1

Built

Environment

Department

BSc (Hons)

Construction

Programme

Handbook

Programme Director

David Brooks

1

Contents 1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................................... - 1 -

2.0 RATIONALE AND AIMS ............................................................................................................................................... - 2 -

3.0 CREDITED MODULES ................................................................................................................................................. - 5 -

4.0 INDUCTION and HEALTH & SAFETY ....................................................................................................................... - 6 -

5.0 PROGRAMME ORGANISATION ................................................................................................................................ - 7 -

5.1 The Academic Year ................................................................................................................................................... - 7 -

5.2 Faculty, Department, Programme ........................................................................................................................... - 7 -

5.3 Tutoring System ......................................................................................................................................................... - 7 -

5.3.1 Head of Faculty................................................................................................................................................... - 7 -

5.3.2 Teaching and Learning Manager ..................................................................................................................... - 7 -

5.3.3 Programme Director ........................................................................................................................................... - 8 -

5.3.4 Module Leader .................................................................................................................................................... - 8 -

5.3.5 Personal Tutor .................................................................................................................................................... - 8 -

5.3.6 Additional Support .............................................................................................................................................. - 8 -

5.4.1 Staff Student Liaison Committee ..................................................................................................................... - 9 -

5.4.2 Module Feedback ............................................................................................................................................... - 9 -

5.4.3 Lesson Feedback ............................................................................................................................................... - 9 -

5.4.4 Student Union ..................................................................................................................................................... - 9 -

6.0 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE.................................................................................................................................... - 10 -

6.2 Programme Registration ......................................................................................................................................... - 16 -

6.3 Attendance................................................................................................................................................................ - 16 -

6.3.1 Failure to Attend ............................................................................................................................................... - 16 -

6.4 Intermission and Withdrawal .................................................................................................................................. - 16 -

6.4.1 Intermission ....................................................................................................................................................... - 16 -

6.4.2 Withdrawal ......................................................................................................................................................... - 16 -

6.4.3 Extenuating Circumstances, Complaints and Appeals ............................................................................... - 17 -

6.4.4 Breaches of Regulations ................................................................................................................................. - 17 -

6.5 Module Registration ................................................................................................................................................ - 17 -

7.0 ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................................................ - 18 -

7.1 Assignments ............................................................................................................................................................. - 18 -

7.1.1 Handing In Of Assignments ............................................................................................................................ - 18 -

7.1.2 Grading of Assignments .................................................................................................................................. - 18 -

7.1.3 Work that is Unsatisfactory or Not Submitted to deadline .......................................................................... - 19 -

7.1.4 Feedback on Assignments.............................................................................................................................. - 19 -

7.1.5 Collecting Back Your Assignments ................................................................................................................ - 19 -

7.2 Grading Scheme for HE Programmes .................................................................................................................. - 20 -

7.2.1 Grading of Modules .......................................................................................................................................... - 20 -

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7.2.2 Grading Indicators ............................................................................................................................................ - 21 -

7.2.3 Grading of Your Award .................................................................................................................................... - 26 -

7.3 Academic Standards ............................................................................................................................................... - 27 -

7.3.1 Academic Discipline ......................................................................................................................................... - 27 -

7.3.2 Referencing ....................................................................................................................................................... - 29 -

7.3.3 Penalties ............................................................................................................................................................ - 29 -

7.3.4 Examination Board Recommendation ........................................................................................................... - 29 -

7.3.5 Your results ....................................................................................................................................................... - 29 -

8.0 STUDENT SUPPORT................................................................................................................................................. - 30 -

8.1 Special Needs, Dyslexia ......................................................................................................................................... - 31 -

9.0 RESOURCES .............................................................................................................................................................. - 32 -

9.1 Library ....................................................................................................................................................................... - 32 -

9.2 Computing ................................................................................................................................................................ - 32 -

9.3 Accommodation ....................................................................................................................................................... - 32 -

9.4 Online Resources .................................................................................................................................................... - 32 -

9.5 Moodle ....................................................................................................................................................................... - 32 -

9.6 College Policies ....................................................................................................................................................... - 32 -

10.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE ........................................................................................................................................... - 33 -

11.0 Final note .................................................................................................................................................................... - 33 -

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the Built Environment Department at MidKent College in partnership with the

University of Kent.

This programme handbook aims to explain how the staff will guide and support you through

your studies. The Department has high standards as set by Industry and the College. We wish

you success and trust that you will work with the staff as a team to achieve our common aim of

maintaining and improving these standards.

You are encouraged to familiarise yourself with the contents of this handbook and refer to it

when necessary. Please take particular note of the information given on assessment and

regulations.

If you feel that there is any information that is not adequately covered by this handbook or has

been omitted then please let your Programme Director, David Brooks know so that it can be

included in the future.

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2.0 RATIONALE AND AIMS

Building and Civil Engineering form the Construction Industry, which is the backbone of the

Built Environment in modern society, providing the personnel and expertise to encourage a

healthy and efficient economy and supporting infrastructure. This industry demands qualified

and professional staff at technician level and beyond to control and operate the various

organisational, management and design systems incorporated within it.

The Built Environment Department at MidKent College/University of Kent has a reputation for

the success of its Higher Education programmes; a reputation which has developed from

years of experience of quality delivery and programme provision.

This programme is for those working in, or intending to pursue a professional career in

Construction, Civil Engineering and related fields.

In this context and in relation to the mission statement of MKC, the programme aims to:

Provide a multi-disciplinary course of excellent quality to equip students with the necessary

skills, underpinning knowledge, understanding and motivation to prepare them for a range

of technical professional and management roles and offer choice of vocational disciplines

to pursue.

Offer a variety of learning and work-related experiences to foster self-confidence and

autonomy to enable students to meet the challenges and demands of their chosen

professions.

Offer wide and flexible entry to allow students from all backgrounds to commence study

in September and study in various modes e.g. full time, part time, and flexi mode to suit

personal and work situations.

Enable mature students who seek to change career or re-train to access new vocations

and educational progression routes.

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Promote the development of staff to stay informed and progress with industrial and

educational practices, establish strong networking links with employers and

accommodate special research interests.

In relation to the teaching and learning strategy, the programme aims to:

Complement and support students in their pursuit of technical and professional careers in

Construction.

Provide specialised studies relevant to students present or planned occupation and

profession.

Promote confidence in dealing with situations and problems of a technical social and

industrial nature.

Provide a high quality system of tutorial support and guidance to encourage a mature

approach to study and develop personal, social and transferable skills to increase the

potential of students to enable them to achieve their goals.

Widen the students’ educational perspective.

Enable students to form a broad knowledge base and apply this to the critical analysis

and discussion of current issues relating to construction industry.

Offer a varied range of learning experiences, incorporating work-based practices to

develop analytical, problem-solving, interpersonal, team-working and presentation skills.

Promote the appropriate personal qualities and attitudes required for successful

performance in working life to enable students to contribute effectively to employment in

the construction sector.

Extend knowledge through enabling students’ to manage their own learning and carry out

independent research.

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Prepare students for a range of technical, professional and management careers in

construction by providing specialised studies which are directly relevant to individual

occupations and professions in which students are currently working or in which they

intend to seek employment.

Enable students to make an immediate contribution in employment in the construction

sector.

Provide students with flexibility, knowledge, skills, understanding and motivation as a

basis for progression to graduate and postgraduate studies.

Develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for

successful performance in working life.

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3.0 CREDITED MODULES You may apply to be credited with a module or modules that you have covered through

previous studies or experience. You will need to provide evidence that you have covered all of

the content of the module and at the relevant level. Only whole modules can be credited, you

cannot be credited with part of a module.

All applications for the crediting of modules must be made to the Programme Director even if

the Module Leader agrees that you can be credited with their module. This is so that the

relevant paperwork can be processed without which you will be recorded as having failed the

module.

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4.0 INDUCTION and HEALTH & SAFETY

You will have induction sessions to familiarise you with the procedures and environment of the

University, College and to the department. Your induction will include information on Health &

Safety. The college has systems in place to comply with legal requirements. However, you are

also responsible for your own Health & Safety and that of others. You must not do anything

which may adversely affect the Health and Safety of yourself or others. Tell your tutor

immediately if you notice anything which looks dangerous or unsafe.

Risk Assessments have been carried out for all your practical activities and are displayed

appropriately. Your tutor will explain these before you carry out such activities. Ask your tutors

if you do not fully understand how to carry out activities safely. You must use Personal

Protective Equipment (PPE) when it is provided for you.

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5.0 PROGRAMME ORGANISATION

5.1 The Academic Year The academic year at the University of Kent/MidKent College is divided into two semesters of

approximately equal length spread over three terms. Semester 1 commences in September

and semester 2 in February. This allows 18 weeks studying modules of which 14 weeks are

normally spent in lectures and tutorials, 1 week of revision and revision classes and 2 weeks in

examinations followed by a feed-back week. This is in order to enable us to deliver the

material included in the syllabuses of each module and to enable you to complete the student

centred learning that is required to complete the modules.

You will be supplied with a calendar for the academic year (also available on Moodle).

5.2 Faculty, Department, Programme Your BSc will be awarded by the University of Kent. Your Programme is delivered by the

Department of the Built Environment at the Oakwood Park campus.

5.3 Tutoring System During your first few weeks of study a number of people will be introduced to you all of whom

will help you towards the successful completion of your studies.

5.3.1 Head of Faculty Debrah Wilson is the Head of the Faculty of the Construction & Engineering. She has overall

responsibility for the running of the faculty and the staff who work in it.

5.3.2 Teaching and Learning Manager Steve Casey is the Curriculum Manager for Built Environment and has overall responsibility for

the Built Environment Department

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5.3.3 Programme Director

David Brooks is the Programme Director for BSc (Hons) Degree. He has overall responsibility

for the day to day running of your programme, its operation and administration. This is the

person you should see if you have any problems with timetabling, module availability and

selection or registration problems.

David’s contact details are; telephone 01634 383036, email david.brooks@midkent.ac.uk

.

5.3.4 Module Leader Each module that you study will have a Module Leader. Module Leaders have responsibility for

the delivery and assessment of each module.

5.3.5 Personal Tutor

David Brooks is your Personal Tutor as a student on the BSc (Hons) Degree programme. He

will wish to see you at least once per semester for a personal tutorial interview to discuss your

progress and any difficulties that you may be having. You can of course make an appointment

to see your Personal Tutor whenever you have anything you wish to discuss.

5.3.6 Additional Support

Should you experience any difficulties during your time of study with us, please speak to any of

the above people. Ideally your first point of contact should be your Programme Director, if for

any reason you feel you cannot speak to this person then please contact the Curriculum

Manager who will be able to advise you.

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5.4 Student Input to Programme Organisation

We aim to maintain and improve the quality of our programmes and the student experience.

To assist us with this and to ensure that you have the opportunity to feedback information and

concerns we ask you to assist us in several ways as described below.

5.4.1 Staff Student Liaison Committee

The Staff Student Liaison Committee consists of the Programme Director and other members

of staff and Student Representatives from each year of your programme. The committee

meets at least once per semester, more often if required. The meetings are two way between

Students and Staff. Their purpose is to notify, discuss and resolve relevant issues, problems

and concerns with the programme, the Faculty and the College.

Nominations will be sought for a Student Representative from each year of your programme.

Once elected the names of your Student Representatives will be posted on ‘Moodle’. The

dates of meetings will be notified to you and if you wish to raise anything then please let your

Student Representative know. Minutes of meetings will be posted on ‘Moodle’.

5.4.2 Module Feedback At the end of each semester you will be requested to complete an online feedback form for

each module that you have studied. The information that this provides is invaluable and you

are urged to spend the few minutes that the forms take to complete. Results of the feedback

will be posted on “Moodle”.

5.4.3 Lesson Feedback Students are encouraged to email comments on any lesson to mylesson@MidKent.ac.uk

5.4.4 Student Union MidKent College has a thriving and active Student Union that offers many activities during the

year and that you can become involved with. It costs £10.00 to buy a NUS (National Union of

Students) Card and this will give you discount in certain shops, the cinema, theatre and so

forth.

We also have a HE Student Voice, co-ordinated by Nicola Harlow, details are on Moodle:

http://moodle.midkent.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=1295

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6.0 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

The full BSc Honours programme is based upon the accumulation of credits by achieving

specified modules of study. Each single module is given a value of 15 credits which equates

to approximately 150 hours of learning. Each module is designated at Intermediate (I) or

Higher (H) level. The Credit Framework stipulates 360 credits to obtain an Honours Degree

which includes a minimum of 120 credits at level (I) and a minimum of 90 credits at level H.

This top-up stage will generally accommodate two differing entry streams; Foundation Degree

in Construction and Higher National Diploma in Construction. Both these streams would have

completed the equivalent of 240 credits and will subsequently require 120 further credits from

the list below to meet the 360 credits required for the BSc (Hons) award.

(The modules available are subject to change)

Code

Title Level Credits

Required Modules

UU534 Personal Skills 2 – Personal Development I 15

UU626 Management Applications I 15

UU545 Law & Contract I 15

UU550 Economics & Financial Studies H 15

UU603 Building Technology H 15

UU540 Contracts & Procurement H 15

UU604 Construction Dissertation H 30

Optional Modules *A minimum of one at ‘H’ level to be taken.

UU551 Building Construction B I 15

UU539 Building Services I 15

UU544 Tendering & Estimating I 15

UU546 Measurement I 15

UU547 Q. S. Practice H 15

UU552 Refurbishment Maintenance & Adaption H 15

UU556 The Urban Environment H 15

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Entrants from both streams will have previously achieved some of the modules listed as part of

their respective courses as indicated (A). In addition many of the modules are included as

options on the Foundation degree/HND programmes. Students will not be able to claim these

towards the 120 credits required for the top up stage. They will need to complete their

remaining required modules and then choose options to accumulate the total and combination

of credits necessary to comply with the Credit Framework. At least one ‘H’ level optional

module will be needed by all students as indicated (*). There may be variants to these two

entry streams and also different mixes and combinations of modules previously accumulated.

It will therefore be essential for careful planning and monitoring of each student's selection of

modules to ensure that the requirements of the credit framework are met.

At its discretion the University allows for narrow failure in a small proportion of modules to be

compensated by good performance in other modules or, in cases of documented illness or

other mitigating circumstances, condoned.

All modes are based upon an academic year of 2 x 18 week semesters and modules are

normally timetabled to be studied and completed in one semester.

Full time students will normally attend for 1 year offering 120 credits.

Part time study / day-release students can accumulate up to 90 credits per year.

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6.1 Module Content and Learning Outcomes Each module is listed below, with individual content and learning outcomes

Contracts & Procurement UU540

Content Learning Outcomes • Procurement method and forms of contract: client’s requirements and priorities, methods of procurement, variable factors associated with procurement and contractual recommendations, time, cost, performance and risk, relationship between variable factors and procurement arrangements, surveys of the current use of procurement methods in practice: forms of building contracts, standard forms, selection, distinctions between contract and non-contract documents, articles of agreement, conditions and appendices to the different forms of contract, forms of contract for civil engineering projects; Partnership arrangements. • Issues: current issues associated with procurement and contractual arrangements, issues originating from government, professional, trade and statutory bodies and contracting organizations. Comparisons with practices in other similar industries; recommendations from industry and government sponsored reports, developments and trends in practice, practice from Europe and in other international markets, Egan and Latham • Roles and responsibilities: Roles, pre-contract and post-contract activities, different project phases and the plan of work; responsibilities, specialist’s involved, planning, programming and progressing, on-site communications. Roles and contractual responsibilities of the different parties involved in a project. Role and activities of professional bodies, trade associations, government departments, statutory bodies.

1. Evaluate the range of procurement methods and forms of contract used in construction 2. Discuss issues associated with procurement 3. Compare the roles and responsibilities of the various agents involved in procurement 4. Assess the extent to which contracts are designed to consider time, cost and quality without compromising health & safety 5. Examine the development of supply chain management and partnerships arrangements

Management Applications UU626

Content Learning Outcomes • Principles of management: forecasting, planning, organising, motivating, controlling, communicating, co-ordinating; human and trade management: planning and control; site layout, materials, plant, health & safety, security, production, transport; role of clients, consultants and contractors, sub contractors • Financial planning and control: costing, cost control, cash flow, profit • Planning & programming: techniques, bar charts, networks, method statements • Environmental impact of construction: noise, pollution, energy conservation, materials and sustainability, sustainable design, environmental impact assessment • Specialist management application: supply chain management, production management, project management; definition, aims and objectives, practice, roles and responsibilities of the project manager, personal qualities.

1. Develop an understanding of the principles and application of effective management in construction 2. Analyse and apply cost forecasting, control, reporting techniques 3. Demonstrate expertise in the planning, programming and control of construction projects 4. Evaluate the implications of environmental conservations within the construction process 5. Define and compare the concepts and practices of specialist management application

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Law UU545

Content Learning Outcomes • Principles and procedures of law – construction process.Law relating to the construction process: broad understanding of the workings of the English legal system, the court system, principles of arbitration, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and adjudication, Common Law, Industrial Tribunals, the nature of tort, trespass, statutory duties, liability.• Liabilities and responsibilities of partiesContract is an enforceable agreement: identification of the main parties to a contract, description of the responsibilities of the main parties, typical contractual liabilities of the main parties.• Principles and procedures of law – organisation and practice of a companyLaw relating to the organisation and practice of a company: detailed understanding of the English legal system, company law and legal status of companies, employment law, law of land and property, sale, purchase and rental of goods, health, safety and welfare, employer liability, subcontractor tax requirements.• Legal principles and requirements in EuropeEuropean legal requirements: principal requirements of the European legal system, tort, employment law, company law, contract law.

1. Interpret the principles and procedures f law and legislation as applied to the construction process2. Evaluate the legal roles and responsibilities of the various parties to a contract and their liabilities3. Analyse the application of legal principles and procedures to the organisation and practices of a company4. Compare the European legal systems and principles for construction with the English system.

Economics UU550

Content Learning Outcomes • Economic Principles: - supply & demand, economic analysis, planned, free market and mixed economics, the price mechanism • Scarce Resources: - allocation of scarce resources, money circulation, cost benefit analysis • Government Economic Activity: - Micro and Macro Economics, central & local government economic/fiscal policies, taxation, sources of demand, price determination. International trade, exchange rates, influences by construction sector • Economics of the Firm: - structure of industry in UK, perfect, imperfect and monopolisation competition, theory of the firm sources of finance, short term, grants, price elements, economies of scale • Marketing strategies: - advertising and marketing influences, aggressive marketing, chains, corporate image building, total package marketing. • Financial Management in Construction: corporate finance, project finance sources, equity/department finance, financial and management accounts, cash flow

1. Explain basic principles and theories of economics and economic analysis. 2. Discuss the allocation of scarce resources 3. Evaluate government economic activity and how it impacts on industries and institutions involved in construction 4. Explain factors affecting the economics of the firm. 5. Compare different marketing strategies 6. Investigate financial management in the construction industry

Building Technology UU603

Content Learning Outcomes • Issues and practices: environmental, local and global, pollution, technological and legislative solutions; sustainable construction, principles, strategies, energy efficiency, alternative energy sources; buildability, define, implications, advantages/disadvantages. • Special construction: shell, cable-stayed, tension structures, cantilever, pneumatic, glass walls • Demolition – process and procedures: consideration and requirements, planning, legal constraints, temporary supports, safety issues • Intelligent buildings: control systems, energy management, communication and computer networks, cabling system, relationship to other systems, outlet provision, modular and special flooring system, safety controls.

1. Investigate current building technology issues and practices 2. Explore various forms and methods of special construction 3. Evaluate methods that enable safe demolition of various types of structures and situations 4. Explain the concept of an intelligent building through the systems used to control the day-do-day functions of its internal environment.

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Urban Environment UU556

Content Learning Outcomes ° Political, social, economic and technological factors: Historical processes: pre-industrial city, impact of industrial revolution, growth of towns and cities, impact of new transport systems, communications/technological revolutions, new building methods and materials, urban sprawl, garden cities, green belts, new towns and expanded towns, 'world cities' and globalisation. Urban structures: hierarchies of urban areas, classification of towns and cities, central place theory, the city region, patterns of urban land uses, 'bid rent curves', concentric zone, sector models of urban structure. Residential patterns; classification of areas, social area analysis, residential segregation including 'index of dissimilarity', residential mobility, gentrification, role of housing 'gatekeepers'. ° Urban living and urban design: individual and the urban environment: perception, 'mental maps', effect of crowding, pollution, noise and stress, individual behaviour, isolation and opportunity for integration. Communities and the urban environment: concept of 'community', social area analysis, link between community and 'neighbourhood'. Role of urban design; impact of design on human behaviour, development of communities, defensible space, social impact of urban renewal. ° Planning system within the United Kingdom. Emergence of modern planning system: twentieth century planning legislation, Town and Country Planning Act 1947, subsequent Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning and Compensation Act 1991. Key elements; definition of development, development control process, types of planning permission, effect of General Permitted Development Order and Use Classes Order, Structure, Local and Unitary plans, Planning Policy Guidance notes (PPGs), Regional Planning Guidance (RPGs). Key issues in planning policy: protection of traditional centres against off-centre, edge-of-town and out-of-town developments, impact of new technology and home-working on demand for office floor space, changing relationship between home and work, distribution of future population and of new housing development, use of brownfield and Greenfield sites, protection of green belts and of environmentally sensitive areas, achievement of 'sustainable' development. ° Environmental issues: global issues; sustainable construction, bio-diversity, global warming, deforestation, depletion of ozone layer, acid rain, finite nature of fossil fuels. Local issues: pollution; air, water, noise, increased water extraction, contaminated land, remediation, land-fill waste; environmental assessment systems, BREEAM , impact of construction processes ° Alternate and renewable energy sources: solar; active and passive systems; wind, coastal booms, nuclear, hydro-electric, earth, heating; green influences, grey water, materials; selection, re-use.

1. Evaluate the impact of a wide range of political, social, economic and technological factors on urban development. 2. Explain the impact of urban living and urban design on human behaviour and the development of communities 3. Describe the historical development of planning systems in the United Kingdom. 4. Investigate environmental issues that affect the sustainability of urban areas 5. Evaluate a range of alternative and renewable energy sources

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Dissertation UU604

Content Learning Outcomes • Preparation and planning. This will involve the identification and selection of a practicable topic. It will include an examination of previous work in the field; a clear statement of a research problem; the formulation of a hypothesis, aims, objectives; and the setting out of a programme and method of investigation • Research. This will involve an investigation and analysis of the problem identified. It will include the collection of new data or securing of existing data, recording, classification, analysis and evaluation of data; collation of results; and preparation of conclusions and recommendations for further investigation • Presentation. The work must be presented in appropriate formats for both written and oral submissions with attention to layout and structure; graphs, tables and figures; table of contents etc; referencing, bibliography, appendices; and style and grammar, clarity and quality of visual and oral communication

1. Identify research problems from previous writing in the field and/or current construction related issues 2. Design a small-scale research project in order to investigate a problem or hypothesis. 3. Undertake an investigation using new or existing sources of data. 4. Record and classify information systematically 5. Critically analyse data and determine its significance 6. Present ideas supported by argument and evaluation clearly and concisely. 7. Draw appropriate conclusions and recommendations 8. Prepare and present a dissertation to a professional standard using an accepted style for referencing and bibliography.

Personal Skills 2 UU534

Content Learning Outcomes • Personal Development Planning: SWOT analysis, personal goals and training needs; reflection, reflective journals, reflective practitioners, concept of the professional, codes of ethics, personal and professional attributes, production of a personal development plan. • Promoting Industry; representing an agreed group, industrial, academic, educational, professional institute; meetings, marketing/promotional events, networking, presentations to student groups; planning organising activity/event. • Project Proposal Formulation: Questioning standard practice. Application of professional judgement to give rationale and recommendations for future best practice

1. Analyse and plan own personal and professional development

2. Engage in actively representing and promoting a positive image of construction

3. Compare and critically analyse differing arguments and theories

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6.2 Programme Registration

At the commencement of your programme you are required to register as a University of Kent

student and for your programme of study. This will be a timetabled event during your first week

and is in addition to your MidKent College registration. At registration you will be required to

provide personal details. It is your responsibility to keep your personal details up to date on

both the College and University systems. You do this online. You will also need to re-enrol at

the start of your second year of study.

6.3 Attendance

6.3.1 Failure to Attend

If you are going to be absent from classes due to sickness or for other unavoidable reasons,

you must notify your Programme Director. If you fail to attend a module for three consecutive

weeks without notification you will be de-registered from that module. This means that you will

no longer be able to attend that module or be assessed in it.

6.4 Intermission and Withdrawal

You must familiarise yourself with the University regulations regarding intermission or

withdrawal and understand the consequences of taking and not taking either of these actions.

6.4.1 Intermission

Intermission is where you suspend your studies for a period of usually one or two semesters. If

you intend to intermit you must complete the Leave to intermit form, available on Moodle and

forward to your Programme Director to obtain their agreement.

If you are intermitted you will delay using up your assessment opportunities. If you stop

attending but do not intermit then you will continue to use up your assessment opportunities

and will be liable for fees.

6.4.2 Withdrawal Withdrawal is where you permanently leave the programme. If you intend to withdraw you

must contact the Programme Director to obtain their agreement. If agreed you must notify the

Programme director in writing.

If you leave the programme without officially withdrawing you will be liable for fees.

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6.4.3 Extenuating Circumstances, Complaints and Appeals The University has clear guidelines on extenuating circumstances, complaints and appeals.

Before you take any of these courses of action you should read and understand fully the

regulations regarding them. The guidelines are available at;

http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/regulations/index.html

You are urged strongly to check what constitutes acceptable grounds for extenuating

circumstances, complaints or appeals and to realise the consequences if your extenuating

circumstances or appeal are or are not upheld. Having extenuating circumstances accepted

prevents your marks being capped in a module that is passed at opportunity 2.

You should also be aware that there are time scales after events for submitting extenuating

circumstances, complaints or appeals. These time scales are quite short.

Forms for Board of Examiners Concessions consideration and Extension of Work Requests

are available on Moodle and should be completed within the required timeframes and

forwarded to your Module Leader or Programme Director as appropriate.

6.4.4 Breaches of Regulations

You are advised strongly to read and understand the University’s regulations so that you do

not inadvertently breach them. If you are accused of a breach of regulations, you must

determine and fully understand the options open to you and the consequences of the choices

that you make.

6.5 Module Registration At the start of each semester before studying commences you must register for the modules

that you will be studying in that semester. If for any reason you decide to not continue with

studying a module you must de-register from the module before week 4 of study otherwise you

will be assessed in the module.

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7.0 ASSESSMENT

The modules are internally assessed, using a variety of methods and styles as appropriate to

each module. Assessment methods include assignments, research projects, problem solving

case studies, practical tasks, group work, oral presentations, time constrained assignments

and formal examinations.

Some modules will have an end-of-module examination to authenticate your assignment work

and assess your level of knowledge of the theoretical components of the module. Each module

can be graded as pass, merit or distinction to contribute to the final grade of your award.

Details of the assessment system and procedures and the conventions for grading will be

explained at induction and as the programme proceeds.

7.1 Assignments

7.1.1 Handing In Of Assignments

Our aim is to develop you to perform to the requirements and standards of the industry, which

means that you are expected to meet given deadlines. The deadlines stated on assignments

are critical.

You will be advised by each module leader of how and when to hand in your assignments.

Generally submission will be via Moodle.

7.1.2 Grading of Assignments

The marks for individual assignments will be recorded as one of the following outcomes:

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Fail (See section 7.2 Grading Scheme)

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7.1.3 Work that is Unsatisfactory or Not Submitted to deadline

Late-submitted work will not be accepted for marking and will be graded ‘fail’. Please refer

to section 6.4.3

You will have the opportunity to re-sit work that was graded as unsatisfactory, not

submitted or submitted after the hand in deadline. The maximum mark that can be

achieved for re-sit work is a ‘pass’ grade.

Submit your assignments on time to the required standard …....and you will succeed

It is important that you comply with the following conventions;

(i) failed assignments may be resubmitted on one further occasion;

(ii) resubmitted assignments may achieve no higher mark than ‘pass’;

(iii) two failures of an assignment will entail the failure of the module;

(iv) failed modules will be subject to the conventions of the credit framework with

regard to the number and nature of further attempts permitted.

You must familiarise yourself with the regulations relating to

“THREE OPPORTUNITIES” to pass a module.

Much of sections 6&7 of this handbook have been extracted from the University of Kent

assessment regulations. You should familiarise yourself with the complete regulations which

can be accessed on University of Kent website, the links are available from Moodle.

7.1.4 Feedback on Assignments

Tutors should return marked work to you within three teaching weeks in order to provide

feedback on your progress. Comments that tutors make on your assignments will help you

to improve competence in your assignments. After feedback, assignments will be collected

by the tutor, as required, for internal and external verification. External verification is normally

carried out by the External Examiner when he visits for the examination boards at the end of

each semester and all of your assessed work must be available for this.

7.1.5 Collecting Back Your Assignments

Dates will be notified for you to collect back your work after the Examination Board. If you

do not collect your work it will be disposed of.

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7.2 Grading Scheme for HE Programmes 7.2.1 Grading of Modules

Each module will be graded as a PASS, MERIT or DISTINCTION.

To achieve the overall module outcome of ‘Pass’, you must have achieved all learning

outcomes or criteria for the module, with all assignments graded at ‘pass’ level or

higher;

To achieve the overall module outcome of ‘Merit’ you must have achieved all learning

outcomes or criteria for the module, with a preponderance of assignments graded at

‘merit’ or ‘distinction’ level;

To achieve the overall module outcome of ‘Distinction’, you must have achieved all

learning outcomes or criteria for the module, with a preponderance of assignments

graded at ‘distinction’ level.

Each assignment is graded using the “Grading Indicators” set out in 7.2.2. The module grade

will be determined from the assignment and examination percentages and grades.

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7.2.2 Grading Indicators FAIL 0-39%

Assessment criteria NOT achieved

PASS

40-59%

ALL assessment criteria achieved

Planning, Organising & Managing

Show some consideration of planning of given tasks

Select and use appropriate structure and approach to tasks given

Research

Provide descriptive content with minimum evidence of analysis

Include one reference source

Show a narrow range of reading & research

Application and development of theories & principles and arguments

Show clearly the articulation of a single view or argument or principle

Include reference to a theoretical principle or argument to support

view.

Problem solving

Solve problems using given methods and formulae

Presentation & Communication

Present to a reasonable academic standard

Communicate and present in an appropriate style not consistently at

suitable academic level

Level of understanding & thinking skills

Show general understanding of content

Evaluation

Show some evidence of reflection and evaluation

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MERIT 60-69%

Planning, Organising & Managing

Demonstrate working effectively as a member of a team

Apply successfully simple planning methods to a project

Use appropriate team management techniques

Research

Provide evidence of more than one reference source

Include reasonable analysis

Include a wide selection of content

Show evidence of a range of research methods

Provide justification for the selection of methods and sources

Show the application of appropriate learning methods

Show the use of a variety of methods to collect and analyse

information

Application and development of theories & principles and arguments

Select and apply relevant theories and techniques

Show evidence of logical development of principles for the intended

audience

Show clear articulation of a range of ideas/arguments

Utilise, apply and analyse detailed knowledge, supported by relevant

techniques and theories

Problem solving

Select and apply strategies and formulae to find appropriate solutions

to simple problems

Make effective judgements

Explore complex problems with more than one variable

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Presentation & Communication

Produce good quality work with few errors

Produce to a good academic standard with references included

Show evidence of good presentation & effective communication

Use a range of methods of presentation to both communicate and

promote an appropriate image.

Communicate appropriately for familiar and unfamiliar audiences

Use an appropriate media

Show evidence of mastery of IT applications throughout the work

Show an impressive ‘professional’ level of presentation with accuracy

and clarity of communications and language

Use technical language with accuracy

Present work clearly and coherently

Level of understanding & thinking skills

Give clear explanation of content

Demonstrate good understanding and depth of knowledge

Evaluation

Determine criteria for appraising and evaluating

Show evidence of self-evaluation has taken place

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DISTINCTION 70-100%

Evaluation

Check validity when collecting, analysing and processing complex data

Use critical reflection to evaluate own work and justify valid

conclusions

Justify conclusions have been arrived at through synthesis of ideas.

Evaluate the validity of results using defined criteria

Show evidence of self-criticism of approach has taken place

Design realistic improvements

Show evidence of the validity of complex data utilised to meet learning

outcomes

Research

Provide evidence of a wide range of reading and research sources

Show excellent analysis of researched information

Demonstrate the synthesis and processing of a complex information

Apply a range of statistical techniques to the analysis of data

Show how relevant techniques and theories have been analysed,

evaluated and synthesized to justify valid conclusions

Application and development of theories & principles and arguments

Demonstrate critical/comparable analysis of argument

Apply & evaluate relevant theories/techniques to develop & justify valid

conclusions

Problem solving

Evaluate own strategies and modify to enable the solution of complex

problems

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Presentation & Communication

Produce work of exceptional quality with minimal errors

Show excellence in academic writing

Show excellence in presentation

Submit work fully referenced to academic conventions

Adopt an original approach in presenting and communicating work

coherently

Show originality in presentation and fluency in technical language

Level of understanding & thinking skills

Show originality of thought

Demonstrate full understanding of all points and content

Apply divergent/lateral/creative and innovative thought.

Show that ideas have been generated and decisions taken

Show receptiveness to new ideas

Show how effective thinking has taken place in unfamiliar context

Show individual thinking and fluency in the use of technical language

and concepts.

Planning, Organising & Managing

Show excellence in planning and organisation of tasks, structure and

content

Manage and organise a project responsibly

Demonstrate independence in organising and managing work

Plan, manage & organise complex and substantial activities

Accommodate and modify unforeseen events and changes

.

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7.2.3 Grading of Your Award

On completion of the programme you will be awarded a degree with Honours and placed in a

class based on the average mark, with modules weighted as agreed by the Faculty Board and

calculated to one decimal place according to the following table:

First Class Honours 70 and above

Upper Second Class Honours 60-69.9

Lower Second Class Honours 50-59.9

Third Class Honours Below 50

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7.3 Academic Standards

7.3.1 Academic Discipline

Every student of the University of Kent is expected to act with honesty and integrity in relation

to the production and representation of academic work.

Academic integrity is central to university life and requires in particular that students are honest

and responsible in acknowledging the contributions of others in their work.

With regard to the submission of work for assessment, examination or review,

the work must be that of the submitting student and that it will have been produced specifically

for the purpose for which it is presented. It is also expected that all sources used in the

production of the work or to inform its content will be properly attributed.

Academic dishonesty and cheating can take many forms but generally aims to improve a

student’s work by improper means. The methods used to do this include using unauthorised

material in examinations, fabricating of data or sources, submitting another’s work as your

own, improper collaboration and plagiarism. These practices are not only unethical but also

unfair to other students who have striven to produce their own work. They also undermine the

learning of the individual who uses them, damage the relationship of trust between academic

staff and students and devalue the academic qualifications awarded by the institution.

Cheating which includes:

1. Using unauthorised sources or notes in examinations or tests.

2. Dishonestly obtaining materials or information prior to examinations.

3. Copying from other students.

4. Permitting other students to copy your work.

5. Soliciting work from others (e.g. individuals, essay banks etc.).

6. Submitting your own previously assessed work without acknowledgement.

Unauthorised Collaboration occurs where:

1. Collaboration was not permitted

2. The work submitted has resulted from collaboration with others whose contribution has

not been acknowledged.

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Fabrication may take various forms but is essentially concerned with manufacturing aspects

of the work produced. For example, the insertion of made-up information, data, sources,

quotes, anecdotes or analysis would all amount to fabrication.

Recycling is the duplication of work previously submitted for assessment or review. It is

usually expected that work submitted will be prepared specifically for that purpose unless the

course materials or tutor explicitly state otherwise. Examples of unacceptable recycling

include:

1. Submitting work that has previously been assessed and marked in the same course,

module or programme.

2. Submitting work that has previously been assessed and marked in a different course,

module or programme.

Plagiarism broadly means using the work of another without acknowledgement. It can relate

to an entire work or a part of it. Copying sentences, phrases or expressions, paraphrasing or

presenting ideas and arguments of another as one’s own, without attribution in a manner

which may deceive the reader as to the source is plagiarism. Plagiarism may be committed in

a number of ways, including:

1. Copying from other students without authority.

2. Copying from other students without attribution.

3. Copying from published sources (e.g. written, internet, spoken, art, performance media)

without attribution

4. Copying from unpublished sources (e.g. lectures, theses, university essay banks) without

attribution.

5. Submitting previously submitted or assessed work of your own without attribution.

6. Failing to reference the sources of facts. These may take the form of text, graphs, charts

or statistics that have not been generated by your own research.

7. Failing to provide references for using the exact words or phrases of others.

8. Failing to provide references when paraphrasing the words of others.

9. Failing to provide references when expressing ideas presented by others.

10. Submitting work solicited from others.

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7.3.2 Referencing

It is expected that academic work will draw upon the work and insights of scholars in the field but

these must be correctly and appropriately acknowledged. All sources used should be referenced

in the finished text. ‘Sources’ includes, books, articles, websites, mass media such as newspapers,

television and radio programmes, and the works of other scholars, including yourself and other

students. The Harvard system of referencing must be used unless the Module Leader advises

otherwise.

7.3.3 Penalties

A range of penalties for any of the above breaches of academic discipline may be imposed by the

Board of Examiners ranging from warning and/or zero marks to termination of registration

depending upon the seriousness and/or whether first or subsequent offences.

Once registered for a module examination non-attendance will attract an invoice for the cost of the

examination fee.

7.3.4 Examination Board Recommendation

The Programme Examination Board held at the end of each academic year confirms final

decisions concerning grades, referrals and cases of breaches of academic discipline.

7.3.5 Your results

Your results will be considered at the Examination Boards which are held at the end of each

semester of study. A further Examination Board is held in September to consider re-sit work.

You can view and download your assignment marks to date and examination marks from previous

semesters at any time on line at the University of Kent in “MY MARKS”. After an Examination

Board you can view and download all assignment, examination and module marks in “MY

RESULTS”. Note that “MY RESULTS” will be made visible approximately 1 week after each

Examination Board.

A transcript of your results will be available on the Kent ‘My Marks’ area following the July

Examination Board.

If you have not been successful in passing all modules it is your responsibility to contact the

Module Leader(s) concerned to find out what you need to do to pass the module. All resubmission

and re-sit requirements are posted on Moodle within the ‘HE Resubmission and Re-sit Area’.

The deadline for submission of referral assignments and re-sit examinations for

Semester 1 will normally be in March and for Semester 2 at the end of August.

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8.0 STUDENT SUPPORT

The Department offers an effective support facility for students with the following key features;

A planned Induction which focuses upon supporting the students on entry and through the

initial settling in period focuses on:

– Orientation – campus, staff, peers and facilities

– Programme requirements and assessment procedures

– Health & Safety

– Learning styles

– Expected conduct

– Identification of specific needs, levels and personal issues.

A programme handbook is issued to students to provide all essential information regarding

aims, structure of programme and learning outcomes, staff, induction, health & safety,

assessment requirements and procedures, academic standards, attendance and conduct,

resources, equipment, quality assurance and support

Module guides are provided for each module and include a syllabus, assessment details,

learning outcomes and recommended reading.

The ‘Moodle’ virtual learning environment enables more effective student access to these

guides and other important information.

Personal Tutor – Each student will be allocated a personal tutor and formal one-to-one

tutorials will be scheduled regularly.

Library and virtual learning environment induction and study skills sessions.

A student staff ratio of 16:1 – 25:1. Teaching in small groups rather than lecture style

situations and an ‘open-door’ tutoring facility offers a more effective two-way

communication and support system.

Disability -The programme will involve a number of practical aspects in the form of field

trips, surveying activities, visits and experiments. Careful consideration in anticipation of

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the accommodation of the needs of students with any disabilities or specific personal

requirements has been undertaken. It is possible to support students with disabilities on

most activities but specific requirements or needs will be negotiated on an individual basis

and potential adjustments that may reasonably be required to the curricula context, modes

of delivery and assessment methods will be made. Each module that involves any

practical element will include a statement that outlines any disadvantages that cannot be

catered for in order to assist students in planning their learning, modules and pathways.

Student Services for assistance with careers, counselling, financial and accommodation

problems are available from the University of Kent

Unit for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching (UELT) offering services for both staff

and students to promote quality in teaching and learning includes:

Student Learning Advisory Service, programmes of student events and workshops and

learning resources advice and facilities.

8.1 Special Needs, Dyslexia

If you have special needs or suspect that you are dyslexic contact your Programme Director in

confidence.

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9.0 RESOURCES

9.1 Library As a student of University of Kent/MidKent College you are a member of both the MidKent

College and University of Kent Libraries and are entitled to use their facilities and borrow items

as appropriate. Each Module Leader will recommend books.

9.2 Computing The Department has its own specialist AutoCAD computer facility and limited access to a

range of commercial construction software in addition to general software such as Microsoft

Office - which includes word-processing, spreadsheets, databases, DTP etc.

9.3 Accommodation Please respect the no smoking, eating or drinking regulations and keep the rooms as tidy as

possible. Report any misuse of the accommodation to the staff immediately. Mobile phones

must be switched off in class. Refectories and Common rooms are available on the Campus

for your use. There is an active Student Union, of which you are a member.

9.4 Online Resources Online resources and indexes are available to you that, for example, contain British Standards,

the Building Regulations and much more. Your Programme Director will advise you of how to

access all online resources during induction.

9.5 Moodle ‘Moodle’ is an on line resource that you can access in college or from outside via the internet.

It is on ‘moodle’ that you will find notices, timetables, programme handbooks, module guides,

lecture notes, assignments etc. You must register yourself on ‘moodle’ to be able to access it.

Your Programme Director will advise you of how to do this.

9.6 College Policies

Relevant College Policies and Procedures can be found on the course Moodle page – linked

below

MidKent College - Policies and Procedures

Alternatively you can view these on the MidKent College Website

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10.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE

The Department operates its own Internal Quality Assurance Policy to promote and encourage

optimum performance of:

1. Planning and organisation of programme and modules

2. Delivery and presentation of material

3. Support and guidance of students

4. Assessment procedures.

To monitor and implement the policy the following items should be complied with.

1. All appropriate documentation will be issued promptly as applicable and will be presented

in a suitable professional manner and form.

2. Lessons will be planned, structured and delivered to convey an efficient and professional

image to students.

3. Lectures will start and finish on time unless special arrangements have been made and the

students informed.

4. Students will have suitable access to tutors and personal tutors for discussion of problems

and counselling.

5. University of Kent/MidKent College procedures for student appeal, grievances and disputes

will be followed.

6. Procedures for referrals for assistance and advice from Educational Guidance and Student

Services will be outlined to students.

7. Assistance with specific study problems i.e. communication, computing or numeracy will be

considered and programmed where possible.

8. Evaluation of the programme and modules will be undertaken in the form of questionnaires,

and student representation on programme boards.

9. Programme Study Boards will be held at least every semester to allow for continued

development and updating of systems as well as discussion and resolution of problems.

Feedback from students and external parties will be considered.

11.0 Final note Thank you for enrolling at MidKent College. We hope your stay with us will be successful.

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MidKent College links http://www.midkent.ac.uk/help-advice/higher-education/higher-education-policies-and-procedures/ - this page lists all our policies and terms and conditions for Higher Education Students Please note the awarding body that your course is validated by – such as Canterbury Christ Church University, University of Kent or Pearson, or BTEC – their academic policies will apply to you. http://www.midkent.ac.uk/help-advice/higher-education/employability-development-programme/ - students are encouraged to engage with CV Minder and build up their employability skills. http://www.midkent.ac.uk/help-advice/students-union/ - for fun, for support and much, much