HND in Creative Media Production Programme Specification 2015-2016 To be read in conjunction with Module Handbooks Table of Contents Programme Team ..................................................................................................... 1 Introduction to Programme ..................................................................................... 1 The Programme ........................................................................................................ 2 PROGRAMME OF STUDY ........................................... 4 Programme Structure .............................................................................................. 4 Module Structure/Outline ............................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. Higher Level Skills and Abilities ........................................................................... 13 ASSESSMENT ............................................................ 14 Teaching, Learning and Assessment ................................................................... 14 Grading Higher National Modules......................................................................... 15 Summary of Grades ............................................................................................... 15 Assessment and Marking Criteria......................................................................... 16 Calculation of the Qualification Grade ................................................................. 18 Qualification Grades .............................................................................................. 18 Recognition of Prior Learning ............................................................................... 19 Student Responsibilities ....................................................................................... 19 Submission and Marking of Assignments ........................................................... 20 Late Submissions................................................................................................... 20 Plagiarism (Academic Dishonesty)....................................................................... 22 Examination Board................................................................................................. 23 Meeting Programme Requirements ...................................................................... 23 ESSENTIAL INFORMATION ...................................... 24 College Requirements for Attendance ................................................................. 24 Implications of Non-Attendance ........................................................................... 24 Sickness Absence .................................................................................................. 24 Mitigating Circumstances ...................................................................................... 25 Suspension of Studies ........................................................................................... 26 Withdrawal .............................................................................................................. 26 Student Representation and Feedback ................................................................ 26 Student Union ......................................................................................................... 27 Student Support ..................................................................................................... 27 Equality of Opportunity and Safeguarding .......................................................... 29 POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ................................. 30 APPENDIX 1: REQUEST FOR AN EXTENSION .................................................... 31 APPENDIX 2: NOTIFICATION OF EXCEPTIONAL MITIGATING CIRCUMSTANCES (EMC) ...................................................................................... 32 APPENDIX 3: COURSE CALENDAR ..................................................................... 35 APPENDIX 4: ASSESSMENT CALENDAR ............................................................ 36 APPENDIX 5: WEST CHESHIRE COLLEGE HE STUDENT CHARTER ............... 37 4 Programme Team Name Position Neil Borg-Olivier Paul Browne Antony O’Sullivan Craig Murray-Fletcher Faculty Director Programme Leader Lecturer Lecturer Simon Marks Simon Mapletoft Lecturer Lecturer Telephone email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Introduction to Programme Key features Edexcel BTEC Higher Nationals are designed to provide a specialist vocational programme, linked to professional body requirements and National Occupational Standards where appropriate. They offer a strong, sector-related emphasis on practical skills development alongside the development of requisite knowledge and understanding. The qualifications provide a thorough grounding in the key concepts and practical skills required in their sector and their national recognition by employers allows direct progression to employment. A key progression path for Edexcel BTEC HNC and HND learners is to the second or third year of a degree or honours degree programme, depending on the match of the Edexcel BTEC Higher National Modules to the degree programme in question. The Edexcel BTEC HNC and HND in Creative Media Production offer a progression route to the other Higher Educational Institutes and Professional bodies within the Creative Media Sector. Edexcel BTEC Higher Nationals in Business have been developed to focus on: providing education and training for a range of careers in business such as management, administration, personnel, marketing, accounting, and law providing a general qualification which allows flexibility of study to meet local or specialist needs providing specialist options which meet the needs of the major functions in business and allow specialisation with career progression and professional recognition in mind Providing opportunities that emulate real-world industry projects to milestone specific deadlines providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and techniques and attributes essential for successful performance in working life providing opportunities for individuals in employment to achieve a nationally recognised level 4 vocationally specific qualification 1 providing opportunities for learners to gain a nationally recognised vocationally specific qualification to enter employment in business or progress to higher education vocational qualifications such as a full-time degree in business or a related area. This qualification aims to meet the needs of the above rationale by: equipping individuals with knowledge, understanding and skills for success in a range of administrative and management positions in business providing specialist routes of study which relate to individual professions within the business world in which learners are working or intend to seek employment enabling progression to an undergraduate degree or further professional qualification in business or a related area supporting individuals employed or entering employment in the business field developing the individual’s ability in the business field through effective use and combination of the knowledge and skills gained in different parts of the programme developing a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attributes essential for successful performance in working life and thereby enable learners to make an immediate contribution to employment providing flexibility, knowledge, skills and motivation as a basis for future studies and career development in business. Professional body recognition The Edexcel BTEC Higher Nationals in Creative Media Production have been developed with career progression and recognition by professional bodies in mind. It is essential that learners gain the maximum benefit from their programme of study and further details of professional body recognition and exemptions for Edexcel BTEC Higher Nationals can be obtained through www.edexcel.com/quals/hn/Pages/Keydocuments.aspx.in The Programme The course will cover an analysis of the impact of the external operating environment and the need to plan organisational strategies to ensure effective business performance, together with an introduction to the techniques and methods of research. A variety of research methodologies, including the opportunity to carry out interventionist or action research will be considered and a project report based on independent research into an area of professional business practice of interest completed. The ways in which finance is managed within a business organisation will be considered, the different sources of finance evaluated and the use of financial information to make decisions studied. Also included will be consideration of decisions relating to pricing and investment, as well as budgeting, together with techniques for the evaluation of financial performance. 2 Optional Curriculum There is a choice of pathways which can be followed in specialist areas which may include the following: Games Development pathway This pathway will give learners an appreciation of financial planning and constraints. It will cover the collection and analysis of cost data for management purposes, budgetary planning and control, the preparation of financial statements for different types of business and legal and regulatory provisions, the accounting and management control systems of a business and an evaluation of their effectiveness, and the taxation of individuals and limited companies. Broadcast Journalism pathway This pathway will cover the main functions of management including facilitating and managing change and providing a vision for the future; managing financial resources, physical resources, technology, the management of information and knowledge and providing products and services; building relationships, developing networks and partnerships and managing people; and leading business operations and meeting customer needs. 3 PROGRAMME OF STUDY Programme Structure Unit No. QCF Level Name Credit value Core/ Optional Year 15 Core 1 15 Core 1 Delivery Method Assessment Core Units Unit 1 4 Unit 2 4 Contextual Studies for Creative Media Production Research Techniques for Creative Media Production Games Development Specialist Units Unit 9 4 Unit 14 4 Unit 48 4 Unit 49 4 Unit 52 4 Unit 75 4 Practical Skills for Computer Game Design Computer Game Studies 15 Optional 1 15 Optional 1 Computer Game Platform Fundamentals 3D Computer Game Engines 15 Optional 1 15 Optional 1 Ideas Generation for Computer Games Computer Game Design Techniques 15 Optional 1 15 Optional 1 4 Broadcast Journalism Specialist Units Unit 7 Practical Skills for Journalism 15 Optional 1 Unit 13 Journalism Studies 15 Optional 1 Unit 27 Interview and Presentation Techniques for Radio Camera and Lighting Techniques for Moving Image Production Television Studio Production 15 Optional 1 15 Optional 1 15 Optional 1 Page Design and Layout for Newspapers and Magazines 15 Optional 1 Unit 30 Unit 34 Unit 41 5 Module Structure – Core Units Unit 1 – Contextual Studies for Creative Media Production Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of theoretical approaches to media production in order to inform their own practice and set it within a wider context. This unit provides an opportunity for learners to undertake a study of the creative media in relation to violence in media, focusing on products, audiences and the theoretical approaches used to analyse them. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Understand the institutional context of creative media production and its influence on production 2. Understand creative media products in the context of their reception 3. Be able to present research on the production and reception of creative media products following relevant conventions Unit 2 – Research Techniques for Creative Media Production Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ skills in using the research techniques employed by professionals working in creative media production. This unit will develop learners’ ability to use the research techniques required in the media industries and will provide them with the opportunity to develop production research skills to a professional level. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Be able to apply research methods and procedures in creative media production contexts 2. Be able to ensure the accuracy and validity of research material 3. Be able to present research outcomes with due compliance 4. Be able to evaluate research processes and outcomes 6 Module Structure – Games Development Specialist Units Unit 9 – Practical Skills for Computer Game Design Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ practical production skills in computer game design as currently required in the industry This unit introduces learners to the process of developing a computer game by taking it through its full production cycle. Learners will build upon the skills acquired in the design and prototyping stages to build a functional computer game prototype. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. 2. 3. 4. Be able to conceptualise and design computer games Be able to build functional prototypes of computer games Be able to produce functional computer games Be able to use testing and quality assurance methods to evaluate computer games Unit 14 – Computer Game Studies Aim This unit aims to develop a sophisticated understanding of the history, cultural contexts and ludic structures of computer games through the application of relevant theory. In this unit, learners will explore the medium of computer games from numerous perspectives including the wider culture for which they form a part in modern life. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Understand the historical development of computer games 2. Understand the cultural context and impact of computer games 3. Be able to analyse the ludic and narrative aspects of computer games 7 Unit 48 – Computer Game Platform Fundamentals Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of the software and hardware used in the industry in computer game platforms and enable them to connect game platforms and devices. To avoid making impossible demands of the specified platform, all those working in the industry must be aware of the function and purpose of each component of the modern interactive game system. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. 2. 3. 4. Understand computer game platform types Understand hardware technologies of computer game platforms Understand software technologies of computer game platforms Be able to connect computer game platforms and devices Unit 49 – 3D Computer Game Engines Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of computer game engines, and provide them with the skills needed to use them when developing a new game. In this unit, learners will become familiar with game engine technology, the central piece of software used for the assembly of modern computer games. By building playable games and prototypes, learners will gain an understanding of how a modern computer game is pieced together. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Understand the relationships between 3D computer game elements 2. Be able to implement points of view in computer games using cameras from 3D game engines 3. Be able to implement control systems in computer games using input devices via 3D game engines 4. Be able to produce playable mods based on gameplay genres using 3D game engines 8 Unit 52 – Ideas Generation for Computer Games Aim The aim of this unit is to develop learners’ understanding of and skills in ideas-generation techniques in the context of the design and development of computer games. Learners will focus on the creation of team based game ideas, generating and critiquing various iterations of their game ideas, documented through a continually updated Game Design Document and portfolio of work evident within the final submission. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Be able to apply idea-generating techniques to originate ideas for computer games 2. Be able to develop ideas for computer games within a cultural, legal and ethical context 3. Be able to communicate ideas for computer games Unit 75 – Computer Game Design Techniques Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ skills in researching and developing designs for computer games, and in preparing design proposal documentation for a computer game development team. Learners will also develop the necessary skills for working collaboratively in a professional environment, including the presentation and communication skills needed to convey their ideas clearly to other team members. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. 2. 3. 4. Be able to gather and apply research material to computer game design proposals Be able to apply computer game design techniques appropriately Be able to communicate computer game designs as project plans Be able to apply computer game design project plans to working productions 9 Module Structure – Broadcast Journalism Specialist Units Unit 7 – Practical Skills for Journalism Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ abilities to research and produce comprehensible and accurate stories which will enable them to operate professionally in the current journalistic environment. This unit will equip learners with the professional knowledge and skills needed to gather information from both primary and secondary sources, and then to use this information to produce material for publication or broadcast to professional expectations. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. 2. 3. 4. Understand the legal, ethical and professional responsibilities of journalists Be able to gather, evaluate and record material for news stories Be able to use language in journalistic contexts Be able to edit news stories Unit 13 – Journalism Studies Aim This unit aims to develop, from a theoretical perspective, a sophisticated understanding of journalism and the constraints within which journalists operate. This Unit introduces learners to the range of influences that affect news stories. It will develop their understanding of the public perception of journalists’ work, the way they operate, the terminology and theoretical concepts of the industry. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Understand the institutional and cultural contexts in which journalism operates 2. Understand the issues around power and control in journalism 3. Understand the relationship between audiences, news institutions and journalism 10 Unit 27 – Interview and Presentation Techniques for Radio Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of interviewing and presenting for radio and develop in them the practical skills to conduct interviews for and present live and prerecorded programmes Learners will develop a variety of approaches to programme presenting and present across a range of programme types both live and pre-recorded. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. 2. 3. 4. Understand radio interview types and techniques Be able to research, plan and conduct interview for specific radio programmes Understand roles and styles for presenting specific types of radio programme Be able to research, plan, present and link specific types of radio programme Unit 30 – Camera and Lighting Techniques for Moving Image Production Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of camera and lighting equipment and provide them with skills needed to use this equipment in moving image production They will be able to explore and use lighting techniques using studio or location lighting equipment. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Understand theory of light as it applied to camera lenses and lighting 2. Be able to use camera equipment for moving image production 3. Be able to use lighting equipment for moving image production 11 Unit 34 – Television Studio Production Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of studio-based multi-camera production and provide them with the skills needed to work in a television studio. Learners will review their own and their team’s work in terms of its achievements of intentions, technical and aesthetic qualities. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. 2. 3. 4. Understand types of studio-based television programme Be able to contribute to the planning for a studio-based television programme Be able to undertake operational roles in studio-based television production Be able to evaluate own television studio production work Unit 41 – Page Design and Layout for Newspapers and Magazines Aim This unit aims to develop learners’ understanding of page design and layout, and provide them with the skills needed to create page layouts for newspapers and magazines to professional standards They will have the opportunity to critically reflect on their own page design and layout work. Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this unit a learner will: 1. Understand the use of house styles in page design and layout for newspapers and magazines 2. Understand the editorial and commercial factors that influence page design and layout for newspapers and magazines 3. Be able to design and produce stylebooks and page layouts for newspapers and magazines 4. Be able to reflect on own page design and layout work 12 Higher Level Skills and Abilities Leaners studying for Edexcel BTEC Higher Nationals in Creative Media Production will be expected to develop the following skills during the programme of study: Cognitive skills of critical thinking, analysis and synthesis Effective problem solving and decision making using appropriate quantitative and qualitative skills including identifying, formulating and contributing to the critical evaluation of media products Effective communication, oral and in writing, using a range of media widely used in media production projects Effective use of communication and information technology for the presentation of media products in the creative media sector Effective self-management in terms of time, planning and behaviour, motivation, self-starting, individual initiative and enterprise Developing a professional portfolio of work Self-awareness, openness and sensitivity to diversity in terms of people, cultures, ethical and legal constraints Effective performance within a team environment including leadership, teambuilding, influencing and project-management skills Interpersonal skills of effective listening, negotiating, creative analysis and demonstration of technique Effective performance within a team environment including: leadership, teambuilding, influencing and project-management skills Self-reflection skills and a willingness to develop professionally in all aspects of the programme 13 ASSESSMENT Teaching, Learning and Assessment You must achieve a minimum of 120 credits (of which at least 65 must be at level 4) on your programme of learning to be awarded an Edexcel BTEC Level 4 HNC and a minimum of 240 credits (of which at least 125 must be at level 5) to be awarded an Edexcel BTEC Level 5 HND. The assessment of Edexcel BTEC Higher National qualifications is criterionreferenced and you will be assessed against published learning outcomes and assessment criteria. All Modules will be individually graded as ‘pass’, ‘merit’ or ‘distinction’. To achieve a pass grade for the Module you must meet the assessment criteria set out in the specifications. This gives transparency to the assessment process and provides for the establishment of national standards for each qualification. The Modules in Edexcel BTEC Higher National qualifications all have a standard format which is designed to provide guidance on the requirements of the qualification for you, your tutors and those responsible for monitoring national standards. The purpose of assessment is to ensure that effective learning of the content of each Module has taken place. Evidence of this learning, or the application of the learning, is required for each Module. The assessment of the evidence relates directly to the assessment criteria for each Module, supported by the generic grade descriptors. The process of assessment can aid effective learning by seeking and interpreting evidence to decide the stage that you have reached in your learning, what further learning needs to take place and how best to do this. Therefore, the process of assessment is part of the effective planning of teaching and learning by providing opportunities for both you and your assessor to obtain information about progress towards learning goals. You and your tutor must be actively engaged in promoting a common understanding of the assessment criteria and the grade descriptors (what it is you are trying to achieve and how well you achieve it) for further learning to take place. Therefore, you will receive constructive feedback and guidance about how you may improve by capitalising on your strengths and clear and constructive comments about your weaknesses and how these might be addressed. Your assessments are constructed by your module tutors. They collectively ensure coverage of all assessment criteria within each Module and provide opportunities for the evidencing of all the grade descriptors. 14 Grading Higher National Modules The grading of Edexcel BTEC Higher National qualifications is at the Module and the qualification level. Each successfully completed Module will be graded as a pass, merit or distinction. A pass is awarded for the achievement of all outcomes against the specified assessment criteria. Merit and distinction grades area awarded for higher-level achievement. The generic merit and distinction grader descriptors listed above are for grading the total evidence produced for each Module and describe the learner’s performance over and above that for a pass grade. They can be achieved in a flexible way, for example in a sequential or holistic mode, to reflect the nature of the sector concerned. Each of the generic merit and distinction grade descriptors can be amplified by use of indicative characteristics. These give a guide to the expected learner performance, and support the generic grade descriptors. The indicative characteristics should reflect the nature of a Module and the context of the sector performance. The indicative characteristics shown in the table for each of the generic grade descriptors in above are not exhaustive. It is important to note that each assessment activity does not need to incorporate all the merit and/or distinction grade descriptors. Contextualising the generic grade descriptors The generic merit and distinction grade descriptors need to be viewed as a qualitative extension of the assessment criteria for pass within each individual Module. The relevant generic grade descriptors must be identified and specified within an assignment and the relevant indicative characteristics should be used to place the required evidence in context. Summary of Grades all learning outcomes and associated assessment criteria have been met in order to achieve a merit in a Module pass requirements achieved all merit grade descriptors achieved in order to achieve a distinction in a Module pass and merit requirements achieved all distinction grade descriptors achieved in order to achieve a pass in a Module 15 Assessment and Marking Criteria Merit grade Merit descriptors In order to achieve a merit the learner must: identify and apply strategies to find appropriate solutions Exemplar indicative characteristics Centres can identify and use other relevant characteristics. This is NOT a tick list The learner’s evidence shows, for example: select/design and apply appropriate methods/techniques present and communicate appropriate findings effective judgements have been made complex problems with more than one variable have been explored an effective approach to study and research has been applied relevant theories and techniques have been applied a range of methods and techniques have been applied a range of sources of information has been used the selection of methods and techniques/sources has been justified the design of methods/techniques has been justified complex information/data has been synthesised and processed appropriate learning methods/techniques have been applied the appropriate structure and approach has been used coherent, logical development of principles/concepts for the intended audience a range of methods of presentation have been used and technical language has been accurately used communication has taken plan in familiar and unfamiliar contexts the communication is appropriate for familiar and unfamiliar audiences and appropriate media have been used 16 Distinction grade Distinction descriptors Exemplar indicative characteristics Centres can identify and use other relevant characteristics. This is NOT a tick list The learner’s evidence shows, for example: In order to achieve a distinction the learner must: use critical reflection to evaluate own work and justify valid conclusions take responsibility for managing and organising activities demonstrate convergent/lateral/creative thinking conclusions have been arrived at through synthesis of ideas and have been justified the validity of results has been evaluated using defined criteria self-criticism of approach has taken place realistic improvements have been proposed against defined characteristics for success autonomy/independence has been demonstrated substantial activities, projects or investigations have been planned, managed and organised activities have been managed the unforeseen has been accommodated the importance of interdependence has been recognised and achieved ideas have been generated and decisions taken self-evaluation has taken place convergent and lateral thinking have been applied problems have been solved innovation and creative thought have been applied receptiveness to new ideas is evident effective thinking has taken place in unfamiliar contexts 17 Calculation of the Qualification Grade Pass qualification grade Learners who achieve the minimum eligible credit value specified by the rule of combination will achieve the qualification at pass grade. Qualification grades above pass grade Learners will be awarded a merit or distinction grade by the aggregation of points gained through the successful achievement of individual Modules. The graded section of both the HNC and the HND is based on the learner’s best performance in Modules at the level or above of the qualification to the value of 75 credits. The number of points available is dependent on the Module grade achieved and the credit size of the Modules (as shown in the ‘Points available per credit at specified Module grades’ table below). Points available per credit at specified Module grades Points per credit Pass Merit Distinction 0 1 2 Qualification Grades Pearson BTEC Level 4 HND Year 1 or HNC Points range Grade 0-74 Pass P 75-149 Merit M 150 Distinction D Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Points range Grade 0-74 Pass P 75-149 Merit M 150 Distinction D 18 The grade achieved in Modules from an appropriate HNC may contribute to an HND grade. If a learner moves from HNC to HND then credits from both the HNC and HND can contribute to the best 75 credits of the overall HND grade. Recognition of Prior Learning Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a method of assessment (leading to the award of credit) that considers whether a learner can demonstrate that they can meet the assessment requirements for a Module through knowledge, understanding or skills they already possess and so do not need to develop through a course of learning. Pearson encourages centres to recognise learners’ previous achievements and experiences whether at work, home and at leisure, as well as in the classroom. RPL provides a route for the recognition of the achievements resulting from continuous learning. RPL enables recognition of achievement from a range of activities using any valid assessment methodology. Provided that the assessment requirements of a given Module or qualification have been met, the use of RPL is acceptable for accrediting a Module, Modules or a whole qualification. Evidence of learning must be valid and reliable. Full guidance about Pearson’s policy on RPL is provided on https://qualifications.pearson.com Student Responsibilities Student Charter The Student Charter APPENDIX 5: West Cheshire College HE Student Charter encourages the commitment of all HE staff and students to the principle of partnership and to promote high levels of achievement for all HE students. Communication Effective communication is crucial to your achievement on this course. It is imperative that you refer to the College VLE (MY COURSE) and your college e-mail address regularly as well as any other media specified. It is your responsibility to keep up to date with changes communicated via these media. 19 Learning Environment You share the responsibility with staff to develop an effective and productive learning environment and you will be expected to: prepare for session – by completing any reading or other activities you are requested to undertake in preparation. contribute in session – you must endeavour to contribute to all discussions and activities in a positive and constructive manner and show due respect to the views and ideas of others reflection - at the end of the session, analyse what you have learnt and how it contributes to your wider knowledge Submission and Marking of Assignments All assignments must be completed and handed in by the final submission deadline for each module. This may vary, particularly towards the end of the programme. You will be given specific deadlines. Students can be provided with formative assessment to enable the student to consolidate a Pass or to attain a higher grade. This must take place PRIOR to submission of the assignment for summative assessment. Once summative assessment has taken place, the work CANNOT be amended further and any referrals must be presented at Exam Board for a decision. You are required to hand in your assignment to your Learning Resource Assistant in the HE Area (Ellesmere Port) or Main Reception (Chester) and electronically to the tutor before or on the deadline. Please ensure that you have kept a copy of your assignment. Assignments should be submitted both electronically and in hard copy no later than 4pm on the deadline day. Each assignment should be accompanied by a front sheet duly completed. Coursework should not be submitted directly to individual members of staff or delivered to or deposited in any location other than that designated above. Students should ideally expect work to be returned within 10 working days and no longer than 20 working days. Late Submissions A request for an extension can only be considered in exceptional circumstances. This is to be made by submitting a formal APPENDIX 1: Request for an Extension to the Programme Leader. If this is approved, a further submission date will be set and the assessment will be graded as a first submission. Poor time management or pressure of work is not considered good enough reason for the non-submission of an assignment. 20 If you do not have approval for an extension, work received within 2 weeks of the submission date will be marked but a penalty may apply if distinction or merit grade descriptors require evidence of: meeting agreed timelines the ability to plan/to organise time effectively the ability to work to industrial/commercial practices that include implicit timelines. The generic grade descriptors published in each BTEC Higher National specification can be used to devise contextualised merit and distinction grading criteria that require evidence of meeting time-related activities, for example: Merit descriptor Identify and apply strategies to find appropriate solutions Indicative characteristic An effective approach to study has been applied Distinction descriptor Take responsibility for managing and organising activities Indicative characteristic Substantial activities, projects or investigations have been planned, managed and organised If you do not have approval for an extension, the College will refuse to mark work received two weeks after the submission date and a decision will be referred to the Exam Board. 21 Plagiarism (Academic Dishonesty) Academic dishonesty covers any attempt by a student to gain unfair advantage (e.g. extra marks) for her/himself, or for another student, by unauthorised means. Collusion includes the conscious collaboration, without official approval, between two or more students, or between a student(s) and another person, in the preparation and production of work which is then submitted as individual work. In cases where one (or more) student has copied from another, both (all) students involved may be penalised. The boundary between legitimate co-operation and unacceptable collusion varies according to the type of work involved. Staff setting the assessment will issue clear guidance on how much co-operation is acceptable. Falsification includes the presentation of fictitious or deliberately distorted data in, for example, laboratory work, surveys or projects. This also includes citing references that do not exist. Deceit includes misrepresentation or non-disclosure of relevant information, including the failure to disclose any cases of work being submitted for assessment which has been or will be used for other academic purposes. Plagiarism is the act of using other people’s words, images etc. as if they are your own. In order to make clear to readers the distinction between your words, images etc. and the work of others, it is essential that you reference your work accurately, thereby avoiding a charge of plagiarism. It is always obvious when a student has copied words from a text without referencing, as there is a change of writing style each time. If you do not reference your work correctly, it will come across as if you have ‘stolen’ words or ideas from other sources. Module tutors use computer software to check students work for potential plagiarism or improper citation. Self-Plagiarism is the reuse of significant, identical or nearly identical portions of your own work without acknowledging that you are doing so or without citing the original work. Re-presentation is the submission of work presented previously or simultaneously for summative assessment at this College. Cheating is defined as any attempt to gain an unfair advantage in an assessment (including examinations), or assisting another student to do so. It includes: copying from other candidates, collusion, impersonation, plagiarism and unauthorised access to unseen assessment papers. In the event of an allegation of cheating you are advised to contact the student union advice centre immediately after the incident. Your co-operation is expected in actively protecting the integrity of the assessment process. It is the duty of all students to observe high personal standards of academic honesty in their studies and to report any instances of malpractice of which they become aware. The minimum penalty for a proven case of academic dishonesty is usually a mark of zero in that module, with the maximum being exclusion from the course. 22 Should academic dishonesty be proven after completion of the course the student will have their award rescinded. Examination Board At the end of each academic year, your results will be considered and your position reviewed by the HE Examination Board. The results of each module are considered and the final mark recorded for the module assessment. The Board’s function is to determine each student’s progression, to decide on referrals and any other course of action taking account of information and advice supplied by the relevant Programme Leader. Any mitigating circumstances will be considered (APPENDIX 2: Notification of Exceptional Mitigating Circumstances (EMC)). All decisions and proceedings of the meeting will be recorded. The Examination Board will determine whether you can progress to the next level of your course and/or receive your award. If you have ungraded modules due to late submission the Board will consider whether or not to accept the work as a resubmission. Please note that the maximum award you can achieve is a Pass. If you are referred on some of your modules, the Board may decide to offer you the opportunity to resit. This means that in some of your modules, you may need to resubmit coursework and/or resit a time constrained assessment. Please note that the maximum mark you can achieve in a resit module is PASS. Only students with two or less modules to complete will be considered for progression. If a resubmission is approved, the student will not have any further guidance and support in producing further evidence. Meeting Programme Requirements Should you at the end of the programme, have outstanding module assignments to complete, additional charges may be incurred. Progression to Year Two is dependent upon satisfactory completion of Year One. Clearly, it is in everyone’s interest to complete the programme within the academic year. Whilst tutors aim to be as supportive and as flexible as possible, the responsibility to notify any difficulties in meeting assignment deadlines lies with you. 23 ESSENTIAL INFORMATION College Requirements for Attendance You are required to attend all sessions for each taught Module and Tutorial. As much of the work undertaken in these sessions is group orientated and reinforces the processes of teaching and learning, it is important that students acknowledge their responsibility to their peers and to the programme. Therefore you should not arrange holidays or other commitments on days when you are expected to attend the programme. The programme reflects the Higher Education year and does not include half-term breaks although reading weeks will be timetabled. It is acknowledged that in exceptional circumstances you may not be able to attend a session(s). The Area Administrator should be informed at the earliest opportunity in order to determine whether you may be able to join another group to cover the work. Where your attendance falls below that required, you might have to retake Modules in the next academic year. It should be noted that Module or Personal Tutors will contact students in the case of unauthorised or non-notified absence(s). Implications of Non-Attendance Students are permitted to proceed with their approved programme of study only if they maintain acceptable progress as evidenced by regular attendance, satisfactory results in relevant formative and summative assessment and the proper completion of any other work given to them. Course Teams will review students’ attendance on a regular basis. Students who fail to maintain satisfactory levels of attendance will be interviewed by the Programme Leader and warnings will be given if appropriate action is not taken. In more serious cases, students who fail to attend sessions will be withdrawn from the course. Sickness Absence Students may certify their absence through illness from lectures or other sessions during a term by the submission of a self-certification form. These certificates are valid for absence of up to five consecutive days. The Self-certification form does not need to be signed by a medical practitioner. The Self-certification form will not be valid for: Absence through illness for more than five consecutive days; Absence from examinations; Absence from tests or other forms of assessment which counts towards the module mark Self-certification forms can be obtained from your doctor’s surgery and should be submitted by the student via their tutor. A Self-certification form cannot be accepted 24 if submitted more than two weeks following the date of illness. A maximum of two Self-certification forms are permitted in any term. Absence through illness for periods longer than five consecutive days must be supported by a medical certificate authorised by a medical practitioner and should be submitted by the student to their tutor. Absence for reasons other than illness can only be allowed after a request has been approved by the Programme Leader. Mitigating Circumstances Students sometimes perform less well in assessments than their previous performance or achievements would have predicted. Sometimes this poor performance can be attributed, or partially attributed to particular circumstances beyond the control of the student. These circumstances are described as ‘mitigating circumstances’ if they are accepted in mitigation of the poorer than expected performance. Where circumstances are accepted in mitigation of poorer than expected performance students may be allowed (where practicable) to retake the assessment as if it were a first attempt. Mitigating circumstances may, for example, include: Illness affecting the student Bereavement Serious illness affecting a close family member Unforeseeable or unpreventable events Independent document evidence, such as medical certificates, must be provided in all cases to verify mitigating circumstances. It is the responsibility of the student concerned to report all circumstances which s/he wishes to taken in to consideration to the Programme Leader. Students should report such mitigating circumstances as soon as possible (normally within five working days) after the events under consideration occur. If a student is unable to attend an assessment which counts towards the final mark of a module owing to illness or other unavoidable circumstances, they must inform their Course Tutor, preferably in writing or by email, before the assessment deadline, in order for the absence to be regarded as authorised. Provided that acceptable evidence of ‘good cause’ for such absence (e.g. a medical note) is presented for consideration by the Programme Leader in accordance with the procedures set out in APPENDIX 2: Notification of Exceptional Mitigating Circumstances (EMC), the student will be granted a right to be re-assessed as a first attempt (unless the assessment was not a ‘first attempt’ assessment). Only in exceptional circumstances, where the Programme Leader judges that it was not feasible for the student to have provided prior notification, will a student who is absent from an 25 examination or fails to submit an assessment without informing their Programme Leader in advance, be granted to have a ‘first attempt’ re-assessment. Suspension of Studies You may find it necessary at some point during your programme to suspend your studies. This may be for a variety of reasons, which can be personal, financial or academic. The College has a number of support services available if you need guidance or advice. We advise you to discuss any possibility of suspension with your Programme Leader and not to make any hasty decisions to withdraw from a course. Any suspension of studies has an impact on your tuition fees and it is therefore important that you let us know what you are intending to do as soon as possible. If you do decide to suspend your studies, you will need to inform your Programme Leader as failure to inform the College means that tuition fee liability continues to accrue. A request for suspension of studies will not normally be granted retrospectively. Withdrawal Leaving a course is not a step to be taken lightly. We advise you to talk to your Programme Leader before making any decisions. The College has a number of support services available if you would like some guidance or advice. You may also wish to speak to the College Counsellor on 07887 557892. If after having considered your other options such as suspending your studies for a period or transferring to another programme, you may feel it is in your best interests to withdraw from your programme. Be sure you understand what you are doing, and be clear about the consequences as you may, for example, be risking your future entitlement to help with paying your tuition fees. It is important to discuss your options with Information, Advice & Guidance before making the decision to withdraw from a course. Student Representation and Feedback Every course group will be asked to choose a student representative to attend the programme review meeting held three times a year. This will follow a whole group review meeting where all the students have an opportunity to give feedback with regard to the course. This enables the teaching team and programme manager to address any relevant issues and to improve the course delivery in line with the college quality procedure. The student voice is important in order to meet the needs of all HE students. The Student Council is a group selected by current HE students to act as a link between the College HE staff and the College’s HE students. 26 The Student Council meets twice per academic year (in January and June) and is chaired by an impartial member of West Cheshire College staff who has an understanding of Higher Education. Minutes of these meetings are taken by a member of the HE Dept and circulated back to the Student Reps via the Programme Leader. Student Union West Cheshire College’s Student Union offers confidential guidance, support and general information on all aspects of student life. Their aim is to enhance the 'Student Experience' in any way possible, in the hope of aiding students to achieve their intended learning objective/s. Student Support Information, Advice & Guidance There may be times during your course when you will wish to seek information and advice. West Cheshire College has its own dedicated Information, Advice and Guidance Team of professional College Advisers available to all learners and anyone who is interested in becoming a learner. They are here to help you achieve your education and career aims and offer impartial advice and guidance on the range of learning opportunities available, as well as confidential support. Our Information, Advice and Guidance Team can be contacted: 01244 656440 or [email protected] Finance and Welfare Embarking on a new course can be exciting. However, if you have a lot of expenses such as public transport, childcare or course related costs, it can be a difficult time. But don’t worry, our Finance and Welfare Team have a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping students get the most out of the support available. Our Finance and Welfare team can be contacted on 01244 656200. Learning Support If you are a learner with additional support needs, please let us know about your specific requirements so that we can make all reasonable adjustments to help you succeed within college. 27 Counselling The Counselling service is available to West Cheshire College students who need to talk about or explore something in confidence. Sometimes you may be looking for a solution to a problem or there may be no answers, but it can still help to talk things through. For more information contact the College Counsellor on: 07887 557892 Study Skills Support At the beginning of your course you will be helped to acquire the appropriate skills through formal input from Tutors and the Learning Resources team. For example, you may not have much experience in using computers or accessing the Internet to carry out research. Such skills are essential for higher level study, and the Study Skills Support team are available to ensure that you acquire these skills. On-going support is available throughout your studies at West Cheshire College. Tutorials Tutorial support will be available throughout your programme of studies on both a one to one basis and via group tutorials. This will in some cases be timetabled and in other cases can be arranged with the appropriate tutor. The Teaching team are committed to support you in the successful completion of your studies. You will be allocated a personal tutor whose main responsibility it will be to monitor and review your progress on a regular basis and to deal with any issues which may arise and which may affect your progress. 28 Equality of Opportunity and Safeguarding West Cheshire College is committed to equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory policy and practice by promoting learning opportunities for all people irrespective of: age, gender, race, culture, disability, sexual orientation or religious beliefs. The Programme Team is responsive to individual needs but, it is important that relevant staff are aware of any particular circumstances which may affect or interfere with a student’s progress on the programme. We appreciate that it is sometimes difficult to share personal information but we would not wish to disadvantage students or for them to feel that they are being discriminated against by staff or peers. However it is YOUR responsibility to let us know if you need support. The Programme Team has a responsibility to challenge the use of spoken or written language which may be offensive. To acknowledge the wide range of learners who participate in the programme and Post-16 education, in general you should avoid ethnocentricity by acknowledging a variety of cultures and celebrate diversity. Please be aware that peers, or students in groups you may have contact with, might have some form of illness or disability which is not necessarily ‘visible’. Your consideration of her/his needs may help that person to participate fully and make the best use of learning opportunities. For additional information on Safeguarding, visit ‘BeSafe’ on the Students section of the College Intranet. 29 POLICIES AND PROCEDURES All relevant policies and procedures are available on the Student section of the College Intranet. Confidentiality Statement West Cheshire College handles data in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and all other relevant legislation. Information of a personal or sensitive nature is never passed on to a third party without the explicit informed consent of the client, unless another piece of legislation says we must e.g. The Children Act 2004 (covering child protection issues). The College also abides by the Common Law of Confidence, this in effect means: information given or received in confidence for one purpose may not be used for a different purpose or passed to anyone else without the consent of the provider of the information. 30 APPENDIX 1: REQUEST FOR AN EXTENSION A Request for an Extension should be made at least 5 working days before the handin date. It is important to provide as much information as possible to support your request. This will be treated as confidential. Name: Date: Group: Module: Assignment Title: Module Tutor: Submission Date: Reasons for Extension Request: Have you requested an Extension for other Assignments: YES / NO If YES, indicate the Assignment TO BE COMPLETED BY MODULE TUTOR Request referred to ……………………………………. on ……………………………….. Request ………………………………………. Approved / Not Approved New Submission Date ………………………………. Module Tutor signature Date 31 APPENDIX 2: NOTIFICATION OF EXCEPTIONAL MITIGATING CIRCUMSTANCES (EMC) This form should be completed when, due to exceptional circumstances, you are unable to complete the module assessments, or where you consider that your quality of performance on a module has been adversely affected. Further guidance can be obtained from your Personal Tutor or Programme Leader. Where possible, Sections A and B should be completed by yourself; otherwise, the form may be completed, by mutual agreement, on your behalf by a member of staff. Claims should not normally be made after the assessment has been completed. Copies of the form will be held in confidence by your Personal Tutor, and its contents will be revealed only to members of the Assessment Boards (the proceedings of which are strictly confidential). The completed form should be handed in to your Personal Tutor in a sealed and addressed envelope before a module has been completed to ensure that any EMCs can be notified to the relevant Assessment Boards. STUDENT NAME…………………………..……...….STUDENT REF NO……………………….. PROGRAMME OF STUDY………………………………………...…..….……YEAR………......... CONTACT ADDRESS ………………………………..……………..…………………………..…… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… TELEPHONE NO. ……………………… E-MAIL ………………………………………………… Module(s) affected by EMCs (Please identify alongside the specific assessments which have been affected): Module No. Module Title Assessments Affected 32 Details of Exceptional Circumstances State below the exceptional circumstances which are applicable to the modules listed above and the period covered. Where possible, you must provide documentary evidence which should be attached to this form. You should identify how the exceptional circumstances have affected assessed work. It is your responsibility to ensure that all relevant information is provided and ensure that the relevant staff sign the statement of verification (overleaf) …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Period covered: …/…/… to …/…/… Documentary evidence: Attached / Not attached (delete as applicable) Student signature: …………………………………………….. Date: ……………………. Statement of Verification (to be completed by the Personal Tutor) I am satisfied that the circumstances detailed overleaf may have affected the performance of this student in the modules listed during the period …. / …. / …. The nature of the circumstances are (tick as applicable): Medical Personal Other Documentary evidence submitted / not submitted (delete as applicable) Personal Tutor Signature: ……………………………………………………………………….. Personal Tutor Name: ………………………………………………………………………….. Date: ……………………….. 33 Statement of Decision (to be completed by the Chair of the Assessment Board) The assessment board has accepted / rejected (delete as applicable) this application for extenuating mitigating circumstances. Reason(s) for rejection: Chair of Assessment Board Signature: ……………………………………………… Chair of Assessment Board Name: ………………………………………………….. Date: …………………………….. 34 APPENDIX 3: COURSE CALENDAR Week No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Week commencing 21st Sept 2015 28th Sept 2015 5th Oct 2015 12th Oct 2015 19th Oct 2015 26th Oct 2015 2nd Nov 2015 9th Nov 2015 16th Nov 2015 23rd Nov 2015 30th Nov 2015 7th Dec 2015 14th Dec 2015 4th Jan 2016 11th Jan 2016 18th Jan 2016 25th Jan 2016 1st Feb 2016 8th Feb 2016 15th Feb 2016 22nd Feb 2016 29th Feb 2016 7th Mar 2016 14th Mar 2016 21st Mar 2016 28th Mar 2016 18th Apr 2016 25th Apr 2016 2nd May 2016 9th May 2016 16th May 2016 23rd May 2016 30th May 2016 6th Jun 2016 27th Jun 2016 Comments HE Students Induction Teaching starts Reading Week Reading Week Reading Week Finish teaching Examination Board (HNC/Ds) 35 APPENDIX 4: ASSESSMENT CALENDAR 36 APPENDIX 5: WEST CHESHIRE COLLEGE HE STUDENT CHARTER The Student Charter is to encourage the commitment of all HE staff and students to the principle of partnership and to promote high levels of achievement for all HE students Before you arrive….. The College will As a student you should Make every effort to ensure that you have information to make an informed choice of programme. Undertake any preliminary reading or other academic preparation your programme team has requested. Provide accurate information about its programmes of study to include: o o o o o Fees and charges Student satisfaction Student destination and career prospects Teaching & learning approaches Accreditation Explain the criteria, procedures and timescale for application and admissions Begin the process of arranging financial and any other support you require as early as possible. Give accurate and accessible information about sources of funding and loans for students and the availability of support for those with additional needs. Ensure that you make arrangements with the College for the payment of your fees, either by yourself or a third party (e.g. Students Loans Company or a sponsor) Inform you about the other facilities and services which the College provides. 37 When you begin your programme of study and at key points during it….. The College will As a student you should Communicate clear and timely information about: Ensure that you read and retain the information provided in your course handbook; regularly check emails and relevant communication routes. Understand key course procedures and regulations (including plagiarism, rules of progression and mitigating circumstances) and seek clarification of anything you do not understand. Attend all lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory sessions and other teaching sessions, unless they are explicitly stated to be optional. Promptly complete the academic work requested of you, particularly that which contributes to your formal assessment, and attend all examinations. Be willing to experiment with different ways of teaching, learning and assessment and take joint responsibility with the College for developing your abilities as an independent learner. Provide feedback on your experience at College so that provision may be improved for you and your successors. The broader aims and objectives of any programme for which you are registered, the choices of modules and units available, the means by which the programme will be assessed overall and the criteria which will be used. The aims and objectives of each individual module or similar unit of study and what you should be able to achieve by the end of it. The methods by which the module or unit will be assessed and the criteria which will be used. The teaching and learning methods which will be used and the means by which more general skills (such as working in teams and making oral presentations) will be developed and assessed. The computing, Study Centres and other academic services which exist and the levels of service they will provide. The information, advice and guidance available to you. Any professional recognition which is available on successful completion of a particular programme of study. Identify the staff who are responsible for individual modules or units and for programmes of study overall or who undertake other duties of relevance to you and explain how they can be contacted. Explain how your views on your experience at College and how the responses to those views will be fed back to you. Describe how you will be provided with systematic information on your individual progress, on your strength and areas for development and on the means by which you can improve your performance and grades. 38 To support you during your period as a student….. The College will Provide a range of support services including: o tutorial support o information advice and guidance o careers and employability o health o additional support for those who need it o welfare and sources of financial advice o counselling o catering As a student you should Attend tutorials regularly Take responsibility for seeking the support you need. Take seriously any advice that you would benefit from seeking particular kinds of support. o childcare If things go wrong….. The College will As a student you should Promote effective means of resolving the majority of difficulties at the level where the problem occurred and provide a clear and equitable procedure for formal complaints when such problems remain unresolved. Deal with any issue you may have by talking first to the individual or individuals concerned and then, if necessary, to the person in charge of the area involved. Provide advice about the implications of requesting permission to change programme, suspend your studies or withdrawing from the College. Explain how decisions are made about students whose academic progress is unsatisfactory and the part the students plays in those procedures. Operate a clear and equitable academic appeals procedure for taught programme students. Seek advice immediately when your academic progress gives you, or the staff who teach you, cause for concern or if you think you may wish to change your programme, suspend or leave the College. Operate a clear and equitable student behaviour for learning policy. 39 To involve you in the decisions affecting you….. The College will As a student you should Listen to your views when developing, delivering and assessing learning Provide information and opinion to the students who represent you and give them your encouragement and support. Provide representation for students at programme level and at all other appropriate levels. Consider whether you should stand as a student representative. Provide feedback on the outcomes of representation made by students. Present the views of your colleagues fairly and constructively if you act as a student representative. Provide advice and training for those who act as student representatives At all times….. The College will Value diversity and ensure equality of opportunity in everything we do and treat everyone equally, fairly and with respect at all times Be prompt, efficient, effective and courteous in its dealings with you. Seek to provide an atmosphere conducive to learning, and free from harassment and discrimination. Treat you as a partner in a life-long process of self-development and enable you to progress your studies within the College As a student you should Value diversity and ensure equality of opportunity in everything you do and treat everyone equally, fairly and with respect at all times Help to create and maintain an atmosphere conducive to higher education learning Be prompt, efficient, effective and courteous in your dealings with the College, its staff and your fellow students. Inform the College at the earliest opportunity of any disability or learning difficulty you have which may affect your opportunities as a student. Use to the full your opportunities for selfdevelopment. Take personal responsibility for promoting a safe, secure and healthy environment and the conservation of scarce resources. Comply with the terms of all College regulations and the requirements of the Expectations of Behaviour or similar documents available on the College website/VLE. Ensure that you notify the College of any criminal convictions that you have or may receive. Ensure that you notify the relevant personnel if your address and/or details of your emergency contact changes. Take all reasonable steps to provide a safe, secure and healthy environment Safeguard all the personal information you provide and comply with the requirements of the Data Protection Act. Recognise and celebrate your success 40
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