HE Academic Misconduct Policy
Definition of Academic Misconduct:
Academic Misconduct describes student behaviours. It is where a student deliberately seeks to gain an academic advantage in areas of their programme of study including, projects, placements, tasks; formal and informal, assessments and examinations. These actions are undertaken in a manner that breaches the conditions under which the student’s knowledge and/or skills were to be tested for progression within or onto further stages of study, and towards the conferment and classification of an award.
Scope and Purpose of the Policy
The Higher Education Academic Misconduct Policy at Loughborough College establishes guidelines to maintain academic integrity by addressing any actions that provide an unauthorised academic advantage to a learner or another which is deemed academic misconduct and unacceptable.
This encompasses plagiarism, collusion, misconduct in exams, fabrication or misrepresentation, failure to obtain ethical approval, and more. Students are expected to take ownership of their work’s integrity, and instances of academic misconduct can impact references and accrediting bodies.
Misconduct Offences
The policy outlines procedures for handling both minor and major offences and is in line with the Learner Disciplinary Policy
Where students intentionally seek undue advantages in assessments, placements, projects, and more, undermining the integrity of testing knowledge and skills. Such behaviours are subject to investigations, with penalties contingent on the nature of the offense and the student’s level. Minor offences, such as acknowledging sources improperly or minor copying, can be addressed locally through discussions between students and tutors. Major offences or repeated misconduct cases follow formal procedures, leading to penalties like reassessments, retakes, and potential withdrawal. Students have the right to appeal decisions and can also involve external bodies in the appeals process.
Academic Appeals
If a situation arises where you do not agree with an assessment decision you can appeal against it. In the first instance, you must discuss the matter with the tutor/assessor who assessed the work to fully understand how the grade was awarded and the feedback given. If you still disagree then you must appeal in writing within 5 days, to your programme leader, who will set up an appeals meeting to consider your case.
Ultimately, the policy underlines the commitment to preserving academic honesty, trust, and integrity within the educational community, while ensuring due process for students involved in cases of academic misconduct.