase your employment skills. In addition, you can get information about jobs and careers from the Career Zone in the Forum. Staff Student Liaison Committees All Colleges are required to operate Student Staff Liaison Committees (SSLC), which allow students to contribute directly to the enhancement of educational and other provision at discipline level. At INTO we offer a Student Staff Liaison Committee for each programme with a student representative from each subject pathway, and a Subject Chair chosen from the representatives. This ensures that a very broad cross-section of the student body is represented. Students are also represented through the Subject Chairs on the INTO Education Committee, INTO Boards of Studies and INTO Programme Meetings where their input into the development of current and new programmes is valued. Welfare and Academic Support INTO offers enhanced welfare and academic support. Student attendance is tracked very carefully and on a weekly basis so that if a student does not attend class, follow up is done in a timely fashion through resident tutors in INTO accommodation or by our student welfare support team. A buddy scheme is underway to support students before and when they arrive at Exeter. Students have access to their Programme Managers on a regular basis for academic matters and have tutorials with their personal tutors each semester to review progress. The tutor responsible for Independent Learning in the Centre is available for consultation with students and there is a dedicated PC cluster with language / skills development software and a more traditional study centre with book-based resources, video and taped materials.
22
One-to-one tutorial support for writing is a feature of all our English Language modules where tutors give feedback on specific assignments at draft stage. There is also a dedicated social programme for INTO students which include visits to places of interest in the region but also events where students can develop their English.
PROGRAMME EVALUATION AND REVIEW The University and INTO draw on a range of data to review the quality of educational provision. The College documents the performance in each of its taught programmes, against a range of criteria on an annual basis through the Annual Programme Monitoring cycle:
Admissions, progression and completion data
In-year Analysis of data
Previous monitoring report
Monitoring of modules
External examiner’s reports and University and College responses (reported to SSLC)
Any Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body/accrediting body or other external reports
Consultation with employers and former students
Staff evaluation
Student evaluation
Programme aims Subject areas are reviewed every five years through a periodic subject review scheme that includes external contributions.
PROGRESSION TO YOUR UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE Throughout your programme you will be supported by the International Liaison Officers, Chloe Sharpe and Katrina Macneill, who will help you through your UCAS application, and give advice and guidance to help ensure that you can continue your studies next year. They can be contacted on a 'drop-in' basis between 09:00 and 12:30 in Room 2.32 or via e-mail: [email protected] You should check your university email every day, as this is the main communication method used by Chloe and Katrina. Watch for an invitation to your Progression Welcome meeting, where the application process will be explained to you. There will be a Welcome Meeting in October to introduce you to the UCAS system.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
All submitted work will be assessed using the University of Exeter Generic Assessment criteria modified as required to reflect the nature of the assignment. The Generic NQF Level 3 Assessment Criteria are detailed on the next page.
Generic Assessment Criteria for NQF Level 3
Assessment categories
0-25% (Weak Fail)
26 -39% (Fail) 40-49% (3rd ) PASS 50-59% (2.2) PASS 60-69% (2.1) MERIT 70-79% (1st) DISTINCTION
80% + (1st) DISTINCTION
Knowledge & Understanding of Subject
Largely inaccurate or irrelevant material. Little or no evidence of factual and conceptual understanding of the subject, or of reading/research.
Shows insufficient level of factual and conceptual understanding of the subject. Little or no evidence of reading/research beyond a partial reproduction of information gained through class contact.
Has developed a basic level of factual and conceptual understanding of the subject. Reading/research is limited to that gained through class contact.
Some evidence that understanding has been enhanced through wider reading, but is still limited to basic texts.
Has developed a sound understanding of the subject appropriate to this level. There is evidence of wider reading which goes beyond that gained from tutor contact.
Has developed a broad factual and conceptual understanding of the subject relative to the level through extensive reading.
Has developed an exceptionally broad factual and conceptual understanding of the subject relative to the level through extensive reading.
Cognitive/ Intellectual Skills (e.g. analysis and synthesis; logic and argument; analytical reflection; organisation and communication of ideas and evidence)
No evidence of analysis. Unsubstantiated opinions.
Work is entirely or almost entirely descriptive, showing little or no evidence of analysis. Has accepted information uncritically. Unsubstantiated opinions usually present.
There is some evidence of analysis and evaluation but work is mainly descriptive with an uncritical acceptance of information, and unsubstantiated opinions may be evident. Lack of logical development of an argument.
Better understanding of the subject has enabled the student to analyse information using simple logic. On balance the work is still descriptive.
Intelligent attempt at analysing and evaluating information. Well argued with appropriate amount of evidence, substantiated opinions are given.
Has analysed and evaluated information using defined techniques & principles. Can collate and categorise ideas and information; can select what is relevant to support analysis and evaluation and develop a coherent argument, appropriate to the
Has an exceptional ability to analyse and evaluate information. Able to collate, categorise ideas and information with fluency and insight. Capable of developing and sustaining a coherent argument that is exceptional for this level. Has
24
level. Has developed an early critical approach to information.
developed a critical approach to information.
Use of Research-informed Literature (including referencing, appropriate academic conventions and academic honesty)
No evidence of ability to relate theory to practice.
Little or no evidence of ability to relate theory to practice. Little or no reference to research-informed literature.
Shows a limited understanding of the application of research-informed literature or attempt to apply knowledge across situations. Responses may not be meaningful. Poor understanding of academic practice with regard to citations and bibliographies
Reasonable attempt to apply understanding of the application of research-informed literature to other contexts. Responses start to be meaningful. Some weaknesses in the understanding of academic practice; with regard to citations and bibliographies
Able to apply knowledge of research-informed literature to different contexts and generate a range of responses to given situations. Generally good understanding of academic practice, through competent mostly accurate in-text citation and bibliography
Can generate a range of appropriate responses to given problems, some of which may be innovative; good understanding of academic practice through reference to and application of research –informed literature, and accurate in-text citation and bibliography
Can generate a range of effective responses to given problems, some of which may demonstrate innovation and considerable insight that are unusual at this level; exceptionally good reference to and application of research –informed literature. Mastery of academic practice, through consistently accurate in-text citation and bibliography.
25
Skills for Life and Employment (e.g. Research-related skills; written, graphical and oral communication skills; numeracy; group working; problem-solving; practical and professional skills)
Unstructured and/or incoherent. Markedly poor English and/or very inappropriate style. Citations and bibliography incorrectly given or missing. May be seriously deficient in quantity. No qualities and transferable skills required for employment are demonstrated.
Structure is very weak or lacking. Material is incoherent. Serious or extensive mistakes in grammar or syntax. Very immature style. Demonstrates 1 or 2 qualities and transferable skills required for employment.
Structure is weak and/or inconsistent and lacking in sequential development. Mistakes in grammar or syntax. Immature style. Citations and bibliography poorly or inconsistently presented. Demonstrates few qualities and transferable skills required for employment.
Structure lacks coherence and mistakes in presentation are evident. Demonstrates some qualities and transferable skills required for employment.
Structure is coherent and logical showing progression to the argument. There are few mistakes in presentation or citation. Demonstrates qualities and transferable skills required for employment.
Well-organised presentation which develops flow and progression in a well-structured argument. Syntax/grammar indicates an appropriate level of maturity. Demonstrates a broad range of qualities and transferable skills required for employment.
Exceptionally well-organised presentation which develops flow and progression in a well-structured argument. Syntax and grammar indicate a high level of maturity. Demonstrates an excellent range of qualities and transferable skills required for employment.