ba enterprise & entrepreneurship handbook 2011
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BA Enterprise & Entrepreneurship 2011
STUDENT HANDBOOK
BA Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
2011 - 2012
Principal Lecturer: Dr Joan [email protected]
Senior Lecturer: Tom Williamson [email protected]
Programme Coordinator: Barbara Jaszczyk [email protected]
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Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship
A WELCOME TO ALL NEW STUDENTS
Dear Student
May I take this opportunity to say hello and welcome you to Coventry University and the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE).
First of all let me introduce myself. I am part of a team of academics, project managers and business support staff who work in the IAE providing a range of courses (undergraduate, postgraduate and training courses) to students and businesses within the university and across the region. My role will be to oversee the organization and development of the degree throughout your time with us. You will also meet Module leaders, lecturers and additional support staff from within the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship and from across the University. This handbook includes details of our team, how they can support you and how you can reach us if you have any questions.
We are very focused on delivering a truly enterprising experience for all of our students and so you can expect some innovative and exploratory sessions with us. We are also committed to providing a wide range of support for students who are, or are planning to, run a business.
For some of you this is a time of great excitement and adventure, for others it may be a time of concern and anxiety. Let me assure you that your time at Coventry University will be engaging, inspiring and fun. You are joining a team full of experience and knowledge and we are all here to help you at every stage of your journey. Advanced academic studies cannot only be invigorating but can also lead to a sense of self-identity and confidence. In addition, of course, you will make new friends and have lots of fantastic new things to do.
In this handbook you will find some important information to help your transition to University life easier, there is also detail of support you can get and resources available to you. Much of this information may seem quite daunting at times and can be confusing; if there is anything you are not sure about and you would like us to clarify it for you , you can approach any of our team for help.
University life is full of opportunities – if you put in the effort, you will get the rewards.
Have fun!
Yours sincerely
Dr Joan Lockyer
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Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship Student Handbook 2010/11
Contents Page
1 Course Introduction 51.1 Introduction to this handbook1.2 Background1.3 Aims of the programme1.4 Career Prospects1.5 Introduction to staff
2 Course Structure and the Modular System 82.1 Course structure2.2 Module definitions2.3 Information about modules2.4 Choosing modules2.5 Registering for modules2.6 Changing a module2.7 Withdrawing from modules2.8 The Honours project2.9 Credit for prior learning
3 Course Delivery 113.1 Teaching3.2 Student effort3.3 Timetable3.4 Attendance3.5 Resources
4 Assessment, Examinations and Awards 154.1 Assessment - Coursework4.2 Examinations4.3 Results and resits4.4 Awards and classification4.5 For students with Advanced Standing (Credits/APL’s)4.6 Conditions for the award of a particular named Honours degree4.7 Conditions for the award of an Ordinary degree4.8 Cascade of awards
5 Student Support 205.1 Disability Support5.2 Communication5.3 Administrative Enquiries5.4 Personal problems affecting coursework and/or examinations
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5.5 Illness5.6 Careers Advice5.7 Student Union5.8 CUOnline5.9 IT Support5.10 Library5.11 Centre for Academic Writing5.12 Student Funding
6 Expressing Student Views and Feedback 226.1 Expressing your views about the course6.2 Formal ways of giving course feedback6.3 Representation within the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship
7 Essential information for all students 23A The modular framework B Changes to your programme of study C Coursework assignments D Academic Dishonesty E Plagiarism and how to avoid it: Citing sources and referencing in your academic writing: F Examinations G What to do if you experience illness or other circumstances that affect your studies/Exams H Assessment boards, reassessment and results I Awards and Classifications J Reviews and appeals K Data Protection and Fair Processing Statement
8 New Deferral Process (2010) 37
9. HOW YOUR DEGREE CLASSIFICATION IS CALCULATED 39
10. Undergraduate Assessment Marking Criteria 40
11. Timetable 41
12. Campus Map 42
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1. Course Introduction
1.1 Introduction to this Handbook
The purpose of this handbook is to provide our students with a user-friendly guide to participation on the BA Enterprise and Entrepreneurship degree. Full details of the university’s principles, regulations and procedures can be found on the main University website. This handbook only contains a summary of these regulations.
1.2 BackgroundThe BA Enterprise and Entrepreneurship course is a cross-faculty course and is administered by the School of Lifelong Learning (SoLL) and overseen and supported by the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE). This course is very unique and differs substantially from other courses you might have come across. Full details of the course structure and the rationale behind its creation can be found in the Programme Specification Document (PSD).
1.3 Aims of the ProgrammeThe BA Enterprise and Entrepreneurship course aims to provide you with a comprehensive and critical understanding of theories related to entrepreneurship and small business management, that is the management of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). It will provide you with an understanding of how to start and run your own business; it will equip you for management either within the SME sector specifically and for management more generally. By the end of the course you will have a sound knowledge of the significance of the SME sector to the economy; you will understand your own capacity for entrepreneurship or intrapreneurship; you will be equipped to start and run your own business or to make a significant contribution to the management of another organisation (business or social enterprises). This course will help you to understand the real challenges of the business world and decide which career path (self-employment or employment in an organization) you are better suited for.
The formal aims of the courses are to:
Provide you with knowledge of the theoretical principles of entrepreneurship and business;
Provide you with the understanding of the area in which you may wish to start your business;
Enable you to apply your business knowledge and personal skills to the solution of business problems;
Enhance your entrepreneurial or intrapreneurial skills and define areas requiring development;
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Develop your range of transferable skills that will be of value in future employment and your career development;
Offer you a choice of career opportunities including self-employment and progression to further study;
Provide you with a broad and varied educational experience within which learning occurs;
Provide you with practical advice and experience of successful entrepreneurs and a unique opportunity to create valuable network of contacts;
Provide you with a friendly and supportive environment in which you can safely develop your business ideas and start and operate your business.
1.4 Career prospects
Graduates from our BA Enterprise and Entrepreneurship programme are given the opportunity to discover the world of self-employment. Significant number of students are expected to continue to run their established business, start another company or take over a family business. Should the experience on the programme reveal to the graduate that self-employment is not their preferred career path, students can move on to work within Small and Medium Enterprises or large organisations, both in private and public sector, applying their personal skills to particular problems and becoming intrapreneurs. Students may also choose to continue to postgraduate study.
1.5 Introduction to staff
The BA Enterprise & Entrepreneurship is delivered by the academic team within the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship. Short bio’s of the full time team can be found below, all IAE staff are based in the central office within The Hub. The IAE also utilize specialist part-time staff when required, these will be introduced to you over the duration of the programme.
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Name:Position:
E-Mail:Direct Phone:
Skype:Twitter:
Dr Joan LockyerPrinciple Lecturerj lockyer@ cad. coventry.ac.uk 0797 498 4486
About:
Likes:
Dislikes:
Joan left school at 16 and started work straight away. Since then she has worked for (and with) a number of large and small companies in a range of roles including Business Manager; Marketing Manager; Technical Consultant, and Management Services Consultant. She has run her own consultancy since 2003 when she completed her PhD. She has always worked and studied, taking her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees on a part-time basis, so she knows how hard it can be to run a business and study at the same time. Joan joined Coventry University in 2009 as Principal Lecturer. Prior to this she worked at Keele University and Staffordshire University. In terms of research, very broadly she aims to understand how change (social, political, economic) impacts on behavior, both institutional and individual and the tensions or opportunities that this creates; this draws on many strands of theory. Radio 4 (especially the Archers); walking, talking, reading, and people with enthusiasm.People who don't know how lucky they are (and so complain a lot); the M6.
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Name:Position:
E-Mail:Direct Phone:
Twitter:
Tom WilliamsonSenior Lecturert williamson@ cad. coventry.ac.uk 0797 498 4337Floppyarms
About:
Likes:
Dislikes:
Tom started his first business aged 19 whilst studying for his BA in Human Resource Management at Coventry University. As a student Tom started the Universities Enterprise Society and also launched a number of businesses, one of which he still runs today. Tom is experienced in retail, events management and web technology sectors.
Following his graduation he joined the Coventry University team to encourage a wider range of support services for Coventry students. Since then he has played a role in research, teaching and providing support to students. Today he looks after the BA Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and delivers a range of modules. Tom loves to use social media to engage with students, colleagues and widely uses social media platforms in his other business operations.
Coffee, technology, driving, green technologies and people with a passion to learn.
The M1, poor punctuality, lazy people, boy bands and people that don’t pull their weight.
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Name:Position:
E-Mail:Direct Phone:
Barbara JaszczykProgramme Co-Ordinatorb. j [email protected] 0797 498 4341
About: Barbara is….
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2. Course structure and the modular system
2.1 Course StructureAll University courses are built on a common framework, with all courses at the same level, (eg all honours degrees) requiring broadly the same number of modules to be studied. Each individual module requires the same amount of student input.
2.2 Module DefinitionsA 'programme of study' consists of a number of 'modules'. A module is defined as an identifiable part of the curriculum for a degree, which has the following characteristics:
• a coherent, self-contained syllabus;• an assessment (comprising for example, one written examination with or without coursework/laboratory work or continuous assessment, or an assignment such as a project);• Successful completion of a module will result in the award of a pass.
The average student effort required for successful completion of a 20 credit module is 200 hours, which represents approximately one sixth of a normal year of full-time study. Multiple modules or half modules will be based on a pro-rata requirement of student effort. Degree level modules are classified as Level 1, 2 or 3. Most Level 2 and 3 modules may not be studied until earlier modules specified in the curriculum and syllabi have been successfully completed. These earlier modules are known as 'prerequisite' modules and are specified to ensure a proper academic progression in related subjects.
2.3 Information about modulesBefore choosing a module you can look at the syllabus by using the on-line Module Information Directory (MID). This can be accessed via CU Portal or direct at http://mid.coventry.ac.uk. The course tutor will provide advice when students choose their modules for the following year. More detailed information about each module, lecture plans and full reading lists will be given out at the start of the year to students enrolled on a module by the module leader.
2.4 Choosing modulesThe course tutor will advise you on the modules available and answer any queries.When choosing modules you will need to consider:
• If you have the necessary prerequisites for each module• If you have avoided any excluded combinations of modules• If you have a valid programme of study
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A module with a prerequisite means that this module cannot be taken until the prerequisite has been met. A module with an excluded combination cannot be taken if the named excluded combination is also being studied. These considerations also apply to all Add+Vantage Modules.
2.5 Registering for modulesAt the start of each academic year you will be asked to confirm the modules you wish to study when you enroll.
2.6 Changing a module (and see Section B in 7. Essential information for all students) If you wish to change one of your modules you must do so within 3 weeks of the start of Term 1. You can do this yourself online via SOLAR. Please consult the course tutor if you have any problems.
2.7 Withdrawing from a module(and see Section B in 7. Essential information for all students)If you wish to withdraw from a module you must consult your course tutor for advice. This should then be submitted to the Programme Manager/Course Tutor. Students may transfer to another available module at any time up to a quarter of the way through its delivery subject to the approval of Programme Manager and the module leader.
A student who does not formally withdraw from a module by the specified deadline and does not attend the examination shall be recorded as “Absent”. This will count as a failure and will be recorded on official documentation. A student who has not made a first attempt at coursework and/or will not be allowed a to be reassessed in coursework or attend the resit examination.
2.8 The Honors ProjectTo obtain a degree with Honors, a project module has to be completed in the final year of study. The outcome and assessment requirement for the project is a 12,000-word dissertation on any topic you choose, provided it is appropriate and related to the subject areas of your degree.
All students registered on projects within the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship will be assigned an individual subject specialist tutor who will guide and advise the student on subject-related matters.
Students will be able to make appointments to see their tutor throughout the year. Further guidance on selection of appropriate project subject, title, how the module will run, etc. will be provided in your penultimate year, and you will be expected to advise us of your intended subject area when you enrol for your final year.
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2.9 Credit for Prior LearningAccreditation for prior learning (APL) may be granted for modules at the discretion of the Programme Manager providing that they are within the parameters set by the School accreditation committee.
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3. Course Delivery
3.1 TeachingYou will learn by a variety of methods including lectures, example workshops, seminars, practical exercises, individual and group projects, guided study and self-directed study and online learning with software programs. In business, understanding of techniques and concepts, obtained by continual practice through completion of examples, is essential to your learning. It is crucial that you attend all classes and participate in activities, and keep on top of the guided and self-directed study:
Lectures are to enable all students get an overview of the subject and key issues involved in a topic plus demonstrate key techniques. It is important that you get to the lecture on time and that you understand the need to make a deeper study of the matters mentioned in the lecture.
Example Workshops often focus on practical exercises that you will discuss and work on with other students and the tutor. They may be based in a computer lab where you will use computer-based learning packages.
Seminars and other small group teaching provide an opportunity for you to test your understanding with your fellow students and the tutor. You will be told in advance what study and preparation you will need to do for a seminar or other small group activity. In some first year core modules the tutors will work with students on how to prepare for seminars
Guided study and self-directed study is the ‘workhorse’ of your learning. It is here that you should really get to grips with economic methods and techniques and practice the crucial skills. Your reading and understanding of materials, and practice at exercises, sometimes guided by a module or seminar tutor, will be the main factor in deciding your development.
Online learning with software programs is the most recent addition to ‘student learning tools’. You will have been introduced at Induction to CUOnline. You will find all relevant material being placed on these webs and you should log onto your course web and module webs regularly. Further instruction on using these resources will be given when appropriate but there is also online help available.
3.2 Student EffortThe norm is that for each single 20 credit module, students are expected to study an average of 5 hours a week (150 hours over the academic year), while for 10 credit modules approximately 8 hours a week (80 hours over one semester). The pattern of work will vary over the course of the year with modules which are coursework only based requiring more time earlier in the year.
3.3 TimetableTimetables will be made available before the start of term. You should seek the assistance of the course tutor and the Programme Co-Ordinator if you have any problems. The module leader for each individual module will inform you of the attendance requirements for that module. Full time programmes usually run between 0800 – 1800hrs Monday to Friday however delivery outside of these times is possible and will be explained to you by the module leader.
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3.4 AttendanceStudents are expected to attend lectures and seminars on a regular basis since there is a strong correlation between attendance and course success. The University has a computerised attendance monitoring system and this will be used to track attendance. Unauthorised absences will be reported to the course tutor and where attendance levels are unacceptable action will be taken to investigate the circumstances. A wide range of student support facilities are available for students suffering genuine difficulties, but ultimately if there are no extenuating circumstances, the University will compulsorily withdraw from the course any student who repeatedly fails to attend for their studies.
In case of longer-term absence, you should contact your course tutor. Annex G gives details of what to do if you are unable to meet coursework deadlines.
3.5 ResourcesThe main learning resources used by students are the computing facilities and library. You are also encouraged to participate in activities of Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship, Students in Business society meetings and gather any other resources you find relevant.
3.5.1 LibraryThe main facilities used by our students are the Library and the computer laboratories in various buildings across campus. A tour of the library is arranged for new students and the booklet ‘Introduction to the Lanchester Library’ can be collected at the library issue desk.
3.5.2 Computing FacilitiesInstruction on the use of computing facilities is part of the Induction programme for all new students. In these sessions you will learn about CUOnline (Moodle). Most information for your course and programme of study is delivered to students via the computer network. Each module you study has its own web site, access to which is obtained once you have handed in your module choice form. You also have access to a course web, which you and your course tutors will use for communication (see Section 5).
The Coventry University's CUPortal gives you access to many other sites, e.g. the library sites, the MID, and study skills. Students in Business society’s website at www.studentsinbusiness.org provides you with various information, which you will find interesting and relevant to the degree.
All the software that you require for your course is available within School's computer rooms and University 24hr open access rooms. Information on campus computer rooms is available from CUPortal - IT services section.
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3.5.3 Teaching RoomsThe Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship operates from teaching facilities across the campus. Students are provided with a campus map and we ask you all to make yourselves familiar with buildings and rooms across the campus. Any room changes will be communicated to you via CUOnline so it is very important that you check this service frequently.
3.5.4 Study skills supportStudents, who have come through non-traditional routes, and even some of those who have A-levels, can struggle with the study skills necessary at HE level. Additional Study Skills help is available via CUOnline and via the Centre for the study of Higher Education (CSHE).The library has very useful resources under the following classification numbers:
153.14 Improve your memory300.72 Research projects371.30281 General study guides378.166 Revision and exam skills428.4 Effective reading658.409 Time management808.042 Report and essay writing skills808.066 Problem solving and writing
There are also videos and audiotapes, as well as other self-help materials, held in the AV section. Materials such as dictionaries, thesauruses and books on English usage are housed from classification 400 onwards in the reference section. A library bookmark giving more details on where to go for help has been produced.
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4 Assessment, Examinations and Awards
4.1 Assessment - Coursework
A variety of assessment techniques are used in modules on your courses. The assessment criteria for individual modules are set out in the module information given out at the start of the year by module leaders and on the MID system.Assessment is generally classified as coursework or examinations. Examinations are held at the end of the academic year in May. Coursework assessment methods can be varied, and include:
Essays
Reports
Phase Tests
Multiple Choice Questions
Presentations
Role Plays
Projects
Some of these may be group-based.
4.1.1 Submitting CourseworkModules delivered by the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship will require students to submit all coursework online using TurnItIn. Tutors will demonstrate and provide additional support prior to each coursework to ensure you understand this process. To access TurnItIn visit CUOnline > Module Web > TurnItIn Link (Where module web is the link to the required module page) or go direct to http://moodle.coventry.ac.uk
Some tutors for your other modules may ask for work to be submitted via a faculty reception (hard copy) where you will be required to complete a submission receipt which will then be stamped.
Occasionally some tutors may ask you to follow both of the submission procedures above, they will make it very clear to you in the sessions and so it is very important that you know which submission method to use. We strongly advise you to keep a hard and an electronic copy of all your coursework.
If you fail to submit your work on time it will be marked as a FAIL.
4.1.2 Extenuating Circumstances
If on account of illness or other circumstances you are unable to meet the deadline for handing in coursework, or are unable to sit an examination, you must consult the guidance on procedures
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to be followed – these are contained in the section : ‘What to do if you experience illness or other circumstances that affect your studies / exams’ of the document “Essential information for all students”, included in this Handbook, and in greater detail in the leaflet “Extenuating Circumstances”, available from the reception desks in both the William Morris and George Eliot Buildings and on the BES Faculty website.
4.1.3 Deferral of Coursework or Examinations
A deferral of an assessment means that it is not done during the current academic session and is postponed to the next appropriate assessment session, when different coursework assignments and examinations will be set. For full-time students on courses operating on the October to June academic year, this would normally mean assessment in the late summer resit period. (Although deferrals are not counted as referred attempts)
Applications for deferral of coursework and examinations are considered by the Faculty Deferral Panel. More details and deferral application forms are available via the IAE office and via CUPortal. They should be fully completed and returned, with relevant evidence, to the IAE office well BEFORE the deadline.
You should consult your tutors for advice, but normally students should apply for a coursework extension when extenuating circumstances only apply for a short period close to the deadline date. Coursework deferrals are normally only granted for extenuating circumstances that apply over a longer period.
Note also that you can also decide not to enter for an assessment by withdrawing from a module as long as you inform the university by the appropriate date which, for students on courses running over the October to June academic year, is at the end of term 1 for honours projects (exact date to be confirmed) and 30th March for other modules. This, however, is not a deferral and so you would have to wait for the next academic session to re-enrol on the module if you did this.
4.1.2 Pass MarkFor all modules the pass mark is 40% (average of all marks for that module) with a minimum of 35% in any individual marked element.
4.2 Examinations(and see 7. “Essential information for all students”, Section H)
4.2.1 ProjectsIf you are registered on an Honors degree you are required to submit a project and failure to do this will mean you fail the Honors degree. If there is any doubt about completing the project module, you should register for the non-honors route and withdraw from the project module. You should note that, as with other modules, no refund of fees can be given for students who
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withdraw from the project.
4.2.2 Examination TimetableThe examination timetable will be available via CUonline by the end of March 2012. All examinations take place in Coventry. NOTE that some examinations may take place in evenings, early mornings and at weekends.
4.3 Results and resitsOfficial results notification will be via the University website – SOLAR, normally by the end of June 2012. Only final year students will obtain written confirmation of their results.
4.3.1 Reassessment of a module (referral)
You can only be reassessed in a module, if you have made a first attempt at the coursework and/or examination elements. If you fail a module, you will be required to resit the exam or resubmit coursework in August 2012.
If you fail the resit, you will have to retake the module with attendance and all its assessments (ie in the following year). If you fail it again, you will have one further opportunity to resit in August 2013. No further attempts will be permitted.
4.3.2 Resit courseworkResit coursework for your modules can be obtained from the module web from May onwards. Coursework will have to be returned by a particular date, normally a date in mid August. You will normally have to complete new coursework.
4.3.3 Resit examinationsThe referred examination timetable will normally be available by the end of July. Resit examinations are normally held in the last two weeks of August.
4.4 Awards and classificationsThe classification boundaries for First Class, Upper Second Class (2:1), Lower Second Class (2:2) and Third Class Honours Degrees are 70%, 60%, 50% and 40% respectively. The minimum module pass requirements for Honours and Degree under Mode C of the Academic Regulations are outlined below.
Academic Award Minimum number of modules to be passed (Credits)Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Degree with Honours 18 (360) 5 (100) 5 (100) 5 (100)
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Unclassified Degree 15 (300) 5 (100) 4 (80) 4 (80) Diploma of HE 12 (240) 5 (100) 5 (100) Certificate of HE 6 (120) 5 (100)
* The difference between the total number of modules and the sum of the level 1, 2 and 3 module columns may be met by modules at any level
These credit totals are the minimum University requirements. If you were admitted with “advanced standing”, i.e. without studying the first or second stages of your course, some of the rules will be slightly different (see 4.5 below) If you do not meet the specific requirements for your named award, the Programme Assessment Board may consider you for an alternative award (e.g. BA General). If you do not obtain the required number of credits for an Honours Degree, you may be considered for alower award (e.g. unclassified Degree, DipHE or CertHE).
4.5 For students with Advanced Standing (Credits/APL’s)To obtain a University award a student who entered the University with advanced standing), or who has been credited with modules for prior learning (credits/APL’s), shall be required to pass at least the further modules approved by the University as follows, normally at the level indicated:
i) Degree with Honours - 5 modules at level 3 (100 credits)ii) Unclassified Degree - 3 modules at level 3 and two other modules at level 2 or above (100 credits)iii) Diplomas - 5 modules at level 2 (100 credits)iv) Certificates - 4 modules at level 1 (80 credits)
4.6 Conditions for the award of a particular named Honours degreea) Students must satisfy University regulations for the award of an Honours degree b) Students must meet all the course regulations for the award of a particular named degree.
The following two methods are used to calculate your honours degree classification (Mode C) and the higher result is awarded:
The average percentage mark of the 100 credits worth of modules (equivalent to 5 modules) with the highest mark at level 3 or aboveOR The average mark of the 220 credits worth of modules (equivalent to 11 single modules) with the highest mark at level 2 and above.
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4.7 Conditions for the award of an unclassified degreeThe award conditions below are in addition to University Academic Regulations (Mode C). For an Unclassified degree in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship a student must have passed or been credited with all mandatory modules excluding 331BSS and ensure that all required credits are completed.
4.8 Cascade of awardsIf you fail to meet the requirements for a particular named award, the Programme Assessment Board will consider you for an alternative award, in the following order:BA Honours in named courseBA Degree in named courseBA Business
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5 Student Support
All students are assigned a personal tutor who will arrange termly meetings during which progress, concerns and feedback can be discussed. It is important that students engage with their personal tutors when required, and students are also encouraged to use this facility as and when required.
5.1 Disability SupportIf you have a disability or medical condition and need an adjustment to allow you to fully participate in this course (eg different format of literature, clear communication for lip reading, breaks for medication etc.) please tell your lecturer so that arrangements can be made.If you have been assessed as dyslexic, please tell your module tutor – you will be allowed extra time in tests. You should fill out the appropriate forms for sheltered conditions for the summer exams – ie so that you can be granted extra time.
5.2 CommunicationCUOnline and e-mail is the main way in which the programme director and Programme Co-Ordinator will communicate with you. Please look at the home page and also the discussion forum on a regular basis.
CUonline and email are also the main forms of communication used by lecturers. The best way to communicate with a lecturer is to email them. You can also phone a lecturer, but they will not always be available in their office. If you wish to see a lecturer, it is best to email them to make an appointment. Lecturers will normally respond to most mail within 3 working days, unless they are away from the University. You are also welcome to leave a message on their mobile numbers or on Skype at any time. It is advisable to create a Skype account for personal tutorials or to contact lecturers
If you have difficulty contacting a member of staff you should contact the Programme Manager or the Programme Co-Ordinator.
5.3 Administrative Enquiries (IAE Office)The office for the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship is located in The Hub in room 1.10 on the first floor. Your academic staff and support team can be found in this office and can help with student enquiries with regard to administrative matters. The Programme Manager and/or the Course Tutor deal with academic concerns, but you may need to email in advance to book a meeting. If you wish to change your address you can now do this yourself via SOLAR on the computer network. If you have difficulty in getting the appropriate help, please do not hesitate to email or telephone the Programme Co-Ordinator who will advise you accordingly.
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The Academic Registry is responsible for all matters relating to student administration, from enrolment through to graduation, including the maintenance of student records, the organisation of examinations and timetabling. The Academic Registry reception is situated on the ground floor of the Student Centre building in Gulson Road, adjacent to the University Library. Academic Registry's opening hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9am - 5pm, Wednesday, 11am - 5pm and Friday 9am - 4pm. Contact details are email: [email protected] or fax: 024 7615 2203
Detail information and contact detail for all these services are available on the CU Portal.
5.4 Personal problems affecting coursework and/or examinationsYou should inform the Course Manager or the course tutor if you are experiencing personal problems which are adversely affecting your studies. They may refer you to a professional counsellor in Student Services. Alternatively, you may wish to contact Student Services direct in the Alma Building or Priory Hall. For further details about advice on counseling, medical matters, disabilities, finance and accommodation see the Student Services Handbook.http:/www.coventry.ac.uk/structur/ss/index.htm
5.5 Illness (and see Section G in 7. Essential Information for all students)You should notify your course tutor urgently and take along any relevant doctor’s note. If illness or other circumstances affect your ability to meet a deadline for handing in assessed coursework or your ability to sit an examination, you should consult the detailed guidance on the procedures for dealing with extenuating circumstances. These may be accessed from the Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (www.cuportal.coventry.ac.uk). These procedures allow you to request :-
a) an extension of a coursework deadline (normally to a maximum of three weeks):b) a deferral of assessment for a coursework or an examination until August.If you are ill and cannot take an examination you must inform the university before the date of your exam or at the very latest on the day of the examination. date.
It is very important that the correct procedures are followed – otherwise you will forfeit your right to submit assessments and also to make any resit attempts.If you are not sure what to do contact your course tutor or the Programme Manager urgently.
5.6 Careers AdviceAll students can contact the Careers Guidance Service at the University. There are also opportunities for continuing studies at the University, including taught post-graduate certificates,
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diplomas, Masters degrees and research degrees, ie. MPhil’s/PhD’s
5.7 Students UnionThe Students Union plays a variety of roles; it represents students both individually and as a group and provides a range of services from advice to entertainment.
5.8 CU Online
You will find that you have on line access to the Course Web and the module web for each module you are enrolled on. You need to keep checking all of them on a regular basis for new information. The module webs are where you will find all of the module materials, the classroom where lectures will take place and where you will engage in discussion and activities with other students. The module webs are also linked to your university email account. It is therefore important to check your email account regularly for any course related announcements. As part of your induction you will be shown how to access all of the webs and the materials within them.
5.9 IT Support
If you have problems accessing the university IT systems there is a team of support workers known as the flying squad. Someone is available at the end of a phone (024 7688 7673) from 9.00-17.00 Monday to Friday or alternatively you can email them at [email protected].
5.10 Library
The Lanchester Library, named after the engineer Frederick Lanchester, offers a range of modern study environments. It accommodates over 300 PCs and a wireless network which is available to all University members. Attracting over 700,000 visitors a year it offers more than 1,200 study places. With over 350,000 books, 2,000 print journal and 8,000 electronic journal titles and a range of multimedia resources, we provide a focal point for student learning and information access
You can look at our Library Catalogue freely online and view a list of our electronic resources in the eLibrary.
5.11 Centre for Academic Writing (CAW)
It may be some time since you have studied and the university recognizes that writing in an academic style can be challenging. CAW exists to support you in this transition to academic
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writing. There are tutorials available for you to download from the team and you can call or email them for advice and guidance.
5.12 Student funding
Coventry University’s Student Funding Office provides professional, impartial and confidential advice to help students resolve financial issues. These could be relating to types of funding available, eligibility for funding and access to emergency funds. If you find yourself in financial difficulty or need further information and guidance, then staff in the Student Funding Office will help you identify any funding that may be available
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6 Expressing Student Views and Feedback
6.1 Expressing your views about the course?An important part of course management is the feedback received from you and therefore it is important for you to take an interest and become involved. Towards the end of the year there will usually be questionnaire surveys both on individual modules and on the course as a whole.
During the year student views are sought via the Course Consultative Council (CCC). You will be asked to express your views about the course twice (November and March) during the academic year. You will be asked to post your views on a discussion area on CUOnline, available on you’re my modules page. Your views will be collated by the Programme Manager and circulated to all academic staff teaching on the courses. Their responses will be sought and relayed back to you.
6.2 Informal feedbackYou can always approach the Programme Manager informally if you wish to discuss any aspect of the course that concerns you or your fellow students.
6.3 Representation within the Institute of Applied EntrepreneurshipAs well as the CCC, students are represented on the Board of Study, which deals with the operation of the course as a whole and changes to its structure, and the Faculty Board, which deals with various course and other related matters across the Faculty. (For further details on course structures, student representation and the training of student reps see the booklet Student Representative Guide available from the Student Union.)
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7. Essential information for all students(provided by Coventry University Academic Registry)
Coventry University’s undergraduate degrees are designed within a common modular framework and are governed by the University’s Academic Regulations. There are also General Regulations that cover general procedures and codes of conduct and issues such as health and safety.
The Academic and General Regulations are available for consultation on the Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk ). Full texts are also available in your Faculty/School, the Library, Academic Registry, Quality Enhancement Unit and the Students’ Union.
Which Regulations apply to you?
A new undergraduate curriculum framework was introduced across the University from September 2006. Students undertaking courses operating within this new curriculum framework are governed by a set of Academic Regulations referred to as ‘Mode C’.
Students who commenced their studies before September 2006 will generally be governed by ‘Mode B’ of the Academic Regulations. These will apply mainly to students who are undertaking a part-time programme or who have taken a year out.
If you are in any doubt, your Course Administrator will be able to advise on which version of the Academic Regulations apply to your programme.
These notes outline the main features of the regulations and provide guidance on the areas listed below. It is very important that you read them and continue to revisit them and understand your responsibilities during the course of your studies.
A The modular frameworkB Changes to your individual programme of studyC Coursework assignmentsD Academic dishonestyE Plagiarism and how to avoid it: Citing sources and referencing in your academic
writingF ExaminationsG What to do if you experience illness or other circumstances that affect your
studies/examsH Assessment boards, reassessment and resultsI Awards and classificationsJ Reviews and appealsK Data protection and consent to process information
You will be supplied with a student handbook or programme specification and module guides relevant to your course (either paper-based or in electronic format) which contain important information on the structure and specific requirements of your course and modules. You must read these documents: familiarise yourself with the information, and refer to it throughout your
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studies, especially when sitting exams and preparing coursework assignments. Failure to consult this information will not constitute an acceptable defence in the case of your failure to comply with the requirements.
By enrolling at the University, you accept and agree to abide by the University’s Academic and General Regulations, codes of conduct and other provisions, and accept your responsibilities as a student. You also accept liability to pay fees at the appropriate level and by the due date.
PLEASE NOTE: All official e-correspondence from the University will be sent to your Live@EDU email account. Guidance on how to access this account is available from IT Services section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
Failure to access information that is sent to your Live@EDU email account will not constitute an acceptable defence in the case of your failing to comply with requirements. You are required to check your inbox on a regular basis.
In order to meet the requirements of the UK Boarder Agency all international students are required to go to the students centre and present their ID card when requested. Failure to do so may put your visa at risk.
A THE MODULAR FRAMEWORK
.1 Module levels and credits
Each undergraduate module is assigned a level, denoted by the initial character of the module code (H, Z, F, 1, 2, 3, or M). Levels 1 to 3 correspond roughly with each year of a full-time undergraduate programme (i.e. level 1 in Year 1, level 2 in Year 2 etc.). H level modules are normally studied by students on HNC/D courses. Z level modules normally apply to a foundation year or pre-degree course, although they may be studied by students on stage 1 of some degree courses whilst F level modules are normally associated with Foundation Degrees. Level M modules are normally associated with taught postgraduate and Masters courses. Modules prefixed with an ‘A’ belong to the University’s Add+vantage suite of modules (please see .4 below).
The credit rating for all modules is calculated according to total student effort expected for successful completion. One credit normally represents 10 hours total effort. Total effort includes lectures, tutorials, seminars, presentations, guided and independent study, coursework, preparation for presentations and seminars, exam revision etc.
Under the current undergraduate curriculum framework (Mode C) a ‘single’ module is 20 credits (i.e. 200 hours total effort). Modules will normally be delivered in 20, 40, 60, or 80 credit units; some 10 credit modules are permitted to support career development.
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A full-time student will normally register for 120 credits in an academic year. Any student registered for fewer than 100 credits shall normally be eligible for certification as part-time.
.2 Module status
Your course will be made up of modules. These modules are described by the University in the following way:
Mandatory – these are a compulsory part of your course and normally have to be passed for your named degree
Option – these are selected from restricted lists defined for your course (e.g. you must study one from list A and two from list B).
Add+vantage modules - With the exception of those courses that lead to a licence to practise, full-time undergraduate degree students who commence their course on or after September 2006 are required to take and pass one Add+vantage module in each of the three years of the course. These modules provide opportunities for the development of employability and career management capabilities and support for Personal Development Planning (please see .4 below)
Module may have pre-requisites (e.g. a specific ‘A’ level or prior successful completion of another module) or co-requisites (when you have to study a specific module at the same time as the one chosen or specified).
.3 The Module Information Directory (MID), Module Descriptors, and Programme Specification
Details of most of the modules being offered during the academic year can be found on the Module Information Directory (http://mid.coventry.ac.uk) or via Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
The module descriptor sets out the aims and intended learning outcomes of the module, the indicative content, method of assessment, essential and recommended reading and other information.
You must keep a copy of the module descriptor for each module that you study, and a copy of your course document and/or programme specification as you may have to provide this information after you have graduated, when applying for some jobs or further education and training.
.4 Add+vantage Scheme
The Add+vantage Scheme has been developed to help you expand your work related skills and employability competencies. It offers a range of carefully selected and structured modules to help you develop these employability competencies and includes opportunities for personal development planning and building career management skills.
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The combination of academic study, employability competencies and personal development/career management skills will undoubtedly give you the Add+vantage over other newly qualified graduates!
You are required to take and pass at least one Add+vantage module in each of the three years of your course.
Information about the Add+vantage scheme including how to register on your Add+vantage module is available via the Career and Employability section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
B CHANGES TO YOUR INDIVIDUAL PROGRAMME OF STUDY
You are expected to finalise your choice of modules by the end of the first week of the session. However, you may make changes your module selection (if there is provision for option modules on your course) within a given period of time (normally one month). If you wish to make any changes it is essential that you discuss them with your course and/or module tutor as soon as possible. The University's Careers Service may also be able to provide valuable information and guidance to help you with your decision. In the event that a change is agreed your tutor will complete a module change registration form and ask you to sign it. This is then processed to amend our records to show your new programme of study.
For modules that follow a normal academic year structure, if you wish to change your module selection after 31 October your only option is to withdraw from your course or reduce your programme by withdrawing from a particular module or modules. You may however only withdraw from modules in which you have not completed any assessments. It is essential that this withdrawal process is completed by 31 March for all modules that finish in June. For modules that finish at other times, it is normally by the Friday of the week three-quarters of the way through the module.
If you just stop attending a module and do not withdraw officially, the module will show as a ‘fail’ on your results and will appear on your final transcript
You must ensure that your course details are correct in our records by 31 December. This should be done via the Student On-line Academic Record System (SOLAR) which is accessed via the student portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk). Any errors after this date may cause problems with the scheduling of your examinations and processing your results.
If you wish to change your mode of attendance from full-time to part-time, or vice versa, then you must notify your Faculty/School immediately. Changes shall normally only be effective from the date of such notification.
If you decide to withdraw from the whole course, you must discuss this with your Course Tutor or Programme Manager or make a one-to-one appointment with a Withdrawal Advisor within
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the Student Centre. There are clearly defined procedures that need to be followed. Failure to comply with these may mean that you are not eligible for a refund on your tuition fees and you may have to pay back your student loan. Please see the University's withdrawal booklet for further information, available from your Faculty, Student Services or on the Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
C COURSEWORK ASSIGNMENTS
The term ‘coursework’ is used to describe any type of assessed work that falls outside of the definition of examination. This may include essays, dissertations/projects, presentations, artefacts, laboratory/studio work, locally arranged phase tests etc. You will be given a schedule of what you will have to do at the beginning of each module, together with guidance on what is expected of you.
You are required to attempt all assessed aspects of your course at the first opportunity. If you don’t and you do not have a valid deferral (a process that a student must follow in advance to gain permission to defer their assessment due to extenuating circumstances) you will not be allowed a resit attempt. Please see the ‘Make your Mark’ page on Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
There are standard procedures for handing in your work, applying for an extension to the deadline or requesting deferral of assessment and penalties may be applied for exceeding any word limit set.
Your tutor will advise you whether any word limit is a guideline, or whether your ability to write within the word limit is actually part of the assessment of the piece of work concerned. If the limit set is a maximum, or a minimum, then a penalty of 10% of the mark for that piece of work will be applied to those pieces of work that exceed, or are below, the requirement by 10% or more.
Your tutor will also advise you of the hand-in procedures and the date by which you are to submit your completed work. You must ensure that you manage your time to meet this deadline (otherwise you will receive a mark of zero). You must normally complete and attach a cover sheet (available from the administrative office responsible for the module) for each piece of coursework that you hand in. If you are a full-time student it is essential that you only hand your work in at the specified time and place, as individual tutors are normally unable to accept completed coursework direct from you. Part-time students may have different arrangements for handing in coursework; your module tutor will advise you of the details.
Should unforeseen circumstances arise, before the due date of the work, then you may apply for an extension to the submission deadline of normally up to three calendar weeks.
Extensions can only be given for genuine extenuating circumstances and medical reasons, not for bad planning of your time. Theft or loss of coursework, or failure to keep back-up files are not valid reasons.
You must use the appropriate application form to request an extension. This is available from the administrative office responsible for the module. This form must be accompanied by original,
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supporting, documentary evidence in all cases (photocopies are not acceptable). This evidence should take the form of a doctor’s note or some other documentation (e.g. counsellor’s report).
The completed documentation should be handed in before the due date of the assessment. Your request will be considered and if it is accepted you will be given a new date by which you must complete and hand-in your work.
It is not possible to apply for a second extension for the same piece of work.
If you submit an assessed piece of work late, without an authorised extension you will receive a mark of 0% for that piece of work. You will however be eligible for a resit attempt at the assessment at the next available opportunity
Marked work will be returned to you with feedback indicating the strengths and weaknesses of that assignment. The marking of all assessed coursework tasks is subject to internal moderation. Some written assignments, projects, dissertations etc. are double-marked as a matter of course. For other assessments, only a sample of work across a range of marks will be subject to the internal moderation process. There may be written comments on some of your assessed work which indicates that it has been included in the moderated sample.
D ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
Academic dishonesty covers any attempt by a student to gain unfair advantage (e.g. extra marks) for her/himself, or for another student, by unauthorised means. Examples of such dishonesty include collusion falsification, deceit, plagiarism and cheating in examinations.
Collusion includes the conscious collaboration, without official approval, between two or more students, or between a student(s) and another person, in the preparation and production of work which is then submitted as individual work. In cases where one (or more) student has copied from another, both (all) students involved may be penalised. The boundary between legitimate co-operation and unacceptable collusion varies according to the type of work involved. Staff setting the assessment exercise will issue clear guidance on how much co-operation is acceptable.
Falsification includes the presentation of fictitious or deliberately distorted data in, for example, laboratory work, surveys or projects. This also includes citing references that do not exist.
Deceit includes misrepresentation or non-disclosure of relevant information, including the failure to disclose any cases of work being submitted for assessment which has been or will be used for other academic purposes.
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Plagiarism is the act of using other people's words, images etc. as if they were your own. In order to make clear to readers the distinction between your words, images etc. and the work of others, it is essential that you reference your work accurately, (see section E below), thereby avoiding a charge of plagiarism. It is always obvious when a student has copied words from a text without referencing, as there is a change of writing style each time. If you do not reference your work correctly, it will come across as if you had 'stolen' words or ideas from other sources. Many Module Leaders use computer software to check students’ work for potential plagiarism or improper citation. Self-Plagiarism is the reuse of significant, identical, or nearly identical portions of your own work without acknowledging that you are doing so or without citing the original work.
Re-presentation is the submission of work presented previously or simultaneously for summative assessment at this Institution.
Cheating is defined as any attempt to gain an unfair advantage in an assessment (including examinations), or assisting another student to do so. It includes: taking unauthorised materials into examinations, copying from other candidates, collusion, impersonation, plagiarism, and unauthorised access to unseen examination papers. In the event of an allegation of cheating you are advised to contact the Student Union Advice Centre immediately after the incident.
It is in the best interests of all students for the University to maintain the good reputation of its awards. Your co-operation is expected in actively protecting the integrity of the assessment process. It is the duty of all students to observe high personal standards of academic honesty in their studies and to report any instances of malpractice of which they become aware.
The minimum penalty for a proven case of academic dishonesty is usually a mark of zero in that module, with the maximum being exclusion from the University.
Should academic dishonesty be proven after graduation the student will have their award rescinded.
E PLAGIARISM AND HOW TO AVOID IT: CITING SOURCES AND REFERENCING IN YOUR ACADEMIC WRITING
Gathering information from a variety of sources forms an essential part of most academic writing, and it is important that you reference these sources in the required style. All writers borrow material from other sources at some time, including ideas, information, images, charts, graphs, and statistics. Whenever you use information from other sources you must document the source in two ways:
Provide an in-text citation of the source in the main body of your writing Enter the source in the List of References at the end of your document
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You must cite and reference every piece of information that you borrow from another source because it is the intellectual property of the individuals or groups of people who have produced it. All statements, opinions, conclusions, images, etc. which you have taken from someone else’s work (books, journals, lectures, videos, TV programmes, newspapers, internet pages, etc.) should be acknowledged, whether the work is mentioned, described, reproduced, summarised, paraphrased or directly quoted by you. If the source is produced by an organisation or an official body instead of authors, this is known as a ‘corporate author’ and must be treated in the same way. For example, most websites are produced by a corporate author. This also applies to such organisations that write essays, devise IT coding etc.
Why cite and reference?
Good referencing practice makes your writing scholarly and authoritative. It demonstrates that you have researched your topic well, and shows your ability to adhere to academic standards.
Good referencing practice displays intellectual honesty because the reader can see which elements of the writing are original, and which are borrowed. Clear in-text citations and a full List of References help a marker to credit originality in your work.
Good referencing practice allows your readers to locate and consult the sources you have used and enables you to go back to consult sources you have used in previous papers you have written.
Poor referencing practice means that your writing is not founded upon clear evidence, so it is hard to persuade your reader that your arguments are well-founded. Also be aware that the quality of your in-text citations and List of References is taken into account when assignments are marked.
Poor referencing practice can give an impression of intellectual dishonesty because it is unclear to readers which information has been borrowed from another source. In the worst case this is plagiarism (see section D above), which means presenting someone else’s work as your own. Plagiarism can be accidental or intentional. You will be penalised for plagiarism of either sort at Coventry University.
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The Coventry University Harvard Reference Style is Coventry University’s recommended format for documenting the sources you use in your academic writing. Some tutors and subject groups may require you to use an alternative referencing style. If you are unsure, ask your module tutor. It is your responsibility to find out whether your tutor requires you to use a different referencing style.
Full guidance on using the Coventry University Harvard Reference Style is available from the Academic Support section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
For more information please contact the Centre for Academic Writing ([email protected])
F EXAMINATIONS
You are required to attempt all assessed aspects of your course at the first opportunity. If you don’t and you do not have a valid deferral you will not be allowed a resit. Please see the ‘Make your Mark page on Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
Full details of the regulations that govern the examination process are available in the General Regulations, the full text of which is available on the internet. It is very important that you are fully aware of these regulations and that you follow them at all times. Appendix 1 of the General Regulations covers all aspects of the examination process, including general conduct before and during the examination, and the procedures for dealing with cases of academic dishonesty. Policy statements on the use of calculators and dictionaries in examinations are given in appendices 9 and 10 of the General Regulations.
Please ensure that you always take your Student ID card to each examination.
The main examination period is during May and June each year although many exams take place at other times as well (your course tutor will advise you if your exams have a different schedule). There is a special reassessment period during late August and early September. It is essential that you do not book holidays or make other commitments during these periods, or during any other assessment or reassessment period as advised by your course and module tutors.
The examination timetable is not closely linked to the teaching timetable and you may find that you have two examinations on the same day, or on a Saturday. The timetable for the main examination period may be accessed via the Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk at the end of the Spring term. It is your responsibility to make sure that you have the correct information for your modules as misreading the timetable is not accepted as a valid reason for missing an examination. If you find that you have two examinations scheduled at the same time, please contact the administrative office responsible for your course immediately.
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You should always arrive in plenty of time for your examinations, as you may not be permitted to start late. If you do arrive late and are allowed to start, you will not be permitted extra time at the end of the examination to compensate for your late arrival. The invigilator will explain the procedures for the examination and is available to answer any queries you may have. You should always ensure that you have the correct exam paper. If your first language is not English, you may use a bilingual dictionary for the first 15 minutes of the examination, to ensure you understand the questions, after which it will be removed by the invigilator for collection by you after the session. Programmable calculators and portable computers are not permitted in the exam room and will be confiscated. At the end of the examination you must remain silent, and not leave your seat until an invigilator has collected your script.
You are not able to take anything into the examination room that could aid cheating; this includes notes, bags, heavy clothing, programmable calculators, computers, mobile telephones, pencil cases and audio equipment. You may not eat, drink or smoke during examinations; however, lucky mascots, sweets and soft drinks are permitted in moderation. You should note that there have been thefts of personal possessions from student’s bags left at the back of examination halls. You are advised that all valuable items (e.g. mobile phones, credit cards, purses, etc) should not be brought to examinations. The University cannot in any circumstances, accept responsibility for the loss of private property left or lost on University premises.
If you need special examination conditions due to illness, disability (physical or sensory) or for religious reasons, you must inform your Faculty/School well in advance of the examination period. The administrative office normally responsible for your course will be able to advise whom you should contact. The deadline for special conditions requests is 31 January for exams during the main period and mid-July for exams during the special reassessment period. If your examination is outside these periods please contact your course tutor at lease one month in advance of the scheduled date.
If there is a fire alarm or other emergency during the examination, please leave the room calmly and quietly. You should not take anything with you and must not talk to other students. If there is any talking during an alarm the exam may be declared void and further assessment will then be carried out at a later date. If you do not adhere to these rules you may be accused of cheating and appropriate penalties may be applied.
G WHAT TO DO IF YOU EXPERIENCE ILLNESS OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES THAT AFFECT YOUR STUDIES/EXAMS
If you are unwell and feel that the illness is affecting your ability to complete work or attend an examination, then you should make an appointment to see your GP and obtain certified evidence (e.g. medical certificate, doctor’s note etc.). This is a requirement of the procedures.
Your Faculty/School may require you to complete a form if you are unwell for a short while (e.g. a cold, migraine). Your course handbook should give you full details of the local procedure for this.
If illness or other circumstances affect your ability to meet a deadline for handing in assessed coursework or your ability to sit an examination, you should consult the detailed guidance on the
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procedures for dealing with extenuating circumstances. These may be accessed from the Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
In brief, these procedures allow you to request
a) an extension of a coursework deadline (normally to a maximum of three weeks);
b) a deferral of assessment for a coursework or an examination.
All such requests must be submitted before the hand-in date of the coursework or the date of the examination and they must be accompanied by appropriate corroborative evidence. Original copies of the evidence should be submitted (photocopies are not normally accepted), and all documents from medical practitioners must have a genuine practice stamp imprinted to confirm authenticity. It is not possible to accept retrospective evidence.
The handing in of a coursework assignment or attendance at an examination will be regarded as a declaration that you were fit for the assessment and no subsequent claims for extenuating circumstances regarding that assessment will be accepted.
Requests for deferral of assessment will be considered by a University Deferral Panel in the Faculty/School in which you are enrolled.
H ASSESSMENT BOARDS, REASSESSMENT and RESULTS
After each examination period your results will be considered and your position reviewed. This is done at two levels: at a Subject Assessment Board (SAB) and at a Programme Assessment Board (PAB).
The results for each module are considered at a SAB that determines whether the components of the module assessment reach the required standard. A SAB has the power to raise or lower marks for all students taking the module if it considers it to be appropriate. The final mark recorded for your coursework, for example, may differ from the total of the marks that you have received during the year.
A PAB considers the results of each student on a particular course and makes decisions on progression and awards.
External Examiners (subject experts from outside the University) are associated with each SAB and PAB. This is part of a national system that ensures that standards are comparable across all UK Universities.
After SABs have ratified the marks for all the modules, and your PAB has reached a decision about you regarding progression or award, your results will be released via the Student On-line Academic Record System (SOLAR). Only final year students or students exiting the course will be sent results notification letters.
If you do not pass all your of your modules and you have made an attempt at all assessed aspects of your work at the first opportunity, the Programme Assessment Board may permit you to be reassessed.
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Under the regulations that currently govern the undergraduate curriculum framework, if you do not pass all of your modules you may be reassessed by either re-sitting the assessment without re-enrolment on the module, or by re-taking the whole of the module with a new enrolment (which may be essential if it involves group, laboratory or studio work). You will be entered automatically for the resit(s) at the next available attempt.
Reassessment by resit is restricted to one attempt. This must normally be completed within the resit period associated with the academic session in which the module was studied and failed.
If you do not succeed in redeeming the failure(s) via resit, you may register, at the discretion of the Programme Assessment Board, to repeat the module(s) at the next available opportunity. A further reassessment attempt is associated with this repeated module.
Where a module is repeated, then complete reassessment in all components is required. Original marks are not taken forward to combine with repeat marks.
The overall module mark for a reassessed module will be capped at 40% (or the original module mark will be retained if this was higher). If you have to resit a final year module for an Honours award, the original module mark will be used in the classification calculation.
I AWARDS AND CLASSIFICATIONS
The classification boundaries for First Class, Upper Second Class, Lower Second Class and Third Class Honours Degrees are 70%, 60%, 50% and 40% respectively.
Mode C – The minimum module pass requirements for Honours and Degree etc
Academic Award Minimum credits to be passed
Total
Levels 1 Levels 2 Level 3 Level M
Integrated Masters 480 100 plus 100 plus 100 plus 120
Degree with Honours 360 100 plus 100 plus 100
Unclassified Degree 300 100 plus 80 plus 80
Dip of Higher Education 240 100 plus 100
Cert of Higher Education 120 100
NB Mode B regulations require different minimum module pass requirements. Please refer to your Course Administrator.
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These credit totals are the minimum University requirements. The specific requirements for your course may exceed these minima and are described in your course handbook/ programme specification. If you were admitted with “advanced standing”, i.e. without studying both the first and/or second stages of your course, some of the rules will be slightly different.
The following two methods are used to calculate your Honours Degree classification and the higher result is awarded
Either
the average percentage mark of the 100 credits worth of modules with the highest mark at level 3 or above
Or
the average percentage mark of the 220 credits worth of modules with the highest mark at level 2 and above.
Some courses require specific modules to be included in the classification calculations even if they do not carry the highest marks (e.g. final year project).
If you do not meet the specific requirements for your named award, the Programme Assessment Board may consider you for an alternative award if this is available. If you do not obtain the required number of credits for an Honours Degree, you may be considered for a lower award (e.g. unclassified Degree, DipHE or CertHE). This ‘cascade’ of awards should be explained in your course handbook/programme specification.
J REVIEWS AND APPEALS
If you wish to request a review, or make an appeal against a Programme Assessment Board decision, you must put your case in writing and provide full supporting documentation stating your grounds for requesting a review. You should then send your request to [email protected] within 10 working days of the receipt of the official notification of your results. Disagreement with the academic judgement of an Assessment Board in assessing the merits of an individual piece of work or in reaching a decision on a student’s progression or on the final level of an award, based on the marks, grades and other information relating to the student’s performance, cannot in itself constitute grounds for a request by a student for reconsideration. Any alleged inadequacy of supervision or in other arrangements during a period of registration as a Coventry University student is not admissible grounds for review.
The full details of how to request a review or appeal following the publication of your results is available in the Academic Regulations, Appendix 2. The Regulations are available on the Registry’s section of Coventry University’s Student Portal (https://cuportal.coventry.ac.uk).
Please note that if you have submitted a request for a review of your results, or if any subsequent appeal is still in progress, you should consider carefully before accepting your award/attending an Award Ceremony, as acceptance/attendance will indicate agreement with the award. You would therefore not be entitled to continue with your appeal.
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K DATA PROTECTION AND CONSENT TO PROCESS INFORMATION
Fair processing statement - Data Protection Act 1998
Coventry University will process your personal data for any purposes connected with your studies, your health and safety whilst on University premises and for any other legitimate reason. This may include compilation of data regarding your attendance at the University. Information about you may be disclosed to other bodies as required by law, for crime prevention or detection purposes, or in order to comply with our obligations as a sponsor of migrants licenced by the UK Border Agency. Disclosures will also be made by the University as outlined below:
(a) to authorised bodies such as sponsors, government agencies (eg Home Office, Child Support Agency), information sharing partners and present/potential employers. One such body is the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA); further information about the uses for which HESA processes personal data can be found on the HESA website at http://www.hesa.ac.uk/dataprot/collnotices.htm. Your contact details may also be passed to the Higher Education Funding Council (HEFCE) or its agents for the purpose of administering the national student survey, and to the University's agents for the purpose of administering our own surveys;
(b) to Coventry University Students' Union to enable the Union to issue your NUS card, return lost property, deal with disciplinary matters and contact you in relation to service provision development, representation and democracy;
(c) to debt collection agencies acting on behalf of the University in the event that you owe money to the University which is not repaid within the appropriate timeframe;
(d) release of results to former schools/colleges, and publication of awards in local newspapers;
(e) publication of your email address on the University’s web site. This means that the information will be available worldwide, including in countries where the rights of data subjects are not protected by law. If you wish, you may opt to have your address withheld by emailing [email protected];
(f) if you elect to make on-line payments to the University, limited information (date of birth and ID numbers) will be disclosed to the University's service provider for validation purposes;
(g) names will be included in pass lists and may be displayed on noticeboards.
The University may hold information about you which constitutes ‘sensitive data’ as defined in the above Act, such as information about your ethnic group, relevant health records and the disability classification which you supplied to the University. The ethnicity information supplied will be used to comply with the requirements of HESA, equal opportunities legislation and the University’s Race Equality Policy. Information on student admissions and progression will be publicly available; however, it will not be possible to identify individuals from this information, which will assist the University in ensuring equality of opportunity. The disability information supplied will be shared with relevant staff of the University in order to provide you with the best possible support for your studies.
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Please note that the University may contact you by post or by electronic means such as telephone, texting or email. You have the right to opt out of receiving marketing material by post or by electronic means, and you can exercise this right by contacting the sender of the communication.
I understand that by signing my enrolment form I consent to the uses of my personal data as described above.
Students’ Union Statement – Data Protection Act 1998
Coventry University Students' Union collects information about students in the normal course of its operations. This information is only used for business relevant to and in the interests of the Students' Union and its members. Students are entitled to access any information held on files within the Students' Union in accordance with the Data Protection Act.
Coventry University Students' Union may share information about students with Coventry University from time to time.
Please note that this information is not part of the formal University Regulations. In case of conflict of interpretation, the formal regulations take precedence.
September 2010/SAS
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8. NEW DEFERRAL PROCESS (2010)
The aim of this new process is to ensure that students with appropriate supporting evidence apply for a deferral in advance of their assignment submission date or examination date, in order to ensure that they do not lose their re-sit opportunity should they fail to make an assessment attempt.
Students may obtain an Examination/coursework Deferral Application Form from the IAE Office or University website.
Students may choose to discuss their case initially with their Course Director, Module Leader Personal Tutor, or any other member of academic staff - all of whom can accept and sign the form if the criteria have been met, but staff must attach the evidence provided to support the request for a deferral to the deferral application form. The member of academic staff must submit this form and evidence immediately to their Course Administrator so that it can be entered on UNIVERSE as soon as possible, and copy given to the Module Leader. All forms, together with evidence, must then be given to the Faculty Administrative Assistant who will enter the data into a new database and maintain a confidential filing system. This will subsequently be used to audit the deferral process internally and externally. Alternatively, students may present their completed form and appropriate supporting evidence to their Course Administrator, who may also sign the form if they are satisfied the criteria have been met.
Any late applications for deferral must be referred to the Assistant Faculty Registrar. In relation to Add+vantage modules students applying for short deferrals should apply to the Faculty in which the module belongs, and if they wish to apply for a full deferral they should apply to the Faculty in which their course is located.
When a completed Deferral Application has been approved, entered on UNIVERSE, and received by the Faculty Administrative Assistant, she will send an email to the student (copied to the appropriate Course Administrator) as follows: Your request for a deferral for module ….. has been agreed. Your next submission/examination date will be on………
The Faculty Administrative Assistant will print a copy of this email and attach it to the file copy of the Deferral Application Form, and the Course Administrator should ensure a copy of the email is placed in the student file.
If an issue arises on the day of submission/exam the date of the incident should be recorded on the Deferral Application Form.
The Deferral Panel will continue to operate and its new remit will be to:
review a sample of cases to ensure that the process is working effectively and consistently
consider appeals from students were applications have been declined consider any late applications
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report to Heads of Department where deferrals have been agreed but without appropriate evidence
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9. HOW YOUR DEGREE CLASSIFICATION IS CALCULATED
When you reach the end of your final year of study and have successfully passed all the necessary modules for your degree the programme assessment board will award you your honours degree with a classification.
There are four possible classifications for an honours degree;
1 First class Overall average of 70 or above
2.1 Upper second class Overall average of 60 or above
2.2 Lower second class Overall average of 50 or above
3 Third class Overall average of 40 or above
This classification will be based on an overall percentage figure, which the board receives. This percentage is calculated by the computer system, Universe, which holds all student records and results. The system does two different calculations and uses the highest result possible to award each student.
The two calculations are:
a) Your best module marks from Stages 2 and 3, in total 220 credits out of a possible 240.
b) Your best module marks from Stage 3 alone, in total 100 credits out of a possible 120.
So, whichever calculation is used there is an opportunity to drop your lowest 20 credits worth of module marks.
The system treats each module as a combination of 10 credits so if a module is worth 20 credits the module mark will be counted twice, if it is worth 40 credits it will be counted four times, if it is worth 60 credits then it will be counted six times etc.
If you want to work out for yourself what your classification may be then, once you have a MODULE MARK for every module, you would need to do the following:
a) List on one page all your Stage 2 and Stage 3 module marks as if they are 10 credit modules (list a twenty credit module twice, a thirty credit module three times etc). Cross out the two lowest marks to drop 20 credits and you will be left with 22 numbers (220 credits in total).
Add up these 22 numbers and divide by 22 to get an average. This is your overall percentage based on a combination of Stage 2 and Stage 3 marks.
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b) List on another page all your Stage 3 module marks as if they are 10 credit modules (list a twenty credit module twice, a thirty credit module three times etc). Cross out the two lowest marks to drop 20 credits and you will be left with 10 numbers (100 credits in total).
Add up these 10 numbers and divide by 10 to get an average. This is your overall percentage based on your Stage 3 marks alone.
Whichever is the highest of the two average numbers is the percentage that will be used to award your classification.
Please note: If you fail a module at Stage 3 at the first attempt and pass it as a re-sit the credits gained by passing it as a re-sit allow you to reach the minimum credits required for the award but the module mark used in the classification calculation will be the original (failed) mark. For example, if you get a mark of 30 for a 20 credit module at the first attempt and fail it you would need to re-sit this to gain the 20 credits needed and you would be given a mark of 40 when you passed the re-sit attempt. But it is the mark of 30 that is used in calculations listed at a) and b) above, not the mark of 40.
Important:
There sometimes other factors to be considered by the assessment board in awarding students and so your own calculations can only be an indication of your final classification. Your marks for modules are not final and confirmed until after the assessment boards have met and your degree classification is not final and confirmed until you receive written notification of this via SOLAR and your official results notification letter in the post.
For further information please refer to the Academic Regulations 6.11 and also to your Course Handbook for any course specific requirements for an honours degree.
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10. Undergraduate Assessment Marking Criteria
% ANSWER COHERENCE ARGUMENT EVIDENCE
FIRST
(Excellent)
70%+
Student answers the question fully, particularly in the areas requiring greater analysis, synthesis and evaluation.
The entire work is clearly linked and structured, and is also succinct.
Clear and convincing line of argument.
Provides thorough evidential support and critical knowledge of theoretical positions.
UPPER SECOND
(Good)
60 – 69%
A substantial attempt to answer the question with adequate emphasis on the more analytical components.
Relationship between statements and sections are generally easy to follow.
There is a reasonably clear line of argument.
The need for evidence is clearly recognised, and most claims are supported by relevant evidence.
LOWER SECOND
(Good)
50 – 59%
Uses some relevant material but not always effectively
Relationships between statements and sections are sometimes hard to follow.
The line of argument is not convincing.
Provision of supporting evidence is spasmodic.
THIRD
(Pass)
40 – 49%
Substantially fails to answer the question or to address the topic.
Relationship between statements and sections are difficult to recognise
The line of argument is unconvincing and minimal.
Use of evidence is weak and/or inappropriate.
FAIL
< 40% (or 35%)
Fails to answer the question or to address the topic.
Few clear links between statements or sections.
Little or unconvincing argument.
Minimal reference is made to supportive evidence.
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12. Campus Map
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www.twitter.com/Coventry_IAEwww.facebook.com/CoventryIAE
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