Quality Assurance Services Collaborative Provision Mutual Review Report Partner FTMS Academic Cycle First Mutual Review of the cycle. Dates of Meeting 18 September 2014 Programme(s) BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management Report Submitted by Lianne Sweeting (QAS) George Lodorfos J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx Contents 1. Student Admissions......................................................................................................................... 1 2. Staff Appointment........................................................................................................................... 1 3. Student Registration ....................................................................................................................... 1 4. Student Induction and Student Representation ............................................................................. 2 5. Published Information .................................................................................................................... 2 6. Student Files .................................................................................................................................... 3 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions................................................................................................... 3 8. Teaching Materials .......................................................................................................................... 3 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities ...................................................................................... 4 10. Annual Monitoring and Review .................................................................................................. 5 11. Module Evaluation ...................................................................................................................... 5 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances ................................................................................ 5 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice .................................................................................... 6 14. Assessment and Moderation ...................................................................................................... 6 15. External Examiners...................................................................................................................... 7 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee .................................................................... 7 17. Student Appeals and Complaints ................................................................................................ 7 18. Other Activities ........................................................................................................................... 8 19. Reflections since last mutual review........................................................................................... 8 20. Action Plan .................................................................................................................................. 8 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 1. Student Admissions Where applicable, give details of: Process (requirements for admission to the course) Standard Entry Applications (policies and processes in place to conduct to conduct admissions processes in accordance with the University’s requirements) Non-standard entry applications Accreditation of Prior (Experiential/Certificated) Learning (evaluation of requests and supporting evidence) Monitoring (admissions details in student file including details of qualifications, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence, confirmation that original certificates have been seen by partner staff, references and details of APEL/APCL claims Meeting with University Staff: AET colleagues confirmed that they had no concerns or issues relating to the admission of students. The Link Tutor confirmed that all non-standard entries had been forwarded to the University for consideration. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS Senior Management representative confirmed that they had not experienced any issues/difficulties with the admissions of students. The applicants are mainly standard and all non-standard entries are forwarded on to the University Link Tutor for consideration, along with cases of Recognition of Prior Learning. 2. Staff Appointment Meeting with University Staff: Are you aware of the process for staff appointment and the role of the Faculty in confirming appropriate staff appointments? Meeting with Partner Staff: How were you recruited to teach on programme? Was Leeds Beckett University involved? What induction did you have? Can you tell us how Leeds Beckett University helped you to gain an understanding of the academic standards to apply to the programme? 3. Student Registration Give details of any issues raised and actions taken: Student Registration data (process and completion of documentation) Registration of students (the University is required to register all students within 21 days of receipt of registration data from the partner institution) Meeting with University Staff: AET colleagues advised that registration data had not been submitted within the three weeks of the BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management starting. FTMS were reminded of the University requirement to ensure that registration data is submitted within three weeks of commencement of courses. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 1 Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives advised that there were no issues to report and the process for registering students is running smoothly. 4. Student Induction and Student Representation Give details of any relevant issues for further consideration: Planning and Delivery of Induction (to include assessment and progression regulations, general regulations, mitigation, unfair practice, complaints and appeals, issue of course handbooks, coursebased induction, student representation, introducing key staff members, introducing facilities, library induction, entitlements to services, and the student’s relationship to the University) Student Representation (process for appointment and engagement of student representatives) Training and development provided to student representatives Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that student representatives for both courses had been appointed and both student representatives had been engaged in the relevant meetings. It was also confirmed that the induction of students had taken place at FTMS by University staff. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives confirmed that they had not experienced any problems with the student induction and student representation process. Student representatives for both courses had been appointed following the standard university appointment process. Face to face induction for the BSc (Hons) Project Management and BSc (Hons) Computing had been undertaken by University staff. Meeting with Students: N/A – due to the date of the Mutual Review meeting, no students were available. 5. Published Information Give details of published information checked and confirm that in your view they accurately reflect the programme and contractual agreement. Identify any issues that need to be addressed. This should be linked to the Published Information Guidance and Schedule. (Collate any relevant material) Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that they are aware of the University process for agreeing and signing off published information. However they had not been consulted by FTMS regarding any published information for the BSc (Hons) Project Management or BSc (Hons) Computing courses. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior representatives confirmed that they are aware of the approval process for any published information. FTMS also confirmed that the details in regards to the University name change had been received ok and that the changes had been communicated with the students. It was further advised that FTMS will update the necessary brochures and prospectus and these will be submitted through the appropriate channels prior to external publication. It was noted that FTMS had received a number of queries about the reasoning behind the name change from some student’s parents. FTMS further stated that they had received a letter from the MQA (Malaysian Qualification Agency) to J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 2 acknowledge the University name change. 6. Student Files Give details of sampling of student files, any issues raised and action taken. Maintenance of student files and retaining records of student activity Student files should include: application form, interview record/outcome (where relevant), confirmation that original certificates have been checked by partner staff, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence of UK qualifications, evidence of appropriate level of English language skills, references, details of APL/APEL/APCL claim (where relevant), enrolment/registration forms, module marks, assignment feedback sheets, details of proven unfair practice (where relevant), applications for extension/mitigation (where relevant), applications for appeal (where relevant), Board of Examiners outcomes/results letters and copies of other communication with the student) Unfortunately, due to time constraints we were unable to sample any of the student files, however FTMS colleagues confirmed that they had not experienced any difficulties with the maintenance of student files and assured that the files were retained for the duration of the student life cycle at FTMS. 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions Give details of teaching sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration. Give details of lectures (including guest lectures) and tutorials, including topic, date/time, location and attendees. No teaching sessions were observed during this mutual review. Meeting with Students: N/A 8. Teaching Materials Give details of how effectively materials have been shared with the staff at the partner (How have materials been shared? Have they been shared in a timely manner?) Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that the teaching materials have been shared in a timely manner. For the BSc (Hons) Computing course, the teaching materials have been shared through Google drive; for BSc (Hons) Project Management course the teaching materials are shared and accessed through the University’s Virtual Learning Environment. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS management representatives confirmed that the updated teaching materials in regards to the computing and project management awards were always available. FTMS lecturers reported that some colleagues find it easy to access the teaching materials, study guides and weekly lesson plans online and develop lectures based on these – they use approximately 75% Leeds Beckett context, with 25% of contextualised content, for example where software has not been available in Malaysia FTMS have worked with the AET Module Leaders to contextualise the assessment for a suitable alternative. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 3 FTMS senior management proposed that all assessments are referred to FTMS before external examiner approval is sought. FTMS can then advise whether further contextualisation is necessary in a timely manner, prior to Faculty and external approval. ACTION: AET to advise if they can support this proposal. Meeting with Students: N/A 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities Give details of visits to library, IT and any other learning support facilities and any relevant issues for further consideration (including any relating to library stocks in the subject area). Access given to partner staff Use/purchase of Skills for Learning VLE Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior management representative advised that core books, in accordance with the Module Approval Templates are purchased and available to the students. However, there is often a delay in purchasing UK books and sometimes these are not available in Malaysia until 6 months after the release date in the UK. Due to this the teaching team have request that the Faculty use more E-books or specify local alternative books to support the students learning. FTMS further advised that students have often raised the issue of not been able to access the University’s VLE and FTMS senior management advised that the VLE that FTMS has in place requires further enhancements and as such they feel that it is not in its current form comparable to the VLE of the University. FTMS senior management further advised that they are currently working with two other UK institutions that have provided a VLE platform as part of their franchise agreement and the lack of an interactive platform limits the opportunities for virtual discussions and interactivity to support learning. However, FTMS teaching staff did confirm that some of the tutors did have access to the VLE platform and were able to download the necessary materials; these were then shared with the students electronically. In regards to the access of Mybeckett for FTMS teaching staff, the senior management representative advised that a number of the teaching staff on the two courses had experienced some difficulties when logging onto the system, which seems to be when setting the password. FTMS advised that the colleagues with access to Mybeckett had been downloading the necessary teaching materials onto a USB for other colleagues to access. ACTION: AET to use more books or specify local alternative books to support the students learning. ACTION: University to work with FTMS to find a VLE solution that provides an equitable and managed student experience. ACTION: AET Faculty to ensure that all teaching staff at FTMS has access to the University’s VLE platform. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 4 10. Annual Monitoring and Review Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process Schedule of student focus groups, enhancement and development meetings and student focus groups Annual reports Extent of engagement by students Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that there had been no issues with the Annual Monitoring and Review process. Student focus groups and enhancement and development meetings had taken place via Skype, which had worked well. AET representatives confirmed that there had been a good level of engagement by the students at these meetings and all the necessary tutors/teaching staff had been present. However, AET representatives did wish to raise with FTMS that any issues/difficulties they had been experiencing could be communicated/dealt with on a more informal basis, with direct liaison between FTMS Module Leaders and the University Module Leaders instead of waiting for a student focus group or enhancement and development meeting. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior management confirmed that all colleagues understood the annual monitoring and review process and that they had not experienced any problems. FTMS senior management echoed AET representatives in regards to there been a good level of engagement from the students. 11. Module Evaluation Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process and distribution of module forms (hard copy, VLE or other online survey software) Collation of student feedback Use of module evaluation data Mid-module review (How is it carried out?) Meeting with University Staff: The AET Student Administration Team advised that the module evaluation process is working well. They provide module evaluation templates and timescales, and always receive the data back from FTMS in a timely manner and on the correct template. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives advised that as well as the Annual Review Process, they had been good levels of engagement and feedback from the students. Action plans have been produced and any issues the students have raised FTMS along with the University have looked at resolving it, for example a student had raised that they needed to be Wi-Fi access on FTMS campus, this issue has now been addressed. 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process of claims for extenuating circumstances Scheduling of Mitigation Panels Consideration and approval of claims J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 5 Process for informing students of outcomes Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that there had been no cases of Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances submitted for either the computing or project management course at FTMS. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior representatives confirmed there no cases of Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances had been submitted. It was further advised that all students have been provided with the Mitigation guidance and are receiving the appropriate support. FTMS representatives confirmed that they were now aware of the new fit to sit/submit approach, following Monday’s staff development session. Meeting with Students: N/A 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process for cases of cheating, plagiarism and other forms of unfair practice Consideration of cases (investigatory interviews, assessment enquiry panels and assessment appeal panels) Meeting with University Staff: AET representative advised that they was not aware of any cases of Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice arising from either the Project Management or Computing course. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS management representatives confirmed that the process is working well and there is good communication between FTMS colleagues and with the AET Franchise Administrator. FTMS further confirmed that Turnitin is used to identify cases of cheating, however so far no cases of Cheating for the Project Management or Computing courses have been identified. 14. Assessment and Moderation Give details of any issues for further consideration relating to: Assessment requirements and where they are available/accessed, e.g., course handbook Process for examination papers and examination conditions Marking and internal and external moderation Also give details examination sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that the assessment process is working well, FTMS submit samples and marks on time. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS management representatives confirmed that they had no issues and were clear on the assessment process and their roles and responsibilities. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 6 15. External Examiners Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Appointment process Role Reporting procedures Attendance at Examination Committees Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives advised that the process is working well with the External Examiners. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives confirmed that there are no issues with the Externals Examiners, however FTMS representatives request a copy of the latest External Examiner report for both BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management. ACTION: AET to ensure that FTMS receive a copy of all External Examiner reports. 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee Give details of any Board of Examiners/Examination Committees observed and any further issues for further consideration. Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives advised that the process is working well with Board of Examiners and Examination Committee’s. Due to the cohort size the committees and boards are often short and run smooth. AET representatives confirmed that these meetings are held as a three way Skype, between the University, FTMS and the External Examiner. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives that they had not experienced any difficulties with either the Project Management or Computing Board of Examiners or Examination Committee. These meetings had taken place virtually through Skype. 17. Student Appeals and Complaints Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: How students have been aware of the appeals process Process for appeals Partners institution’s complaints policy Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives advised that they were not aware of any student appeals or complaints from FTMS. Meeting with Partner Staff: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 7 FTMS representatives confirmed that no student appeals or complaints had been submitted, however, FTMS representatives confirmed that they were fully aware of the process if the situation arose. 18. Other Activities Give details of your participation in any other activities (e.g. recruitment events), meetings and/or discussions relating to the partnership during your visit and any relevant issues for further consideration. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: What staff development activities have you undertaken with Leeds Beckett University to gain a common understanding of programme delivery and assessment, e.g., approaches to marking and teaching styles? Is there a peer observation of your teaching; by Leeds Beckett University or local colleagues? How do you keep in contact with staff at Leeds Beckett University? Can you contact the module/programme leaders directly? 19. Reflections since last mutual review Give details of any reflections on the operation / actions taken/ progress since the last mutual review 20. Action Plan Activity AET to use more books or specify local alternative books to support the students learning. Responsible Deadline AET J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March Status For Project Management and Computing this arrangement is in place. The lack of suitable library materials at FTMS and from the University is a severe problem. As a gesture of good will we have asked module tutors to copy relevant abstracts from materials or to reference alternative 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 8 Activity All assessments are referred to FTMS before external examiner approval is sought. FTMS can then advise whether further contextualisation is necessary in a timely manner, prior to Faculty and external approval. University to work with FTMS to find a VLE solution that provides a equitable and managed student experience. Faculty to ensure that all teaching staff at FTMS has access to the University’s VLE platform. To ensure that FTMS receive a copy of all External Examiner reports. Responsible Deadline AET Status sources. This item has previously been raised at E&D meetings. Currently this is not taking place. We are emphasising the need for local contextualisation. To date our link tutors have tried to adjust materials so they are “internationalised” we recommend further staff development on the process of local contextualisation. This item has been raised at previous E&D meetings. University IMTS AET J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March All staff who are approved to teach receive a log in id and password from the University administrators responsible for IT access. The resultant problems reported are outside the Faculty oversight. Comment [AP1]: We respectfully recommend this action is referenced to IMTS To date our external examiners have not completed an end of level report. This will take place in March 2015. To date we have shared the verbal and written reports of the external examiners made at the examination committees as per normal practice in the 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 9 Activity Responsible Deadline Status University. Quality Assurance Services: Report received by Faculty: Report received by Partnerships & Collaborations Sub-Committee: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR AET Update Nov 2014.Docx 10 Quality Assurance Services Collaborative Provision Mutual Review Report Partner FTMS Academic Cycle First Mutual Review meeting related to the March intake onto two AET UG programmes Second Mutual Review meeting related to the September intakes of students onto five Leeds Beckett courses (x 2 at UG and x 3 at PG including AET and FBL). Dates of Meeting 18 September 2014 19 November 2014 Mutual Review 1: BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management Mutual Review 2: BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management, MSc Software Engineering, MSc Information Management, MBA Programme(s) Student numbers as of 19 November are: MBA: 5 BSc (Hons) Computing: 2 at H5 and 1 at H4 MSc Information Mgm: 3 MSc Software Engineering: 5 BSc (Hons) Project Management: 10 26 in total J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Report Submitted by Mutual Review 1: Lianne Sweeting (QAS) & George Lodorfos (FBL) Mutual Review 2: Becky Baldaro-Booth (QAS) & Nehal Mahtab (FBL) J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Contents 1. Student Admissions......................................................................................................................... 1 2. Staff Appointment........................................................................................................................... 1 3. Student Registration ....................................................................................................................... 2 4. Student Induction and Student Representation ............................................................................. 2 5. Published Information .................................................................................................................... 3 6. Student Files.................................................................................................................................... 4 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions................................................................................................... 4 8. Teaching Materials .......................................................................................................................... 4 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities ...................................................................................... 5 10. Annual Monitoring and Review .................................................................................................. 6 11. Module Evaluation ...................................................................................................................... 7 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances ................................................................................ 7 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice .................................................................................... 8 14. Assessment and Moderation ...................................................................................................... 8 15. External Examiners...................................................................................................................... 9 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee .................................................................... 9 17. Student Appeals and Complaints .............................................................................................. 10 18. Other Activities ......................................................................................................................... 10 19. Reflections since last mutual review......................................................................................... 10 20. Action Plan ................................................................................................................................ 12 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review 1. Student Admissions Where applicable, give details of: Process (requirements for admission to the course) Standard Entry Applications (policies and processes in place to conduct to conduct admissions processes in accordance with the University’s requirements) Non-standard entry applications Accreditation of Prior (Experiential/Certificated) Learning (evaluation of requests and supporting evidence) Monitoring (admissions details in student file including details of qualifications, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence, confirmation that original certificates have been seen by partner staff, references and details of APEL/APCL claims September 2014 Meeting with University Staff: AET colleagues confirmed that they had no concerns or issues relating to the admission of students. The Link Tutor confirmed that all non-standard entries had been forwarded to the University for consideration. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS Senior Management representative confirmed that they had not experienced any issues/difficulties with the admissions of students. The applicants are mainly standard and all non-standard entries are forwarded on to the University Link Tutor for consideration, along with cases of Recognition of Prior Learning. November 2014 The team at FTMS raised a query regarding the admissions criteria for MBA and the required evidence in respect of two years professional experience. The University advised that the course entry criteria requires candidates with some management and leadership experience including exposure to higher level decision making and negotiation. It was also noted that this issue was also discussed at the recent validation event in September 2014. The Computing team raised a query as to the outcome of recent RPL claims. The University agreed to revisit the outcome and following the visit, the documentation was passed to the relevant Link Tutors. The team at FTMS confirmed the arrangements in place for processing non-standard applicants and the involvement of the Link Tutor in that process. They confirmed that they find the admissions forms easy to use and welcomed the structured approach. FTMS confirmed that response to admissions related queries were dealt with promptly. University staff confirmed receipt of evidence to support non-standard applications. Five admissions files were reviewed as part of this visit, prompting University colleagues to explore further evidence of English proficiency in students completing the STMP and the use of the internal test referred to in the publicity material available in the College reception. 2. Staff Appointment Meeting with University Staff: Are you aware of the process for staff appointment and the role of the Faculty in confirming appropriate staff appointments? Meeting with Partner Staff: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 1 How were you recruited to teach on programme? Was Leeds Beckett University involved? What induction did you have? Can you tell us how Leeds Beckett University helped you to gain an understanding of the academic standards to apply to the programme? Staff appointments was not discussed at the November meeting, all staff have been approved by the University and there are no new staff since the last round of approvals. 3. Student Registration Give details of any issues raised and actions taken: Student Registration data (process and completion of documentation) Registration of students (the University is required to register all students within 21 days of receipt of registration data from the partner institution) September 2014 Meeting with University Staff: AET colleagues advised that registration data had not been submitted within the three weeks of the BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management starting. FTMS were reminded of the University requirement to ensure that registration data is submitted within three weeks of commencement of courses. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives advised that there were no issues to report and the process for registering students is running smoothly. November 2014 rd Registration data was submitted on 3 November with all supporting evidence. FBL recognises that there has been a delay in uploading the data to the University’s student records system which has resulted in a delay to the production of student cards. The Faculty is working to resolve this issue as soon as possible. 4. Student Induction and Student Representation Give details of any relevant issues for further consideration: Planning and Delivery of Induction (to include assessment and progression regulations, general regulations, mitigation, unfair practice, complaints and appeals, issue of course handbooks, coursebased induction, student representation, introducing key staff members, introducing facilities, library induction, entitlements to services, and the student’s relationship to the University) Student Representation (process for appointment and engagement of student representatives) Training and development provided to student representatives September 2014 Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that student representatives for both courses had been appointed and both student representatives had been engaged in the relevant meetings. It was also confirmed that the induction of students had taken place at FTMS by University staff. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives confirmed that they had not experienced any problems with the student induction and student representation process. Student representatives for both courses had been appointed following the standard university appointment process. Face to face induction for the BSc (Hons) Project Management and BSc (Hons) Computing had been undertaken by University staff. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 2 Meeting with Students: N/A – due to the date of the Mutual Review meeting, no students were available. November 2014 The induction process was supported by the AET Franchise Coordinator via Skype. Only 5/6 students attended the induction programme which included a combination of course level, college level induction and social activities. A good number of students are from overseas and the induction programme enables students to get to know one another. Those students who attended received a course handbook. The course handbook is also made available to students via the FTMS student portal although not all students knew that it was available via the portal. Some international students didn’t arrive in Malaysia until week four of teaching. These students face similar challenges with respect of their visa, as international students coming to the UK. Two weeks is however the standard cut off in Leeds and Course Leaders are advised to liaise closely with the Link Tutors when scenarios such as this arise in order to ensure students are well supported. During the visit week, three FTMS students contacted MyHub requesting advice and guidance in relation to jobs and careers. They were advised that as a franchise student, it is the responsibility of the partner to provide careers guidance, which they took on board. This issue does suggest that students would welcome / value further explanation as part of the induction, the nature of the franchise relationship. Students did not raise this issue during the student meeting. 5. Published Information Give details of published information checked and confirm that in your view they accurately reflect the programme and contractual agreement. Identify any issues that need to be addressed. This should be linked to the Published Information Guidance and Schedule. (Collate any relevant material) Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that they are aware of the University process for agreeing and signing off published information. However they had not been consulted by FTMS regarding any published information for the BSc (Hons) Project Management or BSc (Hons) Computing courses. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior representatives confirmed that they are aware of the approval process for any published information. FTMS also confirmed that the details in regards to the University name change had been received and that the changes had been communicated to students. It was further advised that FTMS will update the necessary brochures and prospectus and these will be submitted through the appropriate channels prior to external publication. It was noted that FTMS had received a number of queries about the reasoning behind the name change from some student’s parents. FTMS further stated that they had received a letter from the MQA (Malaysian Qualification Agency) to acknowledge the University name change. A number of course leaflets promoting Leeds Beckett courses were available in the reception area, University staff reviewed this documentation and noted a number of inaccuracies: - Graduate MBA is included and this course has not been validated by our University. This will need to be removed. MSc Accounting is included; this course has not received MQA approval and should also be remove, (although it is recognised that following a successful meeting with the MQA) there is the opportunity to resubmit course documentation for approval by the MQA. The shortened version of Leeds Beckett University appears as LBU instead of the preferred Leeds Beckett. For future material, the University requests FTMS take account of this. There is no reference to the English language requirements in i.e. IELTS 6.0 or equivalent within the J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 3 admissions information apart from reference to an internal test which should not be used in place of IELTS or an equivalent test approved by the University to test English language equivalencies. The materials will be progressed for consideration by the University’s branding team but the logo does appear to have been correctly used throughout. The materials will also be passed to the Link Tutors for sign off in respect of information about the various courses. A separate memorandum will be sent to FTMS collating feedback from a range of University stakeholders requesting FTMS take account of University requirements with respect of the publication of any new material. 6. Student Files Give details of sampling of student files, any issues raised and action taken. Maintenance of student files and retaining records of student activity Student files should include: application form, interview record/outcome (where relevant), confirmation that original certificates have been checked by partner staff, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence of UK qualifications, evidence of appropriate level of English language skills, references, details of APL/APEL/APCL claim (where relevant), enrolment/registration forms, module marks, assignment feedback sheets, details of proven unfair practice (where relevant), applications for extension/mitigation (where relevant), applications for appeal (where relevant), Board of Examiners outcomes/results letters and copies of other communication with the student) Unfortunately, due to time constraints we were unable to sample any of the student files, however FTMS colleagues confirmed that they had not experienced any difficulties with the maintenance of student files and assured that the files were retained for the duration of the student life cycle at FTMS. The November visit did not include a review of student files. 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions Give details of teaching sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration. Give details of lectures (including guest lectures) and tutorials, including topic, date/time, location and attendees. No teaching sessions were observed during the September/ November mutual review. Meeting with Students: N/A 8. Teaching Materials Give details of how effectively materials have been shared with the staff at the partner (How have materials been shared? Have they been shared in a timely manner?) Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that the teaching materials have been shared in a timely manner. For the BSc (Hons) Computing course, the teaching materials have been shared through Google drive; for BSc (Hons) Project Management course the teaching materials are shared and accessed through the University’s Virtual Learning Environment. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 4 Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS management representatives confirmed that the updated teaching materials in regards to the computing and project management awards were always available. FTMS lecturers reported that some colleagues find it easy to access the teaching materials, study guides and weekly lesson plans online and develop lectures based on these – they use approximately 75% Leeds Beckett context, with 25% of contextualised content, for example where software has not been available in Malaysia FTMS have worked with the AET Module Leaders to contextualise the assessment for a suitable alternative. FTMS senior management proposed that all assessments are referred to FTMS before external examiner approval is sought. FTMS can then advise whether further contextualisation is necessary in a timely manner, prior to Faculty and external approval. ACTION: AET to advise if they can support this proposal. Meeting with Students: N/A University staff met with a number of colleagues who course lead or deliver on the Leeds Beckett courses, whilst some confirmed that they had full access to the VLE, others suggested that they had faced persistent problems with the login details. In addition, that in some cases, materials were not available to those who did have access. Full details of the range of issues were collated and were passed to AET and FBL. It was noted that staff and students would benefit from engaging in guest lectures that take place in Leeds and that this could be done virtually. The Faculty of Business and Law have uploaded all the recordings of guest lectures for the 2014-15 academic year, bar one which was not recorded by request of the guest speaker th (Brigadier Bibby on the 28 October). The details are below: Peter Dodds (14 October 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjdH2fPw7TA th Colin Byrne (11 November 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNzyOurc1FY th Sean Connolly (25 November 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SM2pH8EY5pI Fraser Doherty (9 December 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwM6sfrTx_M 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities Give details of visits to library, IT and any other learning support facilities and any relevant issues for further consideration (including any relating to library stocks in the subject area). Access given to partner staff Use/purchase of Skills for Learning VLE Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior management representative advised that core books, in accordance with the Module Approval Templates are purchased and available to the students. However, there is often a delay in purchasing UK books and sometimes these are not available in Malaysia until 6 months after the release date in the UK. Due to this the teaching team have request that the Faculty use more E-books or specify local alternative books to support the students learning. FTMS further advised that students have often raised the issue of not been able to access the University’s VLE and FTMS senior management advised that the VLE that FTMS has in place requires further enhancements and as such they feel that it is not in its current form comparable to the VLE of the University. FTMS senior management further advised that they are currently working with two other UK institutions that have provided a VLE platform as part of their franchise agreement and the lack of an interactive platform limits the J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 5 opportunities for virtual discussions and interactivity to support learning. However, FTMS teaching staff did confirm that some of the tutors did have access to the VLE platform and were able to download the necessary materials; these were then shared with the students electronically. In regards to the access of Mybeckett for FTMS teaching staff, the senior management representative advised that a number of the teaching staff on the two courses had experienced some difficulties when logging onto the system, which seems to be when setting the password. FTMS advised that the colleagues with access to Mybeckett had been downloading the necessary teaching materials onto a USB for other colleagues to access. ACTION: AET to use more books or specify local alternative books to support the students learning. ACTION: University to work with FTMS to find a VLE solution that provides an equitable and managed student experience. ACTION: AET Faculty to ensure that all teaching staff at FTMS has access to the University’s VLE platform. November 2014 Some staff were not aware that they could access Library Online via their associate staff status nor were they aware that a number of open resources are available. The FBL representative demonstrated how staff access the Library. Students noted that on the whole they had access to the relevant resources but they also requested additional access to the University’s VLE. There are some materials that are harder to obtain in Malaysia. Students are also aware that other validating bodies offering courses at FTMS offer full access and they feel it unfair to not receive the same level of access. This issue was raised during the Sep meeting and during the Partnership Board and the University is pursuing discussions with various stakeholders although the position for 14/15 remains as at the time of recognition and validation. 10. Annual Monitoring and Review Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process Schedule of student focus groups, enhancement and development meetings and student focus groups Annual reports Extent of engagement by students September 2014 Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that there had been no issues with the Annual Monitoring and Review process. Student focus groups and enhancement and development meetings had taken place via Skype, which had worked well. AET representatives confirmed that there had been a good level of engagement by the students at these meetings and all the necessary tutors/teaching staff had been present. However, AET representatives did wish to raise with FTMS that any issues/difficulties they had been experiencing could be communicated/dealt with on a more informal basis, with direct liaison between FTMS Module Leaders and the University Module Leaders instead of waiting for a student focus group or enhancement and development meeting. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior management confirmed that all colleagues understood the annual monitoring and review process and that they had not experienced any problems. FTMS senior management echoed AET representatives in regards to there been a good level of engagement from the students. November 2014 Colleagues at FTMS had prepared the Annual Course Leader report; one report encompassed both BSc (Hons) Project Management and BSc (Hons) Computing. The report presented a comprehensive reflection on activity J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 6 since the commencement of Leeds Beckett courses in March 2014 and set out some aims as to how the partnership could be developed further in 2014/15. Colleagues had used data sets to support their reflections. E & D meetings and student focus groups for Sem 1 had all been scheduled. 11. Module Evaluation Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process and distribution of module forms (hard copy, VLE or other online survey software) Collation of student feedback Use of module evaluation data Mid-module review (How is it carried out?) Meeting with University Staff: The AET Student Administration Team advised that the module evaluation process is working well. They provide module evaluation templates and timescales, and always receive the data back from FTMS in a timely manner and on the correct template. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives advised that as well as the Annual Review Process, they had been good levels of engagement and feedback from the students. Action plans have been produced and any issues the students have raised FTMS along with the University have looked at resolving it, for example a student had raised that they needed to be Wi-Fi access on FTMS campus, this issue has now been addressed. November 2014 Students were familiar with the process of mid-module review as well as module evaluation and commented positively about how student feedback has resulted in a number of positive changes. Staff discussed which forms should be used to conduct mid-module review and it was noted that the University’s Centre for Learning and Teaching had recently produced some guidance which is being trialled this year so there may be distinct approaches to mid-module review which is agreeable to the University. The key is giving students the opportunity to give feedback part way through the module and acting promptly on any feedback even if it is to confirm that a requested change cannot in fact happen. 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process of claims for extenuating circumstances Scheduling of Mitigation Panels Consideration and approval of claims Process for informing students of outcomes Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that there had been no cases of Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances submitted for either the computing or project management course at FTMS. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS senior representatives confirmed there no cases of Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances had been submitted. It was further advised that all students have been provided with the Mitigation guidance and are receiving the appropriate support. FTMS representatives confirmed that they were now aware of the new fit to sit/submit approach, following Monday’s staff development session. Meeting with Students: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 7 N/A This was not discussed during the November meetings. 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process for cases of cheating, plagiarism and other forms of unfair practice Consideration of cases (investigatory interviews, assessment enquiry panels and assessment appeal panels) Meeting with University Staff: AET representative advised that they was not aware of any cases of Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice arising from either the Project Management or Computing course. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS management representatives confirmed that the process is working well and there is good communication between FTMS colleagues and with the AET Franchise Administrator. FTMS further confirmed that Turnitin is used to identify cases of cheating, however so far no cases of Cheating for the Project Management or Computing courses have been identified. November 2014 FTMS colleagues confirmed that students are encouraged to use Turnitin as a developmental tool by submitting their draft assignments. Following the training that was delivered in September, the College has identified a number of Academic Integrity Coordinators (equivalent Heads of School/ Dept.) as well as an Academic Integrity Lead (who is the Franchise Coordinator). A discussion followed regarding the use of Turnitin and what is perceived as an acceptable match by University staff. There are ways in which a threshold match can be set up for example it can be set up to ‘exclude bibliographies’, it was noted that ultimately it is an academic judgement. Colleagues were reminded that they can access resources via the Developing Excellent Academic Practice module within which they will find information pertaining to the subject of Academic Integrity. The FBL representative demonstrated to colleagues where this information can be found on the VLE. 14. Assessment and Moderation Give details of any issues for further consideration relating to: Assessment requirements and where they are available/accessed, e.g., course handbook Process for examination papers and examination conditions Marking and internal and external moderation Also give details examination sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration September 2014 Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives confirmed that the assessment process is working well; FTMS submit samples and marks on time. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS management representatives confirmed that they had no issues and were clear on the assessment process and their roles and responsibilities. November 2014 For some specific modules: Principles of Project Mgm, Legal Framework, Systems & Development assessment J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 8 tasks had at the time of the mutual review meeting not been made available to colleagues at FTMS. These instances appear to be isolated and Link Tutors are aware and seeking resolutions. Colleagues at FTMS were able to articulate the assessment process including marking and moderation. Internal moderation takes place onsite at FTMS before scripts are sent to Leeds for sample marking by University staff and the External Examiner. The Module Tutor at FTMS sends a copy of their marks and report along with the scripts. Overall feedback from staff in Leeds suggests that staff are on the whole marking to University expectations, in one or two cases marks have been increased by University staff. Staff commented that it would be helpful to see the comments made by the internal moderator as a development tool. Staff have access to the marking criteria and students are in receipt of provisional marks and written feedback within ten days. A brief discussion took place regarding the value of asking students to self-evaluate as a means to supporting formative feedback. The representative from FBL offered to share the form that he uses with students in Leeds as a way of sharing good practice. 15. External Examiners Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Appointment process Role Reporting procedures Attendance at Examination Committees Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives advised that the process is working well with the External Examiners. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives confirmed that there are no issues with the Externals Examiners, however FTMS representatives request a copy of the latest External Examiner report for both BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management. ACTION: AET to ensure that FTMS receive a copy of all External Examiner reports. External examiners were not discussed during the meeting in November. 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee Give details of any Board of Examiners/Examination Committees observed and any further issues for further consideration. Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives advised that the process is working well with Board of Examiners and Examination Committee’s. Due to the cohort size the committees and boards are often short and run smooth. AET representatives confirmed that these meetings are held as a three way Skype, between the University, FTMS and the External Examiner. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives that they had not experienced any difficulties with either the Project Management or Computing Board of Examiners or Examination Committee. These meetings had taken place virtually through Skype. November 2014 There have been no additional Committees / Boards since the meeting in September 2014 so no further comments. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 9 FTMS colleagues confirmed that students are sent a letter with the outcome of the Board / Committee and that marks are also posted anonymously on the College noticeboards within five days of the Board. 17. Student Appeals and Complaints Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: How students have been aware of the appeals process Process for appeals Partners institution’s complaints policy Meeting with University Staff: AET representatives advised that they were not aware of any student appeals or complaints from FTMS. Meeting with Partner Staff: FTMS representatives confirmed that no student appeals or complaints had been submitted, however, FTMS representatives confirmed that they were fully aware of the process if the situation arose. November 2014 FTMS confirmed that it is made clear to students that following a Board of Examiners, they are entitled to submit an appeal but that there are grounds to appeal. Staff were familiar with the University approach to seek to resolve any appeals informally before documentation is formally submitted. The University has not to date received any appeals from any FTMS students. 18. Other Activities Give details of your participation in any other activities (e.g. recruitment events), meetings and/or discussions relating to the partnership during your visit and any relevant issues for further consideration. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: What staff development activities have you undertaken with Leeds Beckett University to gain a common understanding of programme delivery and assessment, e.g., approaches to marking and teaching styles? Is there a peer observation of your teaching; by Leeds Beckett University or local colleagues? How do you keep in contact with staff at Leeds Beckett University? Can you contact the module/programme leaders directly? Staff at FTMS have engaged in a wide range of staff development and it was agreed that it would be sensible to reflect on how the development is delivered and areas for recommendation. It was agreed that the Academic Manager would send the feedback collated following previoys development sessions. The FBL representative showed staff how to navigate the VLE to access the DEAP module and other resources such as Library Online. Skype meetings do take place between Link Tutors and Course Leaders, however it was noted in Leeds that more regular contact would enhance communication and enable any issues to be dealt with promptly. 19. Reflections since last mutual review J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 10 Give details of any reflections on the operation / actions taken/ progress since the last mutual review The refocused MBA was validated on 18 September subject to two conditions, one of which is to ensure the two AET modules that offer an IT route are validated prior to Semester 2. On further reflection, this will pose a problem. The two modules are part of the two AET PG courses that are currently offered. The refocused curriculum for MSc Information Management involves changes to the curriculum that are more than 30%. The result of which will require full MQA approval. (Changes that are less than 30% are relatively straightforward in respect of MQA approval). It has therefore been decided that AET will not seek to validate refocused versions of MSc Software Engineering / MSc Information Management until 2015/16. A resolution in terms of what is offered as part of the MBA is however needed prior to Semester 2 and in order to address the condition that was set at the event in September. Since the last face-to-face meeting in September, colleagues at FTMS have engaged in discussions with their counterparts via Skype, where it is difficult to find a mutually convenient time, colleagues have exchanged email communication. This activity has taken place in relation to both FBL and AET awards. For the three awards that sit within the Leeds Beckett School of Computing and Creative Technology, materials were shared in a timely manner supported with Skype sessions. Colleagues welcome Skype interactions but indicated that the best time for them to take place is first thing UK time. Colleagues at FTMS noted that one or two suggestions for the time of Skype meetings had been rather impractical. Student feedback suggested that there is not sufficient out of hours support available to them; the College has in response to this feedback set up a Facebook account. This is working well with staff and students regularly communicating and sharing information. Students have welcomed this innovation; evidence of action in response to student feedback. University staff confirmed that assessment meetings, annual monitoring and review are all running smoothly. The only feedback related to the regularity of communication between colleagues is that there have been one or two queries that have escalated unnecessarily and that more regular email communication as well as Skype meetings could have helped reduce concerns. The team at FTMS confirmed that they have received the following QA staff development sessions: Student Induction & Representation AMR Assessment regulations Mitigation & Extenuating Circumstances Cheating Plagiarism and Unfair Practice On-going staff development focusing on the curriculum the assessment takes place and is facilitated by the Link Tutors. On the 19 Nov, the representative from FBL gave staff an introduction to the VLE and the DEAP module, reminding staff that they can access the University’s Library resources and Skills for Learning. There are on-going issues with staff access and a list of names and the status of their access as an Associate Staff member was collated. The issue appears to be related to the login and password that is sent by the University’s HR department as faculties have completed the necessary paperwork. The College confirmed the following projected numbers for a January 2015 intake: BSc (Hons) Project Management: 30 BSc (Hons) Computing: 10 MSc Information Management: 10 MSc Software Engineering: 10 MBA: 10 The College is still keen for the University to undertake a brand awareness exercise and feel that would help to J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 11 recruit students. It is evident from reviewing the admissions files that students select a course and the secondary selection is the awarding body which pits us against two other UK HEIs. The University confirmed that it would explore recoil and banner designs for us in reception areas and that we are still considering a newspaper advert combined with staff being onsite to support recruitment activity. The University confirmed the Conference date as w/c 30 June and encouraged colleagues to attend. (It is now confirmed as 2 July). FTMS is also holding its own conference in March 2015. The date has already been shared with Link Tutors. 20. Action Plan from mutual review meeting in September 2014 Activity AET to use more books or specify local alternative books to support the students learning. All assessments are referred to FTMS before external examiner approval is sought. FTMS can then advise whether further contextualisation is necessary in a timely manner, prior to Faculty and external approval. University to work with FTMS to find a VLE solution that provides a equitable and managed student experience. Responsible AET AET University Deadline Status For BSH Project Management and BSH Computing this arrangement is in place. The lack of suitable library materials at FTMS and from the University is a problem. As a gesture of good AET Franchise Coordinator has asked module tutors to copy relevant abstracts from materials or to reference alternative sources. This item has previously been raised at E&D meetings and is being progressed by the relevant Link Tutor/ Course Leader. Currently this is not taking place. We are emphasising the need for local contextualisation. To date our Link Tutors have tried to adjust materials so they are “internationalised” we recommend further staff development on the process of local contextualisation. This item has been raised at previous E&D meetings. This is on-going. The process of institutional recognition provided the University with the reassurance that FTMS can provide adequate infrastructure to support J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 12 Activity Faculty to ensure that all teaching staff at FTMS has access to the University’s VLE platform. To ensure that FTMS receive a copy of all External Examiner reports. Responsible Deadline Status delivery of HE. The University is aware of the student and staff feedback in respect of access enhancing the sense of identity / belonging to Leeds Beckett. All staff who are approved to teach receive a log in and password from the University administrators responsible for IT access. The resultant problems reported are outside the Faculty oversight. QAS to progress with IMTS and HR. To date our external examiners have not completed an end of level report. This will take place in March 2015. To date we have shared the verbal and written reports of the external examiners made at the examination committees as per normal practice in the University. AET AET 21. Action Plan following Mutual Review of Franchise Operations at FTMS: 19 November 2014 Activity To ensure students on AET and FBL courses receive their Leeds Beckett student cards. Responsible Deadline Andrew Stevens, FBL 17 December Matt Merritt, AET 2014 Status FBL Update: Meeting with Helen Jones and Andrew Stevens took place on 09/12/2014. Due to technical difficulties there has been a delay with the uploading of registration data for franchise cohorts. This will cause a delay in confirmation of registration data. Andrew Stevens will contact partner. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 13 Activity Responsible Deadline Status AET: To resolve any staff access issues Andrew Stevens, FBL 17 December and ensure staff are aware of Matt Merritt, AET 2014 how to access the Library Online To disseminate recently produced CLT Guidance on midmodule review to support Semester 2 activity. FTMS staff to use the Partner staff Checklist as a way of identifying issues as they arise and for staff to share these checklists with their Link Tutor and / or franchise admin support in an effort to facilitate a prompt response. For the course teams including the Link Tutor to address issues raised via the AMR process – specifically in the Course Leaders report for BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management. To ensure separate Course Leader reports are produced in November 2015. (This year one report has been produced for BSc (Hons) Computing and BSc (Hons) Project Management) Becky BaldaroBooth Becky BaldaroBooth to resend the Partner staff checklist Link Tutors to encourage use of the forms Course teams including the Link Tutor Course Leaders / Link Tutors 17 December 2014 5 December 2014 As per the deadline in the action plan November 2015 FBL Update: Andrew Stevens to investigate for FBL. AET: This was shared with FTMS following the meeting in November. This guidance is new to University staff and is essentially a pilot, as such it may not have been implemented in all areas. Therefore the approach to mid-module review remains variable. Course Leaders are advised to communicate with the respective Link Tutors to discuss the collation of mid module feedback. Evidence may be collated in a number of different ways; the variability is acceptable to the University. Form re-sent to FTMS colleagues on 24 December and Link Tutors will be reminded to encourage new Course Leaders to use these checklists at the Oversight meeting on January. On-going Separate E & D meetings have taken place for Sem 1 for both FBL and AET provision. FBL Update: The FBL QAG Team will include this requirement in their correspondence to all partners for Annual J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 14 Activity Responsible Deadline Status Monitoring and Review. To hold a Skype meeting to show staff where and how to access Leeds Beckett open resources and discuss other ways in which the Library can support FTMS i.e. discounted subscriptions rates. To ensure there are timely opportunities for local contextualisation of materials and assessment in advance of Sem 2. Staff and students commented that assessment information has arrived late and in many cases the delay has limited the opportunities for contextualisation. Students commented that they would like to see more contextualisation. Wendy Luker / Trevor Ward Link Tutors 17 December 2014 QAS to follow up with LLI 31 January 2015 AET will conduct virtual meetings by module to ensure materials are received and appropriately contextualised for S2 delivery. FBL to use same model. Verify English language requirements in relation to those students progressing from a 3 year local diploma taught in English Becky BaldaroBooth / International Office 17 December 2014 Discuss via the Oversight Groups, oversight of admissions files (i.e. sampling by the LTs on receipt of applications or via MR or both?) QAS to follow up with AET Franchise Coordinator to discuss what has been identified via faculty sampling of admission files. Becky BaldaroBooth 17 December 2014 To be on the agenda for January’s meeting. To share the self-assessment form used in FBL as good practice Nehal Mahtab 5 December 2014 To agree a date for validation of the two AET modules that form part of the MBA offered in Semester two (a condition of the MBA’s validation), as the Faculty do not wish to offer the new curriculum until 2016. QAS / AET 17 December 2014 Update: Nehal Mahtab (FBL) has confirmed that this will be shared for S2 modules. On hold as the prerefocused modules will be offered in Sem 2 with a view to validating the AET courses in 15/16. There are implications for the MSc Information Management as changes to this course are greater than 30% (the maximum amount of change allowed by MQA before a course has to J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 15 Activity Responsible Deadline Status be approved as new). Helen Jones, FBL to speak to AET QAG. Quality Assurance Services: Report received by Faculty: February 2015 FAQSC Report received by Partnerships & Collaborations Sub-Committee: 2 March 2015 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 1 - FTMS MR Sept&Nov 14.Docx 16 Quality Assurance Services Collaborative Provision Mutual Review Report Partner Rushmore Business School Academic Cycle 2014/15 Date of Meeting 13 November 2014 Programme(s) Report Submitted by BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering (3 Year & Top-up) BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology Dip HE Quantity Surveying BSc (Hon) Adult Nursing (Top-up) BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance MBA Executive BA (Hons) Business Management (Top-up) MSc Civil Engineering Jude Carey (QAS) Dr Vish Maheshwari (FBL Senior Lecturer) Dr Lavinia Norton (HSS Franchise Co-ordinator) Dr Andrew Platten (AET Franchise Co-ordinator) Sue Sherwin (Head of School, Health & Community Studies) J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review RBS Senior Management Dr Nittin Essoo, Director and Franchise Co-ordinator Anil Rana, Head of Built Environment & Engineering Ashwin Seetaram, Head of Business department Kajal Purlackee, Head of Registry RBS Attendees RBS Teaching staff representatives Dr Nittin Essoo, MBA Executive Dr Priya Ramluggun Essoo, MBA Executive Mike Halkhoree, BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing RBS students Aswindra Chinnaya (MBA Executive) Yovina Babooram (MBA (Executive) Cherilyne Jugmohun (MBA Executive) Ibrahim Hingun (BA (Hons) Business & Management Top-up) Lokesha Jingree (BA (Hons) Business & Management Top-up) Yeesha Ramdenee (BA (Hons) Business & Management Top-up) J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review Contents 1. Student Admissions ....................................................................................................... 1 2. Staff Appointment .......................................................................................................... 1 3. Student Registration ...................................................................................................... 1 4. Student Induction and Student Representation .............................................................. 2 5. Published Information .................................................................................................... 2 6. Student Files .................................................................................................................. 3 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions ................................................................................. 3 8. Teaching Materials......................................................................................................... 4 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities ..................................................................... 4 10. Annual Monitoring and Review ................................................................................... 4 11. Module Evaluation ...................................................................................................... 5 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances ................................................................. 5 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice ................................................................... 5 14. Assessment and Moderation ...................................................................................... 6 15. External Examiners .................................................................................................... 6 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee ..................................................... 7 17. Certificates and Graduation ........................................................................................ 7 18. Student Appeals and Complaints................................................................................ 8 19. Other Activities ........................................................................................................... 8 20. Reflections since last mutual review ........................................................................... 8 21. Action Plan ............................................................................................................... 10 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 1. Student Admissions Where applicable, give details of: Process (requirements for admission to the course) Standard Entry Applications (policies and processes in place to conduct to conduct admissions processes in accordance with the University’s requirements) Non-standard entry applications Accreditation of Prior (Experiential/Certificated) Learning (evaluation of requests and supporting evidence) Monitoring (admissions details in student file including details of qualifications, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence, confirmation that original certificates have been seen by partner staff, references and details of APEL/APCL claims The students felt that the application and admission processes had been clear. RBS senior management representatives, Link Tutors and Student Administrators all confirmed that they had not experienced any issues/difficulties with the admission of students. All non-standard entries are forwarded on to the relevant Link Tutor for consideration, which is working well across both faculties. Further details on the audit of student files, including admissions, for BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance, BA (Hons) Business and Management (top-up) and MBA Executive awards are included in section 6 of this report. 2. Staff Appointment Meeting with University Staff: Are you aware of the process for staff appointment and the role of the Faculty in confirming appropriate staff appointments Meeting with Partner Staff: How were you recruited to teach on programme? Was Leeds Beckett University involved? What induction did you have? Can you tell us how Leeds Beckett University helped you to gain an understanding of the academic standards to apply to the programme? Two new administrative members of staff have been appointed recently; a colleague to assist the Head of Built Environment and Engineering and a Head of the Business department. A new member of teaching staff was recently appointed to teach on the MBA Executive course and this has been ratified by the faculty. The appointee had existing connections to Rushmore Business School and was aware of the processes for appointment and induction. Discussions have been held with UK module leaders on the content and delivery of the modules assigned to the new appointee. 3. Student Registration Give details of any issues raised and actions taken: Student Registration data (process and completion of documentation) Registration of students (the University is required to register all students within 21 days of receipt of registration data from the partner institution) J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 1 The process of submitting student registration data was working satisfactorily for all three faculties but there were ongoing issues with course start dates at RBS, particularly for HSS and FBL courses. RBS was reminded of the requirement to keep Faculties informed of any variance from the Leeds Beckett calendar. This would facilitate better use of module materials and provide an opportunity to synchronise examination assessments. 4. Student Induction and Student Representation Give details of any relevant issues for further consideration: Planning and Delivery of Induction (to include assessment and progression regulations, general regulations, mitigation, unfair practice, complaints and appeals, issue of course handbooks, coursebased induction, student representation, introducing key staff members, introducing facilities, library induction, entitlements to services, and the student’s relationship to the University) Student Representation (process for appointment and engagement of student representatives) Training and development provided to student representatives All the students confirmed they had received an Induction programme and that it had been very useful. The students felt that they had received a lot of clear information, including details of their modules. They had all received a course handbook which met their expectations. The students were aware of the student representation process. The MBA Executive representative was present at the meeting and she had been provided with sufficient details and clear expectations on the role of a student representative before she undertook the role. The AET Franchise Co-ordinator reported that there had been insufficient Leeds Beckett materials for the September induction but this would be rectified for the semester two induction in late January/early February 2015. The HSS induction had not taken place due to a lack of sufficient numbers to run the BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing course in semester one, 2014/15. 5. Published Information Give details of published information checked and confirm that in your view they accurately reflect the programme and contractual agreement. Identify any issues that need to be addressed. This should be linked to the Published Information Guidance and Schedule. (Collate any relevant material) The students explained that all the Course and Module guides had been accurate, clear and contained all the information they required. They reiterated that induction had gone well. Guidance on the process for the approval of marketing and publicity materials and guidance on the use of University logos during the transition from Leeds Met to Leeds Beckett had been sent to RBS earlier in the year and subsequent information on the change of name had also been sent recently. The FBL representative noted that there was an issue with two course handbooks in that the course structures contained in the handbooks deviated from the approved versions. RBS staff were reminded that they should only use the current course handbook templates. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 2 QAS will continue to undertake a range of monitoring activities in relation to information published by our partners, particularly with reference to the new University name. It was noted that some marketing material displayed at RBS still contained the previous University name. This would require updating and discussions would also be held with the University’s Marketing department on the provision of material to partners. It was also noted that the Graduation brochure, which had undergone several iterations prior to approval, had not been amended as per the final feedback. 6. Student Files Give details of sampling of student files, any issues raised and action taken. Maintenance of student files and retaining records of student activity Student files should include: application form, interview record/outcome (where relevant), confirmation that original certificates have been checked by partner staff, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence of UK qualifications, evidence of appropriate level of English language skills, references, details of APL/APEL/APCL claim (where relevant), enrolment/registration forms, module marks, assignment feedback sheets, details of proven unfair practice (where relevant), applications for extension/mitigation (where relevant), applications for appeal (where relevant), Board of Examiners outcomes/results letters and copies of other communication with the student) The AET files had been reviewed earlier in the calendar year, as had the Adult Nursing files. The QAS Officer undertook a spot check of the following student files: MBA Executive (3 files); BA (Hons) Business & Management Top -up (4 files); BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance (3 files). It was noted that none of the files for continuing RBS students contained Board of Examiner results and there were inconsistencies with the inclusion of a signed ‘Confirmation of Acceptance’ form from students. Prior to the visit to RBS, there had been a lack of clarity regarding the delivery of the Accountancy and Finance (BAAF) course. Two of the BAAF files appeared to show an exemption from Level 4 but with no formal approval given by the Faculty. This would be discussed further with the Faculty to ensure that due process had been followed. 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions Give details of teaching sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration. Give details of lectures (including guest lectures) and tutorials, including topic, date/time, location and attendees. No teaching sessions were observed during this mutual review but a staff development session was held on peer observation at which the University processes were explained. The students reported that their tutors were accessible, responded quickly to email enquiries and were available for face-to-face meetings. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 3 8. Teaching Materials Give details of how effectively materials have been shared with the staff at the partner (How have materials been shared? Have they been shared in a timely manner?) RBS had recently introduced its own VLE (Moodle) and students reported that they could easily access all their module materials, including assessments, work plans and e-books. The RBS Adult Nursing course leader confirmed that the module materials were shared in a timely manner and the relationship with the link tutor was working well. The AET Franchise Co-ordinator sought feedback from RBS staff on the delivery of the new 20 credit point modules. The Head of Built Environment and Engineering reported that there had been some initial teething problems but these had been resolved. Delivery of modules was one week behind the UK but there were no significant issues at the moment. The communication channels between AET and RBS worked well but further improvements could be made. The FBL representative confirmed that RBS could contextualise the module materials to ensure relevance to the Mauritian market but RBS staff were reminded that there should be no change to the delivery and/or assessment structure of a module. 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities Give details of visits to library, IT and any other learning support facilities and any relevant issues for further consideration (including any relating to library stocks in the subject area). Access given to partner staff Use/purchase of Skills for Learning VLE The students reported that they only access on-line library facilities via ‘MyLibrary’ for e-books and journals (via EBSCO). They had not experienced any problems thus far. In terms of any additional specialist texts, students were advised to speak to their module tutors where necessary. 10. Annual Monitoring and Review Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process Schedule of student focus groups, enhancement and development meetings and student focus groups Annual reports Extent of engagement by students The HSS representatives proposed a date during February 2015 for an Annual Review meeting and would meet with students from cohort 2 and potentially cohort 3 as part of that process. The students were aware of the mechanisms for collecting their views and had recently completed midmodule evaluation forms for FBL and HSS courses. As the students were still in the early stages of their J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 4 courses, they had not yet been involved with any student focus group meetings. The Annual Review meeting for 2013/14 AET awards is scheduled for Monday 24 November. The key issues arising from previous annual review meetings relate to student access to University facilities, course accreditation by the RICS which is on-going and ensuring that the correct learning materials are available to teaching staff. This latter item is very complex and involves a lot of staff time from both RBS and Leeds Beckett University. 11. Module Evaluation Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process and distribution of module forms (hard copy, VLE or other online survey software) Collation of student feedback Use of module evaluation data Mid-module review (How is it carried out?) As reported under section 10 above, students confirmed that they are provided with the opportunity to give feedback via the Module Evaluation process. There will be opportunities to compare module evaluation outcomes of the Leeds and RBS deliveries through the 2014/15 Annual Review process. RBS staff queried the mid-module evaluation forms issued by AET and FBL and clarification on the correct version and procedures would be obtained from the University. In AET, a light touch approach is adopted for all of its courses both on campus and overseas. We are aware of the lack of commonality to FBL who operate a different process. We don’t anticipate any issues arising from this however, as the AET courses are subject to Faculty quality review. As both RBS teams are separate, the different operational procedures should be seen as a feature of the two faculties and should not lead to any confusion. 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process of claims for extenuating circumstances Scheduling of Mitigation Panels Consideration and approval of claims Process for informing students of outcomes The students advised that they were aware of the process, which was contained in their course handbooks. As part of the Mutual Review visit, refresher staff development on the new regulations regarding the ‘fit to sit’ approach had been undertaken earlier in the day. This complemented the session that was delivered in June 2014 in preparation for the new regulations. 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process for cases of cheating, plagiarism and other forms of unfair practice Consideration of cases (investigatory interviews, assessment enquiry panels and assessment appeal panels) J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 5 The students advised that they were aware of the process, which was contained in their course handbooks. All students were in agreement that they were aware and understood the process and the penalties associated with cheating. As part of the Mutual Review visit, refresher staff development on the revised cheating, plagiarism and unfair practice regulations had been undertaken earlier in the day. This complemented the session that was delivered in June 2014. RBS management reported that there had been a few cases of collusion which had been resolved internally at stage 1. The course leader confirmed that there had been no cases of unfair practice on the Nursing course; staff were confident that students were aware of the potential effect of unfair practice on their professional suitability. All staff reported that students are consistently using Turnitin. 14. Assessment and Moderation Give details of any issues for further consideration relating to: Assessment requirements and where they are available/accessed, e.g., course handbook Process for examination papers and examination conditions Marking and internal and external moderation Also give details of examination sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration HSS representatives noted the delayed start of the Adult Nursing course and a subsequent delay with moderation. It was proposed that Leeds Beckett colleagues should be given access to completed assessments via the RBS Moodle to facilitate the moderation process, as soon as the Moodle system was sufficiently robust. The overall performance of Adult Nursing students had been commented on by the external examiner and a reduction in marks agreed by the Examination Board. Representatives from HSS would be visiting RBS shortly to provide additional support with academic writing and critical analysis skills. The assessment and moderation process with AET appeared to be working well, with good communication between staff at RBS and the Faculty. In particular, delays in communication between RBS and link tutors had improved. The students were aware of the assessment and moderation process but had not yet submitted any assessments so were unable to comment further. 15. External Examiners Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Appointment process Role Reporting procedures Attendance at Examination Committees RBS representatives confirmed that they receive copies of External Examiner reports and responses and note any specific comments/actions in regard to the delivery of Leeds Beckett courses. The HSS representatives made reference to the external examiner report (see section 14 above) and the resulting 5-point action plan which had been prepared in response to the report. The RBS course leader J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 6 confirmed that he agreed with the action points listed below: 1. Enhancement of student support through active use of VLE materials: The course leader confirmed that materials from Skills for Learning were on the RBS Moodle. Additional support would be provided by HSS colleagues for academic writing and critical analysis skills. It would also be helpful to meet with cohort 3 students during the visit; 2. Staff support and development to enhance teaching: RBS teaching staff will be able to access the DEAP module to facilitate teaching and learning skills and enhanced support and engagement with the link tutor and module leaders at the University; 3. Use of VLE for support and submission of assessments: With the introduction of Moodle at RBS, the opportunity to use electronic submission of assignments would be explored. This would support a more efficient approach to marking, moderation and external examiner review of papers; 4. Appropriate teaching and delivery of modules to synchronise with the University: The importance of synchronising delivery with home courses was emphasised in terms of examination timings. The Pharmacology exam had been scheduled at RBS one day before home students and this could compromise the integrity of the paper. Future examinations would have to be scheduled at exactly the same time as home students. 5. Appropriate assessment schedule and management of assignments: A schedule of assessment dates should be circulated to the link tutor and all module leaders to ensure effective time management. Assessments should also be sent to the Faculty for approval in a timely manner. The HSS representatives reminded the course leader that a list of teaching staff and their CVs would be required prior to the delivery to cohort 3 in February 2015. RBS staff mentioned that a General Election would take place in Mauritius on 10 December 2014 but they were not expecting any major changes in policy. The position with recruitment to the Adult Nursing course would be clearer by mid-January 2015. 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee Give details of any Board of Examiners/Examination Committees observed and any further issues for further consideration. The HSS representatives advised that a Board of Examiners meeting would take place in February 2015 for cohort 1 to coincide with the visit by HSS colleagues. The external examiner would be participating via skype in the UK. The summer board for cohort 2 would be scheduled for July 2015. In AET, the examination committees and boards are operated in tandem with the on-site courses. Extensive use of video conferencing is used so as to involve our external examiners. The timings for the examination committees and boards will be February / March 2015 and June 2015 respectively. Currently, external examiners are being consulted with regard to their availability. 17. Certificates and Graduation Give details of any Graduations Ceremonies and any further issues for further consideration. The RBS Graduation ceremony was due to take place on Saturday 15 November 2014 at Cyber Tower 1, Ebene. Professor Ieuan Ellis, Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of HSS would be attending on behalf of the Leeds Beckett senior management and the QAS Officer had been invited to attend as a guest. There were approximately 90 students graduating across four AET courses. The Head of Built Environment and Engineering advised that J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 7 some certificates were still outstanding and this would be followed up with the AET Franchise Co-ordinator. 18. Student Appeals and Complaints Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: How students have been aware of the appeals process Process for appeals Partners institution’s complaints policy The students explained that they had not submitted any appeals or complaints but they were fully aware of the process if it became necessary. 19. Other Activities Give details of your participation in any other activities (e.g. recruitment events), meetings and/or discussions relating to the partnership during your visit and any relevant issues for further consideration. During the visit to RBS in November 2014, the following activities took place in addition to the mutual review: Staff development sessions including: - An update on general regulatory matters Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances Cheating, Plagiarism & Unfair Practice Late submission and student progression Peer Observation Prior to the mutual review meeting, the QAS Officer met with the RBS Director to discuss arrangements for the staff development sessions and Mutual Review meeting and to clarify a number of issues relating to FBL and HSS courses. Post-mutual review, a further meeting was held with the FBL representative and RBS staff to discuss delivery issues for three new FBL courses which had commenced recently. A demonstration was given of the RBS Moodle-based VLE and the QAS Officer was also shown the SAGE software package which is part of the curriculum of the BAAF course. The QAS Officer attended the RBS Graduation ceremony on Saturday 15 November as a guest. 20. Reflections since last mutual review Give details of any reflections on the operation / actions taken/ progress since the last mutual review RBS senior management mentioned that they were interested in validating the BSc (Hons) Safety, Health & Environmental Management course and specialist Nursing courses, particularly in the areas of acute cardiac care and critical care. The Head of School – Health and Community Studies agreed to bring further details when she next visited RBS in early 2015. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 8 The FBL representative asked the RBS Director to reflect on providing a contact name of another RBS colleague who could respond to routine administrative /quality-related enquiries from the University. An updated action plan was provided for the purpose of discussion at the mutual review meetings. Thirteen actions were listed as on-going and an update on these items is given below: Linkage between RBS students and Leeds students to be explored e.g. student blogs RBS senior management mentioned that current logistical problems with their Moodle prevented this action from moving forward. Further development work on a software platform would be necessary. Action: Ongoing. Student exchange options to be explored HSS representatives reported that student exchanges had been offered for pre-registration Adult Nursing students. The FBL representative agreed to discuss this action further with the Faculty. The AET representative advised that it was not possible for UK based students but further discussions will take place regarding RBS students spending a semester in the UK. Action: On-going. Recordings of guest lectures held at the University to be made available to RBS The HSS representatives reported that no progress had been made on this action but they would look into providing recorded lectures for the Adult Nursing course. For AET, guest lectures for the Business Information Modelling module should be available shortly via the VLE platform. Action: On-going. To consider opportunities to provide students with knowledge and experience of building sites, equipment and Health and Safety legislation in different countries. The AET representative advised that this matter would be addressed by module leaders. Action: On-going. To confirm start date of the next Nursing cohort ASAP and to ensure registration data is submitted within three weeks of commencement of the course. The Adult Nursing course had not recruited in September 201 4 and the next anticipated intake would be January/February 2015. Action: On-going. To provide RBS with course handbook templates for September cohorts. This action had been completed by all Faculties. Action: Completed. To provide RBS with links to YouTube videos for inclusion in induction presentations. This action had been completed by AET. Action: Completed. To explore the possibilities for the enhancement of student induction The AET representative reported that a limited amount of Leeds Beckett materials had been made available for September induction but this would be improved for semester 2 inductions. Action: On-going. To submit all new and revised publicity and marketing materials to the University for approval, throughout and following the University name change. A number of materials had been submitted to the University and approved. The FBL representative advised that further updating was required on the RBS website regarding the BAAF course structure. Advertising posters in RBS would require updating with the new University name. Subsequent to the Mutual Review meeting, the QAS Officer noted that the Graduation brochure had not been amended in line with final feedback from the University. Action: On-going. To ensure student offer letters include the correct award title of ‘BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing Top-up’ The HSS representatives would make further checks on offer letters for the next recruitment cycle. Action: Ongoing. To liaise with IMTS/LLI colleagues to explore the option in relation to the transfer of materials from XStream to Moodle. This action had been completed by AET. Action: Completed. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 9 To ensure sufficient copies of books are available to students, including multiple copies and including structural civil engineering. The AET representative reported that access to e-books was available via ‘MyLibrary’ and tutors would provide further information on specialist materials. Action: Completed. To ensure that student feedback regarding the balance of assessments is fed into the Annual Monitoring and Review of BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering. The AET representative advised that previous gaps in feedback from student fora had been addressed. Action: Completed. 21. Action Plan Activity Linkage between RBS students and Leeds students to be explored e.g. via student blogs Student exchange options to be explored Recordings of guest lectures held at the University to be made available to RBS Clarification of RICS accreditation to be given to students To consider opportunities to provide students with knowledge and experience of building sites, equipment and Health and Safety legislation in different countries. To confirm start date of the next Nursing cohort ASAP and to ensure registration data is submitted within three weeks of commencement of the course. To provide RBS with course handbook templates for September cohorts. To provide RBS with links to YouTube videos for inclusion in induction presentations. To explore the possibilities for the enhancement of student induction Responsible RBS/Head of School of Built Environment and Engineering/ Head of School of Health and Community Studies AET Franchise Coordinator/ Head of School of Health and Community Studies/RBS Director AET Franchise Coordinator / Head of School of Health and Community Studies Deadline 31-Mar-2015 31- Mar-2015 31-Mar-2015 Status ONGOING ONGOING ONGOING RBS 28 -Feb-2014 RBS/AET 31-Mar-2015 RBS Three weeks after commencement of next Nursing cohort ONGOING AET/FBL 31-July-2014 COMPLETED AET Franchise Coordinator 31 August 2014 COMPLETED RBS/AET/FBL 31 January 2015 . ONGOING J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx COMPLETED ONGOING - Mutual Review 10 Activity Responsible Deadline To submit all new and revised publicity and marketing materials to the University for approval, throughout and following the University name change. RBS 31-Mar- 2015 To ensure student offer letters include the correct award title of ‘BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing Top-up’ RBS To liaise with IMTS/LLI colleagues to explore the option in relation to the transfer of materials from X-Stream to Moodle. To ensure sufficient copies of books are available to students, including multiple copies and including structural civil engineering. To ensure that student feedback regarding the balance of assessments is fed into the Annual Monitoring and Review of BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering. To respond to the Action Plan arising from the External Examiner’s report for Adult Nursing. To discuss the validation of further HSS courses for Sept 15 delivery (BScH Safety, Health & Environmental Management, Specialist Nursing courses). PSRB accreditation for AET courses. Contact name at RBS to be provided for any routine admin/quality related enquiries. Mid-module review student feedback to be forwarded to the faculty as soon as available. Appropriate course handbook template to be adopted by RBS for the next intakes RBS deliveries to synchronise with UK timeline. For offers made on the next Nursing cohort Status ONGOING ONGOING AET Franchise Coordinator 31 August 2014 COMPLETED RBS 31 August 2014 COMPLETED AET Franchise Coordinator Next Enhancement & Development meeting COMPLETED RBS Course Leader February 2015 HSS Franchise Coordinator/Head of School of Health and Community Studies 31-Dec-2014 AET Franchise Coordinator 31-Mar-2015 RBS Director 31-Dec-2014 RBS 30-Nov-2014 RBS/FBL 31-Jan-2015 RBS 31-Mar-2015 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 11 Activity Request to contextualise some aspects of student engagement and content cases/perspectives to make it more relevant to Mauritian Context without changing delivery pattern, structure, assessment criteria and specific content topics of modules currently delivered on MBA Executive. Responsible Deadline FBL 30-Nov-2014 Status Quality Assurance Services – Collaborative Provision: Report received by Faculty: Report received by Partnerships & Collaborations SubCommittee: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c Appendices\Appendix 2 - Mutual Review Report Nov 14.Docx - Mutual Review 12 Leeds Beckett University and Stamford College Monday 17 November 2014 Leeds Beckett University Lee Jones, Associate Director – Collaborative Provision Becky Baldaro Booth – Collaborative Provisions Operations Manager Julie Barnaby – Link Tutor (BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance Nehal Mahtab – Link Tutor (BA (Hons) Business and Management and BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management. Stamford College 1. Dr. Janet 2. Dr. Chan Kok Meng 3. Mr. Eng Lim Kooi 4. Mr. Mike Everett 5. Mr. Robert 6. Mr. Kong Kok Meng 7. Ms. Aemelia 1. Operational update including MQA approval BSc (Hons) Business Information Technology has now received full approval by MQA and MoE. The other courses are in progress and the College expect to receive a response by December 2014. The College feels well supported by Link Tutors from both AET and FBL in respect of admissions decisions but reminded the University that any delay in decisions re the admission of a student could potentially result in losing that student to a competitor. The College queried their role in making admissions decisions. It was noted that where an application is a standard entrant, responsibility is devolved to the partner and this process is outlined in the Operational Guidance for Franchise Delivery. Mutual Review involves a sample review of admissions files to ensure students are admitted in accordance with the course entry criteria. There was some discussion regarding the accepted level of entry for HND students as defined by the MQA which is H5. 2. Update on curriculum mapping and agreed articulations Colleagues agreed that the process of achieving a final decision on some of the mapping has been problematic but recognised the infancy of the collaboration and that teething problems are inevitable in the early stages. The College is still awaiting a response regarding a couple of the AET courses, the outcome of this mapping will be progressed to FAQSC on 25 Nov. 3. Recruitment for January for 2015 The College was unable to provide any information on anticipated student numbers for January 2015. Where full MQA approval has not been granted the College is unable to market the courses. The intention is to focus on the local market for the January intake and the College hopes to receive MQA approval by the end of December to ensure a full 1 maximise opportunities for recruitment in January. IRIS offices, (the College’s investor) are located in 44 different countries and there are opportunities to develop links through the company. The College suggested that all staff teaching on AET courses have received their login; however that staff teaching on FBL courses have not. It was also noted during the afternoon staff development session that staff in Registry, Admissions, Quality do not have access and would benefit from accessing the DEAP / QA Student Lifecycle module and should therefore submit an application. Action: Helen Jones, FBL to confirm status of Associate staff applications with Dr Janet. Action: Stamford College to ensure that staff in professional services submit applications forms for Associate staff status to enable access to the VLE and its resources. This is key as we roll out the Student Lifecycle non-credit bearing module. Julie explained that it is the responsibility of module tutors to check if any updates are made to documentation on the VLE although the Link Tutor will endeavour to notify partner staff as and when changes are made. In relation to BA (Hons) accounting and Finance, an area has been set up on the VLE that is ‘hidden/’ from students and aimed specifically at staff in Malaysia. 4. Partnership Board actions update The teams discussed progress against the actions from the July Partnership Board Action 1: AET and FBL to ensure a venue visit is undertaken at the new Stamford College Taman Manjalara campus prior to delivery of Leeds Metropolitan programmes. Completed although the renovations are still not complete, on-going monitoring will take place as and when the developments progress. Action 2: Associate Deans (FBL and AET) to provide Stamford College with up-to-date reading lists. Completed Action 3: QAS to liaise with Marketing Services about course-specific promotional material for Stamford College’s use. In progress, the University’s Marketing department will provide as a minimum design for recoil stands and banners. Action 4: QAS to ensure Stamford College is clearly listed as a partner on the University website. Stamford College is listed on the Register, however further work will take place to develop a partner page. Action 5: Associate Dean (FBL) to provide feedback on the mapping of Stamford College awards to Leeds Met programmes by Friday 18 July 2 Completed. The outcome of all curriculum mapping related to FBL provision has now been provided to the College. Action 6: Stamford College to provide the University with a list of potential / anticipated students for each course due to commence in September 2014. Completed. Action 7: Stamford College to provide the University with the MQA list of GCSE English language equivalencies. This action is currently outstanding Action 8: QAS to clarify and confirm to Stamford College the minimum fee payments included in the Collaboration Agreement. Completed and the CA has been signed as well as the updated Schedules. 5. Update on Quality Conference The University will hold a Quality Conference w/c 30 June 2015 and would like partner staff to attend and even present papers. Further details will follow. 6. Collaboration agreement As detailed in Action 8. 7. Update on QA reviews in 14/15 The University is reviewing its processes in relation to Annual Monitoring and Review and Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice and there may be changes effective from September 2015. Further information will be provided in due course 8. AOB The College requested to receive the VC’s newsletter Action: QAS to explore whether it can be made available to partner staff with Associate staff status. Also to check who received the Quality Connections newsletter as colleagues didn’t appear to have received this. The College is interested in franchising the MBA Action: FBL to discuss the possibility of franchising the Exec MBA to the College. The University notified the College that a number of courses will undergo periodic review in 2014/15 including BA (Hons) Business and Management. A decision had not yet been made as to how the new course would be rolled out to partners and the implications (depending on the extent of change) for MQA approval. Good communication regarding this issue is imperative. 3 Leeds Beckett University and Stamford College Malacca Tuesday 18 November 2014 Leeds Beckett University Lee Jones, Associate Director – Collaborative Provision Nehal Mahtab – Link Tutor (BA (Hons) Business and Management and BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management. Stamford College - Malacca 1. Mr. Zuraika Abu Bakar 2. Dr. Chan Kok Meng 3. Mr. K Narayanasamy 4. Sujatha Vasanth Kumar Whilst key actions have been identified within the mutual review action plan the following update discussions took place. 1. Update on curriculum mapping and agreed articulations Colleagues agreed that the process of achieving a final decision on some of the mapping has been problematic but recognised the infancy of the collaboration and that teething problems are inevitable in the early stages. It was discussed that whilst the University was able to map the level learning outcomes, there were some instances e.g. the Malaysian Diploma in Hospitality Management where there was not equivalence in the modules undertaken to assure our University that students would reasonably cope with the demands of studying the three business course currently in approval at Malacca. 2. Further curriculum matters It was requested whether students who undertake business courses in Malaysia would receive CMI accreditation. It was explained that Leeds Beckett business students undertake a consultancy project which the CMI certificate at the cost of £175. Action: Nehal Mahtab to discuss with the Deanery to see if Malaysian students can have the opportunity to pay and participate in a contextualised consultancy project with the CMI. Colleagues from Stamford College asked for clarity on the simulation exercise as part of the Business Enterprise start up (year 2 Semester 2). Stamford College were concerned about the cost of purchasing the simulation software and asked if a local simulation game could be purchased if it met the learning outcomes of the module. It was noted that that a request would be made to the Deanery. Action: Nehal Mahtab to discuss with the Deanery and identify if alternative local simulation software can be purchased as part of the learning outcomes for Business Enterprise start up (year 2 Semester 2). 4 1. Action Plan following Mutual Review of Franchise Operations at Stamford College, Malacca, Malaysia: 18 November 2014 Courses subject to Mutual Review: Faculty Course Code FBL FBL FBL Activity BA (Hons) Business & Management BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance BA (Hons) Human & Human Resource Management Franchise Coordinator Link Tutor Administrator Simon Jones Alfred Chinta Andrew Stevens BAFSM Simon Jones Julie Barnaby BBHSM Simon Jones Nehal Mahtab BBMSM Responsible To provide Andrew Stevens (FBL) with Sujatha Vasanth Kumar, (Deputy Principal/Coordinator School of Business) passport size and resolution Sujatha.vasanth.kumar@stamford.edu.my photos for Leeds Beckett Student Cards To ensure Andrew Stevens, FBL students on FBL courses receive Date of Validation Delivery Start Date Andrew Stevens May-13 Jan -15 Andrew Stevens May 13 Sept-14 May-13 Sept-14 Deadline Status 05 December 2014 Update: not yet received from colleagues at Stamford. 17 December 2014 Update: Meeting with Helen Jones and Andrew Activity Responsible Deadline their Leeds Beckett student cards. Annual Monitoring and Review templates to be shared with Sujatha Vasanth Kumar at Stamford College Sujatha Vasanth Kumar at Stamford College to be provided with Status Stevens took place on 09/12/2014. Due to technical difficulties there has been a delay with the uploading of registration data for franchise cohorts. This will cause a delay in the production of student cards. Andrew Stevens will contact partner. Link Tutors - Alfred Chinta and Nehal Mahtab November 2014 Complete: Helen Jones sent templates and information to Sujatha Vasanth Kumar on 27/11/2014 BA (Hons) Business & Management - Alfred Chinta BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance – Julie Barnaby BA (Hons) Human & Human Resource Management - Nehal Mahtab August 15 for 15/16 December 14 for Jan 15 Complete: FBL Link Tutor advises that access has been granted Activity earlier access to Semester 1 ‘My Beckett’ modules Produce a generic ‘Introduction to Leeds Beckett University’ video for Validated, Joint Delivery and Franchise students and staff undertaking presentations in-country New students to be provided with Leeds Beckett T-shirts and merchandise Responsible Deadline Status August 15 for 15/16 QAS-CP Claire Ibbetson to liaise with Marketing to produce either (1) a presentation template which our Faculties can adapt or (2) four distinct templates for a four faculties. Christmas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CeFmxX89_E&list=UUpZtOnFuSE1Pm25IHPZwl6Q 2014 to be Music and text only. Leeds Beckett nurtures abilities that shape a lifetime, prepares our students for work and for life, helps businesses to grow and creates opportunities. Student Futures 2014 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdRATa1Jp0c Chief Operating Officer, Faculty of Business and Law utilised for any January 15 cohort starts Christmas 2014 to be utilised for any January 15 cohort starts Update: In the first instance we can look using genetic films that are already available. Update: T-Shirt order received, need to be sent to Stamford College. Awaiting numbers for Sem 2 to see if there are enough for Sem 2 starters as well. Activity New students to be provided with a welcome letter from the Deanery To hold a Skype meeting to show staff where and how to access Leeds Beckett open resources and discuss other ways in which the Library can support Stamford College, Malacca i.e. discounted subscriptions rates. To send the Operation Plans for all FBL Responsible Chief Operating Officer, Faculty of Business and Law Wendy Luker / Sujatha Vasanth Kumar, (Deputy Principal/Coordinator School of Business) Andrew Stevens, FBL Deadline Christmas 2014 to be utilised for any January 15 cohort starts 17 December 2014 ASAP – November 14 Status Update: A welcome letter has been drafted and approved by the Dean. There is a welcome also included in the Course Handbook. Complete Activity Responsible Deadline Status November 14 Complete: Helen Jones sent templates and information to Sujatha Vasanth Kumar on 27/11/2014 courses to Stamford Malacca Franchise Coordinator To confirm Faculty arrangements for module evaluation in Semester 1 To disseminate recently produced CLT Guidance on mid-module review to support Semester 2 activity. Stamford College, Malacca staff to use the Partner staff Checklist as a way of identifying issues as they arise and for staff to share Link Tutors - Alfred Chinta and Nehal Mahtab Lee Jones 17 December 2014 Completed: sent on 24 Dec Lee Jones to resend the Partner staff checklist Stamford staff to use the Partner staff Checklist as a way of identifying issues as they arise and for staff Update: Partner staff checklist sent on 24 Dec. Activity Responsible these checklists with their Link Tutor and / or franchise admin support in an effort to facilitate a prompt response. To ensure Course Leaders / Link Tutors separate Course Leader reports are produced in November 2015. Deadline to share these checklists with their Link Tutor and / or franchise admin support in an effort to facilitate a prompt response. November 2015 Status Update: The QAG Team will include this requirement in their correspondence to all partners for Annual Monitoring and Review. Tuesday 18 November 2014 Student focus group as part of Mutual Review of operational provision at Stamford College, Malacca Courses subject to Mutual Review: BA (Hons) Business & Management BA (Hons) Human & Human Resource Management Leeds Beckett staff in attendance: Lee Jones, Quality Assurance Services Nehal Mahtab, Faculty of Business and Law representative Forty five students attended the informal meeting which included nineteen students across BA (Hons) Business & Management and BA (Hons) Human & Human Resource Management. The remaining twenty six students were studying Stamford College’s internal Foundation Programme. Questions asked by current students: 1. Can I come to the UK to study year three of my Degree? It was explained that students could come to study for their third year in the UK if they were able to secure funds to cover maintenance and living costs. Study in the UK at Leeds Beckett would be permissible once students had satisfied UK Visa and Immigration requirements and had been issued with a Conformation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) by our University. 2. Are we going to get a module handbook for each module we study? It was noted that course and module handbooks would be provided by Stamford College. Action: Link Tutors BA (Hons) Business & Management - Alfred Chinta and BA (Hons) Human & Human Resource Management - Nehal Mahtab to confirm that course handbook and module handbook templates have been shared with students. 3. Will we get on the job training as part of the degree? It was noted that whilst a work placement was not a mandatory requirement to the course delivered in Malacca it was expected that Stamford College had close relationships with a wide range of employers who are able to offer work experience. 4. What employability skills will we have after studying our degree? It was noted that a number of opportunities existed including: • • • Writing a CV Interview skills Opportunities to attend online modules to boost enterprise skills. 5. Can we contact Leeds Beckett students direct? It was noted that there were no formal links between students which had been established. 6. When do we get student cards? It was noted that student cards would be available within a couple of weeks 1 7. Do we follow the University academic year? It was noted that Franchise courses are expected to follow the University’s academic year and run no later than two weeks after the commencement of the course. 8. Do we receive any e-books from the University as part of our course? It was noted that in order to support partners in developing their infrastructure and resources to this equivalent level, Leeds Beckett is able to assist partners in a number of ways, if necessary. These could include: • • • Web pages specifically for students in Partner institutions which highlight high quality Open Access academic journals and information resources that are available on a cost-free basis; Recommendations for Open Access repositories of learning objects and other learning materials that may be embedded into modules, also available on a cost-free basis; Use of the Leeds Beckett University Repository, which hosts the open access research outputs of our academic staff and researchers, and learning objects and materials supporting both subject-specific and generic skills, including information and digital literacy, employability and global outlook; 9. When will we get our marks? It was noted that the University Feedback Policy was to provide feedback on assignments within four weeks. It was further noted that marks would only be finalised when an Examination Committee had confirmed module outcomes. 10. What is the marking structure for assignments? The marking structure was explained and outlined that: 70% 60-69% 50-59% 40-49% < 40% 1st 2:1 2:2 3rd Fail 11. What happens if we fail a module? It was noted that students who fail a module are given an opportunity to resit the module and the module mark is capped at 40% 12. When will we receive any International edition text books? It was noted that where possible academic staff will share additional copies of text books with partners although it was noted that under the franchise agreement it was the responsibility of the partner to provide core teaching materials. 2 Questions asked by Foundation students: 1. What are the minimum English Language entry requirements to study at Leeds Beckett University? It was noted that the minimum English Language entry requirements was IELTS 6.0 2. What is the value of a UK Degree? It was noted that it is widely recognised that in the UK and for individuals, the average net earnings premium associated with obtaining an undergraduate degree, over a working lifetime, is £115,000; a Master’s degree adds an additional net premium of approximately £59,000 for an individual. (Source million + 2103) 3 Quality Assurance Services Collaborative Provision Mutual Review Report Partner Legenda Education Group Academic Cycle 2014/15 Dates of Meeting Tuesday 18 November Courses subject to Mutual review and operational from September 2014: Programme(s) - BA (Hons) Business & Management - BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance - BSc (Hons) Computing - BSc (Hons) Construction Management - BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering *It is anticipated that all of the above courses will have a January intake and that additional courses will also run from January including Level 7 provision. Report produced by Becky Baldaro-Booth, QAS J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 4- Professor Mohammad Dastbaz Becky Baldaro-Booth Julie Barnaby Staff from LEG included the below colleagues BA (Hons) Business & Management Wu Cilin BA (Hons) Business & Management Jideofor Philip Balonwu BA (Hons) Business & Management Ng ZiHui BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance Wan Hafiz Bin Wan Mohamad Sharif BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance In Attenda nce BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance BSc (Hons) Computing BSc (Hons) Computing BSc (Hons) Computing Poornima A/P Nithiananda Naidu Shang Xuyang Patience Obiageli Akunne Feyikunmi Duba Oshodi Chin Foo Chong BSc (Hons) Construction Management Kenny Pang BSc (Hons) Construction Management Charles BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Tina Christina Bwalya Kaunda BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Idris Lawal Malum Fashi Steuart Chin Jia Yun J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 4- Contents 1. Student Admissions......................................................................................................................... 1 2. Staff Appointment........................................................................................................................... 1 3. Student Registration ....................................................................................................................... 2 4. Student Induction and Student Representation ............................................................................. 2 5. Published Information .................................................................................................................... 3 6. Student Files.................................................................................................................................... 4 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions................................................................................................... 4 8. Teaching Materials .......................................................................................................................... 4 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities ...................................................................................... 5 10. Annual Monitoring and Review .................................................................................................. 6 11. Module Evaluation ...................................................................................................................... 6 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances ................................................................................ 7 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice .................................................................................... 7 14. Assessment and Moderation ...................................................................................................... 8 15. External Examiners...................................................................................................................... 8 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee .................................................................... 8 17. Certificates and Graduation ........................................................................................................ 9 18. Student Appeals and Complaints ................................................................................................ 9 19. Other Activities ........................................................................................................................... 9 20. Reflections since last mutual review......................................................................................... 11 21. Action Plan ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 4- 1. Student Admissions Where applicable, give details of: Process (requirements for admission to the course) Standard Entry Applications (policies and processes in place to conduct to conduct admissions processes in accordance with the University’s requirements) Non-standard entry applications Accreditation of Prior (Experiential/Certificated) Learning (evaluation of requests and supporting evidence) Monitoring (admissions details in student file including details of qualifications, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence, confirmation that original certificates have been seen by partner staff, references and details of APEL/APCL claims The current student numbers are as follows BSc (Hons) Computing L5: 3 BSc (Hons) Construction Mgt L4: 2 BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering L4: 49 BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance L4 69 BA (Hons) Business and Management: L4 59 L5 ? Extensive curriculum mapping in relation to a number of courses offered by LEG has facilitated entry via advanced standing. Agreed articulations negate the need for the submission of individual claims of RPL along with supporting evidence. Colleagues from the LEG admissions team confirmed that there have been no applicants seeking RPL for entry in September 2014. One student queried whether they would receive an offer letter from the University, colleagues explained that LEG is responsible for communicating offers with students. The query has possibly been provoked by the fact that a number of students have been transferred from degrees validated by another UK provider. It is worth noting that the outcome of some of the mapping exercises have resulted in the need for students to undertake bridging modules, students should complete the bridging modules prior to progressing to the next level of study. It is recommended that Link Tutors are familiar with the outcome of any mapping activity and can therefore advise the partner. No-standard applications and supporting evidence were sent by LEG admissions team to the relevant Link Tutor for approval and with only small numbers 4-5 for this intake. LEG has followed the admissions processes as defined in the Operational Guidance for Franchise Delivery and the admission of students for the first intake was timely and effective. Due to time constraints, admissions files were not reviewed whilst onsite, the AET franchise team has however received applications to sample review. 2. Staff Appointment Meeting with University Staff: Staff are either approved at the point of validation of subsequently via FAQSC. LEG routinely send any new CVs to faculties for approval and tend to submit the application for Associate staff status at the same time. This works well and expedites the process of LEG staff receiving Associate staff access. Meeting with Partner Staff: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 1 Most staff appointed to teach on a Leeds Beckett award have been working at LEG for some time and the majority have experience of teaching a UK degree programme. LEG offer staff development to their own staff including a 7 day programme as required by MQA. A number of staff have attended staff development sessions focused on: The Franchise Framework, Operational Guidance for Franchise Delivery and Admissions, Student Induction and Representation. In addition, Link Tutors have provided academic staff development including an Introduction to DEAP/ the VLE as well as subject specific staff development focused on the curriculum including assessment methodologies. Some staff were not aware that they could access the Library online which includes the University’s access to the online journals and Skills for Learning. One member of staff however had requested loan of a book. A number of staff have used the Partner staff checklist as a means to understanding what is required of them and what support is available to them as Associate staff of the University. 3. Student Registration Give details of any issues raised and actions taken: Student Registration data (process and completion of documentation) Registration of students (the University is required to register all students within 21 days of receipt of registration data from the partner institution) Meeting with University Staff: Registration data was received by AET in a timely manner and is currently being processed using the RUN2 upload system. There is an admin contact for all the AET courses at LEG and the link tutors at Leeds Beckett as well as AET franchise are in contact with her on a regular basis. This is working well. Data for the two FBL courses was received in a timely manner; however there has been a delay in uploading student data to the system which has resulted in a delay of the production of student cards. Meeting with Partner Staff: The team that manages admissions and registration queried when they can expect to receive the confirmation of registration forms and when student will receive their Leeds Beckett student cards. The Franchise Admin teams will confirm when student data is uploaded onto the University’s corporate student records system. 4. Student Induction and Student Representation Give details of any relevant issues for further consideration: Meeting with University Staff: University staff supported student inductions in September 2014. The LEG orientation programme runs for four weeks and focuses on a wide range of topics including: academic skills as well as an introduction to the facilities, learning resources, student support staff, the course as well as relevant regulations. As a number of international students join LEG, activities enable students to socialise and settle in to their new surroundings. The campus is 1 hour by car from the centre of KL, the vast majority of students therefore live on site in LEG accommodation, the induction programme takes account of this. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 2 Meeting with Partner Staff: Staff welcomed the input from University staff and queried if support would always be provided in the same way. Staff were keen to know who would support the inductions for January starters. University representatives confirmed that the Link tutor or nominee would always engage in some way but the extent of engagement and means of engaging is likely to change i.e. University staff may engage via Skype/ virtual means. It is not clear which colleagues will travel to Malaysia in January, however the two faculties are meeting during the third week of January to discuss how Sem 2 intakes will be supported. Meeting with Students Students confirmed that student representatives have been appointed and have received training and support to understand the requirements of the role. Students who we met as part of mutual review had also attended the induction programme and some of them were the appointed course representatives. 5. Published Information Give details of published information checked and confirm that in your view they accurately reflect the programme and contractual agreement. Identify any issues that need to be addressed. This should be linked to the Published Information Guidance and Schedule. (Collate any relevant material) Meeting with University Staff: Colleagues are aware of the process for approving published information and QAS works in tandem with faculties to review and provide comment on any material submitted for approval. There is currently no reference to Leeds Beckett on the downloadable prospectus or on the LEG website, in addition the only material received for approval is a banner that is currently in the reception area. Meeting with Partner Staff: There were no course leaflets available and very little material has been received to date. However there is a good internal market of students which may mean that LEG don’t need to produce as much promotional material. Furthermore, until full MoHE approval has been granted, LEG is not able to promote any of our courses externally. There is a still a large welcome banner referring to the University as Leeds Met, LEG is fully aware of the name change and the banner will be updated in due course. All colleagues were fully informed of the name change as were students. There were no specific questions in relation to the name change. Meeting with Students: Students confirmed that any information they had received about the course was accurate and reflected what they are now studying, although it was noted that the students are only a few weeks into the course and may benefit from longer to reflect on the course. All operational courses have a Course Handbook that has been approved by the University Link Tutor. In preparing the Course Handbooks there was a need to ensure the University’s academic regulations were accurately reflected and that the academic calendar incorporated LEG’s extended induction programme. A sample review of the Course handbook has identified some required changes to the template for the Semester 2 intake. This task will be undertaken by QAS early Jan and the updated template disseminated to faculties. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 3 6. Student Files Give details of sampling of student files, any issues raised and action taken. Maintenance of student files and retaining records of student activity Student files should include: application form, interview record/outcome (where relevant), confirmation that original certificates have been checked by partner staff, evidence of overseas qualification equivalence of UK qualifications, evidence of appropriate level of English language skills, references, details of APL/APEL/APCL claim (where relevant), enrolment/registration forms, module marks, assignment feedback sheets, details of proven unfair practice (where relevant), applications for extension/mitigation (where relevant), applications for appeal (where relevant), Board of Examiners outcomes/results letters and copies of other communication with the student) The student files were not reviewed as part of this review. Copies of the AET Admissions files have also been requested by the AET Franchise Coordinator. 7. Observation of Teaching Sessions Give details of teaching sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration. Give details of lectures (including guest lectures) and tutorials, including topic, date/time, location and attendees. The team did not observe any teaching sessions but instead met with teaching teams and students. Meeting with Students: Students confirmed that staff are supportive and accessible. Each student is assigned a mentor with whom they meet on a regular basis and in some cases on a daily basis. There is a support structure in place at the College that means the students have access to a range of services providing pastoral care including the following services: Zero Trauma Unit, We Care and Academic Affairs Office. 8. Teaching Materials Give details of how effectively materials have been shared with the staff at the partner (How have materials been shared? Have they been shared in a timely manner?) Meeting with University Staff: Link Tutors are in regular contact with Course Leaders based at the partner to ensure LEG course team has all of the required materials. Meeting with Partner Staff: It was noted that although on the whole LEG course teams now have the relevant materials and assessment that in some cases there was a delay in staff receiving these materials. For two main reasons, the first a lack of access as an Associate staff member, the second reason is that despite access to the VLE the relevant materials were not available on the VLE. Course Leaders also noted that the lecture materials focus on UK examples and those they would welcome a discussion with the Link Tutor / relevant Module Leader about the opportunity to contextualise materials. Staff however need additional time to contextualise materials and therefore the timely receipt of documentation/ information is critical to enabling this to happen and for approval of any changes to take J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 4 place. Staff and students can access guest lectures delivered in Leeds, it is a case of exploring the website. The following are relevant links supplied by AET. http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/events/ http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/news/?category=aet http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/news/1014-kevin-sheridan-video/ http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/news/1014-tracey-thorn/ http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/news/1114-lecture-explores-housing-energy-performance/ http://ckegroup.org which provides extensive materials and by FBL The Faculty of Business and Law have uploaded all the recordings of guest lectures for the 2014-15 academic th years, bar one which was not recorded by request of the guest speaker (Brigadier Bibby on the 28 October). Please find the details below: Peter Dodds (14 October 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjdH2fPw7TA th Colin Byrne (11 November 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNzyOurc1FY th Sean Connolly (25 November 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SM2pH8EY5pI Fraser Doherty (9 December 2014): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwM6sfrTx_M Meeting with Students: How easy is it to get the study materials that you need? (Reading/borrowing rights?) What libraries do you use? Students use the Library onsite as well as the social learning space. Not all students were aware of the extensive number of journals available and some queried access to Leeds Beckett resources. The relevant texts as per the module reading lists are available in the library although some students would like to see an increase in the number of borrowable copies. It is advised that LEG staff undertake ongoing monitoring of student feedback and where appropriate expand the relevant book stock. 9. Library, IT and Learning Support Facilities Give details of visits to library, IT and any other learning support facilities and any relevant issues for further consideration (including any relating to library stocks in the subject area). Access given to partner staff Use/purchase of Skills for Learning VLE Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: University staff visited the Library as part of the tour of the campus for the validation activity which took place in the morning. The facilities and resources are to the required standard to support delivery of HE and the University felt reassured by the ongoing efforts of LEG to ensure excellent support is available to students. Most staff have access to Leeds Beckett’s online resources, in the few cases where staff are awaiting access, the Franchise admin teams have been notified and are progressing the issue. Staff were encouraged to maximise use of the DEAP module and Skills for Learning Meeting with Students: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 5 Materials are available to students via the LEG VLE. Some students queried why the lecture notes were not made available prior to the lessons. It was noted that not all staff chose to release the material prior to the lesson. 10. Annual Monitoring and Review Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process Schedule of student focus groups, enhancement and development meetings and student focus groups Annual reports Extent of engagement by students Meeting with University Staff: AET admin has confirmed the dates of all meetings associated with AMR have been agreed and Student focus groups and Annual Review meetings have been/are taking place in Nov / LEG staff have requested further staff development on the process. Colleagues have been signposted to the QA Toolkit on the www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/partner webpages and there is an opportunity for face-face staff development as part of the next visit. Meeting with Partner Staff: Staff are aware of the need to hold meetings throughout the year and certainly for the AET provision have been informed when meetings will take place. In addition, FBL has confirmed the date of AMR meetings for this cycle and all Sem 1 meetings have taken place. Meeting with Students: How are your views on the programme collected? Is any notice taken of them and do you get feedback on action taken or why action may not be possible? Students have lost of opportunities to feedback via University and LEG processes including: AMR, module evaluation, mid-module review, online LEG surveys and via the support services: We care, Zero Trauma etc 11. Module Evaluation Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process and distribution of module forms (hard copy, VLE or other online survey software) Collation of student feedback Use of module evaluation data Mid-module review (How is it carried out?) Meeting with University Staff: By the time of the mutual review meeting, FBL was in receipt of mid-module review forms containing identified actions. LEG staff have used the University form to record the actions and provide where possible feedback to students. There was similarity of comment received in the meeting with students as part of mutual review in respect of: delay in some staff receiving materials and assessment, access to Leeds Beckett resources; access to online journals, understanding of assessment requirements. These actions are being progressed by the Link Tutors/ Course Leaders. Check re AET Meeting with Partner Staff: Staff were familiar with the mid-module review and module evaluation processes and all whom the team met J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 6 have recently carried out mid- module review meetings with students. Meeting with Students Students noted the mid-module review process and confirmed that they had raised some queries with academic staff. 12. Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process of claims for extenuating circumstances Scheduling of Mitigation Panels Consideration and approval of claims Process for informing students of outcomes Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: Staff confirmed that they are aware of the processes in relation to student claims for extenuating circumstances and mitigation although to date they have not received any requests. The next mutual review meeting will be following assessment submission deadlines when these processes may well have been applied. Meeting with Students: Some students were able to confirm that there is reference to these regulations in the Course Handbook. For those students who suggested they have not received the course Handbook, this is problematic. *A sample review of the LEG course handbooks identified that the information on mitigation and extenuating circumstances would benefit from further clarity with respect the process. 13. Cheating, Plagiarism and Unfair Practice Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Process for cases of cheating, plagiarism and other forms of unfair practice Consideration of cases (investigatory interviews, assessment enquiry panels and assessment appeal panels) This was not discussed during this mutual review meeting. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: What measures do you take to counter and detect plagiarism? Has Leeds Beckett University given you any guidance on this? What are the penalties? Meeting with Students: This was not discussed during this mutual review meeting. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 7 14. Assessment and Moderation Give details of any issues for further consideration relating to: Assessment requirements and where they are available/accessed, e.g., course handbook Process for examination papers and examination conditions Marking and internal and external moderation Also give details examination sessions observed and any relevant issues for further consideration Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: On the whole staff are in receipt or have been for some time of the Sem 1 assessment materials. Staff understand the moderation process and the requirement to submit a sample moderation to Leeds. Leeds Beckett’s Franchise Framework is a shift as staff are used to writing their own assessment and submitting for approval by the validating institution. Staff seemed content with the new approach. Meeting with Students: Do you get feedback to help you to understand the marks that you get? Is it timely? Some students raised concerns about the timing of assessment given in some cases a delay in LEG staff receiving details of the assessment and therefore a delay in sharing that information with students. This issue has also been raised via mid-module review and is being followed up by the Link Tutor/ Course Leader. It was noted that the Course Handbook refers to students receiving feedback in three weeks which is slightly different to University guidance of four weeks. It is important that we monitor how well this is achieved and manage student expectations. 15. External Examiners Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: Appointment process Role Reporting procedures Attendance at Examination Committees This was not discussed during this mutual review meeting. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: Have you found the external examiner systems easy to deal with? Do you see the reports from the external examiner? Meeting with Students: This was not discussed during this mutual review meeting. 16. Boards of Examiners and Examination Committee Give details of any Board of Examiners/Examination Committees observed and any further issues for further J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 8 consideration. This was not discussed during this mutual review meeting. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: Where is the examination board held? Are you able to attend? Who chairs the exam board? Meeting with Students: 17. Certificates and Graduation Give details of any Graduations Ceremonies and any further issues for further consideration. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: Meeting with Students: See notes from student focus group. One student enquired as to the length of the course and where the graduation ceremony would be held. University representatives were able to provide an answer during the student meeting. 18. Student Appeals and Complaints Give details of issues for further consideration relating to: How students have been aware of the appeals process Process for appeals Partners institution’s complaints policy This was not discussed during this mutual review meeting. Although the Course Handbook template will be tweaked to clarify the process in respect of complaints and the role and responsibility of the partner/ University. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: Meeting with Students: Do you know what you would do if you had a complaint about the programme or wished to appeal against an academic judgement? How did you get this information? 19. Other Activities J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 9 Give details of your participation in any other activities (e.g. recruitment events), meetings and/or discussions relating to the partnership during your visit and any relevant issues for further consideration. Meeting with University Staff: Meeting with Partner Staff: What staff development activities have you undertaken with Leeds Beckett University to gain a common understanding of programme delivery and assessment, e.g., approaches to marking and teaching styles? Is there a peer observation of your teaching; by Leeds Beckett University or local colleagues? The meeting with the teaching team involved a large number of staff, perhaps too many to discuss the detail surrounding some of the issues although what the discussion did provide was a flavour of issues across the partnership and allow for consideration of the consistency of approach across two University faculties. There is evidence to suggest that this new franchise arrangement is on the whole working well. There are some specific issues, although a number of these have been progressed already or are in train. Below are some of the key points raised by the teaching teams. The BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance team is in regular communication with the Link Tutor. All of the materials have been received via the VLE and the Link Tutor has created a separate ‘Malaysia’ folder to house Malaysian specific information for associate staff based at Malaysian partners. The only request from this team was the opportunity for staff / students to access additional past papers for one specific module (for the other modules, past papers had already been made available). The feedback from students on the course has been very positive. The Link Tutor has regular Skype meetings with the course team and has undertaken staff development in preparation for delivery. There is engagement between the Module Leaders and Module Tutors. Additional staff development took place during the week of the mutual review meeting. The BSc (Hons) Computing team has had similar positive experiences in that they are in regular communication with the Link Tutor and the Franchise Administrator. The Link Tutor visited in March and undertook staff development. Student feedback is positive; there have been some queries about the volume of assessments in the phase tests. BA IHons) Construction Management At the time of the review meeting, one of two members of the course team remain unable to access the VLE, the Link Tutor and Franchise admin are aware and are seeking a prompt solution. That issue aside, the course team feels well supported by the Link Tutor. The team questioned the need to bring in additional staff with specific experience. This is in relation to one module only; the Dean explained that for some elements of the curriculum, professional experts are invited by the course team to support delivery in Leeds. This prompted a discussion about the availability of the University’s guest lectures. The course team was encouraged to liaise with their Link Tutor. See section 8 which contains links to guest lectures. BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Overall the course is running smoothly, the team have regular Skype meetings with the Link Tutor and Franchise admin. There has been an issue in respect of a 4 week delay in sharing materials although the Link Tutor Is aware and is seeking a prompt resolution. The LEG course team requested that the Link Tutor consider the timing of the assessment for the affected module. Meeting with Students: Students met with staff during the course induction in September. Student representatives met with colleagues undertaking mutual review in November. In addition, student focus groups have involved Link Tutors / Franchise administrators via virtual means. Entire cohorts may not meet with University staff during visits but there is normally an opportunity for University to meet with representative of the student body. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 10 20. Reflections since last mutual review Give details of any reflections on the operation / actions taken/ progress since the last mutual review This is the first mutual review at LEG. 21. Action Plan from initial Mutual Review at Legenda Education Group held on 18 November 2014 - Courses subject to Mutual review were as follows: BA (Hons) Business & Management BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance BSc (Hons) Computing BSc (Hons) Construction Management BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Activity Responsible Clarify expectations regarding extent of teaching and learning materials provided. (For some modules there is a full set of lecture slides, tutorial topics including questions and answers and for other modules materials include an outline of each week and little else.) To ensure teaching and learning materials and assessment tasks for Semester two modules are made available within good time to allow for contextualisation as appropriate. To include some additional past papers for a Semester one BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance module. Franchise Coordinators FBL / AET Link Tutors Julie Barnaby, FBL Deadline 24 December 2014 9 January 2015 24 December 2014 Status Update: AET will conduct virtual meetings by module to ensure materials are received and appropriately contextualised for S2 delivery. FBL to use same model. Update: AET will conduct virtual meetings by module to ensure materials are received and appropriately contextualised for S2 delivery. FBL to use same model. Complete: Julie Barnaby confirmed on 09/12/2014 that all individual module leaders have been in touch with their counterparts in Legenda to provide additional revision materials. Rahiza J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 11 Activity Responsible Deadline Status confirmed in our latest Skype that tutors have all the resources they need. We also had a staff development session following mutual review where we covered marking and moderation processes. To clarify if guest lectures are shared via the Leeds Beckett YouTube site and more generally QAS/ Franchise how staff and students can Coordinator readily access faculties’ guest lecture series. To ensure that student cards are produced for all students on both FBL and AET courses. Franchise Admin, AET &FBL 24 December 2014 Complete: Helen Jones emailed Alla on 17/11/2014 with full details of the FBL guest lecture series. AET provide details of course level guest lectures. This information and links is now included in Section 8 of this report. 24 December 2014 Update: Meeting with Helen Jones and Andrew Stevens took place on 09/12/2014. Due to technical difficulties there has been a delay with the uploading of registration data for franchise cohorts. This will cause a delay in the production of student cards. Andrew Stevens will contact partner. Update: AET has sent nearly all of the student cards, the team in Leeds is now in receipt of the outstanding 23 photos for the student cards so these can be J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 12 Activity Responsible To ensure partners are aware of the key contacts within faculties including the central franchise email address. Address delay in receipt by partner staff of the assessment for Business and Enterprise module. *This was also noted in the midmodule review form. Ensure that the Module tutor for Surveying, Measuring and Estimating (BAH Construction Mgm) can access the VLE and relevant teaching and learning materials. Ensure consideration is given to the timing of assessment given the delay in materials and assessment for one of the BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering modules (week 7 instead of week 3). Franchise Admin, AET &FBL Deadline 8th December 2014 Status processed when the University reopens on 5 Jan Update: Andrew Stevens will email a reminder to all partners of the FBL Franchise inbox address. Update: The simulation game was an issue as franchise partners were not clear whether they had to buy it. During the meeting with partner it was conveyed that it is the responsibility of the franchise partner to buy the simulation. Partner asked if they can have local simulation software. The reply was, it can be a possibility due to cost issues however the module team has to look at the simulation first before approval. Waiting for partner’s reply. Nehal Mahtab, FBL Franchise Admin, FBL 8th December 2014 Franchise Admin AET 8th December 2014 Email request re status sent on 24 Dec Annemarie Sanderson, AET 8th December 2014 Email request re status sent on 24 Dec *This was raised with the Link Tutor prior to the MR meeting. J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 13 Activity Responsible Deadline Status Share via the VLE past papers for the H4 Surveying module (BAH Construction Mgm) Annemarie Sanderson, AET 24 December 2014 Email request re status sent on 24 Dec Confirm when LEG can expect to receive confirmation of registration forms. Clarify the role of University Link Tutors / University representatives in respect of induction of students who join in January / May 2015. Who will support induction in Jan 2015? Ensure all students know where to access the Course Handbook Franchise Admin, AET &FBL Franchise Coordinators FBL / AET 8th December 2014 8th December 2014 LEG Course Leader 8th December 2014 Ensure students are aware of ebrary and journal resources. LEG Course Leaders 8th December 2014 To monitor on an on-going basis the availability of resources to support large cohorts of Civil Engineering students LEG DVC, Franchise Coordinator AET Update: Meeting with Helen Jones and Andrew Stevens took place on 09/12/2014. Due to technical difficulties there has been a delay with the uploading of registration data for franchise cohorts. This will cause a delay in confirmation of registration data. Andrew Stevens will contact partner. Discussions will take place at the internal Oversight Group on 21 January to finalise how Sem 2 inductions will be supported. Update from Alla Kesava 24 Dec: Following the mutual review meeting, Programme Coordinators reminded students that they can access the Course Handbook via the VLE and shared the link. Update from Alla Kesava 24 Dec: LEG has very recently renewed its licence for the ebrary and students are regularly informed that they can access jourmals. Update: To be monitored through the AM & R meetings for AET. N/A for FBL J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 14 Activity Responsible Deadline Status Quality Assurance Services: Report received by Faculty: February FAQSC Report received by Partnerships & Collaborations Sub-Committee: 2 March 2015 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4 - LEG MR Report 181114.Docx 15 1. Action Plan from initial Mutual Review at Legenda Education Group held on 18 November 2014 - Courses subject to Mutual review were as follows: BA (Hons) Business & Management BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance BSc (Hons) Computing BSc (Hons) Construction Management BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Activity Clarify expectations regarding extent of teaching and learning materials provided. (For some modules there is a full set of lecture slides, tutorial topics including questions and answers and for other modules materials include an outline of each week and little else.) To ensure teaching and learning materials and assessment tasks for Semester two modules are made available within good time to allow for contextualisation as appropriate. To include some additional past papers for a Semester one BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance module. To clarify if guest lectures are shared via the Leeds Beckett YouTube site and more generally how staff and students can readily access faculties’ guest lecture series. To ensure that student cards are produced for all students on both FBL and AET courses. To ensure partners are aware of the key contacts within faculties including the central franchise email address. Address delay in receipt by partner staff of the assessment for Business and Enterprise module. Responsible Deadline Franchise Coordinators FBL / AET 24 December 2014 Link Tutors 9 January 2015 Julie Barnaby, FBL 24 December 2014 QAS/ Franchise Coordinator 24 December 2014 Franchise Admin, AET &FBL 24 December 2014 Franchise Admin, AET &FBL 8th December 2014 Nehal Mahtab, FBL Franchise Admin, FBL 8th December 2014 Status *This was also noted in the midJ:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4a - Action Plan LEG MR 18Nov14.Docx 1 Activity Responsible Deadline Franchise Admin AET 8th December 2014 Annemarie Sanderson, AET 8th December 2014 Annemarie Sanderson, AET 24 December 2014 Franchise Admin, AET &FBL 8th December 2014 Franchise Coordinators FBL / AET 8th December 2014 LEG Course Leader 8th December 2014 LEG Course Leaders 8th December 2014 Status module review form. Ensure that the Module tutor for Surveying, Measuring and Estimating (BAH Construction Mgm) can access the VLE and relevant teaching and learning materials. Ensure consideration is given to the timing of assessment given the delay in materials and assessment for one of the BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering modules (week 7 instead of week 3). *This was raised with the Link Tutor prior to the MR meeting. Share via the VLE past papers for the H4 Surveying module (BAH Construction Mgm) Confirm when LEG can expect to receive confirmation of registration forms. Clarify the role of University Link Tutors / University representatives in respect of induction of students who join in January / May 2015. Who will support induction in Jan 2015? Ensure all students know where to access the Course Handbook Ensure students are aware of elibrary and journal resources. To monitor on an on-going basis the availability of resources to support large cohorts of Civil Engineering students LEG DVC, Franchise Coordinator AET Quality Assurance Services: Report received by Faculty: Report received by Partnerships & Collaborations Sub-Committee: J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4a - Action Plan LEG MR 18Nov14.Docx 2 J:\QAS\Collaborations And Partnerships\Governance\PCPC Papers\2014-15\March 2015\Agenda C3c - Mutual Review Appendices\Appendix 4a - Action Plan LEG MR 18Nov14.Docx 3 Student focus group as part of Mutual review at Legenda Education Group on Tuesday 18 November In attendance: Professor Mohammad Dastbaz, Dean and Pro-Vice Chancellor, Faculty of Arts Environment and Technology Becky Baldaro-Booth, Collaborative Provision Operations Manager, Quality Assurance Services Juha Kaapa, Link Tutor, School of Art, Architecture and Design X 2 students on BSc (Hons) Computing x 4 students on BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering (x 2 H4 and x 2 H5) x 2 BA (Hons) Construction Management x 2 BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance x 2 BA (Hons) Business and Management BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering - - Students noted a delay in LEG staff receiving materials, and cited a 2-3 week period when staff were unable to access the scheme of work and lecture slides; they feel this has impacted on the time available to them to prepare for assessment. (This was noted in the mutual review meeting with staff and the Link Tutor has already been alerted to this issue and is exploring the timing of assessment submission). One student queried the length of the course and the timing of graduation. (University representatives provided an answer during this meeting.) Students queried the professional body accreditation. (University representatives provided an answer during this meeting.) Students queried the lab space and access to facilities and resources. There are 49 in the class with additional intakes planned for Jan and May 2015. (Action for LEG staff to monitor availability of studio space and resources). BA (Hons) Construction Management - Students queried the lack of access to Leeds Beckett resources. (University representatives provided an answer during this meeting.) BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance -Students would like to see more past papers and understand better the marking scheme. (Action for the Link Tutor to follow up) BSc (Hons) Computing - One student queried whether they would receive formal notification from the University that they are on a Leeds Beckett course. University representatives provided an answer during this meeting.) - A student queried the opportunity to undertake a placement as part of the course. (University representatives provided an answer during this meeting.) BA (Hons) Business and Management - Students queried access to journal articles via Emerald. All students have a mentor and attended an induction programme. Not all students (Accounting and Finance and Computing) could confirm they had received the Course Handbook. (Action to ensure course handbooks are disseminated).