University of Wales MBA VALIDATION SUBMISSION DOCUMENT By IBAT College Swords 14
th October 2010
IBAT COLLEGE DUBLIN
MBA
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Academic Year
2012/2013
MBA Student Handbook - Academic Year 2012/2013
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Table of Contents
WELCOME NOTE ................................................................................................................................................ 4
1 IBAT COLLEGE DUBLIN ....................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 GENERAL ENQUIRIES ................................................................................................................................ 5 1.2 ACADEMIC ENQUIRIES .............................................................................................................................. 5 1.3 THIRD LEVEL ACADEMIC SKILLS .............................................................................................................. 5
2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ENROLMENT .................................................................................. 6
3 STUDENT SERVICES AND SUPPORTS ............................................................................................... 6
3.1 MBA PROGRAMME TEAM ........................................................................................................................ 6 3.2 LIBRARY ................................................................................................................................................... 7 3.3 CAREERS SERVICE .................................................................................................................................... 7 3.4 IT FACILITIES ........................................................................................................................................... 8 3.5 MOODLE ................................................................................................................................................... 8 3.6 LEARNING AUGMENTATION ...................................................................................................................... 9 3.7 REGISTRATION .......................................................................................................................................... 9 3.8 COUNTER SERVICES .................................................................................................................................. 9
3.8.1 Application for the following documents: ....................................................................................... 9 3.9 ATTENDANCE RECORDS.......................................................................................................................... 10
3.9.1 Examinations ................................................................................................................................ 10 3.9.2 Examination results ...................................................................................................................... 10 3.9.3 Examination Dates ....................................................................................................................... 10
4 LECTURE/ASSESSMENT ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS ....................................................... 11
4.1 ATTENDANCE POLICY ............................................................................................................................. 11 4.2 ABSENCE PROCEDURES .......................................................................................................................... 11
5 MBA PROGRAMME OVERVIEW ....................................................................................................... 12
5.1 PROGRAMME OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................ 12 5.2 PROGRAMME AIMS ................................................................................................................................. 12 5.3 LEARNING OUTCOMES ............................................................................................................................ 13 5.4 LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGIES ................................................................................................. 16 5.5 ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES ...................................................................................................................... 16
6 STUDENT ASSESSMENT ...................................................................................................................... 16
6.1 OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................................. 16 6.2 PURPOSE OF ASSESSMENT ...................................................................................................................... 16 6.3 GENERAL ASSESSMENT CRITERIA .......................................................................................................... 17 6.4 POLICY ON SUBMISSION OF ASSIGNMENTS ............................................................................................. 17
7 PROCEDURE FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS ................................................................. 18
7.1 EXTENSIONS ........................................................................................................................................... 18 7.2 REFERRALS PROCEDURE AND COMPENSATION/CONDONEMENT PATTERN ............................................. 18 7.3 DETAILS OF APPEALS PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................ 18
8 POLICY OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY WITHIN IBAT COLLEGE DUBLIN ............................... 20
8.1 DUPLICATE SUBMISSION ......................................................................................................................... 21 8.2 CHEATING ON EXAMINATIONS ................................................................................................................ 21 8.3 FALSE CITATION ..................................................................................................................................... 21 8.4 PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF ACADEMIC STANDARDS ......................................................................... 22
8.4.1 Policy Details ............................................................................................................................... 22 8.5 APPEALS ................................................................................................................................................. 23
9 EQUALITY AND HARASSMENT ........................................................................................................ 24
9.1 SEXUAL HARASSMENT............................................................................................................................ 24
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9.2 BULLYING ............................................................................................................................................... 24 9.3 REPORTING HARASSMENT OR BULLYING INCIDENTS .............................................................................. 24 9.4 INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS ............................................................................................................ 25 9.5 DISCIPLINING THE OFFENDER ................................................................................................................. 25
10 OTHER POINTS OF NOTE ................................................................................................................... 26
10.1 DATA PROTECTION ............................................................................................................................ 26 10.2 PURPOSE OF DATA PROTECTION ........................................................................................................ 26 10.3 COPYRIGHT ........................................................................................................................................ 26 10.4 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY .................................................................................................................. 26 10.5 PRIVACY POLICY................................................................................................................................ 26 10.6 PERSONAL DATA ................................................................................................................................ 27
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Welcome Note
Dear Student,
Welcome to IBAT College Dublin. Thank you for choosing IBAT for your MBA programme -
I hope you will have a great learning experience with us. You have enrolled on a much
sought after course and I trust that you will find it challenging, stimulating and exciting.
This handbook is designed to give you an overview of the College, the MBA Programme and
in particular the learning and support facilities available in IBAT College Dublin.
Apart from academic endeavours, going to College has much to offer in the sporting, cultural
and social spheres. I encourage you to make the most of what is on offer. I trust that as well
as developing your business and managerial skills you will develop new interests, make new
contacts and broaden your horizons by the end of your programme of study.
Wishing you every success on your MBA programme.
_______________
Rory Byrne
Director of MBA Programme
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1 IBAT College Dublin
IBAT was established in May 2004 and has always strived to create the best learner-centric
environment for all its students and to provide a rounded quality education that will maximise
their career opportunities. Over the last eight years IBAT has received accreditations from
over ten Awarding Bodies. Since its inception IBAT College Dublin has been keen to
differentiate itself as a provider of high quality Higher Education. IBAT College Dublin is
committed to providing an education service consistent with the aims outlined in the 1999
Qualification (Education and Training) Act. This Act espoused among other things the
establishment of consistent standards in education and training, the promotion of quality,
increasing access, transfer and progression opportunities and being able to understand and
compare qualifications at home and abroad.
1.1 General Enquiries
Issues relating to finance, student records, class scheduling, examination scheduling, library
access, professional development, complaints, and concerns should be in the first instance be
directed to the Administration Office. The Administration Office can be contacted as follows:
09.00 – 17.30 Monday – Friday
Contact Details:
Tel: (01) 8075055
Fax: (01) 8075056
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ibat.ie
1.2 Academic Enquiries
Any questions relating to subject content, comprehension, examination content, and student
progress should be directed initially to your lecturer at the beginning of the course or during
class time. Outside of class times academic inquiries should be directed to the Administration
Office unless an arrangement to contact the lecturer directly has been made. Where necessary
you will be referred to the appropriate contact for your inquiry.
1.3 Third Level Academic Skills
It is not unusual to experience some difficulties with Third Level education. There is,
however, a well-developed infrastructure for helping students within the Institute and it is
important to remember that you should never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Remember, we are here to help.
Familiarise yourself from the beginning with the facilities and resources available in
the Department and the library.
You must learn how to organise and plan your time. Steady, regular working is always
more productive than the last-minute rush.
Don‘t leave assignments to the last minute. This will lead to work accumulating to
unmanageable levels.
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If you encounter material you don‘t understand, make a note of it and ask your
lecturer/tutor to explain it to you.
Study your lecture notes soon after your lecture as this aids retention – certainly within
the same week
Make a list of things that need to be done and give priority to some over others
Invest in a diary and folders to create your own filing system
2 Terms and Conditions of Enrolment
All courses are run subject to sufficient applications. When a course is under subscribed and
does not commence we can transfer you to an alternative course or issue a full refund of fees
paid
A refund less an administrative fee of €250 will be given to candidates who withdraw their
application up to seven working days prior to course commencement.
Course fees cover the cost of tuition only. Registration and examination fees for professional
bodies are payable directly to these institutions. Students will be advised of these details on
course commencement. Failure to pay registration and examination fees by notified dates will
result in students not being eligible to sit examinations.
3 Student Services and Supports
It is not unusual to experience some difficulties with third level education, especially at
Masters Level. There is, however, a well-developed infrastructure for helping students within
IBAT College Dublin and it is important to remember that you should never be afraid to ask
for help if and when you need it. Remember, we are all here to help.
3.1 MBA Programme Team
Linda Moran Academic Director [email protected]
Lisa Donaldson MBA Programme Leader [email protected]
Rosemary Deneher Academic Coordinator [email protected]
Louise Hill Librarian [email protected]
Geraldine Nolan Administrative Manager [email protected]
Maggie Silva International Student Support [email protected]
Mark Dean IT Manager [email protected]
Michelle Cullen Careers Officer [email protected]
Grainne Hurley MBA Admissions Officer [email protected]
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3.2 Library
Contact Details: City Centre: Louise Hill email: [email protected]
Swords: Siobhan Berg email: [email protected]
The Library and Information Service in IBAT College Dublin incorporates a library in City
Centre campus and a repository in Swords, both of which provides students with access to
core, recommended and supplementary reading materials for all programmes. All of the
electronic resources, e-book collection, e-journals and an extensive portfolio of electronic
databases are available to students on and off campus, 24 hours a day. The library portal
provides students with an interactive platform where they can search the library catalogue for
titles and texts and offers a categorised easy-to-use linked information facility.
The library provides access to:
Electronic resources and e-books
Wireless network
Printing facilities
Photocopying facilitates
Study rooms for collaborative study
Library Resources for learners with disabilities
IBAT College Dublin employs a dedicated informational skills librarian who runs a number
of classes during term time on how to use the library and its resources, how to search material
online and how to evaluate and use information safely.
The log-in details that you will need to access the various library and IT resources in the
College will be emailed to you prior to course commencement. A comprehensive guide to
using the library resources forms part of student induction and is available on the library
portal in Moodle.
3.3 Careers Service
Contact: Michelle Cullen (01) 8075055 Ext 559 [email protected]
The careers service offers support and advice to help students make informed career
decisions, set realistic career goals and develop the skills necessary to accomplish their goals.
The service aims to improve the career prospects of all IBAT College Dublin students.
Services offered include:
Student Career Development Portal
Careers Portal
Careers Fairs
CV and Interview Workshops
Please visit the IBAT careers portal in Moodle for further information.
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3.4 IT Facilities
Contact: Mark Dean (01) 8075055 Ext 515 [email protected]
Arthur Castro (01) 8075055 Ext 516 [email protected]
IT facilities for students comprise four computer labs; two in the city centre campus and two
in the Swords Campus. There are two open access areas with PCs which students can access
at all times during building opening hours and PCs for students are also provided in the two
IBAT libraries. There is a wireless network and all lecture rooms are equipped with a
projector, PC, multimedia and sound facilities.
Prior to commencement each student is provided with their own login account for accessing
the student learning portal. Once you login you can access numerous support services
including;
Access to the IBAT Library
Access to Moodle
Access to your personal class timetable
Access to your attendance record online and in real-time
Access to the IBAT forum
Access to their assessment details which includes real-time results
Each student automatically gets a Google Apps account when they login to the learning portal
which provides free communication and collaboration services including;
Gmail – Providing all students with 25 gigabytes of storage per account.
Google Talk – Lecturers and students can call or send instant messages to each other
for free.
Google Calendar - students can organise their schedules and share events, meetings
and entire calendars.
Google Docs – Provides learner with 25 gigabytes of storage for storing and sharing
files from any computer inside or outside the College.
3.5 Moodle
IBAT College Dublin makes extensive use of the Moodle course management system,
designed to provide you with a range of course materials that will enhance and support your
learning. All course related materials will be available on this facility and include; course
lecture notes, course syllabi, course timetables and assessment and examinations schedules.
MBA students also have access to the MBA Central area – a dedicated area for course
materials, information and support for all of the MBA modules.
Students will be provided with an IBAT username and password on commencement of their
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programme. Moodle can then be accessed from any PC with internet access. The IBAT
student user guide is available at induction and this information can be found within the
student portal on the IBAT College Dublin website www.ibat.ie/moodle.
3.6 Learning Augmentation
Guest Lecturers
The MBA experience in IBAT College Dublin includes opportunities to meet influential
business leaders and managers who will share their expertise and insight with the students.
Over the course of the MBA programme, students will benefit from dynamic guest lecturers
from a range of public and private sector business leaders who are working at the forefront of
their fields.
The MBA programme includes a number of organised networking events and seminars – we
highly recommend you attend these events.
3.7 Registration
Every student at IBAT College Dublin is required to register at the start of each academic
session. Registration is the formal process of becoming a student of the college. It enables the
student to attend lectures and sit examinations and register with the Library. It is primarily a
financial process of paying fees as well as ensuring that the college holds accurate and up-to-
date information for you.
On completion of the registration process, your student status will be updated on the
College‘s registration system. This in turn will enable you to access college facilities such as
the computer facilities, college library and the course management system Moodle.
3.8 Counter Services
The Student Administration Counter is service where students can speak to someone
regarding certain student administration services at the college and obtain various documents
for your requirements.
3.8.1 Application for the following documents:
Requests should be submitted to Administration in hard copy, application forms are available
at Reception. The requested document will be ready for collection at the Reception of the
campus the student is studying at. In other words, students registered for study in Swords
campus must request and collect Letters from Swords Reception while City Centre students
must request and collect Letters from City Centre campus. Any Letters requested will be
available at the relevant Reception within 3 days of the application being submitted.
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3.8.1.1 Holiday Letters
Required by non EU students who wish to leave Ireland during the College‘s holiday period
or who for personal reasons have to travel outside Ireland during the academic year.
3.8.1.2 Exit Letters
Required by non EU students who decide to cease their studies with IBAT College Dublin,
this letter is required by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).
3.8.1.3 Visa Letters
Required by the GNIB in order to issue a student with their Student Visa Card
3.8.1.4 Visa Extension Letters
Non EU student visas are usually issued for a period of one calendar year. On completion of
the year the student is required to re-submit a visa application to GNIB. This letter confirms
that the student is attending a course of study at IBAT College Dublin and also confirms the
student‘s attendance record.
3.9 Attendance Records
Attendance records will be published fortnightly on the course management system Moodle.
Attendance is expected for all timetabled hours. Timetables are presented at the start of term
and in practice there is little change to these hours during the academic year. Students should
familiarise themselves with their timetable and ensure travel, work and other arrangements
are made to enable them to be on time and present for class. Please see separate section for
more important detail on attendance.
3.9.1 Examinations
The Examinations Office deals with the organisation and scheduling of exams. In addition,
the Examinations Office also deals with the processing of marks and classifications and the
maintenance of the student record. Please see the section on Examinations for the particular
programme that you are studying.
3.9.2 Examination results
Assessment & examination results will be published on the student portal system. Dates and
times of publication will be issued in advance. Under no circumstances will examination
results be given over the phone.
3.9.3 Examination Dates
Examination and assessment submission dates will be published on the student notice board
and on Moodle. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are familiar with the up to
date times and locations for examinations.
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4 Lecture/Assessment Attendance Requirements
Student attendance at all lectures, assessments and practical workshops as stipulated in the
subject syllabi for the course in which they have enrolled is compulsory.
4.1 Attendance Policy
There is a direct relationship between student performance and attendance at lectures. Poor
attendance may result in failure to achieve a minimum pass and will entail a repeat of the
subject. Attendance records for each student are maintained on the IBAT College Dublin
student management computer system PearlWay. It is the student‘s responsibility to ensure
that they attend classes on time and that their attendance is recorded on the attendance sheet
provide in each class. It is recommended that students should be in the classroom 5 minutes
before the lecture commences.
Examination attendance and the return of course assignments are recorded on PearlWay.
Attendance records are reviewed on a monthly basis by the course Director.
Students who persistently fail to attend classes, do not sit examinations or do not submit
assignments will be requested to attend an interview with the College‘s Academic Board. The
Institute reserves the right to remove persistent offenders from their course of study. The
PearlWay system will be updated accordingly. The student‘s academic record will be update
and this will be taken into account by the Examination Board when reviewing examination
results or student appeals.
It should be noted that many of the accreditation bodies take satisfactory attendance rates into
consideration as part of the examination procedure.
Non-European Union International students who are resident in Ireland on a student visa are
required to study full time (15 hours per week) and to maintain an attendance of a minimum
of 85% in all classes.
IBAT College Dublin is required by the GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau) to
monitor student attendance on a fortnightly basis and to report to the GNIB any student
whose attendance is below this threshold.
The GNIB may suspend or revoke a student‘s visa for failure to meet the attendance criteria
(85% attendance at all lectures)
4.2 Absence Procedures
If you are unable to attend a lecture or seminar for whatever reason, please call or email the
Administration Office using the contact details below. On your return to the College, please
complete an absence form.
If you know in advance that you will not be able to attend a lecture (e.g. medical
appointment), please fill out a copy of the absence form and send a copy to the
Administration Office. You will also need to let your module tutor know.
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Absence forms can be returned in person, by post, or electronically via email. Absence forms
are available from the College‘s Administration Office
5 MBA Programme Overview
5.1 Programme Overview
IBAT College Dublin is delighted to have Validated Provision with the University of Wales
for the MBA programme. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) may be gained by
studying either in full-time mode (1 calendar year) or part-time mode (approx. 2 academic
years of study).
The programme covers a multi-disciplinary area which includes modules such as strategic
marketing, financial management, operations management, innovation management, and
strategic leadership and decision making. The overall aim of the programme is to educate
individuals as managers and improve the quality of management as a profession.
The programme aims to develop in individuals an integrated and critical awareness and
understanding of management and organisations. The programme was developed to meet the
needs of middle/senior managers in the running of their businesses and facilitate their
progression to higher level roles within their organisation.
5.2 Programme Aims
To enable the advanced study of organisations, their management and the changing
external context in which they operate.
Prepare individuals for and/or development of a career in business and management by
developing skills at a professional or equivalent level, or as preparation for research or
further study in the area.
Development of the ability to apply knowledge and understanding of business and
management to complex issues, both systematically and creatively, to improve business
and management practice.
Enhancement of lifelong learning skills and personal development so as to be able to
work with self-direction and originality and to contribute to business and society at
large.
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5.3 Learning Outcomes
The programme learning outcomes will be delivered via the core modules of the programme. Each module specification contains six learning
outcomes which mirror the format and language of the programme learning outcomes detailed below.
On completion of the programme students will be able to:
Num Domain Learning Outcome Linkages to course content
LO1 Knowledge Understand the concept of leadership through strategic management
demonstrate sound knowledge and understanding of the concepts,
theories and disciplines which underpin business and management and
their selected sphere of study. Able to engage in a systematic
identification, analysis and evaluation of all the main variables in a
wide range of relevant literature. Further, be able to integrate new
knowledge with previous learning and experiences.
People Leadership and Management
Financial Analysis
Strategic Marketing
Operations Management
Strategic Leadership and Business
Transformation
Innovation
Strategic HRM
International Business Context
LO 2 Research Conduct research into subject specific issues and gather and evaluate
evidence/information from a range of sources. Produce a
comprehensive, logical and fully tailored research methodological
debate.
Research requirements are included as a
separate learning outcome in all module
specifications. Additionally, many
assessment vehicles, both formative and
summative, require students to conduct
independent research and solve business
and management problems.
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Num Domain Learning Outcome Linkages to course content
LO3 Critical Thinking Demonstrate cognitive skills of critical thinking, analysis and
synthesis; and demonstrate the ability to analyse, synthesise and solve
complex unstructured business problems in unpredictable contexts.
Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make
sound judgements in the absence of complete data. Further, show high
levels of personal judgement, interpretation and understanding –
making explicit that there are elements of uncertainty and self
regulation in critical thinking.
The cognitive skills of critical thinking,
analysis and synthesis are included as a
separate learning outcome in all module
specifications. Individual modules will
allow students to identify and challenge
assumptions, evaluate contemporary
theories and models and solve complex
unstructured business problems in
unpredictable contexts.
L04 Argument
Development
Able to use established valid evidence to develop coherent, logical
argument(s).There is consistent exposition of appropriate
argumentation. Argument used as a tool to develop knowledge. The
argument(s) constructed are fully persuasive exploring a wide range of
complex problems. The limitations of the argument will be clearly
identified. The student will be able to offer well founded, cautious,
personal interpretations - with original insights.
The ability to use established valid
evidence to develop coherent, logical
argument(s) are included as a separate
learning outcome in all module
specifications. Individual modules will
allow students to identify and challenge
assumptions, evaluate contemporary
theories and models and develop and
present arguments in a coherent manner.
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Num Domain Learning Outcome Linkages to course content
LO5 Communication Demonstrate the ability to express complex and sophisticated ideas
fluently and comprehensively at a high level. There is a high level of
empathy with the intended audience. The communication style adopted
complements argument development and critical thinking throughout.
Able to communicate both orally and in writing, effectively and
appropriately, using a range of formats and media. Communicate
outcomes clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Further,
able to effectively communicate results of research to peers.
Communication requirements are included
as a separate learning outcome in all
module specifications. Additionally, varied
assessment methods, both formative and
summative, will ensure that students are
practiced in the production of
presentations, academic essays, business
reports, magazine articles, graphical and
statistical data etc.
LO6 Key Skills Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving
problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at
a professional or equivalent level; exhibit other subject specific and
transferable skills including creativity, team working, numeracy and
quantitative, ICT for business applications, negotiating and reflect
through self appraisal. Acquire the independent learning ability
required for continuing professional development. Be able to integrate
their learning from a range of subject areas to understand and address
complex situations holistically
Key skill requirements are included as a
separate learning outcome in all module
specifications.
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5.4 Learning and Teaching Strategies
The learning and teaching strategy for the MBA scheme is explicitly designed to contribute to
the achievement of intended learning outcomes which are clearly expressed at programme
and module level. There is an integrated teaching, learning and assessment strategy which is
explicit and which demonstrates the appropriateness of the learning and teaching methods
used in relation to the intended learning outcomes and skills being developed, linked to the
mode of delivery and the student profile. All modes are expected to develop an independent
learning culture and to be exposed to a challenging learning experience.
5.5 Assessment Strategies
The assessment process for the MBA programme reflects both the aims and learning
objectives of the programme and establishes clear links with the underlying philosophy of the
learning and teaching strategy. This requires the use of a wide range of assessment methods
involving an appropriate balance between formative and summative methods.
Summative assessment is guided by the need to measure student achievement in relation to
the aims and objectives specified for the programme and the specified learning outcomes of
the individual modules.
Formative assessment is guided by the need to provide students with developmental
feedback. Of particular importance is feed forward to enhance student dissertation
performance. This type of formative assessment encourages reflective practice, develops
academic and personal skills and builds student confidence. Formative assessment is in
evidence in all modules throughout the programme, but is seen as particularly important in
the first semester (full-time)/ first year (part-time) of the MBA programme. Please see the
summary of the Programme Structure section below.
6 Student Assessment
6.1 Overview
Students who are enrolled on a University of Wales validated programme such as this MBA
programme in IBAT College Dublin are properly regarded by the University as being as
much students of the University as those attending programmes of study at any one of the
University‘s Accredited Institutions in Wales. As such the assessment and examination of
your programme is conducted in accordance with regulations, academic protocols and other
guidelines issued by the University of Wales.
6.2 Purpose of Assessment
The purpose of assessment is to measure student knowledge, understanding or skills.
Assessments in their different forms allow for students to demonstrated that they have met
the intended learning outcomes of the module / programme of study and achieved the
standard required at the point of assessment for the award / award of credit being undertaken.
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6.3 General Assessment Criteria
In your written work the following general assessment criteria will apply you should:
Adhere closely to guidelines given by the Lecturer
Focus clearly on the issues, themes and problems
Refer to theory in relevant disciplines
Integrate theory and practice
Structure your work logically to ensure a coherent whole
Present arguments and draw conclusions
Show evidence of reading and research such as authors, books, journals, observations
Ensure work is well presented
6.4 Policy on Submission of Assignments
Assignments, both written and in other forms are an integral aspect of the assessment strategy
for modules and courses offered in IBAT College Dublin. The College, on the direction of
the individual lecturer sets specific deadlines for the submission of each assignment for each
module.
Students are required to submit assignments by the due deadline using the submission
requirements specified for that assignment. A detailed assessment calendar which provides
information on the due dates for submission of assignments is issued to students prior to
commencement of a module.
Students must submit their assignments directly a member of the Reception team in their
campus of study and to www.turnitin.com. Each assignment must be accompanied by a
completed cover sheet which must be signed by both the student and the member of staff
accepting the submission. Assignments/scripts are stored in a secure location and lecturers
are notified when assignments are ready for collection. All assignments and exams scripts
must be ‗signed out‘ before being removed from the office by the lecturer. Assignments and
scripts are marked by the lecturer within the specified time (normally two weeks) and
returned to the administrative office in alphabetical order with a completed marks sheet from
Moodle. Scripts are then doubled marked internally as part of the College‘s internal
verification process.
Results are uploaded onto Moodle where students can log in securely and view their
individual results. Students are made aware that results at this stage are provisional and are
subject to confirmation by the External Exam Board. Confirmed results are not released until
the External Examination Board meeting is held.
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7 Procedure for the Assessment of Students
Students are required to submit all course work on or before the due date. It is each student‘s
responsibility to organise themselves to submit assignments by the due date in the prescribed
manner. Students should retain a copy of all assignments.
Assignments submitted after the due date will attract a marking penalty unless an extension
has been granted (see information under ‗Extensions‘ below).
7.1 Extensions
An extension may be granted in circumstances where a written request for an extension is
received no less than one week before the original submission date and an acceptable reason
(e.g. certified illness) is given by the student.
Extensions will be considered only where written application is submitted to the lecturer in
advance of the deadline with supporting evidence as to why the extension is warranted (e.g.
medical certificate).
Technical problems such as computer failure or viruses are not deemed legitimate reasons for
late submission or non-submission of work.
If an extension is neither sought nor granted and work is not submitted it will be considered
by the College that a student has failed that component of the module. Students must pass
each individual assessment in all modules in order to progress in the Programme.
7.2 Referrals Procedure and Compensation/Condonement Pattern
Students are normally required to complete successfully the full assessment programme for
that particular level before being permitted to proceed to the next level of study. Students
who pass all modules will automatically progress to the following year/ level of study. The
cases of those who have failed some modules will be considered individually and in the light
of the course regulations. These can include the following:
Trailing: which allows students to carry forward (or ‗trail‘) failed modules to the following
year (the UoW advises that no more than 40 credits can be trailed from one level to another).
Compensation: means that a student is awarded a pass grade, in exceptional circumstances,
for work which was not quite of the required standard. The practice of compensation would
only be operated in exceptional circumstances as agreed by the internal regulations.
Condonement: means that a student would not be penalised in terms of progression or award
for failure in elements of assessment equivalent to a stipulated credit value. Condonement of
modules at master‘s level is not permitted.
7.3 Details of Appeals Procedures
The Appeals Procedure consists of two distinct stages;
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(1) Verification – an application to the College for verification of a result.
(2) Appeal – an application for appeal to the University of Wales (following completion
of the verification process).
Candidates are only entitled to appeal against a decision reached following the process of
verification. Appeals should be sent in full and in writing to the Director of MBA Programme
of IBAT College Dublin not later than one month after the verification of the students result.
The College, consistent with University of Wales guidelines on same, will only consider
appeals which are based on one or both of the following grounds:
Exceptional personal circumstances such as bereavement or medical grounds.
Defects or irregularities in an assessment, such as an error in an examination paper.
In both cases specific criteria need to be met for the appeal to be considered and these criteria
are outlined in full in the University of Wales Verification and Appeals Procedure Document.
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8 Policy of Academic Integrity within IBAT College Dublin
All students are provided with IBAT College Dublin student cards containing photographic
identification on registration. Students are required to carry their card on their person and
may be asked to produce them by a staff member while on campus. Students must display
their student card at their examination desk and sign all exam scripts and assessment
submissions declaring them as being their own work.
IBAT College Dublin has established standards and procedures governing violations of
academic integrity. Violation of the standards of academic integrity hinders student learning
and development, and may compromise the fairness of grades and the academic reputation of
the college and students. It also affects the overall student body and the trust between
lecturers and students. Plagiarism violates the ethical and academic standards of the college
and will not be tolerated at IBAT College Dublin. Students will be held responsible for such
violations, even when unintentional. To avoid unintended plagiarism, students should consult
with their lecturers about when and how to document their sources.
The following categories of academic integrity are considered:
Plagiarism
Duplicate Submission
Cheating in Examinations
False Citation
Plagiarism Definition
Students are considered to have plagiarised when they do not credit the sources of their
writing—the words, information, ideas, or opinions of others.
This may include the following:
An entire essay written by someone else e.g. purchased or published from a website or
unpublished essays written by others
The exact words of someone else without quotation marks around those words.
A paraphrase of someone else‘s words without documentation. This form of plagiarism
includes reordering or replacing someone else‘s words while keeping the main idea or
the central information.
A summary of someone else‘s words or ideas without documentation. This form of
plagiarism includes using some, few, or even none of the original words to reproduce a
shorter version of some or all of someone else‘s ideas or text.
Undocumented use of information from someone else. In this kind of plagiarism, a
student takes information that she found in a particular source and presents it as her
own knowledge or as common knowledge. A student must document information that
appears in one or only a few specialized sources, is the work or idea of a particular
person, or represents a controversial stance on a topic. A student need not document
information that is common knowledge.
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Undocumented use of information that someone else has collected. A student must
document research aids such as web-based ―research‖ services and annotated
bibliographies.
The sequence of ideas, arrangement of material, pattern of thought, or visual
representation of information (images, tables, charts, or graphs) from someone else.
This form of plagiarism includes any of these textual features even if students present
the ideas or information in their own words.
Students are accomplices to plagiarism if they do any of the following:
They allow a fellow student to submit their work as the student‘s own, or they write an
essay for another student and allow that student to submit it as his or her own.
They do not report a fellow student who plagiarises.
They contribute an essay to a collection of essays (among friends or at a web site) that
they know provides opportunity for other students to plagiarize.
8.1 Duplicate Submission
Submitting one work in identical or similar form to fulfil more than one requirement without
prior approval of the relevant faculty members is a breach of academic integrity. This
includes using a paper for more than one course or submitting material previously used to
meet another requirement.
8.2 Cheating on Examinations
Cheating on examinations by copying material from another person or source or by gaining
any advance knowledge of the content or topic of an examination without the permission of
the instructor is another breach of academic integrity. Cheating is the use or attempted use of
fraud, deception or misrepresentation in any academic exercise.
Examples of cheating may include:
Use of unauthorised notes or material during an exam
Exchanging information with another student during an exam.
Having another student take an exam for you
Tampering with an exam after it has been returned, then claiming that the instructor
made a grading error
Submitting as your own work a paper written by someone else
Undisclosed submission of the same paper for different courses
8.3 False Citation
Listing an author, title, or page reference as the source for obtained material, when the
material actually came from another source or from another location within that source, is a
breach of academic integrity. This includes attributing fabricated material to a real or
fictitious source.
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8.4 Penalties for Violation of Academic Standards
8.4.1 Policy Details
IBAT College Dublin have set out the following policy:
1. Where a lecturer suspects that a student has violated academic standards they will first
consult with the Director of MBA Programme . This will be done in a way that minimises
disruption and embarrassment to the student at all times.
2. Where evidence warrants an accusation of an offence, the student will be invited to meet
with the subject lecturer and the Director of MBA Programme. The lecturer should explain
the basis for the suspicions and ask the student to respond to these suspicions with reasoning
and with evidence. This evidence may come from a student‘s research (sources and notes on
sources) or drafts of work submitted. It is a student‘s responsibility to keep all materials used
in their work. The accused student may request, and will be granted, up to one week to
prepare his or her response.
3. In cases where the student admits to plagiarism or where proof of plagiarism is established,
this proof will be discussed with the student, calling the student‘s attention to the moral and
academic implications of plagiarism. A decision of guilt or innocence will be based on
consideration of the evidence in the case. Prior accusations or other mitigating circumstances
may also be taken into account in making the decision. In consultation with the Director of
MBA Programme and Academic Director academic sanctions will be imposed. If there is
disagreement the ruling of the Academic Council shall prevail.
The minimum penalty for plagiarism in IBAT College Dublin is a fail grade for the subject.
Additional sanctions may include:
Official warning in writing that continuation or repetition of violation or inappropriate
behaviour may result in a more severe sanction
Student may receive a formal written warning that the conduct is in violation of college
policies and the student's standing as a student is in jeopardy
Student status may be terminated at the college for no less than the remainder of the
semester
Student status may be terminated at the college permanently or for an indefinite period
of time.
A decision to suspend or expel the student will be taken in consultation with the
Academic Council. Academic sanctions will be determined within 10 working days of
the initial accusation being made, unless the student consents in writing to an extension
of this time. The determination or recommendation shall be made in writing to the
student with appropriate members of the Institute informed.
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8.5 Appeals
In all cases, both the accused student and the lecturer bringing the charge may appeal the
decision. This appeal must be submitted in writing. Where an appeal is made, the merits of
each case are weighed by the Academic Committee, which determines the penalty
accordingly.
Where either party requests that a specific member not be asked to hear the case, this request
will be honoured. Documentation of previous violations of academic integrity will form part
of the record in subsequent cases and appeals. During the hearing of the appeal, the lecturer
who brought the original charge will provide information and answer questions. The student
may be accompanied and advised by their mentor or a member of the Institute who may
provide information and answer questions. Decisions will be based on a preponderance of
the evidence and reasons will be provided in writing to all parties.
The Committee has the right to reverse the decision of an earlier hearing or to uphold the
original decision if no new evidence has been presented, if no evidence has been shown to
have been overlooked, and/or if no procedural errors have been shown to have occurred.
Decisions of the Academic Council may be appealed only if new evidence has been found or
if the original hearing overlooked specific evidence or committed procedural errors. All
documents relating to the case will be placed on file where they will remain until the student's
file is destroyed one year after the student graduates.
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9 Equality and Harassment
IBAT College Dublin is committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and students
irrespective of sex, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religious belief, age,
disability, race, colour, nationality or ethnic or national origin, membership of the travelling
community or perceived political belief or affiliation.
Harassment is any act or conduct including physical conduct, spoken words, gestures or the
production, display or circulation of written words, pictures or other material if the action or
conduct is unwelcome to the employee and could reasonably be regarded as offensive,
humiliating or intimidating.
Examples include posting of offensive statements, posters, cartoons in hard copy or on
electronic mail on IBAT College Dublin computer or networks; inappropriate jokes which
may cause offence on the grounds specified above. This definition also includes persistent
intimidation, or humiliation likely to result in another person feeling threatened or which
undermines their dignity and/or integrity.
9.1 Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes solicitation of sexual favours, unwelcome sexual advances, or
other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Examples include sexual jokes; posting of sexually offensive statements, posters, or cartoons
in hard copy or on electronic mail or any other IBAT College Dublin computer or networks;
use of pornographic screens or software, sexual innuendoes, deliberate touching or cornering,
graphic or descriptive comments about a person‘s body or physical appearance. To meet the
definition of harassment or sexual harassment the behaviour must be unwelcome.
9.2 Bullying
Bullying is repeated inappropriate behaviour, direct or indirect, whether verbal, physical or
otherwise conducted by one or more persons against another or others, at the place of study
and/or in the course of studying which could reasonably be regarded as undermining the
individual‘s right to dignity at work. Examples include shouting at, ridiculing, isolating, and
constantly making someone the butt of jokes, the use of any spiteful, vindictive or vengeful
behaviour.
NB:-An isolated incident of the behaviour described in this definition may be an affront to
dignity at work, but as a once off incident is not considered to be bullying.
9.3 Reporting Harassment or Bullying Incidents
Any incident of harassment or bullying by any IBAT College Dublin employee or student or
any other person should be reported promptly to the College Directors or to any other
member of management.
The complainant should make a formal complaint in writing outlining the precise details of
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the incident(s).
The alleged perpetrator(s) should be notified of the allegation(s) and be given a copy of the
complainant‘s statement. They will be given fair opportunity to respond to the allegation(s).
9.4 Investigation of Complaints
Every complaint of harassment or bullying that is reported will be investigated thoroughly,
promptly and in as confidential manner as possible with due respect for the rights of both the
complainant and the alleged harasser.
The purpose of the investigation is to investigate the allegations and will focus on the
complaint. In certain circumstances informal resolution may be appropriate if it‘s with
agreement and solely in the interests of both parties, to alleviate stress and reduce conflict.
Additionally, IBAT College Dublin will not tolerate retaliation against any employee or
student for making a complaint or for cooperating in an investigation. The complainant and
the alleged perpetrator(s) will be informed in writing of the findings of the investigation.
9.5 Disciplining the Offender
Violations of this policy are considered unacceptable conduct. Employees who violate the
policy will be subject to IBAT College Dublin disciplinary guidelines, up to and including
termination. Students who fail to comply with this policy may be expelled from IBAT
College Dublin.
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10 OTHER POINTS OF NOTE
10.1 Data Protection
Data protection is the safeguarding of the privacy rights of individuals in relation to the
processing of personal data, in both paper and electronic format. The terms of the Data
Protection Acts 1988 and 2003 lay down strict rules about the way in which personal data are
collected, accessed, used and disclosed. The terms of the legislation also permit individuals to
access their personal data on request, and confer on individuals the right to have their
personal data amended if found to be incorrect.
10.2 Purpose of Data Protection
The Data Protection Act 1988 and the Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2003 govern the
processing of all personal data. The purpose of the Acts is to safeguard the privacy rights of
individuals regarding the processing of their personal data by those who control such data. In
particular, they provide for the collection and use of data in a responsible way, while
providing against unwanted or harmful uses of the data. You are entitled to view all data held
by IBAT College Dublin pertaining to you.
10.3 Copyright
All materials included on the IBAT College Dublin website is owned by or licensed to IBAT
College Dublin, and all rights are reserved. You must abide by all copyright notices and
restrictions contained on the site.
You may download the site materials only for personal, non-commercial use, and only if you
do not alter the text or remove any trademark, copyright, or other notice displayed on the Site
Materials.
10.4 Limitation of Liability
IBAT College Dublin makes best endeavours to ensure that the information on this site is
correct, we may make changes to the material on the site or to the products and prices
described in it, at any time without notice.
IBAT College Dublin will not accept any liability and responsibility for any loss or damage
incurred by you or any third party connected in any way to the use of information provided
on this site.
10.5 Privacy Policy
The Privacy Policy describes how IBAT College Dublin manages personal data received
from you when you visit the IBAT College Dublin website, discuss or provide information in
a one-to-one interview or by phone conversation. . Please read this Privacy Policy carefully,
because by visiting or using this site or contracting with us, you agree to its terms.
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10.6 Personal Data
We collect your personal data when you ask for information about our courses or study
materials or when you enrol on one of our courses
To process your enquiries, we collect your name, email and postal addresses, daytime
phone/mobile phone number and credit or debit card information.
IBAT College Dublin may use your postal, email addresses or telephone number to send you
information about further courses, which we feel may be of interest to you. If you do not wish
to receive this information, let us know and we will remove your personal details from our
Student Administration System
If your employer has funded your course of study we will provide your course attendance and
examination results with your employer, unless specifically instructed by you not to do so.