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PROGRAMME HANDBOOK
2021/22Any yellow highlighted text needs to be updated
by the programme teamAny green highlighted text are items to consider
Programme title
Level UG/PG
Award BA/BSc/MA/MSc/BEng or other
Mode of study Full-time/Part-time/Distance learning
Location of delivery
Programme leader
Name:
Office location:
Email address:
Phone number: (in full, not just extension)
This handbook is correct at the time of writing and may be subject to change. Throughout your studies, to ensure you have the most up to date information, you should always consult the online version of this handbook held on the Virtual Learning Environment/Blackboard. For up to date information on University academic and student regulations always consult the DMU website.
Published by:*Insert faculty office address here*
All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, without permission in writing from the publishers.De Montfort University disclaims and is not responsible in any way whatsoever for the content of any external source of information, such as books and websites, referenced in these materials.Copyright © De Montfort University
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ContentsSection 1: Welcome to DMU and the Faculty of…...............................................................5
Section 2: Overview of the Handbook................................................................................6
How to use this Handbook..............................................................................................6
Section 3: About the Programme........................................................................................7
Welcome and introduction to the programme................................................................7
Force majeure................................................................................................................7
Programme structure.....................................................................................................7
Key programme information..........................................................................................7
Module information.......................................................................................................7
Settling into your programme, Placements, and #DMUworks.........................................7
Placements and DMU Works..........................................................................................8
Internationalisation and DMU Global opportunities.......................................................8
Section 4: Useful contacts and information........................................................................8
Communicating with Staff..............................................................................................9
Attendance...................................................................................................................10
Section 5: University regulations......................................................................................11
Section 6: Blackboard – the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).......................................12
Blackboard – the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) or Managed Learning Environment (MLE)............................................................................................................................12
Section 7: Management of the programme......................................................................13
Programme Management.............................................................................................13
External Examiners.......................................................................................................13
Section 8: Assignment submission, assessment and anonymous marking.........................14
Assessment map/submission schedule.........................................................................14
Protocols for submitting work.......................................................................................14
How to submit via Turnitin...........................................................................................14
What to do if Turnitin is not available...........................................................................15
Marking........................................................................................................................15
Assessment feedback...................................................................................................16
Section 9: Seeking an assignment extension, deferral or re-submission............................17Extensions........................................................................................................................17Deferrals...........................................................................................................................17
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Failed modules and reassessment opportunities..............................................................17Interruptions/leave of absence..........................................................................................18Repeat year of study.........................................................................................................18
Section 10: The student complaints and appeals process..................................................18
Complaints...................................................................................................................18
Academic appeals:........................................................................................................19
Useful links:..................................................................................................................19
Section 11: The Student Voice..........................................................................................20
Student Representation................................................................................................20
Student satisfaction surveys.........................................................................................21
Section 12: Harvard Referencing, Good v Bad Academic Practice......................................22
Citation, Referencing and References...........................................................................22
Academic Practice Officers............................................................................................23
Section 13: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)................................................................24
What should I do if I am ill or absent from university?..................................................24
How do I notify the University of any changes in my personal details (e.g. term-time address)?......................................................................................................................24
What should I do if I lose my Student ID card?..............................................................24
What should I do if I can’t log into myDMU, student email or other University online systems?.......................................................................................................................24
What should I do if I need advice about personal issues?..............................................24
What should I do if I want to change programmes?......................................................24
What should I do if I am thinking of withdrawing from my studies?..............................25
Appendix – List of Principal Abbreviations........................................................................26
You can find a glossary of terms used for your learning at: https://www.dmu.ac.uk/academic/centre-academic-innovation/staff-support-for-remote-teaching/teaching-online-glossary.aspx...........................................................26
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Section 1: Welcome to DMU and the Faculty of…
*EXAMPLE TEXT- PLEASE DELETE*
Three or four years of studying lies ahead of you, and we sincerely hope that they prove exciting and memorable. You certainly have reason to hope so!
A degree in subject is dynamic, rigorous and challenging. We emphasise deep learning, but we also want to prepare you for the workplace after finishing yourdegree, by teaching you a range of transferable and practical skills.
One of the advantages of studying in a large department such as ours is the range of options that will be available in later years, often taught by internationally renowned academics. In the early days of your first academic year you may feel uncertain as well as excited, but you will soon settle into the rhythms of the academic calendar….
Professor …Pro VC / DeanFaculty of ….
The [department/school/faculty] is based in/ [building/location name]. You could add a picture here of your main building
A campus map is available at:
DMU Campus Map
It is important that you keep your DMU ID (photo card or temporary paper ID given to you at enrolment) with you at all times when entering DMU buildings.
If you are unsure of where to go, your first point of contact should always be:
The Faculty Student Advice Centre (the SAC)Located on the [] Floor of the [] Building
Room location if applicableTelephone: (0116) xxx xxxx
Email: (Enter your faculty SAC email address)
Photo of entrance to SAC/reception area might be helpful
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Section 2: Overview of the Handbook
This handbook aims to introduce students to the programme of study by providing a selection of information which we hope you will find useful, particularly at the start of your programme. It provides an outline of the Programme, its ethos, structure and assessment, and the University Regulations that apply to you. Use the guide to familiarise yourself with the programme, to acquaint yourself with the Programme Regulations, its aims and objectives, and to establish what the learning outcomes are so that you are well prepared to tackle the requirements of the programme and the various assessments and examinations you are set.
How to use this Handbook
This is the main reference version of your Programme Handbook which you should refer to whilst you are studying on this programme.
An electronic version of this handbook is available on Blackboard which is our Virtual Learning Environment system. The electronic version contains links to more detailed information about each aspect of this handbook.
You can use the immersive reader tool, by viewing this in MS Word. If you’d like more information on how to use immersive reader, click here.
All of the information referred to can be found by logging onto Blackboard and going to:
‘My Communities’ tile
Click on the Programme link
You will then see the Programme Handbook
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Section 3: About the Programme
*THIS SECTION MUST CONTAIN THE FOLLOWING*
Welcome and introduction to the programmeThis should include a welcome to the programme from the programme leader, with a short description of the programme. This is different from the welcome to the faculty (above). This doesn’t have to be in text, it could be offered as a short video link
Force majeure
Every effort will be made to deliver your programme and modules as outlined in this handbook. However, there may be situations outside of the university’s control which could lead to interruption in delivery or changes to the curriculum and/or delivery. These include, but are not limited to, political unrest, governmental actions, acts of terrorism, fire, flood, epidemic/pandemic, industrial action and departure of key members of university staff. For further information on the circumstances in which your teaching and learning may be disrupted, please refer to the DMU Student Contract.
Programme structureYou can provide a link to the programme specification
Key programme information
Module information
*Required text- provide this information when referencing DMU Replay or MS Teams:*DMU has a policy of recording all academic staff led activity for replay and revision purposes to ensure continued compliance with the Equalities Act 2010. The main vehicle for providing such recording, on campus, is the DMU Replay service but your Module Tutor may use other means of providing audio and/or visual materials to ensure compliance with the policy and these will be fully explained to you along with where to get help and support. For help with viewing a DMU Replay recording click here:http://celt.our.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-replay-the-student-view-including-navigation-and-search/
To review activities recorded via MS Teams, your module leader will upload the recording to the relevant Blackboard area. To review the policy on recording academic activities, please visit: https://demontfortuniversity.sharepoint.com/sites/DMUHome/org/ITMS/Pages/RecordingPolicy.aspx
Settling into your programme, Placements, and #DMUworks
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Optional section – provide programme-specific information on the above, if applicable.
*E.g.*Settling into university can be quite challenging as there are lots of new things to learn and become familiar with. If you’re having difficulties with this, you can speak with the Transitions Team. They may be able to give you some advice about studying at a university, living away from home or signpost you to one of the universities specialist support teams.
Transitions teamStudent GatewayT: 0116 257 7605 / 7872E: [email protected]
Placements and DMU Works Include any relevant initiatives that your programme runs to support placements, details what years of study placements can take place. Detail the contact information for the Faculty Placement Officer or central email address (if no named contact).
If there are any specific events the faculty or programme team offer in conjunction with DMU Works, include that information in this section.
*Programme specific information required*Faculty Placement Officer (Name)Faculty Placement Co-Ordinator/s (Name)Team locationOpening hoursEmail contactPhone number
Internationalisation and DMU Global opportunitiesInclude any relevant information about how your programme embeds internationalisation within the curriculum. You can include details about any DMU Global trips that are offered on your programme and local alternatives for those who are unable to access the global opportunities. Ensure it is highlighted these are subject to minimum numbers of participants. If no/limited trips will be offered due to COVID-19, you can mention this to manage student expectations or reflect how the curriculum will offer equivalent knowledge/experience.
Section 4: Useful contacts and information
*Programme specific information required*
Please note this information is updated annually, you should always contact your
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Programme Leader via email in the first instance.
Programme Leader Brief role description.NamePhone:Email: Office: (this may not be available to visit with social distancing measures in place)Also provide contact details for:
• Head of School• Personal tutor (if known at time of writing) – personal tutor not known, student should contact the SAC.• Faculty Disability Officer
Please contact your Student Advice Centre if you require any of the below contacts:• Subject leader• Subject Librarian• Academic Practice Officer• School administrators
If face to face contact is restricted due to COVID-19, please highlight this
Communicating with Staff
*Programme-specific information required here*
Contacting tutorsThe best way to contact a member of staff is via email, using your DMU student email address. The email addresses of tutors are given above. You may need to wait for a response, if you do not receive a response, please contact your Student Advice Centre or your Personal Tutor. If you wish to have a meeting with a member of the team, please contact them to see if this is possible.
Although electronic communication is generally more informal, please treat all your emails to your tutors as business emails. That is, employ a professional tone, present yourself courteously and adhere to Standard English. This is to give you practice in communicating in a professional environment, which you will all be required to do once you leave university and enter the world of work.
*Example text- please modify with programme-specific information and adjust text if affected by COVID-19*
When contacting tutors, please bear the following in mind:
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Please contact your faculty Student Advice Centre in the first instance for any queries you may have.
Contact module tutors in the first instance about individual module matters. Contact the Programme Leader about general matters relating to the programme
of study (e.g. applications for changes in registration, module changes, and general enquiries).
Contact Personal Tutors about any general concerns or difficulties you may be experiencing (though you may also discuss these matters with your module tutor or the Programme Leader).
If you are absent from university and scheduled classes for any reason (e.g. illness/family commitments), you must notify your module tutor and at the earliest possible opportunity by email.
Changes in term time and home addresses, telephone numbers or email addresses should be submitted via MyDMU or to the Student Advice Centre.
Please do not interrupt staff in their offices outside their advice and feedback tutorials except in a genuine emergency. Outside classes and tutorial times, tutors have many other tasks they may be engaged in: preparing for future classes, marking, administration and research and writing. They may also already be in a meeting with another student, possibly discussing a personal matter. Therefore, please do not simply knock on a tutor’s office door expecting to be seen immediately.
Attendance
If you experience difficulty in attending classes for any reason then please discuss the matter with your Personal Tutor in the first instance so that they can help or advise you, or signpost you to suitable support. Poor attendance may result in low marks or even fails, as attendance and performance in assessments are often closely linked. DMU has an Attendance Monitoring policy (which can be found within the DMU Student General Regulations) and we do record attendance throughout the academic year. Failure to attend scheduled teaching may result in discontinuation from the university.
You are expected to attend all timetabled sessions.
On campus sessions
Where you are physically attending the university, in order to register your attendance, it is important that you sign the register in class or swipe your student card against the reader (in rooms fitted with card readers). Please note that you will be recorded as absent if your attendance is not recorded at your timetabled activities. You may only change tutorial or seminar group with the approval of the Module Leader and by completing the relevant form available from the Student Advice Centre.
Online sessions
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At the start of the class, your tutor will distribute to you the link to the online attendance monitoring system.
You need to be logged in to your DMU student email account. Please note that if you try to log in to a synchronous online class through your personal email account, you will not be able to register your attendance correctly.
It is important that this information is recorded accurately as the data will be used to ensure your compliance with DMU’s Attendance Monitoring Policy (policy details are in the Student General Regulations).
Completing the on-line attendance monitoring should be quick and easy to do. If you experience any problems, please speak to your tutor in the first instance.
Section 5: University regulations
University regulations are the rules which apply to your studies as a student of De Montfort University. When you register as a student you agree to follow these regulations, as does the university. These regulations are divided into two areas; ‘Student Regulations’ and ‘Academic Regulations’. You have consumer rights as a student, and many of these rights are explained within the regulations.
Student Regulations explain how decisions are made in areas such as: Academic appeals Extenuating circumstances Student disciplinary issues Payment of fees Health and Safety Attendance and Absence policies
There are many more policies within the student regulations; these are all available on the DMU website:www.dmu.ac.uk/current-students/student-support/exams-deferrals-regulations-policies/student-regulations-and-policies/index.aspx
If you would like to speak to a member of staff about any matter regarding the student regulations, you can contact the Academic Support Office at [email protected]
Academic Regulations set out the rules on assessment, progression, and award standards. These regulations enable universities to guarantee their academic standards are appropriate, and ensure all students are treated consistently and equitably.
The full regulations are available on the DMU website: https://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/quality-management-and-policy/academic-quality/academic-regulations-assessment-
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boards/academic-regs-assessment-board-homepage.aspx and explain how decisions are made on:
Assessment (including reassessments, late submissions, and modules that are changed or withdrawn).
Progression through your programme (ensuring the knowledge and skills you acquire are appropriate to your level of study).
Awards (how they are classified, exit awards, and Recognition of Prior Learning) Deadline extensions, deferrals, interruptions and repeat study.
If you have any questions about the academic regulations, you should speak to your tutor in the first instance.
Section 6: Blackboard – the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
Blackboard – the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) or Managed Learning Environment (MLE)
*Example text- please modify with programme-specific information*
Blackboard is a virtual learning environment, accessible online. You can log into Blackboard via myDMU at any time, on or off-campus. All programme modules have a dedicated Blackboard site, where you can access all materials and information relevant to that module. This includes assessment information and Turnitin links for submitting assessments, copies of lecture notes, resource lists and additional learning materials. Your tutors will also make important announcements through the module Blackboard sites. It is therefore vital that you visit the Blackboard sites for all your modules regularly for the latest information.
On the main Blackboard homepage, you will also be able to access the Blackboard [programme] Community site. By default, the link for this site is in the bottom left-hand corner of the Blackboard homepage. All students (including postgraduates) have access to this site. The site contains copies of Programme and module handbooks, information about [programme] events, study support, international study, careers etc. General announcements relevant to all [programme] students will also be made through the Community site.
Blackboard also gives you access to the Community site for the Faculty of [xxxx]. This site includes Programme and Faculty Handbooks, External Examiner reports, Assessment Maps, etc., as well as announcements about Faculty events. Information about re-enrolment and re-assessments will also be posted on the Faculty Blackboard site.
General information and guidelines on how to use Blackboard are available from inside Blackboard, by clicking on the UserGuide tab at the top of your Blackboard homepage.
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Section 7: Management of the programme
As a student, you will largely only see your degree from your side, but your tutors are also obliged to spend the time outside classes dealing with the administration and smooth running of your programme within the larger context of the University as a whole. What follows is a very brief introduction to what goes into the management of your studies.
Programme ManagementYour programme is managed academically by several Boards. The Boards comprises members of the academic staff team (mainly the programme/subject and module leaders for a particular subject area), staff from central University departments (such as the Department of Academic Quality) External Examiners (usually experienced academics from other Universities) and Course reps (sit on Programme Management Boards (PMB).
Programme boards meet in two modes: As a Programme Management Board which meets to review the management of
your programme, and consider issues raised by Student Representatives (see section 15).
As a Programme Assessment Board (PAB) which meets to approve your marks; agree whether or not you can proceed into your next year; agree the final classification of your degree. Once the PAB has met, results are deemed to have been ratified (approved) by the University
External ExaminersEach programme has at least one External Examiner who is not part of DMU teaching staff but from another Higher Education institution. Their role is to assure academic standards on the programme and to ensure that students are receiving the best possible learning experience. The External examiner acts as an independent and impartial adviser. They ensure that awards granted by the university are comparable in standard to those of other higher education institutions, that national subject threshold standards are complied with, and that the treatment of students is equitable and fair.
The External Examiner for this Programme is:*Programme specific information required*
Name: Substantive employer (if appropriate):
Note: The details provided relating to external examiners is for information only. You must not contact external examiner(s) directly, and particularly with respect to your individual performance in assessments. If you wish to make a complaint or an appeal regarding your assessment you should follow the University’s procedures for Academic Appeals, guidance is available in Chapter 9 of the Student Regulations – via the following link: https://www.dmu.ac.uk/documents/dmu-students/academic-support-office/2020-21-student-regs/13-chapter-9.pdf
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Section 8: Assignment submission, assessment and anonymous marking
*Consult guidance Section 12 - this section must contain the following*
Assessment map/submission schedulePlease include a link to the blackboard shell where the assessment map/submission schedule is located for the student or advise the student where to find this information (eg module handbook)
Protocols for submitting work
How to submit via Turnitin
Turnitin (via Blackboard) is a text-matching tool used for plagiarism detection to which you will be introduced during your first year of academic study. It is a web-based plagiarism detection tool widely used in UK universities and schools/ colleges. It searches the current and archived internet documents, papers submitted by other students, and identifies any similarities between texts. Refer to Chapter 4, Section 3.1.3 of the General Regulations and Procedures Affecting Students for more information on plagiarism (available from the DMU student regulations web page). The aim of using this software is to deter plagiarism, rather than to detect it and punish you.
For a full guide on using Turnitin, please refer to https://library.dmu.ac.uk/turnitin/submitting
If you ask your students to submit work via a different method, please include details within this section.
Full guidance on how to submit an assignment is provided via Blackboard
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What to do if Turnitin is not available
Turnitin assessment deadlines are set at 12 NOON (rather than at midnight, as was the case in previous years). This is to enable IT staff to deal with possible problems with Turnitin service during working hours.
All Turnitin assignments on module Blackboard sites will be set to accept submissions after the deadline. All submissions are automatically time-stamped by the system. If your late submission was demonstrably due to disruption to Turnitin service, any late submission penalties will be waived.
Marking
The university follows processes for marking work anonymously, where possible, which is intended to eliminate any unintentional bias on the part of assessors and to reassure
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No, I couldn’t access Turnitin
Keep the submission receipt (and receipt number) for the Turnitin submission. Record any possible error messages displayed and take a picture or a screen-grab of the error message. Please include these in your email notification to the tutor.
Yes, but I’m not sure if it uploaded properly
Did the error occur whilst you were uploading your assignment?
If there are no announcements, notify your tutor, particularly if you experience problems within 24 hours of the assessment deadline. Wherever possible, use your DMU email account ]
Check the module site on Blackboard for any announcements
If you are unable to upload your assignment due to Turnitin failure, please submit your work via email to the assessing tutor or the Module Leader to meet the original deadline and ask for an email receipt, but keep trying to submit via Turnitin.
students that the marking process is fair and impartial. Your tutors will also use assessment criteria, which will be detailed in your module handbooks and mark descriptors which inform how your final mark is considered.
You can view the University’s full Assessment and Feedback Policy, which sets out the expectations for all assessments and marking processes here:
8 https://www.dmu.ac.uk/documents/about-dmu-documents/quality-management-and-policy/academic-quality/learning-teaching-assessment/assessment-feedback-policy.pdf
*Insert if applicable*Undergraduate mark descriptor tablePostgraduate mark descriptor table
Assessment feedback
We are committed to ensuring that all students receive appropriate feedback on their assessed work. Feedback can help you improve your future performance. When you receive assignment feedback from your tutor, you will find a summary assessment of your work, which you should read together with the annotations made on the assignment itself.
These comments are intended to help you recognise your own strengths as well as identify any weaknesses. Please take these comments seriously and act upon any suggestions. You should also make an appointment to see the module tutor if you are unclear about written comments made on your work, or if you have any concerns about your progress on a module.
You can expect to receive your mark and feedback within 20 university working days of the submission deadline. Where possible, tutors will endeavour to return the work sooner. However, note that all assessed work is also moderated by a second examiner, who checks a sample of the first examiner’s marks. We aim to only release marks and feedback to you after they have been moderated and verified by a second marker. As you will no doubt understand, this process takes time – but we do this because we are committed to ensuring the highest standards of fairness in our assessment.
Note that any marks you receive during the academic year should be treated as provisional until formally ratified by the Programme Assessment Board at the end of the academic session. Your final ratified end-of-year results will be notified to you via myDMU following the meeting of the Programme Assessment Boards, normally during the first two weeks of July.
You can view the University’s full Assessment and Feedback Policy, which sets out the expectations for all assessments and marking processes here:
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8 https://www.dmu.ac.uk/documents/about-dmu-documents/quality-management-and-policy/academic-quality/learning-teaching-assessment/assessment-feedback-policy.pdf
Section 9: Seeking an assignment extension, deferral or re-submission
There may be circumstances where your studies are interrupted or you need to ask for an extension. You’ll find a short explanation and full details of how to apply these to your studies in the links below:
Extensions
If you are unable to meet assessment submission deadlines for coursework or project based‐ work, you may request an extension. This must be authorised by your Module Tutor or Module Leader and the request must be submitted before the assessment deadline date. Extensions cannot normally be granted retrospectively, after the deadline has passed.
Access the full details by viewing the Academic Regulations
DeferralsOn exceptional occasions, your performance may be seriously impaired by severely adverse personal circumstances beyond your control or ability to foresee. Examples of ‘severely adverse personal circumstances may include a serious debilitating illness, a bereavement involving a close family member or the need to care for a seriously ill child over a number of weeks. Chapter 5 of the Student Regulations explains that:
If you are experiencing difficulties with your studies you should contact your personal tutor, Programme/Subject Leader or the Faculty Student Advice Centre.
Access the full details by viewing Chapter 5 of the Student Regulations or visit Deferral & extensions (dmu.ac.uk)
Failed modules and reassessment opportunitiesIf you fail a module (i.e. at the end of the year your overall module mark is less than the required minimum), you will not receive credit for it and therefore you may not meet the progression or award requirements for your level. If you do not meet the progression or award requirements for your level and have sufficient reassessment opportunity, you will be required to retrieve the failure in order to progress or obtain an award. This is known as a reassessment.
Reassessment usually means that you will be asked to resubmit failed coursework or resit failed examinations during the summer vacation. Reassessment advice detailing which assessment elements you are required to resubmit will be sent to you following the release
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of end-of-year results. Assignment briefs for specific assessment elements will also be posted on Blackboard.
As you cannot progress or achieve an award until successful completion of any reassessments, it is vital that you attempt all reassessments in the August reassessment period immediately following the notification of your failure(s).
For more information on reassessment, see Section 5 of the university academic regulations.
Interruptions/leave of absence
If you are prevented from continuing your studies for ill-health or some other legitimate cause, you must apply to the Associate Dean (Academic) or nominee for your studies to be interrupted. You will be expected to provide a written, or word-processed, explanation of the circumstances, accompanied by professional third-party evidence to support your request; interruption of studies will not be considered without third party evidence to support it. Interruption requests must be received by the Associate Dean (Academic) before the final submission deadline for work on your programme.
Repeat year of study
There may be exceptional circumstances where the university allows students to repeat a level of study. There are exceptions and full details can be found in Section 5 of the university academic regulations. You should speak with your Programme Leader and/or Personal Tutor in the first instance.
Section 10: The student complaints and appeals processIt is our intention to deal with your concerns and queries as quickly and as efficiently as possible. It is therefore beneficial if concerns are raised as quickly as possible, to enable us to address the problem before it is too late. In order to help us in this, please take a note of the person who is dealing with your enquiry. This will help us follow up on the query should there be a need to do so.
Complaints If you are unhappy about the advice you have received, or have encountered any difficulties in obtaining advice and guidance, you should put these in writing and forward this written explanation to the relevant member of staff, as follows:
De Montfort University recognises the importance of effective complaints management as both a tool and a source of information for service improvement. The university welcomes feedback from all our students and recognises the right of students or alumni to raise issues of concern about the services provided by the university which may affect the quality of their student experience.
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We do expect concerns to be raised in a timely manner. Please see the Student Complaints Procedure in Chapter 9 of the General Regulations for timelines and deadlines.
We would always ask students to raise their initial concerns with the module or programme lead, or their personal tutor in the first instance. Often problems can be quickly resolved after a conversation with the relevant person. If you have trouble contacting the person you wish to speak to please ask your Student Advice Centre for help, or if you are still struggling to make contact you can ask the Academic Support Office to assist you. Contact us on [email protected].
If you don’t feel you have had your concern resolved after talking to someone, you can submit a formal Stage 1 complaint to the Academic Support Office using the online complaint form. Please keep your complaint text to a maximum of 800 words. The more concise your complaint, and the clearer your expectations of a resolution, the quicker it will be to address your concerns.
The Student Complaints Procedure can be found in the General Regulations and Policies Affecting Students 2020/21 at Chapter 9.
The De Montfort Students’ Union (DSU) provide advice and support to students who wish to consider a formal complaint, see: https://www.demontfortsu.com/news/article/6052/Complaints/
No matter what problems you have, please remember to keep in touch with us. If we know what’s happening to you, we will be able to help and the earlier you can contact us about difficulties the better it is. Where necessary, any advice or help given will remain confidential, unless it is felt that there is an issue of health and safety.
DMU has a Safeguarding policy, full details can be found here.
Academic appeals:You have the right to appeal, on specified grounds only, for reconsideration of the decision of any assessment board.You have the right to remain on the programme and continue with your studies until the outcome of the appeal is known, provided this is permitted by other results not under appeal. The formal regulations concerning what you should do if you wish to appeal against a decision by an assessment board are contained in chapter 8 of the General Regulations and Procedures Affecting Students .
Useful links:
Academic appeal forms:
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https://www.dmu.ac.uk/documents/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-services/academic-appeal-form-2018-19.pdf
Student complaints procedure: http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-support-office/student-complaints/student-complaints-procedure.aspx
General Regulations and Procedures Affecting Students – Chapter 8 ‘Rights of Appeal’:http://www.dmu.ac.uk/documents/dmu-students/academic-support-office/student-regulations/chapter-8-17.18.pdf
DSU Welfare support: https://www.demontfortsu.com/support/advice/
Section 11: The Student Voice
Student RepresentationWe want to ensure that you are involved with enhancing and developing your educational experience, therefore we elect course reps to represent the views of those on their course.
For this, you are encouraged to gather opinions from fellow students and create change by discussing this with your programme team. DSU’s Student Voice team are there to support you every step of the way, and encourage you to get in touch if you have any issues or ideas for enhancing lectures, tutorials, labs, studios, assessments and feedback.
Course RepsCourse representatives are in place for undergraduate and post graduate courses and are expected to feedback to programme leads any issues or queries with regards to their course/modules. They are expected to attend some key University meetings such as Staff Student Consultative Committees/Student Voice Committees and Programme Management Boards/Subject Academic Committees. Meetings are co-ordinated by the programme team and are typically held three times per academic year.
Course Rep Elections All Course Reps are elected through DSU, your student Union. This will be done twice a year September and March. A Course Rep holds their elected position for one year. Course representatives will be fully trained before they start their posts.
Further information on student representation can be obtained at: https://www.demontfortsu.com/voice/representation/ and http://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/quality-management-and-policy/academic-quality/student-voice/student-representation.aspx
Key contact
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[email protected](faculty specific information for APSE ESSENTIAL HERE]
*Programme specific information required*The [programme/faculty] Student Voice is chaired by (Name and email)
We Are DSU
De Montfort Students’ Union (DSU) is here for you. Every single student at De Montfort University (DMU) is automatically a member of DSU and we’re here to make sure you have a fantastic student journey, from your first day all the way to your graduation.
University is not only about education, but also developing and shaping your future through the experiences and memories you create. As an independent student-run and student-led organisation, DSU…
· Represents you;
· Looks out for your wellbeing;
· Creates a sense of belonging;
· and provides opportunities for you to get actively involved in student life.
You can find out more about what we offer and how you can get involved at demontfortsu.com or follow us on social media.
Facebook: De Montfort Students’ UnionTwitter: @demontfortsuInstagram: @demontfortsuTik Tok: @demontfortsu
Student satisfaction surveysA variety of mechanisms are employed to gather student feedback, including questionnaires and surveys. These are conducted both internally within De Montfort University (DMU), and externally across the higher education sector. Findings from these surveys are published and responded to.
Course Level Feedback National Student Survey (NSS) https://www.thestudentsurvey.com/ DMU Students’ Union feedback https://www.demontfortsu.com/voice/representation/ Student participation in academic quality processes such as new course approval
(validation), periodic review, partners approval events - http://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/quality-management-and-policy/academic-quality/student-voice/student-participation.aspx
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Section 12: Harvard Referencing, Good v Bad Academic Practice
Citation, Referencing and ReferencesUpdate this section to reflect the relevant information for your students including links to library support (if necessary). Delete any information not relevant to your programme.
Explain the correct referencing system. The new updated default style for DMU is Harvard (Cite them Right).
If your programme is using a different style, it should be one of the seven other styles available within the Cite them Right online support tool.
APA (6th or 7th) Chicago IEEE MHRA MLA OSCOLA Vancouver
Online guidance is provided for the Harvard (Cite Them Right) referencing style and all of the styles listed above by using the Cite Them Right Online Tool.
Cite them right online helps students learn the principles of referencing and the concepts of good academic practice and why this is important. The tool also provides guidance on how to reference over 150 source types, all with examples. To view this guidance, visit: https://library.dmu.ac.uk/refguide
The DMU Harvard guide will no longer be updated but will continue to be available at https://library.dmu.ac.uk/refguide for existing students who may be continuing to use this style. The Harvard style used by all new students should be Harvard (Cite them Right)’.
NB. A different style to Harvard (Cite Them Right) should only be used if there is a discipline specific reason for this. The whole programme should use the same referencing style and avoid using different styles across different modules.
Please bear in mind that students on joint programmes may need to use different referencing styles if you choose to depart from the default Harvard (Cite them Right) style. All support material (workshops, tutorials etc.) delivered by Library and Learning Services will focus on the Harvard (Cite them Right) specifics.
Include sources of support such as:
Referencing guide https://library.dmu.ac.uk/refguide RefWorks Guide: https://library.dmu.ac.uk/newref Referencing support, available from Academic Librarians, including 1:1 tutorials and
workshops and Coaching Corner sessions, available via the LLS Open Programme https://dmu-ac-uk.libcal.com/
Academic writing support available Learning & Study Support Home - Learning & Study Support - LibGuides at De Montfort University (dmu.ac.uk)
Explain the need for correct referencing in order to avoid bad academic practices. Useful resources are:
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Bad academic practice and the importance of referencing: http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-support-office/bad-academic-practice.aspx
Academic Practice OfficersIf you are suspected of committing an academic offence you will be called to a meeting with an academic practice officer (APO). APOs are based within in each faculty and it is their role to advise on how to prevent bad academic practice and academic offences and to deal with serious cases.
You have the right to be accompanied by a member of De Montfort University Students' Union, university staff or your family but not normally a solicitor or barrister acting in a professional capacity. If you prefer, you can make a written statement instead of attending the meeting.
At the meeting, the APO will discuss the alleged offence with you. The APO may also suggest further training or remedial work. If the APO considers you guilty, they will impose an appropriate penalty.
If your offence is a second offence or is otherwise deemed serious it will be referred to a panel, further information can be found in Chapter 4 of the Student Regulations.
If you are a research student, the role of the APO will be undertaken by your Faculty Head of Research Students.
Academic practice officers: penalties
Penalties that can be imposed by APOs include:
Setting aside the component or assignment concerned and requiring you to complete it as if for the first time
Failure of the component. You will be reassessed and the mark capped if appropriate and not disproportionate in effect
Failure of the component and the module. You will be reassessed in the module.
APO will, following discussion with a colleague from the Academic Support Office, submit your case to the Academic Offences Panel
For more information visit:
DMU web pages: http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-support-office/academic-offences.aspx
Chapter 4 of the https://www.dmu.ac.uk/documents/dmu-students/academic-support-office/student-regulations/chapter-4-17.18.pdf
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Section 13: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I am ill or absent from university?If you are unable to attend a workshop/seminar/lecture for any reason (such as illness), you must notify the relevant Module Tutor/Leader, preferably by email and in advance. Alternatively, you can contact the Faculty Student Advice Centre. On your return to the university, it is recommended that you check your module blackboard sites and see your module tutors to discuss any work that you have missed
How do I notify the University of any changes in my personal details (e.g. term-time address)?You need to let the Faculty Student Advice Centre know of any changes in your personal/contact details during the year. There are two ways you can do this:
Complete a Change of Contact Details form available from the Faculty Student Advice Centre
via myDMU
What should I do if I lose my Student ID card?If you lose or have your Student ID card stolen you will have to pay for a replacement (approximately £10). Replacement Student ID cards can be obtained from the ASK Desk in The Student Gateway in the Gateway building
What should I do if I can’t log into myDMU, student email or other University online systems?If you have any problems accessing your DMU account, please contact theComputer Technicians in the computer rooms or in the library, or IT support:http://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/professional-services/information-technology-and-media-services/service-desk.aspx
[email protected] 250 6050
What should I do if I need advice about personal issues?Your first port of call if are experiencing personal issues that are having an impact on your studies is your Personal Tutor. However, your Personal Tutor is not a trained counsellor, and therefore if you have serious personal issues, the Faculty Student Advice Centre may be more appropriate, as its staff can point you in the direction of more specific support
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What should I do if I want to change programmes?Should you wish to change your programme then you should discuss the matter with the Faculty Student Advice Centre and the appropriate Programme Leader(s), who will advise you of the possibilities.
You cannot change on to any new subject/programme without the written permission of the Subject/Programme Leader and the Associate Dean (Academic) (or nominee) on the appropriate form. If you are moving between Faculties, then the approval of both Subject/Programme Leaders and Associate Dean (Academic)’s are required.
All changes to subject/programme must be made as soon as possible after the start of the year of study, and within the first two weeks of the commencement of the year of study
What should I do if I am thinking of withdrawing from my studies?Sometimes students decide that they wish to withdraw from their studies – that is, leave their programme at the University completely. If you are considering withdrawing or transferring, please see your Programme Leader to discuss the matter. If you do decide to withdraw, you must inform the Associate Dean (Academic) or nominee in writing. You will be asked to state your last day of attendance; this date will be confirmed with your Programme/Module Leader and is the date notified to the Student Loans Company and used to determine the academic fee due. You should therefore take advice on the financial implications of withdrawal from study from DMU Money and Welfare in The Student Gateway in the Gateway building.
It is most important that you do not leave without telling us and that you inform us of your last date of attendance. If you do leave without officially telling us then your last day of attendance will be the end of the academic year and you will therefore be liable for the full University fees for the whole academic year.
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Appendix – List of Principal Abbreviations
This section can be contextualised to include abbreviations relevant to your programme and faculty. Please delete any that are not relevant to your programme.
You can find a glossary of terms used for your learning at: https://www.dmu.ac.uk/academic/centre-academic-innovation/staff-support-for-remote-teaching/teaching-online-glossary.aspx
Abbreviation Meaning
DMU De Montfort UniversityMLF Module Level Feedback. At the end of each module, you will have an
opportunity to fill in a Module Level Feedback questionnaire. This allows you to tell us your opinions and to bring up any concerns (and to praise what you have enjoyed!).
SVC Student Voice Committee; a committee attended by Course Representatives (also known as ‘student reps’) from each year of study. Before each meeting, the Course Representatives ask students for comments, feedback, suggestions or praise on any aspect of the programme. These comments are then discussed at the Student Voice meetings.
SAC Student Advice Centre. They are usually the people to go to if you need advice about things like student ID cards, disabilities, timetables or deferring assessments. They have copies of various forms you may need, such as module/programme change forms or assessment deferral forms.
CLaSS Centre for Learning and Study Support. Based at the University Library, CLaSS offers a range of support aimed at enhancing your academic practice, writing development and professional skills, including workshops and one-to-one study support.
VLE Virtual Learning Environment. The VLE we use at DMU is called “Blackboard”. You will have access to Blackboard through your myDMU pages. On Blackboard, you will find dedicated sites for each of your modules, where you can access lecture notes, handbooks, reading lists and other learning materials. Blackboard is also where we make important announcements, so it is important that you access it regularly.
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