Learning Programme Regulations - Institute For Education and Form… · harassment privately and in...

Learning

Programme

Regulations Version 1.2

2018-2019

Learning Programme Regulations | Institute for Education

Martin Luther King Road, Pembroke PBK 1990. Tel: +35625982001 | Email: [email protected]

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Contents

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 4

2. Learning Programme Information .................................................................................................. 4

2.1. General Information ............................................................................................................... 4

2.2. Programme Delivery ............................................................................................................... 5

3. The Institute for Education’s Community ....................................................................................... 5

3.1 Equal opportunities policy ...................................................................................................... 5

3.2 Discrimination and Harassment .................................................................................................... 6

4. Learning with the Institute for Education ....................................................................................... 7

4.1. The Course Participants’ Commitment ................................................................................... 7

4.2. Recognition of Prior Learning ................................................................................................. 7

4.3. Assessment ............................................................................................................................. 8

4.3.1. Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism ............................................................................. 8

4.3.2. Examination Cheating ................................................................................................... 10

4.3.3. Coursework ................................................................................................................... 11

4.3.4. Submission of coursework ............................................................................................ 11

4.3.5. Marking and returning assignments ............................................................................. 12

4.3.6. Word limits for assignments ......................................................................................... 12

4.3.7. Referencing ................................................................................................................... 12

4.3.8. Group work and Collaborative Assessment .................................................................. 13

4.3.9. Examinations ................................................................................................................. 13

4.3.10. Resits ............................................................................................................................. 14

4.3.11. Internal Verification ...................................................................................................... 14

4.3.12. Academic appeals ......................................................................................................... 15

4.3.13. Research ethics ............................................................................................................. 15

4.3.14. IT Acceptable Use Policy ............................................................................................... 16

4.3.15. Feedback ....................................................................................................................... 17

5. Other Regulations and Guidelines ................................................................................................ 18

5.1. Attendance Regulations ........................................................................................................ 18

5.2. Progression and Certification ................................................................................................ 19

5.3. Extending duration of study .................................................................................................. 19

5.4. Illness and other Extenuating Circumstances ....................................................................... 19

5.5. Withdrawal............................................................................................................................ 20

5.6. Data Protection ..................................................................................................................... 21

5.7. Complaints ............................................................................................................................ 21

5.8. Dissertation ........................................................................................................................... 22

5.9. Practicum .............................................................................................................................. 22

5.10. Internship .......................................................................................................................... 23

5.11. In-Class Co-Teaching Tutors .............................................................................................. 23

5.12. Health and Safety .............................................................................................................. 24

5.13. Conduct ............................................................................................................................. 24

6. Document Version ........................................................................................................................ 25



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Acronyms

ECTS European Credit Transfer System FOIA Freedom of Information Act GDPR General Data Protection Regulations IfE Institute for Education IT Information Technology MQF Malta Qualifications Framework NAA National Archives Act NCFHE National Commission for Further and Higher

Education RPL Recognition of Prior Learning



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1. Introduction

These regulations specify the minimum requirements the course participant must meet in

terms of: admission; academic requirements including progression, attendance and

participation, withdrawal, and termination of studies; assessment; and programme

management. The Learning Programme Regulations provide additional guidance to support

course participants.

These regulations apply only to the:

i. Bachelor Degrees at MQF Level 6

ii. Postgraduate Certificate, Post Graduate Diploma, Master Degrees at MQF Level 7

2. Learning Programme Information

2.1. General Information

All programmes at the Institute for Education are recognised and pegged to the Malta

Qualifications Framework (MQF) since all courses/professional learning programmes are

accredited by the NCFHE. The workload for each course/professional learning programme is

in ECTS. The course/ professional learning programme are learning outcomes based and each

course/ professional learning programme description includes specific and defined

knowledge, skills and competences that the course participant would gain after the successful

completion of the course / professional learning programme.



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Qualifications Offered by the Institute

Type of Qualification

Min.

period of

study

Max.

period of

study

MQF Level No. of ECTS

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Education Honours (B. Ed.

(Hons.) 4 yrs p/t 6 yrs p/t 6 180

Postgraduate

Postgraduate Certificate in Assessment for

Learning Teaching Strategies at (PG Cert.) 2 yrs p/t 4 yrs p/t 7 30

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PG

Cert.) 1yr p/t 3 yrs p/t 7 30-59

Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PG Dip

Ed.) 2yrs p/t 4 yrs p/t 7 60-89

Master of Education (M. Ed.) 3 yrs p/t 5 yrs p/t 7 90

Master in Applied Educational Leadership

(M.A.E.L.) 3yrs p/t 5 yrs p/t 7 90

2.2. Programme Delivery

The language of instruction and assessment shall be English with the exception of Maltese

used in modules specific to the Maltese language.

3. The Institute for Education’s Community

3.1 Equal opportunities policy

The Institute is committed to equality of opportunity and to a pro-active and inclusive

approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups,

promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity. This commitment is underpinned by the

Institute’s core values, expressed in its mission statement.

The Institute will take active steps to promote good practice. In particular, it will:

Work towards the elimination of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and

victimization based on a protected characteristic, whether actual, perceptive,

or associative.



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Advance equality of opportunity between persons who share a protected

characteristic and persons who do not share it.

Foster good relations between persons who share a protected characteristic

and persons who do not share it.

Subject its policies to continuous assessment in order to examine how they

affect protected groups and to identify whether its policies help to achieve

equality of opportunity for all these groups, or whether they have an adverse

impact.

Monitor the recruitment and progress of all course participants and

employees, collecting and collating equalities information and data as required

by law or for the furtherance of the Institute’s equalities objectives.

Promote an inclusive culture, good practice in teaching, learning, and

assessment, and good management practice, through the development of

codes of best practice, policies, and training.

Take positive action wherever possible to support this policy and its aims.

Publish its policy widely amongst employees and students, together with policy

assessments, equality analysis and results of monitoring.

Additional Information regarding equal opportunities can be found in the Equal Opportunities

Policy and Procedures.

3.2 Discrimination and Harassment

All incidents of harassment based on a course participant’s sex, gender, gender

identity or expression or sexual orientation will be resolved through the Course

Participants' Conduct Policy and Procedures.

Incidents of harassment based on a course participant’s race, colour, national

origin, disability, religion, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected

by law will be resolved through the Course Participant Conduct Policy (if the alleged

harasser is a course participant) or through the in accordance with Institute’s

personnel policies (if the alleged harasser is an academic member or staff).

A course participant may also seek emotional support by discussing the alleged

harassment privately and in confidence with a psychologist.

Non-Retaliation: It is a violation of the Institute’s policy to retaliate in any way

against students because they have raised allegations of discrimination or unlawful

harassment.

Additional information regarding course participants’ grievances can be found in the Course

Participants’ Grievance Policy and Procedures.

https://instituteforeducation.gov.mt/en/Documents/Policies%20and%20Forms/Policies%20and%20Procedures/Equal%20Opportunities%20Policy%20-%20IfE.pdf

https://instituteforeducation.gov.mt/en/Documents/Policies%20and%20Forms/Policies%20and%20Procedures/Equal%20Opportunities%20Policy%20-%20IfE.pdf

https://instituteforeducation.gov.mt/en/Documents/Policies%20and%20Forms/Policies%20and%20Procedures/Course%20Participants%27%20Conduct%20Policy%20and%20Procedures%20-%20V%201.0%20-%20%20Institute%20for%20Education.pdf



https://instituteforeducation.gov.mt/en/Documents/Policies%20and%20Forms/Policies%20and%20Procedures/Course%20Participants%27%20Grievance%20Policy%20and%20Procedures.pdf




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4. Learning with the Institute for Education

4.1. The Course Participants’ Commitment

Course participants are encouraged to be committed to the following:

Engage actively in the learning process and participate according to assessment

requirements;

Provide considered, honest and timely feedback to the Institute and its staff on the

quality of teaching and Institute services;

Complete assessment tasks diligently and honestly to provide evidence of learning

outcomes;

Meet assessment requirements as specified in the course outline, including

submission of work by the due date;

Consult the course co-ordinator as early as possible about any disability issues;

Discuss any concerns they have regarding their progress in coursework and

assessment as early as possible with relevant lecturers, the and/or the Manager

Programme Development Coordination and Implementation;

Consult with the lecturer (in the first instance) and Manager Programme

Development Coordination and Implementation, if personal circumstances are

affecting participation or performance in assessment;

Raise any concerns they may have regarding the marks for each assessment task

promptly, rather than wait until the final grade is awarded in the unit;

Access and abide by all policies, procedures and regulations relating to assessment

and seek clarification, where necessary.

4.2. Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is a formalised process through which credit may be

awarded for learning undertaken prior to the commencement of a course offered by the

Institute for Education (IfE) or learning completed together with, but not a part of the Institute

course for which a prospective course participant has applied or is registered.

Evidence for credit of prior learning may include:

Evidence of current competence

Performance, demonstration, or skills test

Portfolio, logbook, task book, projects or assignments

Written presentation

Interview

Case studies

Third party reports (statutory declarations)

Photographic evidence



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If there is sufficient evidence in the application and supporting documentation, no further

assessment may be necessary. If further assessment is required, it may take any practical form

consistent with the assessment criteria for the claimed competencies and the principles of

validity, reliability, fairness and flexibility. The form of assessment may be negotiated with the

student and may consist of interview, written assignment, exam, or other method.

Assessment will be conducted by RPL Board. A standard fee per /course will be charged for

the RPL assessment. Course Participants are notified promptly of the RPL outcome.

RPL Procedure

Access the RPL application form on the Institute’s website.

Complete application.

Return application form with supporting evidence/assessment exercises.

Application is assessed within ten (10) working days.

Applicant is promptly advised of outcome.

If unsuccessful, course participant is advised of appeal procedure.

If successful, course participant is advised of credit transfer details.

Additional Information regarding Recognition of Prior Learning can be found in the

Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and Procedures.

4.3. Assessment

The Institute for Education is committed to providing high quality teaching, learning and

assessment to enable all course participants to achieve their full potential. This will be

achieved through; high quality teaching and learning opportunities, rigorous assessment and

feedback and the sharing of good practice.

During a course offered by the Institute for Education, course participants will be asked to

submit a number of different formats of assignments which may include; essays, portfolios,

reflective journals, project or other types of coursework.

4.3.1. Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism

Academic dishonesty includes but is not limited to:

a. Plagiarism - the intentional or unintentional presentation of another person's idea

or product as one's own. Plagiarism includes but is not limited to the following:

- Copying verbatim all or part of another's written work;

- Using phrases, charts, figures, illustrations, or mathematical or scientific

solutions without citing the source;

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- Paraphrasing ideas, conclusions or research without citing the source in the

text and in reference lists;

- Changing words but copying the sentence structure of a source without citing

the source;

- Copying so many words or ideas from a source that it makes up the majority

of your work, whether you give credit or not.

b. Cheating – the use or attempt to use unauthorized materials, information, or

study aids in any academic exercise.

c. Fabrication - the falsification or invention of any information or citation in an

academic exercise.

d. Obtaining or giving aid in an examination;

e. Presenting another's work as one's own or doing work for another student;

f. Having unauthorized prior knowledge of an examination.

The Institute ensures procedures for due process for course participants accused or

suspected of acts of academic dishonesty on work performed within a course; and

imposes appropriate sanctions on course participants found to be guilty of acts of

academic dishonesty.

All charges of academic dishonesty will be brought. The Institute expects all

members of the course participants and staff - to share the responsibility and

authority to report known acts of academic dishonesty. In every case of alleged

academic dishonesty, the burden of proof rests with the Institute lecturer to clearly

demonstrate that the course participant committed an act of academic dishonesty.

Course participants can avoid unintentional plagiarism by carefully following

accepted scholarly practices. Notes taken for papers and research projects should

accurately record sources of material to be cited, appropriately quoted, paraphrased

or summarized, and papers and research projects should acknowledge these sources

in the appropriate places in the text of the paper as well as in a reference list at the

end of the paper, in accordance with accepted citation practices.

The Institute may determine if the resubmission of coursework from previous classes

partially or in its entirety, is acceptable or unacceptable when assigning a grade on

that piece of coursework.

The Institute uses a sophisticated detection system (Turnitin) to scan work for

evidence of plagiarism. This system has access to billions of sources worldwide

(websites, journals etc.) as well as work previously submitted to the Institute and

other institutions and universities. Written assignments will need to be submitted

electronically as well as in paper form.



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4.3.2. Examination Cheating

Any suspicion of exam cheating will be reported by the invigilator/lecturer to

Institute’s Academic Board, which handles such cases.

When a case regarding suspected exam cheating is reported to the Academic Board,

the course participant will be informed that his/her exam will not be assessed while

the case is being investigated.

When the Academic Board receives a report on suspected exam cheating, all details

will be assessed before it is decided whether to reject the report or to continue the

consideration of the case.

If the consideration of the case continues, the course participant will receive a letter

with a summary of the facts of the case. Along with this letter the course participant

will receive a copy of the report, a copy of his/her exam paper with the indication of

where in the paper there is a suspicion of cheating and a copy of the sources.

The purpose of the letter is to give the course participant the opportunity to

comment on the case before a decision is made.

The course participant may at any time during the consideration of the case request

a meeting, where he/she have the opportunity to comment on the case. The

invigilator/lecturer responsible for the reporting to the Academic Board has the

same opportunity if they find it necessary for the proceedings of the case.

A decision will be made on the case based on the report and the subsequent meeting.

The consideration of cases regarding suspected exam cheating normally takes six to

eight weeks from the time the Academic Board receives the report until a final

decision is made.

If a sanction is imposed, the course participants’ participation in the exam may be

declared invalid and she/he will be awarded an F.

If the report on suspected exam cheating is rejected or if the sanction is a warning,

and the course participant has participated in re-examination in the intervening

period, he/she will retain the highest exam result.

If a sanction has been imposed against the course participant for cheating, he/she

can, when the sanction has been carried out, continue all study-related activities on

equal terms with the other course participants at the Institute. Consequently, no

special measures will be taken to mitigate the circumstances, and he/she will not be

under enhanced supervision during future exams. Cases regarding exam cheating are

confidential, and the Institute’s staff is pledged to secrecy.

Possible sanctions and penalties range from a warning to permanent expulsion from

the course and are imposed on the basis of an overall assessment of the gravity of

the offence in the specific case.



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The Academic Board may impose the following sanctions:

i. Issue of a warning

ii. Cancellation of examination

iii. Temporary or permanent expulsion from the course.

4.3.3. Coursework

Programmes should generally require course participants to submit an electronic

copy of their coursework where this is applicable to the task.

All submitted work should be prefaced by a completed assessment cover sheet.

All course participants are able to access Turnitin plagiarism prevention software

(available through the Institute’s web portal) in advance of the submission date for

all text-based assignments. The maximum similarity percentage accepted by the

Institute is that of 21%.

Course participants should retain a copy of submitted work.

No coursework or equivalent must have been previously submitted towards any

credit bearing component of an award (Refer to the Academic Dishonesty and

Plagiarism Policy).

4.3.4. Submission of coursework

All work must be submitted by the deadline as determined by the Institute and

notified to course participants at the start of the course/session.

Where there is network failure and the Institute’s web portal, Turnitin or the Institute

network is not accessible at the time of submission or in the 12-hour period before

that time, the submission deadline will be extended to the next working day on which

the Institute’s web portal, Turnitin or the network becomes available.

Work submitted beyond the submission date but within 3 working days (i.e.

excluding weekends and public holidays) will be accepted as an unauthorised late

submission. The maximum mark that can be awarded will be the pass mark (45%).

Unauthorised late submission applies only to the first assessment of coursework, and

not to authorised extensions, deferred assessment or reassessment. It also does not

apply to timed assessments such as presentations, group work, exhibitions or

performances.

Work submitted beyond 3 working days (i.e. excluding weekends and public

holidays) after the submission date will be regarded as non-submission and awarded

zero (F).

Authorised extensions to submission may be agreed by the module tutor for valid

reasons and on application by the course participant through Institute procedures.

An extension may normally be given for up to 10 working days. Extensions beyond 2



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weeks may be given in exceptional circumstances. No penalty will be applied to the

mark, provided the work is within the renegotiated deadline. It is important that any

extension agreed should still permit the assessment item to be marked and

presented to the Institute.

At the end of each module, course participants will be awarded a grade which reflect

the total mark obtained in accordance with the table hereunder:

Mark Range Letter Grade Description

95% -100% A+ Work of exceptional quality

80% - 94% A Work of excellent quality

75% - 79% B+ Work of very good quality

70% - 74% B Work of good quality

65% - 69% C+ Work of average quality

55% - 64% C Work of fair quality

50% - 54% D+ Work of rather low quality

45% - 49% D Marginal Pass

0% - 45% F Unsatisfactory, failing work

4.3.5. Marking and returning assignments

Assignments shall normally be marked by the lecturer within four weeks of the

published submission date.

Grades are always subject to internal verification.

Individual feedback by the lecturer shall be given to course participants on Turnitin

Feedback Studio.

The lecturer’s feedback shall state what has been achieved or not achieved and

possible areas for development.

4.3.6. Word limits for assignments

It is expected that all course participants can demonstrate achievement of the learning

outcomes for an assessment within the defined word limit. An assignment is also normally

acceptable if it is 10% above or below the word limit. The word limit does not include

‘administrative’ sections of the assignment such as the cover or title page, table of contents,

table of figures, reference list, list of works cited, bibliography, or any appendices.

4.3.7. Referencing

When course participants write an assignment, they are required to refer to the work

of other authors. Each time this is done, it is necessary to identify their work by

making reference to it both in the text of your assignment and in a list at the end of



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an assignment. This practice of acknowledging authors is known as referencing.

References must be provided whenever someone else’s opinions, theories, data or

organisation of material is used. Information from books, articles, videos, computers,

other print or electronic sources, and personal communications need to be

referenced.

A reference is required if a course participant quotes, copies (uses figures, tables or

structure), paraphrases (converts someone else’s ideas into your own words) and/or

summarises (uses a brief account of someone else’s ideas).

There are a number of different referencing systems used in academic writing. The

standard referencing system acknowledged by the Institute is the author-date

systems commonly known as Harvard and APA (American Psychological Association)

It is important that the referencing system required by the lecturer for an assignment

is used and consistency in using that system is maintained.

4.3.8. Group work and Collaborative Assessment

An assessment task in any unit may require group and/or collaborative work. Any such work

will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements set out in the course outline. Any

course participant who considers him/herself disadvantaged by the actions of other group

members, over which he/she has no control, should notify the lecturer in a timely manner

and provide substantiating documentation of any problems in relation to such group or

collaborative work.

4.3.9. Examinations

An examination is defined as a formal, timed assessment of any duration that is

subject to continuous invigilation.

Examination timetables giving dates, times and venues will be published by on the

VLE and made available on the Institute’s website in good time.

Attendance at examinations is compulsory and no alternative dates can be arranged.

Course participants are responsible for presenting for examination in accordance

with the published timetable. Failure to attend without good reason is counted as a

sit and attracts the mark of zero (F).

Attendance at examinations implies fitness to take the assessment. Course

participants unable to attend through known extenuating circumstances or those in

attendance who subsequently realise extenuating circumstances have affected their

performance, should submit a claim with supporting evidence for consideration by

the Extenuating Circumstances Board.



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4.3.10. Resits

If a course participant fails a module (i.e. obtains an overall module mark below the

pass mark) due to not meeting the academic requirements, submitting late or not

submitting/not attending an exam, he/she will normally be given the opportunity

to resit the component(s) and the module mark will be capped at the pass mark

(45%/D). The course participant does not need to re-attend the module, or to resit /

resubmit components of assessment that she/he has already passed.

A candidate for reassessment is normally reassessed in the failed elements of

assessment and by the same methods as the first attempt (unless a different method

of reassessment is specifically stated in the module description or an alternative form

of assessment is approved due to extenuating circumstances).

If the course participant obtains less than 45%/D in the resit, he/she would be

considered to have failed the programme of study.

Course participants who fail a unit or a number of units after the resit may be

considered by the Academic Board to repeat the outstanding units, with attendance,

with the following cohort, assuming space on the course permitting and subject to

same unit being delivered in the following cohort. In this case, the course participant

is still eligible for a resit under the same conditions as above (with the new cohort).

Course participants who fail; more than 20% of the units of the Bachelor’s Degree;

and/or more than 20% of the units of the Master’s Degree will be required to repeat

the academic year assuming space on the course permitting and subject to same

units being delivered in the following cohort. The course participant is encouraged

to seek advice from the respective course co-ordinator.

4.3.11. Internal Verification

The Institute adopts the process of internal verification which ensures consistency among

markers through meeting to discuss how they have approached assessments. Approaches

used include:

Sampling (where a selection of assessments are looked at by the internal verifier to

ensure they are consistent. The selection usually includes assessments marked at the

top, middle and bottom of the grade range).

Blind/anonymous marking (where assessors do not know which course participant’s

work they are marking).

Double blind marking (where two people mark the same assessment without seeing

each other’s comments or grading, then meet to discuss).

Moderation is particularly important when an assignment is judged to be borderline

between two grades, especially if the result may cause a course participant to fail

that assessment.



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4.3.12. Academic appeals

Within five days of being notified of the result of an assessment, a course participant

who wishes to contest the decision must seek an appointment with the lecturer in

charge, in an endeavour to resolve the matter satisfactorily and amicably.

If, following the meeting with the examiner/assessor, the course participant feels

that the outcomes is not justified; he/she may wish to lodge a formal appeal against

the assessment decision. For such purposes, the course participant shall send an

email with the formal appeal to Institute on [email protected] within ten (10)

working days.

Additional Information regarding Assessment Procedures can be found in the Teaching,

Learning and Assessment Policy and Procedures.

4.3.13. Research ethics

Any research involving humans or non-human participants requires ethics approval

in accordance with the Research Ethics Policy and Procedures before the research

can be carried out.

The necessity to obtain ethics clearance is based on the need to protect the welfare

and rights of participants in research, the researcher(s), the IfE and the community

in general.

No research project at the IfE is to be commenced by a researcher until the required

ethics approval as per Ethics Regulations of the Institute and the Research and Policy

Development Directorate within the Ministry for Education and Employment has

been obtained.

Research involving humans is research conducted with or about people, or their

data. Human participation in research includes, but is not limited to, the involvement

of human beings through:

i. Taking part in surveys, interviews or focus groups;

ii. Undergoing psychological, physiological, or medical testing;

iii. Being observed by researchers;

iv. Permitting researchers access to their personal documents or other materials;

v. Consenting access to their information (in individually identifiable, re-

identifiable or non-identifiable form) as part of an existing or unpublished

source or database.

Research that does not directly involve humans but can impact upon them also

requires ethics approval. Examples of this may include research involving:

i. Sites of community, cultural, historical or religious significance to a definable

group of humans;

ii. Findings which have a direct and significant impact upon the personal or

professional affairs of a definable group of humans.

mailto:[email protected]

https://instituteforeducation.gov.mt/en/Documents/Policies%20and%20Forms/Policies%20and%20Procedures/Teaching,%20Learning%20and%20Assessment%20Policy%20and%20Procedures%20-%20IfE.pdf

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4.3.14. IT Acceptable Use Policy

The Institute provides Information Technology (IT) resources to a large and varied

group of educators. In accordance with the IT Acceptable Use Policy, all users have

the responsibility to use these resources in an effective, efficient, ethical, and legal

manner. Ethical and legal standards that apply to IT resources are based on the

standards of common sense and courtesy that apply to any shared resource. The

Institute provides IT resources with the stipulation that IT users act as good citizens

and that they contribute to creating and maintaining an open community of

responsible users.

IT resources include all the Institute’s owned, licensed, or managed hardware and

software, the Institute’s assigned user accounts on the portal or other third-party

software accessed via the portal (Turnitin, Emerald Publishing, ProQuest and

Alexander Street), and use of the Institute’s network via a physical or wireless

connection, regardless of the ownership of the computer or device connected to the

network.

In making acceptable use of resources, users must:

- Use IT resources only for authorized purposes.

- Protect their User ID(s) and system from unauthorized use. Each individual is

responsible for all accesses to the Institute’s information resources and

technology by their User ID(s) or any activity originating from their

system. An individual’s User ID and password act together as their electronic

signature.

- Access only information to which they have been given authorized access or

that is publicly available.

- Use only legal versions of copyrighted software in compliance with vendor

license requirements.

- Be considerate in the use of shared resources. Refrain from monopolizing

systems, overloading networks with excessive data, degrading services, or

wasting computer time, connection time, disk space, printer paper, manuals,

or other resources.

- Restrict personal use of the Institute’s information resources and technology

to incidental, intermittent and minor use that is consistent with applicable

law and Institute Policy.

Users must NOT use the Institute’s IT resources to:

- Other than in the course of performing their duties, knowingly access,

download or distribute illegal or inappropriate material, including material

that is in any way pornographic, obscene, abusive, racist, libellous,

defamatory or threatening.

- Engage in any form of bullying or other behaviour which is illegal or likely to

cause harassment to others.



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- Use social media to degrade, bully or intentionally offend staff, course

participants or other users or use these tools to bring the reputation of the

Institute into disrepute.

- Gain unauthorised access to the account, systems or equipment of any third

party - attempts at ‘hacking’ may result in criminal prosecution in Malta or

elsewhere.

- Use another user’s credentials to log into his/her account.

- Perform any activities which contravene the law, or the destination country

in the case of data being transmitted abroad.

- Undertake commercial activities or to otherwise further commercial

objectives which are not a part of the user’s work/studies in the Institute.

- Breach the copyright, patent or other intellectual property rights of any

person including, by downloading unlicensed software or other unauthorised

materials.

- Breach the data protection or other privacy rights of any person. Please refer

to the Institute’s Data Protection Policy.

- Use of the Institute’s systems or resource to facilitate plagiarism or cheating

in exams or assignments.

- Access, modify, or interfere with computer material, data, displays, or storage

media belonging to the Institute or another user, except with their

permission.

- Connect unauthorised equipment to the Institute’s network.

- Load or execute unlicensed software or other material on the Institute's IT

resources where this is likely to breach the licensing conditions or other

Intellectual Property rights.

- Knowingly introduce any virus, malware or other destructive program or

device into the Institute’s systems or network.

- Store sensitive or confidential Institute data on personal devices.

Additional Information regarding the IT Acceptable Use Policy can be found in the Information

Technology Acceptable Use Policy.

4.3.15. Feedback

All course assessed work is returned to course participants in a timely way, normally

within four weeks of the assessment’s due date.

Feedback for assessed work is given to course participants before the next assessed

task takes place, or the final examination, or other end-of-course assessment is

submitted, in order that course participants can benefit from feedback before

further assessment events. This is particularly important when the assessment builds

on a previous assessment.

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In addition to a mark or grade, course participants receive an indication of the

strengths and weaknesses of their work and guidance about how to improve the

quality of future work. This takes the form of: oral or written feedback and student-

specific comments; exemplars of course participant work at various grade levels;

and/or a general commentary on common errors demonstrated by the class.

Lecturers are encouraged to provide criteria and rubrics for course participants that

clearly demonstrate different levels of achievement.

Course participants are provided with an indication of the distribution of results for

the class when each assessed item is returned, in order to inform their own progress.

5. Other Regulations and Guidelines

5.1. Attendance Regulations

The Institute’s strategic plan promotes course participants as partners in learning. Course

participants are active participants in their learning experiences and must take responsibility

for achieving their potential through successful completion of each stage of their studies. As

a responsible institution, the Institute believes it has a duty to follow-up promptly on matters

of non-attendance so that course participants can be supported and given every opportunity

to succeed. The Institute for Education, for its part, will continue to build excellence in

academic practice and course participant engagement across the institution in order to

provide a friendly and welcoming learning community.

Regular attendance in class is expected of all course participants at all levels at the

Institute. While classes are conducted on the premise that regular attendance is

expected, the Institute recognises extenuating circumstances (See table overleaf) as

legitimate reasons for absence from class.

Course participants must ensure that their attendance of the face-to-face sessions

does not fall below 80% in any particular year.

Course participants shall respect time of commencement and ending of sessions as

established by the Institute.

Lecturers shall not accept course participants in class when the latter turn up later

than 10 minutes after the session would have started unless the reason behind being

late is retained valid by the lecturer. It must be ensured that this is kept to a

minimum.

If course participants fail from a module/study unit due to any absence they may

apply to take a whole module/study unit again during the year following the end of

their course or when the module/study is offered again by the Institute. Course

participants will be required to follow the whole module if he/she needs to



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undertake the assessment. This is space permitting, and provided permission from

the Academic Board is obtained beforehand. Registration fees may be applicable. If

permission is granted there shall be no grade penalty.

Additional Information regarding Attendance Procedures can be found in the Attendance


5.2. Progression and Certification

The Institute is committed to provide support to assist course participants to complete the

programme in which they have enrolled. The Institute has fair, transparent and effective

processes to monitor course participant progression, to identify course participants who may

need additional assistance, and to enable the certification of successful course participants.

Additional Information regarding Progression and Certification can be found in the Course

Participants’ Progression and Certification Policy.

5.3. Extending duration of study

The Institute will only extend the duration of a course participant’s study where it is clear that

the course participant will not complete the course within the expected duration for that

course as the result of:

Extenuating circumstances (refer to the Extenuating Circumstances Policy);

The IfE has implemented a designated intervention strategy for course participants

who are at risk of not meeting satisfactory progress for a specific reason;

An approved leave of absence (refer to the Leave of Absence Policy).

5.4. Illness and other Extenuating Circumstances

The Institute recognises that course participants may suffer from a sudden illness or other

serious and unforeseen event or set of circumstances which adversely affects their ability to

complete an assessment or the results they obtain for an assessment. In such cases the

extenuating circumstances regulations and procedures may be applied. These regulations are

designed to ensure the fair and consistent treatment of all course participants.

https://instituteforeducation.gov.mt/en/Documents/Policies%20and%20Forms/Policies%20and%20Procedures/Attendance%20Policy%20and%20Procedures.pdf

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If the ability to take an assessment or the results that the course participants obtains for an

assessment have been adversely affected by an extenuating circumstance, the course

participants must:

1. Notify the Institute immediately;

2. Fill-in the extenuating circumstances form;

3. Submit appropriate documentary evidence to substantiate the claim of extenuating

circumstances that are referred to form. This evidence has to show that the

circumstances:

i. have detrimentally affected their performance/submission/attendance in

assessment or will do so;

ii. were unforeseen;

iii. were out of their control and could not have been prevented;

iv. relate directly to the timing of the assessment affected.

Types of extenuating circumstances and documentary evidence:

Extenuating Circumstance Example of Evidence

Illness / Injury / Hospitalisation A medical certificate signed by a registered doctor.

Illness of a dependant / close relative

A medical certificate signed by a registered doctor verifying the illness. Or

Other appropriate signed medical evidence.

Bereavement A letter from the family doctor

Victim of crime Police/crime report.

Or Signed statement from a professional counsellor/doctor.

Other serious circumstances In these cases, the course participant should provide to the Institute all

available specific facts and documentation.

Additional information regarding extenuating circumstances can be found in the Extenuating

Circumstances Policy.

5.5. Withdrawal

A course participant who wishes to withdraw from a course/study unit before the

completion of the programme of study shall give notice in writing to the course co-

ordinator.

Course participants may request any certification for which they are eligible. There

shall be no refund of tuition fees if such withdrawal takes place after the stipulated

date. (Refer to the Tuition Fees Policy 2018-2019)



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5.6. Data Protection

The Institute’s Records Policy establishes parameters for appropriate use of course

participants’ records, establish course participants’ rights relative to education and other

course participants’ records, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The Institute commits itself to maintain course participants’ records:

Accurately

Securely

In a timely manner

So that they meet the requirements of the GDPR, NAA, FOIA and any other relevant

legislation.

Additional information regarding data protection can be found in the Data Protection Policy

and the Course Participants’ Records Policy.

5.7. Complaints

The Institute is committed to providing a high quality educational experience for course

participants, supported by excellent academic and administrative support services. However,

it is recognised that from time to time problems do arise, and course participants may wish

to express their concerns or dissatisfaction. Applicants will not be disadvantaged in any way

because they have used the procedure.

The subject of the complaint should relate specifically to one or more of the following, or

comparable issues:

Failure of the Institute to meet obligations;

Misleading or incorrect information in Institute’s website and other information

provided by the Institute;

Concerns about the delivery of a programme, teaching, supervision or

administration

Poor quality of facilities, learning resources or services provided directly by the

Institute;

Complaints involving other organisations or contractors providing a service on

behalf of the Institute;

Complaints relating to allegations of bullying, harassment or victimisation by

members of staff are associated with the Course Participants’ Grievance Policy and

Procedures within the Institute. If the complaint is within the scope of the Course

Participants’ Grievance Policy and Procedures and informal resolution is not

appropriate then a formal investigation in accordance with the policy will be

undertaken.

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Complaints about the behaviour of course participants towards other course

participants are within the scope of the Institute’s Course Participants’ Conduct


Additional information regarding the complaints procedure can be found in the Course

Participants Complaints Policy and Procedures.

5.8. Dissertation

A dissertation is a piece of independent and original research carried out by course

participants under supervision. It addresses a (set of) research question(s). Course

participants are expected to demonstrate their knowledge of the relevant literature, as well

as of the relevant concepts and methods to address the research question(s). The dissertation

is the culmination of the Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree. It can further be of direct use in the

course participants’ forthcoming academic or professional activities.

The Dissertation Guidelines and Regulations will be provided to the course participants

during the 3rd Year of the respective Bachelor Degree and 2nd Year of the respective Master

Degree.

5.9. Practicum

The Practicum comprises a full six (6) weeks carried out at the school where the course

participant is currently teaching. It is intended to provide self-reflection opportunities for the

course participant about the everyday teaching and learning experience and upgrade the

methodology used by adopting strategies and techniques that put teaching and learning on a

different level. Evaluation of own practices will be the basis of an action research approach

to the Practicum.

During the Practicum, course participants are involved in a wide range of teaching strategies

such as self-reflection, meaningful dialogues with colleagues in practical settings, lesson

planning, practical experiences in schools, problem solving, and the use of technology in

teaching. The Practicum Visitors will assess the course participants’ performance through;

three (3) classroom observations; and the Practicum File which should include; scheme(s) of

work, lesson plans, a class profile, record of work and self-reflections. To gain

accreditation/certification, a pass mark in the Practicum File and the observations during all

visits is required.

Course Participants are encouraged to take opportunities during the Practicum to integrate

education theory and practice and to widen their practical experiences. Such insights and

skills acquired are integral to the success of the Practicum.

Additional information regarding the Practicum can be found in the Practicum Handbook for

Course Participants (Teachers).

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5.10. Internship

Some of the undergraduate or postgraduate course participants will be expected to follow an

internship within their programme. The course participants will be assigned an internship

tutor who will provide guidance and mentoring to the course participants while on internship.

The course participants will also be assigned a site supervisor who will assist the course

participant in the attainment of goals and objectives listed in the ‘Learning Agreement’.

Interns

Interns agree to:

Understand that internship credits will not be awarded retroactively for internship

duties performed at an earlier time.

Discuss with their prospective supervisor at the work site the possible risks and

dangers associated with the planned internship. Then complete and sign the

Internship Assumption of Risk Release Form and submit it to the Institute.

Recognize that they are representing the Institute as an ambassador to the

community and abide by the Institute’s Policies and Procedures.

Understand and follow the policies, procedures, rules and regulations of the

organization offering the internship.

Be prepared to perform their internship duties for the hours and duration specified.

Completion of any non-academic requirements imposed by the organization

supervisor is by agreement between the course participant and the internship co-

ordinator.

Fulfil all of the academic assignments and reporting requirements of the internship

as specified by the Institute in order for a grade to be assigned.

Ensure that their direct supervisor is able and willing to submit an evaluation on

their behalf. Some organizations have personnel policies prohibiting their

supervisor from providing a written intern evaluation. If this is the case, special

arrangements must be made for their supervisor to speak directly with the

internship co-ordinator about their performance.

Before the end of the internship, complete the Course Participant’s Internship

Evaluation Form, and give this to the internship co-ordinator.

Submit the final internship report or project to the internship co-ordinator by the

date specified.

5.11. In-Class Co-Teaching Tutors

The course participant will be assigned an In-Class Co-teaching Tutor who will provide support

in the implementation of the outcomes of the course in a practical manner within the course

participant’s class. A supportive relationship is created to ensure that the course participant

feels assisted and encouraged throughout the learning experience.



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The tutor and the course participant shall communicate via email and face-to-face throughout

the course and the tutor will visit, observe and co-teach with the course participant a

minimum of eight (8) times during a scholastic year (once a month). The In-class Co-teaching

Tutor will give a short report to the participant every time a visit is carried out. Copies of these

reports shall be handed to the Institute by the course participant per semester.

The tutor will assist the course participant in acquiring the competences to:

Implement the right pedagogy;

Choose the assessment tools that produce the most valid and reliable results;

Create an environment that is conducive to learning;

Promote well-being, self-esteem and self-efficacy;

Deal with diversity in every aspect.

5.12. Health and Safety

The Institute is committed to protecting the health and safety of its employees, lecturers,

course participants and visitors and ensuring the security of the Institute’s premises and

facilities. The Institute and its employees must observe, and facilitate the adherence to the

relevant law, regulations, standards and policies and the observance of sound practices

relating to matters of health and safety, including professional development rooms and

workplace safety, and the operation of Institute facilities and equipment. Individuals should

report promptly any threat or risk to health or safety, whether it be their own or others’, and

should take reasonable steps to promote physical security.

5.13. Conduct

All the Institute’s course participants are required at all times (including during practicum and

internship) and both while on and off the Institute’s premises, to behave as responsible

members of the Institute’s community, and to represent and uphold the good name of the

Institute. They are expected to familiarise themselves with and act according to the following

standards:

Safely, and with regard for the safety of others;

With civility, consideration and respect for others at the Institute;

In accordance with all Institute’s policies, rules and regulations, and all applicable

laws.

The Institute for Education has a zero tolerance approach to violence and harassment in all

its forms.



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Misconduct includes but is not limited to:

Bullying, harassment or discrimination against another person, including the use of

discriminatory language;

Physical, written, or verbal abuse or intimidation against another person, including

in communications via email, social media and the virtual learning environment;

Sexual harassment, violence or abuse;

Any act which brings or threatens to bring the Institute’s reputation into disrepute;

Disruption of or improper interference with the academic, administrative, sporting,

social or other activities of the Institute;

Damage to or theft of property from the Institute or members of staff or course

participants;

Vexatious, reckless or malicious allegations against other course participants, staff

or members of the public;

Persistent failure to respond to or comply with formal disciplinary sanctions

imposed under the disciplinary procedures or other Institute’s policies and

procedures;

Criminal or other activities that have a bearing on the course participant’s

participation at the Institute or provide a risk to the well-being of other course

participants, staff or other users of the Institute’s services;

Misuse of alcohol and drugs.

Additional information regarding the course participants’ conduct procedures and disciplinary

sanctions can be found in the Course Participants’ Conduct Policy and Procedures.

6. Document Version

Originator Version Date Changes Done

Quality Assurance Department 1.2 12/10/2018 Updated Attendance

Regulations

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Martin Luther King Road

Pembroke PBK 1990

Tel: +35625982001

Email: [email protected]

Web: ife.gov.mt

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