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Quality Handbook
AQH-I3-4 Operations Manual Guidelines – Model D Version 9.0 August 2013
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Operations Manualfor programmes approved
to be offered in partnership betweenthe University of Sunderland (the University)
and[PARTNER NAME] (the Partner)
in accordance with the University’s Collaborative Model D (Tutor Supported Delivery)
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Version History of Template (for QAE use only):
Version Occasion of Change
Change author
Date of modification
Modifications made
1.0 Original placed in Academic Quality Handbook
S Sutcliffe September 2008 Mainly references to new University structure
2.0 Updates to University collaborative processes
C GardnerO Palimeris
October 2009 – June 2010
Various, to reflect the new CP processes implemented 2009
3.0 Staff Changes S Patience September 2010 Section 2.1.3 updated
4.0 QMSC approved Roles of APLs Sept 2010
C Gardner 20.10.2010 Introduction updated
5.0 Updates to University terminology, to provide link to current University faculty staff, and updated links to websites
C Gardner 12.01.2011 Various, to reflect new University CPA terminology, Section 2.1.3 replaced with faculty structure link to current faculty staff details, & section 20.
6.0 Changes to Services
S Patience April 2011 Change to contact list
7.0 General Update C Gardner August 2011 General Update8.0 Clarify
responsibilities of the parties for developing teaching materials
C Gardner August 2013 Update to clause 11.2.3And update hyperlinks
9.0 Further clarity and update
C Gardner 23rd August 2013 Further clarity and update
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Implementation and Modification History (for Faculty use only):
Version Occasion of Change
Change author
Date of modification
Modifications made
Version signed off by Faculty (date & details)
EXAMPLE Issued to Partner on approval to run programme
xxxxxxxxx 20.1.10 Template annotated to incorporate more details of specific arrangements
FQMSC (minutes 15.02.10 refer)
1.0
Your support and co-operation will be very much appreciated, and any feedback you can provide on the effectiveness of the Operations Manual template would be gratefully received. Please contact Quality Assurance and Enhancement at the University of Sunderland.
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CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................5
2.0 MANAGEMENT OF THE PARTNERSHIP.............................................................6
3.0 DETAILS OF THE PROGRAMMES AND MODEL OF DELIVERY.......................6
5.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES........................................................................8
6.0 LEARNING AND TEACHING...............................................................................11
7.0 PUBLIC INFORMATION......................................................................................11
8.0 ALLOCATION OF STUDENT NUMBERS...........................................................11
9.0 RECRUITMENT AND ADMISSIONS...................................................................12
10.0 STUDENT INDUCTION.......................................................................................14
11.0 PROGRAMME DELIVERY..................................................................................15
12.0 ASSESSMENT.....................................................................................................19
13.0 EXTERNAL EXAMINERS....................................................................................20
14.0 PROGRAMME AND PARTNER REVIEWS.........................................................21
15.0 STAFF DEVELOPMENT......................................................................................22
16.0 LEARNING RESOURCES...................................................................................22
17.0 HUMAN RESOURCES........................................................................................23
18.0 STUDENT SUPPORT..........................................................................................24
19.0 STUDENT COMPLAINTS, APPEALS AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES....25
20.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES..................................25
21.0 EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY...............................................................................27
22.0 TERMINATION....................................................................................................27
23.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS......................................................................................27
24.0 USEFUL LINKS....................................................................................................31
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Welcome to the University of Sunderland’s Faculty of xxxxxxxxxxxxxx and the Department of xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx. Your Centre has now been formally approved to run one of the University’s programmes.
1.2 This operations manual has been designed to promote common understandings about the respective roles and responsibilities of the Partner and University staff involved in the delivery, management, quality assurance, and co-ordination of the University’s collaborative programmes. Mutual understandings are essential to assure parity of the student experience, regardless of the site of delivery. It is designed by the University for use by all University and Partner staff associated with the provision. The University and the Partner are jointly responsible for ensuring that this is issued to all staff who contribute towards programme delivery. It is important to us that staff feel supported and have appropriate mechanisms for:
Contacting relevant staff Resolving issues in a timely way Working together in a true partner relationship including full understanding of the
University’s processes, procedures and regulatory requirements
1.3 It thus amplifies the roles that staff in each organisation are expected to fulfil as laid down in the Collaborative Provision Agreement that governs this collaboration. It may also be useful to refer to the University’s Guidelines on the Role of Assistant Programme Leaders at Partner Institutions accessible through:https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-6167/AQH-I1-4a+Role+of+Assistant+Programme+Leader+at+Partner+Institutions.docClauses from the Agreement are included as italicised sections throughout the Manual, beneath which the requirements are explained in more detail. The University’s Collaborative Provision Agreements are normally reviewed every six years. It has been drawn up to reflect the University of Sunderland’s Collaborative Processes - see: https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-5273/AQH-I1+Collaborative+approval+and+review+ processes .doc
together with its Collaborative Models of Provision paper and relevant sections from the Quality Assurance Agency’s Quality Code (particularly Section B10: Managing Higher Education with Others) (last published December 2012). See http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Pages/quality-code-B10.aspx Please refer to the University’s Academic Quality Handbook for all guidelines referred to in this manual, see:http://services.sunderland.ac.uk/academic-services/academic-quality-handbook/
1.4 Your support and co-operation will be very much appreciated, and any feedback you can give us on the effectiveness of the Operations Manual would be gratefully received.
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2.0 MANAGEMENT OF THE PARTNERSHIP
2.1 MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE: UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND
Please refer to: https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-14/University%20Organisation%20January%202012%20(final).pdf
for details of the University of Sunderland Management Structure.
2.2 Management structure: the partner [to be inserted]
2.1.3 Faculty Structure: University of Sunderland
Please refer to http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/faculties/ to access specific individuals/Departments
Each University Faculty includes a Dean, Associate Dean – Student Experience, Associate Dean – Resources, Research and External Engagement, Associate Dean – Recruitment and Development and Heads of Department.
Faculty Departments
Applied Sciences Department of Computing, Engineering & TechnologyDepartment of PsychologyDepartment of Pharmacy, Health & Well-beingDepartment of Sport & Exercise Sciences
Education and Society Department of EducationDepartment of Social SciencesDepartment of Culture
The Faculty of Business and Law
Sunderland Business SchoolDepartment of LawDepartment of Tourism, Hospitality and Events
Arts, Design and Media Department of Arts & DesignDepartment of Media
Figure 1: University Faculties and Departments
3.0 DETAILS OF THE PROGRAMMES AND MODEL OF DELIVERY
3.1 The AGREED University programmes (as defined by the relevant programme specification produced and approved by the University) will be offered at approved Partner sites by MODEL D, through tutor supported delivery by Partner staff approved by the University to support the provision. Further details of the Model are accessible via the following University guideline link https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-7605
For a full list of programmes/sites covered by this manual please refer to the Collaborative Provision Agreement – Quality Assurance and Schedule of
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Programmes Annexes, available on request from Quality Assurance and Enhancement.
4.0 CONTACTS INFORMATION
4.1 ‘Central’ and key Faculty University of Sunderland telephone numbers
Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive tel: 0191 515 2036Deputy Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive (Academic) tel: 0191 515 2039Deputy Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive (Resources) tel: 0191 515 2460Director of Academic Services tel: 0191 515 2060Assistant Director of Academic Services tel: 0191 515 2433Assistant Director (Marketing and Recruitment - TNE) tel: 0191 515 2283Assistant Director (Marketing and Recruitment - UK) tel: 0191 515 2667Assistant Director (Student & Learning Support) tel: 0191 515 2903Collaborative Provision Manager tel: 0191 515 2063Senior Quality Assurance & Enhancement Officer tel: 0191 515 2065/
0191 515 2069Educational Partnerships Office,Marketing and Recruitment
tel: 0191 515 2806
4.2 Faculty, Department, and programme University of Sunderland contacts:[to be expanded as appropriate]
Dean of Faculty xxxxxxxxxxxxFaculty Associate Dean (Student Experience) xxxxxxxxxxxxFaculty Quality Management Sub-Committee Chair xxxxxxxxxxxxHE in FE Practitioner’s Group nominee#Centre Leader xxxxxxxxxxxxProgramme Assessment Board Chair xxxxxxxxxxxxProgramme Studies Board representative xxxxxxxxxxxxProgramme Leader xxxxxxxxxxxxAdministrative staff xxxxxxxxxxxxGeneral Enquiry Telephone number for the Faculty xxxxxxxxxxxx
4.3 Partner Contacts (to be completed by Partner)
Programme/Module Assessment Board representativeProgramme/Module Studies Board ChairHE in FE Practitioner’s Group nominee#Assistant Programme Leader
# (WHERE APPROPRIATE) HE and FE Practitioner’s Group nominees (of the HE in FE Group) have agreed to act as a central channel of communication for their organisation/Faculty; e.g. to facilitate submission by the University (via the Faculty Quality Officer) of external examiner’s reports to relevant College staff via this named nominee.
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5.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The sections below represent broad responsibilities that are described in more detail in relevant sections of this Manual.
5.1 The University has responsibility for: The Award, including quality assurance of the partnership, programmes and of
the student experience Programme planning, design, assessment and review The provision of the University Centre Leader/Faculty Partnership Leader and
Programme and Module Leaders at the University The approval of Partner staff appointed to support the delivery of programme
materials Supporting staff development of Partner teaching support staff The approval of public information including marketing materials in respect of the
provision Programme admission decisions and the registration of students to the
University’s student records system (SITS) The issuing of offer letters to students Information services support (providing any agreed access to the University’s
Library services) The appointment of and liaison with external examiners The organisation, management and operation of Assessment and Studies
Boards Amendment and discontinuation of programmes with agreed notice Provision of transcripts of results and final award parchments
5.2 The Partner has responsibility for: Adhering to University policy and procedures The appointment of staff attributed to supporting delivery of the provision across
the sites of delivery (in accordance with University criteria and approval), and related administrative staff
Provision of staff/tutor induction and development at each Partner site of delivery The co-ordination of student applications and student records management Information services support, e.g. ensuring agreed levels of library facilities at
each site of delivery together with any other agreed specialist resources The submission of reports to the University and other, timely, information on
registered students as may be required The marketing of the programme for local recruitment The co-ordination of staff and student feedback from each Partner site of delivery The submission of public information including marketing materials to the
University for approval following any in-house Partner approval Student Induction for University Programmes Student academic and pastoral support.
5.3 Role of the Study Centres
A student will join a programme based at a local Study Centre. The Study Centre will provide:
local tutors. tutorial/practical sessions with appropriate support for all taught modules. adequate hardware/software to support practical computer-based sessions. tutorial facilities for project students.
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a base library of all key and support texts for the relevant programme. facilities for all examinations. a front-line student counselling service. a communication link with the programme team at Sunderland. a receipting service for all coursework hand-ins. a student counsellor.
5.3 Role of Programme Leaders
The Programme Leader is in charge of the whole programme, and oversees each stage or Level of the programme at the University of Sunderland.
5.4 Role of Centre Leaders
Centre Leaders will be appointed by the University of Sunderland. Their roles are articulated in the University’s Academic Quality Handbook via the following link: https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-5250/AQH-I1-4+APPENDIX+4+The+Role+of+the+Centre+Leader.doc
* N.B Only the Centre Leader at Sunderland has the authority to extend the deadline for a particular assignment. This can be done if a complete cohort is affected by unforeseen difficulties, e.g. network problems at a Study Centre over several weeks of a module.
The template for the annual report that University Centre Leaders need to produce each year is accessible via the following link:
https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-5251/AQH-I1- +APPENDIX+5+Template+for+Centre+Leader%27s+Annual+Report.doc
5.5 Role of Module/Instance Leader
Each taught module on the programme will be the overall responsibility of a Module/Instance Leader based in the Department at the University of Sunderland. The Module Leader will:
Be responsible for the academic content of the module in that they will prepare any updated material deemed necessary.
Be responsible for the production of assessments, which will be moderated using standard Department procedures.
Be responsible for the recording of assessment results. Be responsible for the presentation of results for all assessments within the
module at the appropriate Module Assessment Board. Answer queries and offer advice to Local Lecturers on all aspects of the
running of the module. Respond to individual student queries with regard to their module. Where
normal communication channels have been exhausted (via the local tutor). Students are free to contact Module Leaders directly by E-Mail or through their study centre. E-mail contact should be copied to the Centre Leader so that central oversight of any difficulties is maintained.
5.6 Role of Administrative Staff
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Contact with the administrative team is primarily via the contact details provided above. E-mails will normally be acknowledged within two working days.
5.8 Role of Study Centre Staff
5.8.1 Local Study Centre Co-ordinators will: Provide first-line advice and act as a vehicle for communication with the
Centre Leader at Sunderland where students are experiencing any difficulties in their private or work lives which may affect their performance on the programme.
Facilitate day-to-day communication links between the local student body and the programme team at Sunderland.
Ensure that registration forms are completed by students in a timely manner. Co-ordinate the election of student representatives for each cohort of
students. Organise meetings with student representatives to discuss any aspects of the
running of the programme. A report of any major issues raised by these meetings will be sent to the Centre Leader in Sunderland.
Ensure that feedback is provided by both staff and students for the relevant Board of Studies
Co-ordinate all receipting of coursework hand-ins and examination arrangements.
Be the sole point for students notifying the Centre Leader of late assignment hand-in.*
Ensure that students are aware of mitigating circumstances procedures. Note that where mitigation circumstances are claimed by a student, that the acceptance of such mitigation is the responsibility of the Extenuating Circumstances Panel, which meets monthly. Extenuating Circumstances can only be accepted by this panel at the appropriate meeting, and not at any other time.
Prepare an Annual Report from the Study Centre for each subject area at the end of each academic year. The template for this report is accessible via:
https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-5253/AQH-I1-7+APPENDIX+7+Template+for+Partner%27s+Annual+Report.doc
5.8.2 Role of Local Lecturers
Each Study Centre will nominate Local Lecturers who will be appointed for every taught module on the relevant programme. Some Lecturers may be appointed to more than one module, but each module will have an individual who is responsible for co-ordinating the operation of that module. To support the Local Lecturer, a Module Leader (or Instance Leader) in Sunderland (an academic member of staff) has been appointed to have overall control of the operation of modules as appropriate (see section on Module Leaders and Instance Leaders).
Local Lecturers will:
Co-ordinate the operation of the module in the local centre. Deliver PowerPoint lectures where appropriate providing first-line response to
any queries raised by students. Refer queries requiring further consideration to the Module Leader for the
appropriate module. Conduct all tutorial activities required for a particular module. Co-ordinate the handing out of all coursework assessments where relevant.
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Liaise with the local Student Counsellor where problems arise.
In order to qualify as a local lecturer, a candidate must satisfy the Head of Department at the University of Sunderland that he/she has the necessary academic and professional qualifications and background to support teaching at the appropriate level. Local teaching staff must first be approved by the University Faculty in accordance with procedures described in section 17 below.
6.0 LEARNING AND TEACHING
6.1 Learning and teaching of the programme will be as described in the student handbook and programme and module guides
7.0 PUBLIC INFORMATION
7.1 General
The University reserves the right to publicise its collaborative programmes in its own publicity materials and in other publicity materials agreed with its partners.
7.2 Marketing and Promotion
7.2.1 The University will be responsible for: receiving and approving the accuracy of publicity materials prior to their implementation and regularly monitoring these and other information issued to registered or prospective students in respect of the collaborative provision.
7.2.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) submitting to the University, publicity materials in respect of the
collaborative provision, for approval prior to their implementation;b) publicising locally the availability of the programme(s) and the recruitment
and admission arrangements.
7.2.3 The success of the programmes(s) at your Study Centre relies very much on the successful marketing and promotion of your particular locality. You will know best which particular mediums are best for you area, and how and where you can target potential students. All publicity material must be approved by the University of Sunderland, to ensure a consistent, appropriate and professional corporate image. It is essential therefore that you pass any publicity material to your Centre Leader for approval, including web-based materials or any use of the University’s logo prior to using it.
8.0 ALLOCATION OF STUDENT NUMBERS
8.1 The number of student places per annum will be agreed with the University in accordance with the Financial Annex to the Collaborative Provision Agreement.
9.0 RECRUITMENT AND ADMISSIONS
9.1 General
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9.1.1 The University will be responsible for:a) liaison between the Partner and the University regarding the offering of
conditional (and, subsequently, unconditional) places on the programme;b) issuing conditional and unconditional place offers, including admissions
Terms and Conditions, (and, where appropriate, to specify the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score requirements) to student applicants in accordance with University programme regulations;
c) approving/declining non-standard entry applications in accordance with the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) procedures of the University.
9.1.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) forwarding completed student application forms to the University prior to
the programme start date;b) communicating with the University regarding University approval of non-
standard entry applications.
9.1.3 Applications are made on the University of Sunderland application form and will be considered by the relevant University Programme Leader or delegated representative.
9.2 Entry Criteria
The normal entry criteria for admission to the agreed University programmes are detailed in the relevant University programme specifications and University of Sunderland academic regulations accessible through: https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-2779
Any articulation routes will also need to be approved by the relevant University Faculty Quality Management Sub-Committee (FQMSC). The University’s articulation guidelines are accessible onhttps://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-7603
9.3 Enrolment and Registration
9.3.1 The University will be responsible for:a) providing student registration forms;b) ensuring that students are registered at the start of each stage of their
programme and accurately inputting student information onto the Student Records System (SITS);
c) generating a University student ID for all registered students and issue of a welcome pack to include an email account that will allow access to the University website;
d) designing data reports drawn from the University Student Records System (SITS) as necessary.
9.3.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) ensuring completed student registration information is returned to the
University in accordance with University deadlines;b) providing the University with accurate student progress information as
necessary in a timely fashion.
9.4 When a centre is ready to begin recruiting, the following steps will be taken:
A Centre Leader will be appointed at the University of Sunderland.
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Administration resources will be allocated at the University of Sunderland. A local (centre) co-ordinator and administration resources must be identified.
Please note: It is essential that all students register before starting their programme as without this they cannot receive a user-id or password to access University of Sunderland on-line facilities.
9.5 UK HEFCE funded centres should forward their registration forms to the University’s Marketing and Recruitment Service. The UK private colleges’ and overseas centres’ co-ordinators process registration forms as per the flow diagram ‘Handle Enrolments’.
9.6 There are normally two intakes a year September/October and January/February. Other start points may be agreed at the discretion of the University. When ready to commence, the study centre must negotiate the start date with the appointed Centre Leader.
9.7 Payment of Fees
Fees are due on registration. UK HEFCE funded centres should forward fee payment to the Marketing and Recruitment Service and UK private colleges and overseas centres should submit payments to the Department’s Finance Unit in accordance with the financial annex to the Collaborative Provision Agreement.
9.8 Changes in Personal Details
Any changes to a student’s personal details e.g. name or address should be reported to the Centre’s Co-ordinator on the appropriate form which must be immediately forwarded to the administration team in Sunderland.
9.9 Transfers
Where circumstances dictate that that Study centre is no longer a viable base for a particular student, that student, with the permission of the Programme Leader may be able to transfer to another Study Centre. When transferring to another centre, the student must adopt all the conditions applying at the new centre, e.g. hours of attendance, fees etc.
9.10 Leaves of Absence
Leaves of absence must be agreed by the Centre Leader in advance for an agreed period of time based on acceptable mitigating circumstances. A Leave of Absence form should be forwarded to the administration team at Sunderland for processing. The form must include details of the last day of attendance and expected return date for leave of absences. The University’s Leave of Absence Policy is accessible via:https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-6512/AQH-F10%20Leave%20of%20Absence%20Policy.doc
9.11 Withdrawals
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Any student wishing to withdraw from the programme must inform the Centre’s Student Co-ordinator and complete the relevant form. This form should be forwarded to the administration team at Sunderland for processing. The Centre Leader should also be informed. The form must include details of the last day of attendance.
9.12 Re-enrolment
All students whose studies cover more than one academic year will be required to re-enrol at the beginning of the subsequent year, once progression is confirmed by the University Programme Assessment Board.
The University will send “Re-enrolment” forms to the Partner, from where they will be forwarded to students as appropriate with instructions for completion. The Partner will ensure that Re-enrolment forms are completed by students and returned to the University via the Centre Leader in accordance with the deadline specified by the University.
10.0 STUDENT INDUCTION
10.1 General
10.1.1 The University will be responsible for: inducting registered students as University of Sunderland students.
10.1.2 The Partner will be responsible for: inducting registered students to their programme of study.
10.2 Information to be provided for students
Contact details for students (to be completed by the Partner and the University) Study skills information Information about pastoral support Programme Regulations Procedures and Administration Information on student and learning support including careers advice Information on the University’s Library services and those of the Partner An assessment cover sheet A mitigation form Assignment extensions Changes to personal details Withdrawal from the programme Leave of absence Appeals and complaints procedures Health and safety information
10.3 Typical Student Induction programme content
Introduction to the Partner and the University – roles, access to facilities, contact details
Information regarding pastoral support An overview of programme structures and assessments Discussions on study and assignment writing skills The opportunity to discuss expectations and what students want to achieve from
the programme
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Advice on reading material Details on what students can expect from their tutors An overview of the programme regulations on re-assessment and mitigation,
plagiarism etc Administration information such as how to access the University of Sunderland
Library services including on-line resources (where access to these is permissible)
Networking and introduction – sharing work experiences/expectations Election of representatives for the Partner staff/student liaison committee Student feedback mechanisms Schedule of assessment Consideration of results Procedure for publication of results
11.0 PROGRAMME DELIVERY
11.1 University Responsibilities
11.1.1 The University will be responsible for:a) designing and developing the structure and curriculum of the programme
and the associated modules approved to be delivered by the Partner;b) approving alterations to programme and/or module content, mode of
delivery and assessments;c) developing and issuing to the Partner learning and teaching materials to
support delivery of the programme at the centre by tutor supported distance learning;
d) designing and issuing to all staff an Operations Manual detailing the precise arrangements to facilitate the delivery, quality assurance and management of the programme;
e) producing handbooks for students relevant to the programme of study; f) establishing, Chairing and managing Programme and Module Boards of
Studies as required for the programme and the associated modules.
11.1.2 The Partner will be responsible for:
a) day-to-day management, co-ordination of operation and delivery of the approved programme in line with the Operations Manual including the delivery of teaching and other means to facilitate learning using the materials provided by the University;
b) ensuring that all appropriate guides and handbooks are issued to students;c) establishing a technology assisted learning environment for the
programme(s), e.g., to facilitate access to on-line facilities by registered students.
11.2 More broadly, the University is responsible for the day to day management, co-ordination of operation and delivery of the approved programme and its associated modules including any agreed teaching of full-time/part-time/full-time notional (as appropriate) sessions that may be based at the University. The Partner will be responsible for day to day management, co-ordination of operation and delivery of the programme (and its associated modules), including the teaching of full-time/part-time/full-time notional sessions that will be based at the Partner’s premises.
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11.2.1 Where appropriate, the Partner will be responsible for the supervision of work-based assessments, appropriate training for student mentors, and the risk assessment of practice placements.
11.2.2 The structure of the programme is included in the programme specification approved by the University. The University is responsible for the design and development of the structure of the programme and its composite modules. The University Academic Board (via the Faculty Quality Management Sub Committee) is responsible for approving any modifications to the programme. The University Programme Leader/Centre Leader will ensure that Partner staff, including the Assistant Programme Leader, are consulted should modifications to modules or the overall programme be proposed by the University during the year. Partner staff must be made aware of any changes to the University modules/programme so that any potential issues can be identified and addressed in advance of operation of the revised module. Should the Assistant Programme Leader wish to propose a modification this should be discussed in the first instance with the University Programme Leader/Centre Leader. (Such changes should also be communicated to the University Library – particularly if these could affect the University’s library provision).
11.2.3 In addition, the University, via the Programme/Centre Leader will normally approve the module guides produced (in accordance with University guidelines) by each Partner Assistant Module Leader. Each module guide contains a breakdown of the total student learning hours. These are normally 200 for a 20 credit module, 100 for a 10 credit module etc. It is important that delivery of University programmes and modules is conducted in accordance with this module guide; e.g. in terms of student contact time. Any proposed deviations from this must be agreed by the University (via the University Programme/Centre Leader) in advance. Learning materials, technology assisted learning facilities including lesson plans will also be produced by the University but contextualised where appropriate for local delivery by the Partner.
11.2.4 Module Learning Material
All learning materials are provided by the University of Sunderland and are subject to copyright regulations.
It is important that tutors are familiar with the content of programme and module guide along with any other learning materials, such as PowerPoint presentations for lecture/tutorial support, so that they are able to assist and advise students appropriately.
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THE UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND WILL THE STUDY CENTRE WILL
In advance of the programme being offered at the Study Centre, approve available resources
Provide the Study Centre with Module and Programme Handbooks
Provide Guides and learning materials for all taught modules
Provide module reading lists Provide Induction Guidelines as a
framework for the Induction Programme
Provide a library of essential and recommended text books
Ensure appropriate facilities for the storage and issue of learning materials
Ensure guides and handbooks are distributed to all students and tutors at the appropriate time
Provide the necessary facilities for video-conferencing
Ensure suitable computer hardware and software resources, and audio and video equipment are available for learning materials to be used satisfactorily.
Ensure that students are provided with a comprehensive Induction Programme consistent with University Guidelines.
11.3 Calendar of Activities
The University Faculty administrative staff will normally advise partner staff as early as possible of the proposed dates of activities including Programme and Module Boards. The dates of such Boards should be incorporated within an annual plan of operations so that all staff are aware of these at the start of each year. The following example, commended as good practice at a variety of reviews, should be applied and updated annually:
Note: This grid (into which approximate dates have been inserted) is intended to provide an overview of typical activities involving collaborative provision that take place during each year. Exact dates and specific activities e.g. the type and frequency of Development Day Sessions and the timing of programme boards will be determined by each Faculty and the grid below annotated accordingly.
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Date/time University Meeting/Activity
Partner meeting/activity Location
30th June Collaborative annual monitoring report guidelines issued to partners by University Faculties
31st July Partner Annual Monitoring Reports to be completed and returned to the University via the host University Faculty
1st August Student Handbooks for the coming academic year to be finalised and approved as necessary
1st August Operations Manual updated as necessary, in consultation with University, for the coming academic year to be issued to all staff who contribute to the co-ordination, teaching and administration of the provision
1st September Student Induction SessionsEarly September Development Day for
teaching staff
Mid September Autumn Term begins (new students) – see University website for Dates
Late September Programme Refer/Defer Board
Late September Autumn Term begins (returning students)
Mid October Development Day Mid November Development Day
Including Programme Studies Board
Mid November or earlier
University of Sunderland HEFEPG meeting including enhancement session 1
Early December University Graduation Ceremonies
See:http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/studentlife/graduation/
Late December Development Day for teaching staff
Late December Autumn Term EndsEarly January Spring Term BeginsEarly February Programme Assessment
BoardFebruary/March University Open Days See:
http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/opendays/ugfest/
March Partner Cluster Feedback day, Sharing Good Practice
March University of Sunderland HEFEPG meeting including enhancement session 2
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Date/time University Meeting/Activity Partner meeting/activity LocationLate March/early April
Spring Term Ends
April Summer Term BeginsLate April Moderation of Assessment May Development Day
and Programme Studies Board
June University Open DayJune Moderation of Assessment June University Open DaySummer University of Sunderland
Collaborative ConferenceJune University of Sunderland
HEFEPG meeting including enhancement session 3
July Summer Term EndsJuly University Graduation
CeremoniesAugust University Open Days
Similarly, the Partner should inform University staff in advance of ‘in-house’ meetings taking place that require input from the University. Partners are invited to attend University boards in studies mode but it is particularly important that they attend Assessment Boards given this is where student grades are agreed. The constitution of University boards is laid out in University guidelines in its Academic Quality Handbook available on the University’s website. Partner and University staff, particularly the Programme Leader, Centre Leader and Assistant Programme Leader, should ensure they understand the implications of the Collaborative Provision Agreement for the operation of the provision.
12.0 ASSESSMENT
12.1 The University will be responsible for:a) establishing, Chairing and managing Programme and Module
Assessment Boards;b) setting, marking and moderating course assignments, examinations and
other assessments;c) assuring the recording of and notification of assessment results to
students;d) issuing award parchments and transcripts to students. The award
parchment produced for successful students by the University shall state that the student has achieved the award as specified in the Collaborative Provision Agreement.
12.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) conducting assessments in accordance with the relevant guidelines such as
those for invigilation procedures;b) ensuring that best practice is followed to guarantee the security of
assessment processes and to minimise the risk of any forms of malpractice on the part of the candidates. This includes processes for verification of the authenticity of the work submitted;
c) ensuring that appropriate examination venues are provided which meet academic requirements and comply with health and safety legislation;
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d) notifying students of assessment arrangements including time and date, venue and behaviour protocols;
e) notifying students of course assignment deadlines and ensuring the secure receipt of coursework.
12.3 Students studying University programmes will be assessed in accordance with the University’s Assessment Policy. This and the University’s Generic Assessment Criteria are accessible on: (Assessment Policy) https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-7236
(Generic Assessment Criteria) https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-7861
12.4 Model of assessment
12.4.1 The processes by which University and Partner staff will assess and moderate the assessed work of students will be in accordance with the model agreed between the University and Partner and the University’s minimum threshold standards articulated within the University’s Marking Policy accessible on https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-2986/AQH-F6-4%20Marking%20Policy.pdfThe precise means by which this will be applied for the provision is as follows:
TO BE COMPLETED BY THE UNIVERSITY FACULTY
12.5 Timing and Delivery of Assessment
12.5.1 The University will publish an assessment schedule which will be reviewed as part of the Programme Annual Monitoring process. Assessment will take place at approved Partner sites. Where the assessment is an examination it will be held under conditions laid down by the University.
12.5.2. The Partner is required to comply with the University’s Assessment Policy, e.g. with regard to invigilation procedures and safeguarding processes – see link above at 12.3.
12.6 Transcripts and Parchments
12.6.1 The University will be responsible for: producing transcripts and parchments for successful students. Students who successfully complete their studies will be issued with a transcript which states that the student has been awarded a University of Sunderland award studied at the Partner site, and the award parchment they are issued with will make reference to that transcript. The University retains the right to make amendments to the parchment in the event of the introduction of any future requirements of the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA).
13.0 EXTERNAL EXAMINERS
13.1 The University will be responsible for:a) appointing external examiners for the programme;b) issuing completed external examiner reports to the partner;c) progressing actions arising from the reports, in consultation with the partner
where applicable.
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13.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) providing access to information, students and staff if required to enable the
External Examiners to fulfil their role in accordance with University guidelines;
b) co-operating in actioning the recommendations of the external examiner as required.
13.3 The University Quality Assurance and Enhancement Office receives all external examiner reports and submits these to relevant Faculty Quality Officers upon receipt.
13.4 The Faculty Quality Officer then submits the External Examiner Reports to the Partner upon receipt.
13.5 Named Partner central contact organises Partner level scrutiny of the External
Examiner Reports and submits these to relevant staff supporting the delivery of the provision as soon as possible. The Partner also ensures that students are provided with a copy of the External Examiner Report.
14.0 PROGRAMME AND PARTNER REVIEWS
14.1 The University will be responsible for:a) organising review panel membership for partner and programme
reviews;b) establishing the review requirements and the schedule of review visits;c) advising the Partner of the requirements for the review process, including
documentation, meeting arrangements and access to facilities.
14.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) providing documentation required by the University for reviews within the
timeframe specified;b) providing access for individuals and review teams to meet with staff and
students either in person or by electronic means, and to premises to review any resources which support the programmes concerned.
Each partner will inform the other in advance of forthcoming external inspection visits (e.g. by Quality Assurance Agency or a PSRB) and of the outcomes of these once they are completed.
IF RELEVANT ADD: In addition, the Partner to inform the University of in-country accreditation requirements and activities and comply with University guidelines on in-country accreditation in advance of submission to the relevant local accrediting body for approval.
14.3 Annual monitoring of the provision:
14.3.1 The University will be responsible for:a) issuing annual monitoring guidelines and templates to the Partner;b) receiving and reviewing completed annual reports from the Partner;c) producing an overall monitoring report for the programme which will be
provided to the partner and progressed in accordance with the University’s programme annual monitoring arrangements.
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14.3.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) submitting annual reports in accordance with University guidelines in a timely
fashion covering the programmes delivered and the partnership;b) providing and analysing any data required to support the reporting process
which is in the possession of the partner organisation;c) progressing any actions identified to enhance the quality of the provision.
15.0 STAFF DEVELOPMENT
15.1 The University will be responsible for:a) keeping the Partner informed about developments in the programme(s)
being delivered; b) providing guidance on pedagogical issues relevant to the provision.
15.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) ensuring that partner staff assigned to support delivery of the programme
engage in continuous professional development or scholarly activity or research to maintain the currency of their knowledge and understanding at an academic level above that of the programme which they are responsible for delivering to students.
15.3 It is useful if dates of specific staff development sessions are included in the annual plan of operations (see sample above in section 11).
15.4 Prior to the centre beginning delivery of the Sunderland programme(s) the Centre Leader will carry out training for the local lecturers and administration staff. The object of the training is to provide local staff with an understanding of:
the Sunderland mode of Centre Based operation the local staff’s responsibility and role within that mode local staff interaction with the students local staff interaction with staff at Sunderland the responsibilities of the Sunderland Centre Leader, Programme Leader and
Module Leaders briefings on the nature of the teaching materials and how to use them the problems of plagiarism and collusion and how they might help to prevent
these from happening the access provided to the electronic library provision at Sunderland the roles of the Module and Programme Boards of Assessment and Study.
Please note that it is not the intention of this training to pass on subject knowledge. Only staff with appropriate subject expertise as demonstrated through CVs will be approved to teach on the programme. The ability of local tutors to communicate in English and to deliver the module(s) they will be expected to support will be ascertained.
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16.0 LEARNING RESOURCES
16.1 Registered students are entitled to full membership of the University Student’s Union and will have access to the Partner and University libraries including electronic access to the University’s library resources in respect of students who are included in the University’s return to HEFCE.DELETE THIS IF OVERSEAS OR PRIVATE PARTNER.
16.2 The Partner will be responsible for ensuring local support for information services and library facilities and maintaining agreed levels of core materials.
16.3 The Partner’s policies in relation to the provision of learning resources will apply to students whilst they remain studying at the Partner site.
17.0 HUMAN RESOURCES
17.1 The University will be responsible for:a) approving the appointment of staff supporting the delivery on the
programme in accordance with University criteria in advance of their commencing to teach on the programme.
17.2 The Partner will be responsible for:a) providing to the University the CVs of staff whom it proposes to engage to
support delivery of the programme for approval by the University in advance of their appointment;
b) submitting details of proposed changes to delivery support staff to the University for approval in advance of their implementation;
c) maintaining a team of a suitable number and range of staff teaching on the programme.
17.3 Approval of Staff, Induction, and Development
17.3.1 The Partner will put forward the CVs of staff whom it is proposed will teach on the agreed University programmes. The Partner will also submit to the University for approval, via the Centre Leader, a Matrix for each programme to be delivered at that Partner site, detailing the names and highest qualifications held of tutors whom it proposes will lead each programme and teach each of the programme modules.
17.3.2 Tutors recruited to teach on the approved programmes are expected to have at least one year’s experience of teaching at higher education level at a level above that for which they will be responsible for delivering.
17.3.3 Where staff are appointed subsequent to the initial validation, the above procedure should be followed. Approved staff changes should be recorded in the annual monitoring report produced by the Partner. All staff appointed should undergo an approved process of staff induction/development.
17.4 Curriculum Vitae Checklist
17.4.1 Detailed below are the essential and desirable criteria for those wishing to tutor the University of Sunderland undergraduate programmes at Partner sites. Those applying should submit a CV, following the template below that clearly
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demonstrates how they meet the “essential” criteria as a minimum and ideally the “desirable” criteria too:
17.4.2 Curriculum Vitae Template for Tutors
Each CV should contain the following information to demonstrate how the “essential” criteria are met:
Name (Surname/first name(s)
Title (e.g. Dr/Ms/Mr)
Academic Qualifications - qualification including any specialisms, date of achievement, awarding Institution, classification/grade
Professional Qualifications - qualification including any specialisms, date of achievement, awarding body, classification/grade
Current Post Title
Current Responsibilities
Teaching or training work experience
Subject area professional work experience
Areas of Research Activity/Recent continuing professional development activities engaged in
17.4.3 Essential Criteria
An undergraduate qualification either wholly within, or specialising within, the subject area
Teaching at undergraduate level or relevant training within the subject area at a level above that for which they are responsible for delivering
Work experience, training or consultancy within the subject area Evidence (in cases where the first language of the applicant is other than
English) of an English language qualification or experience of teaching or training the subject area in the English language
17.4.4 Desirable Criteria
A postgraduate qualification either wholly within, or specialising within, the specific discipline
Evidence of continuing professional development during the last 3 years A research record of publications A teaching qualification Membership of relevant professional bodies Experience of assessing students in the HE or HE in FE environment
18.0 STUDENT SUPPORT
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18.1 The University will be responsible for: approving, and having oversight of, the arrangements which the Partner implements for the welfare of students on a general, and on an individual basis.
18.2 The Partner will be responsible for: providing support to students on the programme, including appropriate levels of support for disabled students, careers advice and guidance, pastoral support, counselling and study skills advice.
18.3 The Partner will be the first point of contact for all student queries regarding academic and pastoral support which will be directed through the relevant contact person as detailed in the Partner specific student handbook.
18.4 It is the Partner’s responsibility to ensure that students are fully aware of who the relevant contact at the Partner is for their queries.
19.0 STUDENT COMPLAINTS, APPEALS AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
19.1 All complaints should be progressed in the first instance through the complaints procedure of the partner organisation. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint at this stage he/she may complain to the University in relation to issues concerning the delivery or assessment of the programme or the resources provided directly to support study on the programme. Other issues including non-academic matters may not be referred to the University.
19.2 Academic Appeals in relation to assessment must be made to the University using its procedures.
19.3 Students are subject to the rules, procedures, and regulations governing conduct and discipline of the Partner institution. However where a disciplinary matter has implications for academic quality and standards (for example in the case of assessment irregularities) the partner organisation must refer this to the University and address the issue in consultation with the University through the University’s processes. In such a case the University has the right to exercise the ultimate sanction of withdrawing a student from the programme.
19.4 The Partner is responsible for:a) maintaining robust but fair and transparent complaints and disciplinary
processes;b) ensuring that students understand the complaints and appeals
procedures open to them and the disciplinary rules which apply, and that they have easy access to the relevant processes and associated documentation.
19.5 The University is responsible for:a) giving the Partner access to its process documentation; b) approving the processes managed by the Partner.
20.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
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20.1 General oversight of the provision, including the maintenance of its academic standards will be maintained by the University through:
a) establishing, operating and managing the Programme/Module Assessment Board(s) that shall be Chaired by the University and serviced by the University,
b) appointing External Examiners to the provision in accordance with the procedures detailed in section 13 above,
c) reviewing and monitoring the provision and the partnership in accordance with its Quality Processes available via https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-6062/AQH-I6+Quality+Processes+Doc+final.pdf and with the collaborative section of its Academic Quality Handbook accessible via https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-2773,
d) the University will also undertake an agreed programme of visits to the Partner as specified in the University’s Collaborative Processes: Roles of Centre Leaders Section: https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-5250/AQH-I1-4+APPENDIX+4+The+Role+of+the+Centre+Leader.doc
20.2 The University will also establish, operate and manage Programme/Module Studies Boards that shall be Chaired by the University and serviced by the University.
20.3 All Programme/Module Assessment/Studies Boards operate in accordance with the guidelines on the terms of reference of these of the University accessible via https://docushare.sunderland.ac.uk/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-2991/AQH-F6-8+Module+and+Programme+Studies+and+Assessment+Boards+-+Terms+of+Reference.pdf.
20.4 Staff Induction and Development
20.4.1 The exact issues to cover in staff induction will vary for each Partner, however, issues to cover will typically include:
Learning and teaching issues; learning outcomes etc Academic regulations Academic support for students Assessment/feedback on assessment Quality Assurance issues/annual monitoring requirements etc Collection of student feedback Plagiarism and cheating Complaints procedure Access to University on line library facilities
20.5 Athens Accounts for model D tutors
20.5.1 Approved tutors who teach on model D programmes may be eligible to apply for a University of Sunderland Associate Lecturer Athens Account. The Athens Account will provide access to certain University e-resources for the purpose of supporting University of Sunderland students.
20.5.2 To apply for an Athens Account, tutors should print, complete, and sign the registration forms available from the Academic Staff at Partner Partners area of
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the library web pages (Library Services at https://my.sunderland.ac.uk). If tutors require any assistance please contact: [email protected].
20.6 Student Representation
20.6.1 It is important to the University that it receives feedback from students about their particular programme of study, the modules and any operational issues that need to be raised. The University places great value on being responsive to students needs and operates on the principles of encouraging students to evaluate the quality of their educational experience and to feedback their perceptions of the programme and of the centre. Several mechanisms exist within the traditional delivery modes to facilitate this process, and the off-campus mode will seek to foster the same approach. At the end of each module, students will be required to provide feedback.
20.6.2 Elected student representatives should attend regular meetings organised by the Partner. The aim of the meetings is to focus on the student presentation of the day- to-day running of the programme, to debate any problems which might occur, and to report back to the University (through the Centre Leader) on any issues which the students feel require discussion at the Programme Board of Studies. Any individual student may, at any time communicate with the Centre Leader (directly or via the Partner) on any matter causing concern or requiring explanation.
21.0 EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY
21.1 The University of Sunderland operates a strict equality and diversity policy. The University values the promotion of equality and diversity and will therefore not tolerate discriminatory practices. Copies of the University’s position policies on this is available on the University’s Equality and Diversity website:http://services.sunderland.ac.uk/hr/equalityanddiversity/
22.0 TERMINATION
22.1 Should a programme cease to operate at the Partner, the University may invoke its Termination Procedures as specified in the Collaborative Provision Agreement.
22.2 If the Partner fails to recruit within two years of approval, or thereafter temporarily fails to operate for two academic years, the Partner should contact the University Centre Leader who will discuss the re-approval processes that will be applied before the lapsed programme can recommence to operate with Quality Assurance and Enhancement.
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23.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
This section defines the terms used in collaborative delivery in the University and other terms commonly associated with quality assurance in higher education. Most of this terminology is based on that used by the CVU and the QAA in its Code Of Practice for the assurance of academic quality and standards in higher education. Some terms are derived from those employed by other higher education organisations with particular expertise in their field.
ADC Academic Development Committee (University of Sunderland)Annual monitoring
is a process whereby staff and students (and possibly others) annually assemble and evaluate data on the operation of the partnership and or the programme, or part thereof, and provide analytical comments on the data and relevant events relating to the operation of the provision.
APL Accreditation of Prior LearningAssessment is a process whereby formal judgement can be made by examiners of the
achievement of students against the learning outcomes established in the approved curriculum, using the assessment scheme approved when the programme was validated.
Assessment Criteria
describe how well a student has to be able to achieve the intended learning outcome, either in order to pass (in a simple pass/fail system) or in order to be awarded a particular grade.
Award denotes a degree, diploma, certificate, or other similar formal mark of recognition of successful completion of a programme of study. Some awards also qualify their holders in more specific ways: for example, a degree may permit or facilitate entry to a particular vocation or profession, or exempt the holder from part or all of a professional examination. In these circumstances an award may also be a qualification.
Awarding institution
means a university or other higher education institution empowered to award degrees, diplomas, certificates, or credits by virtue of authority given to it by statute, Royal charter or the Privy Council or under licence from another body. (The Department for Education and Employment publishes official lists of those UK universities and colleges with degree-awarding powers and also of those colleges which offer courses leading to the degrees of other institutions).
Cohort describes a group of students or learners who start their period of study together and, subject to satisfying assessment requirements, progress in tandem through the programme.
Collaborative provision
refers to the relationships between higher education institutions, with power to award degrees and diplomas (awarding institutions) and the institutions or organisations providing the tuition or support to the students (partner organisations).
Core module is a module which all students taking a particular programme are required to pass.
CPD Continuing Professional DevelopmentCredit provides a means of quantifying assessed learning outcomes achievable in a
given number of notional learning hours and at a given level.Delivery of a programme
embraces teaching, management, administration, and assessment of a programme of study.
Double marking
is where an assessment is marked twice by two different people. This may be done blind where neither person knows each other’s mark nor this is the normal practice with projects/dissertations/theses.
EFL English as a Foreign LanguageElective/Option module
is a module undertaken as a free choice which may be outside the primary area of study
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External Adviser
Appointed by the University of Sunderland to inform approval and periodic review of partnerships (see University collaborative processes in the Academic Services section of the University’s website for further details)
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External Examiner
is a cognate subject specialist from another institution or from practice, of suitable academic standing, appointed by the University Academic Board to serve for a defined period, to confirm the standards of student performance within programmes leading to a specified award. In modular programmes, an external examiner responsible for the standards of the award as a whole might not be expert in the specific subjects concerned, but be expert in the quality assurance of awards.
Formative Assessment
is an assessment which is intended to be informative only, with the prime purpose of helping students to improve.
FQMSC Faculty Quality Management Sub-CommitteeHEA Higher Education AcademyHEFCE Higher Education Funding Council for EnglandHESA Higher Education Statistics Agency which is the national UK body responsible
for collecting statistical data relating to all aspects of higher education, including students.
JISC Joint Information Systems CommitteeLearning materials
are materials produced in one of a number of media that designed to engage the learner in active participation in the learning process. These would normally be activity based and quality assured for learning design and subject content.
Learning outcome
is an assessed result of a programme, module or unit of assessment which all successful students will have achieved. An intended learning outcome is an assessed result of a programme, module or unit of assessment which all successful students should have achieved.
Learning resources
are a range of material accessible to the learner in print, CD ROM, video, audio or on line format. Sources include libraries and web sites.
Learning support
is support provided by a tutor either face to face or electronically mediated that specifically facilitates student learning in their own subject and performance in assessment. Skills gained may be transferable to other situations.
Collaborative Provision Agreement
is a document agreed by an awarding institution and a partner organisation which covers those matters which govern the formal relationship between the two institutions and provides a framework within which programmes of study can be approved and/or delivered.
Moderation of assessment
is where a moderator takes samples (usually about 10%) of marked assessments from the whole range of achievement and verifies the first marker’s conclusions.
Module is a discrete unit of assessed learning with coherent aims and learning outcomes.
Notional learning time
refers to the length of learning time which it is estimated will be taken on average to achieve the specified learning outcomes
NUS National Union of StudentsOFSTED Office for Standards in EducationPDAP Partnership Development and Approval Panel (University of Sunderland)PI Performance IndicatorPre-requisite module
is a module which students are required to pass, or be credited with, prior to proceeding to a specific module. Pre-requisites are not permitted within a level.
Professional, Regulatory and Statutory Bodies (PSRBs)
are organisations which approve or recognise specific programmes in the context of the requirements for professional qualification. Some such organisations have a prescribed statutory responsibility to approve or recognise programmes and/or to determine the academic standards and professional or vocational components of such programmes.
Programme is a complete study route with its own aims and learning outcomes made up from combinations of modules and which leads to a recognised and approved academic award.
Periodic Partnership
Is the process by which the University conducts a review of the Partnership, normally every six years.
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ReviewPeriodic Programme review
is the process whereby internal and external academic and professional peers and students (and possible others) evaluate the operation of the programme and achievements of the students over a period of years. It provides for greater reflection on the operation of the programme than any single annual monitoring activity.
Programme specification
provides a concise statement about the intended learning outcomes from a particular programme, information about the teaching, learning and assessment methods used to enable the learning outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated, and shows how the modules and units of study which make up a programme will relate to levels of achievement recognised in the qualification frameworks.
QAA Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education QAE Quality Assurance & EnhancementQMSC Quality Management Sub-CommitteeQualifications frameworks
describe the structures being developed by QAA within which it is intended that all UK higher education qualifications and awards should be located.
Quality assurance
is the means through which an institution confirms that the conditions are in place for students to achieve the standards set by the institution or other awarding body.
RIC Research Innovation Committee, University of SunderlandSLA Service Level AgreementStudent Transcript
is a record of the credits achieved by a student and may include other aspects of the student experience (e.g., language and location of study and assessment). It is issued as quantitative evidence to support an award certificate.
Subject benchmark information
is a term used to define explicit national statements of academic standards or outcomes, at subject level. Subject benchmark information of this type provides a reference point against which outcomes can be measured.
Summative assessment
sums up a student’s achievement and is largely concerned with making evaluative judgements
TDA Training and Development Agency for Schools UCAS Universities & Colleges Admissions ServiceVirtual Learning Environment (VLE)
is a piece of software comprising a number of features that together deliver content, communicate with learners, and track student interaction.
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24.0 USEFUL LINKSThe following internet links might be useful for partner or University staff involved in collaborative programmes: NB Please advise Quality Assurance & Enhancement of any broken links: [email protected]
Organisation/Link Web AddressBritish Council, The http://www.britishcouncil.org/new/Education and Learning, UK: University and Higher Education Site
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/index.htm
Education Company, The (formerly Education Direct)
http://www.education.co.uk/
Edexcel (e.g. for HND/C information)
www.edexcel.org.uk
Foundation Degree Forward closed in July 2011, For general information about FDF, its services and resources see the HEFCE website
http://www.hefce.ac.uk/
Higher Education Academy http://www.heacademy.ac.uk/HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency)
http://www.hesa.ac.uk/
Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE)
http://www.hefce.ac.uk/
Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted).
http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/
QAA – Academic Infrastructure http://www.qaa.ac.uk/AssuringStandardsAndQuality/Pages/AI-consultation-findings.aspx
Quality Assurance Agency Code of Practice
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/AssuringStandardsAndQuality/quality-code/Pages/default.aspx
Scottish Qualifications Authority www.sqa.org.ukSkills Funding Agency http://skillsfundingagency.bis.gov.uk/Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS)
http://www.ucas.ac.uk/
Standards and Testing Agency https://www.gov.uk/government/news/standards-and-testing-agency
Universities UK http://www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/University of Sunderland home page
http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/
University of Sunderland Learning Matters website
http://services.sunderland.ac.uk/learningmatters/
University of Sunderland Academic Services: Academic Quality Handbook website link
http://services.sunderland.ac.uk/academic-services/academic-quality-handbook/
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