MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA)
Full-time
THE BUSINESS SCHOOL
STUDENT HANDBOOK
September 2014
Š 2014 Bournemouth University Document date: August 2014 Circulation: General
Bournemouth University undertakes to encourage the recognition, protection and exploitation of intellectual property rights generated by participants in this programme, to the benefit, as appropriate, of students, staff, industrial/ other third parties/ partners and the university
The Business School Bournemouth University Poole Dorset BH12 5BB
Details in the handbook were correct at time of press. Students should note that programme details may be subject to change during the delivery of the programme. If you require a large print version of this Handbook, please contact your programme administrator. An electronic version of the latest edition of the handbook is available via the myBU University on-line learning environment. Please note that not all option/ elective units may be offered or delivered in a given year.
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CONTENTS Glossary Welcome to the Business School Welcome from the MBA Programme Director Programme Calendar Assessment Schedule About the Business School Framework Management Staff Contact List Sources of Student Support and Guidance Overview of Programmes Unit Specifications: Personal and Professional Development Stage 1 Accounting & Financial Management Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment Strategic Applied Marketing Stage 2 Performance Management & Analytics Leadership & Organisational Behaviour Entrepreneurial Management (elective) Business Law and Intellectual Property (elective) Advanced Marketing (elective) Industrial Economics (elective) Financial Services (elective) Business in New Media Environments (elective) Stage 3 Work Experience (optional) Strategic Management Consultancy (option) Research Project (option) Programme Information, Advice and Help Assignment and Exam Arrangements
Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 11 Page 12 Page 14 Page 16 Page 18 Page 28 Page 30 Page 33 Page 36 Page 38 Page 40 Page 43 Page 47 Page 49 Page 51 Page 53 Page 55 Page 58 Page 61 Page 65 Page 68 Page 71 Page 74
Appendices Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Appendix E Appendix F Appendix G Appendix H Appendix I Appendix J Appendix K Appendix L Appendix M Appendix N Appendix O Appendix P
Campus Maps Standard Assessment Regulations Guide to Viewing Timetables On-line Assessment in Masters Programmes, inc External Examiners Electronic Submission of Assignments via myBU Getting Started with myBU About askBU Student Services Citing Bibliographical References and Library Information Library i-floor – Executive Business Centre (EBC) Links to Student Regulations, Rules and Policies Level M/7 Descriptors and Generic Assessment Criteria Additional Learning Support (ALS) What is Plagiarism? IT Services Alumni Association Careers & Employability
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Page 77 Page 79 Page 84 Page 85 Page 100 Page 103 Page 109 Page 111 Page 113 Page 114 Page 115 Page 121 Page 124 Page 125 Page 126 Page 127
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GLOSSARY Assignment
A piece of coursework.
Assessment schedule
A schedule of the deadlines for your coursework submission and the dates for the return of your coursework.
Level M/7
This is the ‘Masters’ level of higher educational qualifications. It is defined by the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) (www.qaa.ac.uk ).
Framework
Typically this is a set of related programmes and/or pathways within a programme.
Framework Leader
The academic who leads a framework of programmes or pathways.
Programme
Your course of study.
Programme Leader / Programme Co-ordinator
These two terms could be used interchangeably to denote the academic who leads a programme of study.
Programme Team / Framework Team
The academics, administrators and other professionals who teach, administer and support a programme or framework.
School
A division of the University. The Business School is one of six schools in the University.
BS (TBS)
Business School (The Business School).
RAE
Research Assessment Exercise.
CPD
Continuous Professional Development.
QAA
Quality Assurance Agency.
WP
Widening Participation.
askBU
Centralised enquiry and information service for all current students.
myBU
This is the name of the Bournemouth University personalised online learning environment (http://mybu.bournemouth.ac.uk)
ALS
Additional Learning Support, a service provided by the University to support students with specific learning differences and disabilities For further information, visit www.bournemouth.ac.uk/als.
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WELCOME TO THE BUSINESS SCHOOL
We are a leading provider of innovative business education. The Business School attracts students from the United Kingdom and overseas seeking a challenging, career-oriented, research-informed business education in a friendly, student centred environment. Our students are actively recruited by major employers who value the skills and abilities that they bring, we are justifiably proud of our links with industry and commerce and the reputation that we have for the employability of our students. The Business School has strong links to both employers and professional bodies and our curriculum reflects the needs of contemporary business. We are focussed on developing students as confident, capable business professionals. Your programme has been designed in this spirit, providing you with an intellectually stimulating, personally challenging and professionally demanding experience. As the business environment is becoming increasingly competitive, employers look for self-reliant, creative and flexible graduates who are prepared to take responsibility, work independently and also work effectively with others. You will find that many opportunities await you to develop these essential qualities as you progress through your programme, and you will be expected to actively commit to your own personal development in order to equip yourself for your career having completed your course at the Business School. This handbook contains essential information about your programme, including an outline of the curriculum, the programme learning outcomes and the assessment regulations and should be regarded as a reference source for details about your course. I look forward to meeting you at some time during your stay at Bournemouth University. If my colleagues and I can help in any way please do not hesitate to contact us.
Professor Keith Wilkes Interim Dean, the Business School
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WELCOME FROM THE MBA PROGRAMME DIRECTOR
Dear Student Congratulations on being successful in securing a place on Master of Business Administration (MBA), the beacon postgraduate programme of the Business School. On behalf of the Programme Team I would like to warmly welcome you and wish you success in your studies. By enrolling on this programme you have set yourself a commendable challenge, for the successful completion of which you need motivation, dedication and perseverance. Our MBA programme is designed to enable you to develop yourself as a 21st century professional with strong business acumen and networking, managerial and leadership skills, who is capable of dealing effectively with the complexity in today’s business environment. It provides an environment that blends theories and practice, and nurtures collaboration, innovation and global citizenship. The staff you will meet have a wide range of academic, professional and commercial experiences and interests that they will share with you. You will have the opportunity to take full advantage of their expertise and this of your colleagues on the course. The detailed information relating to your programme and the support offered by the Business School and the University is contained in this handbook. If you require further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to ask any member of the Programme Team. We welcome your questions, views and will be happy to discuss with you and implement, where possible, any suggestions for innovations and enhancement of the MBA. Finally, my colleagues and I hope that you find the MBA programme at Bournemouth both stimulating and enjoyable.
Dr Milena Bobeva MBA Programme Director mbobeva@bournemouth.ac.uk +44 (0)1202 965193
milenabobeva
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PROGRAMME CALENDAR STAGE 1 Core Units:
Holiday Period: Christmas Vacation: University Closed:
15 September 2014 – 30 January 2015 Accounting and Financial Management Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment Strategic Applied Marketing
15 December 2014 – 04 January 2015 24 December 2014 (PM) – 05 January 2015
STAGE 2 Core Units:
02 February 2015 – 01 May 2015 Performance Management and Analytics Leadership and Organisational Behaviour
Electives*: (will only run depending on numbers)
Entrepreneurial Management Advanced Marketing Industrial Economics Financial Services Business in New Media Environments
*There is a session about the electives on 27 November 2014. The deadline for choosing your elective is 5 December 2014. Holiday Period: Easter Vacation: Bank Holidays: (University Closed)
30 March 2015 – 19 April 2015 Good Friday 03 April 2015 Easter Monday 06 April 2015 Bank Holiday 04 May 2015 Spring Bank Holiday 25 May 2015
STAGE 3 Core Unit:
04 May 2015 – 18 September 2015 Strategic Management
Options:
Research Project Consultancy
Holiday Period: (University Closed)
Summer Bank Holiday
31 August 2015
The Personal and Professional Development unit will run throughout the year. Re-sit and Re-submission period – 14 to 21 August 2015. Please note the following dates for the beginning and end of British Summer Time and remember to adjust your watches accordingly! Summer Time Begins Summer Time Ends
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29 March 2015 25 October 2015
(put clocks forward 1 hour) (put clocks back 1 hour)
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ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE Please note that these submission dates are subject to confirmation by the unit leaders in the unit assessment guidelines. THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR ALL ASSIGNMENTS IS 12 MIDDAY ON THE DUE DATE Any work submitted late without an agreed extension will get a mark of 0% Stage/ Unit
Type of Assessment
Date Due/ Exam Date
Due Back to Students
STAGE 1 Personal & Professional Development
Coursework
20 October 2014
10 November 2014
Accounting & Financial Management
Coursework 1 & 2 Coursework 3
01 December 2014 5 January 2015
23 December 2015 27 January 2015
Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment
Coursework Presentation Exam
14 November 2014 w/c 24 November 2014 w/c 19 January 2015
08 December 2014 22 December 2014 16 February 2015
Strategic Applied Marketing
Presentation Coursework
w/c 08 December 2014 09 January 2015
20 January 2015 02 February 2015
Performance Management & Analytics
Coursework 1 Coursework 2
13 March 2015 08 May 2015
24 April 2015 01 June 2015
Leadership & Organisational Behaviour
Presentation Coursework Exam
To be confirmed 05 May 2015 w/c 01 June 2015
To be confirmed 27 May 2015 23 July 2015
Entrepreneurial Management
Coursework
05 May 2015
27 May 2015
Advanced Marketing
Presentation Coursework
w/c 27 April 2015 05 May 2015
26 May 2015 27 May 2015
Industrial Economics
Presentation Presentation Coursework
w/c 16 March 2015 w/c 20 April 2015 05 May 2015
24 April 2015 18 May 2015 27 May 2015
Financial Services
Coursework Exam
05 May 2015 w/c 01 June 2015
27 May 2015 23 July 2015
Business in New Media Environments STAGE 3
Coursework
05 May 2015
27 May 2015
Strategic Management
Presentation Coursework Exam
w/c 18 May 2015 05 June 2015 w/c 15 June 2015 20 April 2015
15 June 2015 29 June 2015 20 July 2015 Not Applicable
Personal & Professional Development
Reflective Journal
21 August 2015 or 07 September 2015
14 September 2015 or 29 October 2015
Consultancy
Presentation Coursework/ Review/Journal
To be confirmed 21 August 2015 or 07 September 2015
To be confirmed 14 September 2015 or 29 October 2015
Research Project (early submission)
21 August 2015
14 September 2015
Research Project
07 September 2015
29 October 2015
STAGE 2
Electives:
Research Project Proposal
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RE-ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE Please note that these submission dates are subject to confirmation by the unit leaders in the unit assessment guidelines. THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR ALL ASSIGNMENTS IS 12 MIDDAY ON THE DUE DATE Any work submitted late without an agreed extension will get a mark of 0%
Stage/ Unit
Type of Assessment
Date Due/ Exam Date
Due Back to Students
STAGE 1 Accounting & Financial Management
Coursework
17 August 2015
07 September 2015
Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment
Coursework Presentation Exam
17 August 2015 To be confirmed w/c 17 or 24 Aug 15
07 September 2015 To be confirmed 17 September 2015
Strategic Applied Marketing
Coursework Presentation
17 August 2015 To be confirmed
07 September 2015 To be confirmed
Performance Management & Analytics
Coursework 1 Coursework 2
17 August 2015 17 August 2015
07 September 2015 07 September 2015
Leadership & Organisational Behaviour
Coursework Exam
17 August 2015 w/c 17 or 24 Aug 15
07 September 2015 17 September 2015
Entrepreneurial Management
Coursework
17 August 2015
07 September 2015
Advanced Marketing
Coursework Presentation
17 August 2015 To be confirmed
7 September 2015 To be confirmed
Industrial Economics
Coursework
17 August 2015
07 September 2015
Financial Services
Coursework Exam Coursework
17 August 2015 w/c 17 or 24 Aug 15 17 August 2015
07 September 2015 17 September 2015 07 September 2015
Strategic Management
Coursework Exam
17 August 2015 w/c 17 or 24 Aug 15
07 September 2015 17 September 2015
Personal & Professional Development
Reflective Journal
10 March 2016
Consultancy
Coursework
30 October 2015 or 14 December 2015 30 October 2015 or 14 December 2015 30 October 2015 or 14 December 2015
STAGE 2
Electives:
Business in New Media Environments STAGE 3
Research Project
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10 March 2016 10 March 2016
Sept 2014
IMPORTANT NOTES RELATING TO YOUR ASSESSMENTS: •
You must submit an electronic copy of each assignment to myBU - Instructions on how to submit your electronic copy are available in Appendix E. There is no need for you to submit a hard copy of your assignment. Each assignment must be submitted by 12 midday – any work submitted late without an agreed extension will get a mark of 0%. It is your responsibility to submit your work on time.
•
If you require an Extension for any of your assignments, or you need to seek permission to Postpone an examination, for example because you are ill you should refer to the Mitigating Circumstances Procedure and submit a completed application form, together with supporting evidence, to your Programme Administrator before the assignment due date. The application form can be found using the following link: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/mitigating In addition you should speak to your Programme Director and explain your circumstances. Please note that computer or other equipment failures do not normally constitute grounds for an extension. You may be granted an extension to the hand in date, and this will need approval by the unit tutor and/or Programme Director. Your Programme Administrator will let you know if your request is approved and will confirm your new submission date.
•
If you feel your performance in any assessment has been affected by Personal or Medical circumstances that you wish the Assessment Board to consider then you should refer to the above Mitigating Circumstances Procedure and submit a completed application form, together with supporting evidence, to your Programme Administrator before the meeting of the Assessment Board. Announcements will be place on myBU during the year advising you of the deadline for submission completed application forms. Please note that any such matters that could have been raised before the meeting of the Assessment Board but, without valid reason, were not raised will not be considered in the event of an appeal
•
All re-sit examinations will take place during the University’s main re-sit exam period – 14 to 21 August 2015. Dates will be set by the Registry nearer the time and details will be published on the Exams website at the following link: http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/learning/exams/timetable.html.
•
If you are required to re-sit an examination it is your responsibility to make yourself available on the day and time set for the re-sit. In exceptional circumstances you may be given the opportunity to re-sit examinations in an approved institution overseas. There is no university charge to sit or re-sit exams at Bournemouth University. You must make your own arrangements with a suitable venue, ie British Council Office/ local University and will be liable for any fees they may charge to invigilate/administer the exam overseas. The exams department (Avril Cooper – acooper@bournemouth.ac.uk) must be notified of where you are sitting the exam at least 10 days before the exam date and you must supply them with full contact details for the person administering the exam for you overseas. It is the students responsibility to check the website to find out the date, time and location of any re-sit exams taking place during this time.
•
Academic staff will mark and return coursework to students on or within 3 weeks of the submission date (excluding periods when the University is closed ie Christmas and bank holidays), although if the 3 week date falls during a vacation the expectation is that it will be returned on the first day of the next term.
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THE BUSINESS SCHOOL Undergraduate Programmes Over 2000 students study undergraduate programmes in the Business School. A wide portfolio of undergraduate programmes is available including opportunities for part-time and off-campus study. All of these programmes are vocational in nature and are designed to equip graduates with the requisite skills and knowledge base needed for the world of work in the 21st century. Full details are available at: http://business.bournemouth.ac.uk/undergraduate/index.html Postgraduate Programmes The Business School has around 300 students studying on a range of Masters programmes both full and part-time. Vocational in nature: they offer opportunities to develop competence and expertise in a wide range of fields. Graduates are equipped to make an immediate contribution in a variety of roles, at home and in international organisations. The Masters programmes attract a diverse population of overseas students and meet the needs of a variety of cultures. They embed curriculum content in a broad cross-cultural approach which is relevant for future graduates launching their careers in the globalised economy of the 21st century. International students are supported through a comprehensive programme which helps them to meet the expectations of postgraduate study at a UK university. This includes language support, as well as the development of study skills. Full details are available at: http://business.bournemouth.ac.uk/postgraduate/index.html Research in the Business School Staff in the Business School are actively involved in research, training and consultancy. There are a number of research centres which act as catalysts within their fields bringing organisation and government partners together at events and training sessions. The School offers supervision to full time MPhil/PhD postgraduate degrees which align with its key research themes. Further details on research in the School are available at: http://business.bournemouth.ac.uk/research/index.html Programme Management Every programme, or group of programmes, has a Programme Management Team/Framework Management Team responsible for the day to day management of the programme. This includes responsibility for aspects such as student recruitment, quality assurance and enhancement of teaching and learning. They will also respond to specific issues that arise throughout the year. On some programmes, the Framework Leader is supported by Programme Co-ordinators or Year Tutors who take specific responsibility for that year group. The team hold a series of meetings throughout the academic year. These provide a formal forum for staff and students to discuss issues related to the programme. The Student Representation process ensures that student views and feedback are formally represented in this forum.
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Student Representation Student Representatives are at the core of the student academic representation system run jointly by the University and the Students’ Union (SUBU). Student Representatives are students elected from each year or level of every programme to make sure that there is communication between the University, SUBU and all students. The student representation system is one of the most important mechanisms for ensuring student involvement and feedback in relation to the programme. Student Representatives are trained at the beginning of the year and receive support from SUBU throughout the rest of the year. There are three different types of student representative. • School Representatives School Representatives are elected in the Autumn Term. School Representatives are invited to attend the School Committee to ensure that student feedback is received. Normally between two and four School Representatives are elected each year. • Programme Representatives Programme Representatives are elected by their fellow students on their programme of study. Programme Representatives are invited to attend Programme Team Meetings to provide feedback on any issues of concern or good practice on their programme of study. There is normally at least one Programme Representative per year/level of each programme. • Seminar Representatives For programmes with very large student numbers, there is the option to elect Seminar Representatives. These representatives will feed back to group tutors on any group related issues, and also to Programme Representatives on any issues affecting the programme as a whole. In all cases, student representatives are elected to provide the views of the students on their programme rather than their personal opinions. The Programme/Framework Management team – role and responsibilities All members of the programme team can offer advice and guidance on matters related to the programme or the University. However, students should pay particular attention to the following staff roles. The Framework Leader (FL) (supported by the Programme Co-ordinators) is responsible for the overall management of the programme and ensuring that regular team meetings are held. The Framework Leader is a good source of advice on procedural matters and is also normally the first point of contact for students seeking advice on academic and personal matters. The Programme Administrator (PA) is responsible for the day to day administration of the programme, including managing coursework submissions and collating marks. The PA is a good source of advice on general and administrative related issues. The PA is normally assisted by a Programme Administrative Assistant (PAA).
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The Business School Academic Board The Business School has a School Academic Board which has a remit to consider and agree all matters of policy for the School, and constitutes part of the formal management and committee structure of the University as a whole. The School Academic Board will consider areas such as student admissions, assessment and examination procedures and learning and teaching. The SAB is chaired by the Dean and membership includes representatives from staff at all levels, student representatives and representatives from Academic Services. The Committee receives the synoptic student rep report from SUBU to ensure that the student feedback is regularly received. It also receives reports from a number of SubCommittees on aspects such as the quality of programmes, learning and teaching, research and enterprise. IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING ASSESSMENT The standard assessment regulations are available at the ‘Rules and regulations’ page on the Student Portal and on myBU. You should note the following carefully: "Failure to submit a piece of coursework by the required deadline will result in a mark of zero (0)% being recorded". You should comply with the submission times detailed on Page 8 of this handbook and note that these will be strictly adhered to. Students with genuine reasons for late submission should document their case through submission of the Mitigating Circumstances form available from their Programme Administrator or at the ‘Rules and regulations’ page on the Student Portal. Failure by a student to sit any assessment (coursework or exam) at the first time, within each unit they are undertaking, without prior consent, may be deemed to be a non-completion. Regulations relating to Mitigating Circumstances Code of Practice and the, Appeals and Complaints Procedures are available at the ‘Rules and regulations’ page on the Student Portal. ETHICAL STANDARDS IN RESEARCH Bournemouth University is committed to maintaining high ethical standards in research. All staff and students at BU are responsible for considering the ethical implications of their research. As such, all taught students are required to read and be familiar with the Research Ethics Code of Practice and review ethical consideration at the outset of their research by completing an Ethics Checklist. The Research Ethics Code of Practice can be found here: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/research/university-research-ethics-committee.html. Details of the updated policy, which includes access to the new Online Ethics Checklist, is available on The Business School tab on myBU, see link below: http://blogs.bournemouth.ac.uk/research/researcher-toolbox/research-ethics/
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STAFF CONTACT LIST Name
Location
School Executive Keith Wilkes (Prof) TBC Andy Mullineux (Prof) Dean Patton (Prof) Gelareh Roushan (Dr) Mark Ridolfo Kerry Leanne Berry TBC Julie Robson (Dr) Jens Hӧlscher (Prof) Sally Weston Lois Farquharson (Dr) Corrina Osborne Joao Sousa Fiona Willcocks Sophie Larder
(01202) D139, DH, TC C121, CH TC 5th Floor, EBC 6th Floor, EBC 5th Floor, EBC C119, CH, TC 5th Floor, EBC 5th Floor, EBC 5th Floor, EBC 4th Floor, EBC C202, CH, TC 5th Floor, EBC 5th Floor, EBC 5th Floor, EBC 968257 jsousa@bournemouth.ac.uk C120, CH TC 965155 fwillcocks@bournemouth.ac.uk 5th Floor, EBC
Interim Dean of the Business School Deputy Dean, Education Deputy Dean, Research Deputy Dean, Enterprise/ Professor in Entrepreneurship Associate Dean, Education Associate Dean, Student Experience International Manager Director, Executive Education Head of Department, Strategy and Marketing Head of Department, Accounting, Finance & Economics Head of Department, Law Head of Department, HR and Organisational Behaviour Director of Operations Planning and Resources Manager Academic Administration Manager Marketing Manager
Administration Mandy Lynch Sue Shilling
(01202) 4th Floor, EBC 968729 alynch@bournemouth.ac.uk 4th Floor, EBC 968731 sshilling@bournemouth.ac.uk
Programme Administrator – MBA Programmes Programme Administrative Assistant – MBA Programmes
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Phone
Responsibility
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Name
Location
Phone
Responsibility
Teaching Staff Phyllis Alexander (Dr) Christos Apostolakis (Dr) Dawn Birch (Dr) Milena Bobeva (Dr)
C108, CH, TC th 5 Floor, EBC th 4 Floor, EBC th 5 Floor, EBC
(01202) 968704 968717 963537 965193
palexander@bournemouth.ac.uk capostolakis@bournemouth.ac.uk dbirch@bournemouth.ac.uk mbobeva@bournemouth.ac.uk
Chris Chapleo (Dr) Tim Ford Mansi Ghodsi (Dr) Hossein Hassani (Dr) Paul Jones Peter Lycett (Dr) Suranjita Mukherjee Donald Nordberg (Dr) Conor O’Kane Dean Patton (Prof) Dragana Radicic Mark Ridolfo Julie Robson (Dr) Gelareh Roushan (Dr)
C211, CH, TC th 6 Floor, EBC th 5 Floor, EBC th 4 Floor, EBC C211, CH, TC
968950 968706 961876 968708 961864
C117, CH, TC th 4 Floor, EBC C102, CH, TC th 6 Floor, EBC C208, CH, TC C119, CH, TC th 5 Floor, EBC th 5 Floor, EBC
961887 963538 961858 968747 963540 965525 968756 961798
cchapleo@bournemouth.ac.uk tford@bournemouth.ac.uk mghodsi@bournemouth.ac.uk hhassani@bournemouth.ac.uk pajones@bournemouth.ac.uk plycett@bournemouth.ac.uk smukherjee@bournemouth.ac.uk dnordberg@bournemouth.ac.uk cokane@bournemouth.ac.uk dpatton@bouremouth.ac.uk dradicic@bournemouth.ac.uk mridolfo@bournemouth.ac.uk jrobson@bournemouth.ac.uk groushan@bournemouth.ac.uk
Davide Secchi (Dr) Sachiko Takeda John Toth
C113a, CH, TC th 5 Floor, EBC CH, TC
961399 961865 965937
dsecchi@bournemouth.ac.uk stakeda@bournemouth.ac.uk jtoth@bournemouth.ac.uk
Accounting and Financial Management Strategic Management Strategic Applied Marketing MBA Programme Director Performance Management and Analytics Advanced Marketing Entrepreneurial Management Performance Management and Analytics Performance Management and Analytics Leadership and Organisational Behaviour Consultancy Accounting and Financial Management Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment Business in New Media Environments Entrepreneurial Management Industrial Economics Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment Financial Services Strategic Applied Marketing/ Advanced Marketing Leadership and Organisational Behaviour Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment
Support Staff Anne Davey Melissa Bowden Michael Mallia Sue Barnes
DL129, DH TC DL129, DH TC th 4 Floor, EBC th 4 Floor, EBC
(01202) 965260 965570 965159 968705
adavey@bournemouth.ac.uk mbowden@bournemouth.ac.uk mmallia@bournemouth.ac.uk sbarnes@bournemouth.ac.uk
Business School Subject Librarian Subject Librarian – Law Learning Technologist (myBU Support) International Academic Support Officer
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SOURCES OF STUDENT SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE
Contacts
Accommodation:
Accommodation Office
T122,Student Centre, Talbot Campus
Telephone Number/ e-mail 01202 965727 nhall@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965959 bslibteam@bournemouth.ac.uk mbowden@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965377
Additional learning needs and disability:
Additional Learning Needs – enquiry desk
Ground Floor, Library & Learning Centre, Talbot Campus
01202 965663 algne@bournemouth.ac.uk
Cultural and Immigration advice
askBU
01202 969696 askbustudents@bournemouth.ac.uk
Chaplaincy – Bill Merrington
The Base, Poole House, Talbot Campus 1st Floor, Bournemouth House, Lansdowne Campus Student Centre, Talbot Campus
Clubs, societies and sport:
Student Union Bournemouth University (SUBU) Advice Centre SUBU
Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus BG06, Bournemouth House, Lansdowne Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus
Financial advice:
Student Financial Support Advisers – Keith Sutton
The Base, Poole House, Talbot Campus
SUBU
Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus
Medical advice:
University Medical Centre
Student Centre, Talbot Campus
01202 965383 bmerrington@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965778/ 965764 studentadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965766 ahanks@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965596 ksutton@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965778/ 965764 studentadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965378
Pastoral care:
Counselling Service
Student Centre, Talbot Campus
01202 965020 (term-time only)
askBU
The Base, Poole House, Talbot Campus 1st Floor, Bournemouth House, Lansdowne Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus BG06, Bournemouth House, Lansdowne Campus Student Centre, Talbot Campus T133 T134 T135
01202 969696 askbustudents@bournemouth.ac.uk
Academic Guidance & Learning Support
Room
Study Support
DLG20, Library & Learning Centre, Talbot Campus DLG129, Library & Learning Centre, Talbot Campus
Subject Librarian
SUBU Advice Centre Bill Merrington - Chaplaincy Free Churches Roman Catholic Anglican
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01202 965778/ 965764 studentadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965383 01202 965587 01202 965581 01202 965383
Sept 2014
Jewish Rabbi Islamic Placement and Careers Service
T135 T135 PG04, Poole House, Talbot Campus
01202 557433 01202 227072 01202 961662 careers@bournemouth.ac.uk
Student Union Bournemouth University (SUBU) Reception/general enquiries Raising and Giving (RAG) officer Women’s Officer Activities Officer Students with Disabilities Officer Mature Students Officer Post Graduate Taught Officer
Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus
01202 965765
Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus Above Dylan’s Bar, Talbot Campus
surag@bournemouth.ac.uk suwomens@bournemouth.ac.uk suarts@bournemouth.ac.uk suswd@bournemouth.ac.uk sumature@bournemouth.ac.uk supostgradtaught@bournemouth.ac.uk
Systems Manager
Lansdowne Campus Officer Mark Doig
BG06, Bournemouth House, Lansdowne Campus PG12a, Poole House, Talbot Campus
myBU
User Enquiries – Michael Mallia, Kathy Abbasirad
C107, Christchurch House, Talbot Campus
sulansdowne@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 965265 mdoig@bournemouth.ac.uk 965159/ 965076 mmallia@bournemouth.ac.uk kabbasirad@bournemouth.ac.uk
Placements, careers, parttime employment and Careers events: Student representation and development:
The Student Portal The student portal at http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk is an excellent resource that brings together a wide range of information and services in a single place and we encourage all students to make use of this on a regular basis. Within the student portal you will find information on current news and events, quick links to the most used areas of information, access to log-in services such as myBU, your timetable and student e-mail, the library resources and the Student’s Union. The askBU link on the portal will take you to sources of useful information, help and advice and if you can’t find what you are looking for, our ‘Frequently asked questions’ tool allows you to search for an answer to your query.
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OVERVIEW OF PROGRAMMES Academic and Professional Context The University and the Business School are committed to significant expansion of post-experience and executive education activities. The objective in reviewing the programmes is to meet the University’s Quality Assurance review requirements. This will encompass a full-time programme, for which demand will be predominantly international, and a part-time programme that leverages the particular strengths of BU in order to appeal to “niche� markets both within the Wessex region and nationally. To this end there will be a common core curriculum to ensure that accreditation criteria are satisfied, plus electives that have strong market appeal and/or draw upon particular areas of expertise within the School and BU. Six electives are proposed here, with the expectation that others will be added later as demand permits. The globalisation of business has produced a growing demand for highly educated individuals who can operate successfully on the international arena. The core content of the MBA is designed to provide all students with the opportunity to develop the core competencies and technical skills which will enable them to contribute to and to flourish in such an environment. Furthermore, the focus on ethics and corporate social responsibility in a global business context in the programme is intended to appeal to any student who wishes to develop strategic management and leadership skills to a high level in a global business context. This will appeal to many international students and also to significant numbers of UK based students who have to manage international operations. The current Financial Services elective provides professional accreditation from Charted Institute of Insurers (CII). The proposed programme offers professional accreditation from Charted Institute of Marketing (CIM) for students who successfully complete the Strategic Applied Marketing Unit and, Advanced Marketing and marketing specific Research project. The MBA programme is developed by a team of academics from across the three main Programme Frameworks (Business and Management; Accounting and Finance and Law). This draws on all academic Departments in the Business School. Colleagues from the Media School will help deliver the Business in New Media Environment elective. The range of electives reflects specific areas of expertise within the Business School (Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing and Economics) and across BU (Media).
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QAA Benchmarks The only QAA benchmark statement that relates to this PG review is for Business & Management. This benchmark was updated in 2007. The MBA falls into the Type 3 ‘MBA type’ category as described in the benchmark statement. Compliance with the benchmark was via the composition of the programme and unit specifications, in particularly the methods of teaching, learning and assessment, in forming the learning outcomes, and in the setting of entry qualifications. QAA subject benchmark statement - Type 3: MBA type degree The MBA is defined as a career development generalist programme for those who have significant post-graduation and relevant work experience on which the learning process should build. Normally, the experience required will be at least two years with the typical entrant having substantially more than this. The main emphasis of these programmes is positioned no differently from that of Type 2 programmes, there is strong practical and professional orientation to the curriculum and they may be linked to professional institute qualifications. Due to the maturity and work experience of the students, MBA programmes are expected to be different in their objectives, recruitment and pedagogical processes to other master’s degrees in business and management. MBA degrees should be essentially generalist in nature although a limited amount of specialisation may be included. QAA Qualifications Framework This MBA programme is aligned with the QAA Qualifications Framework and FHEQ qualification descriptors at M level. The following table describes the programme in terms of volume of credit and levels Level
Credit
Award and credit required
M
60
M
60
M
60
PGCert - 60 CATS points i.e. successful completion of three taught units PGDip - 120 CATS points i.e. successful completion of six taught units MBA - 180 CATS points i.e. successful completion of all taught units and the Dissertation.
This MBA is considered to require the equivalent of 12 months of full-time study and the award requires that the student has successfully achieved the learning outcomes for the level as outlined in section 6.
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AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME The aims of the programmes are as follows: 1
To provide an academically rigorous scheme of study of business and management at a postgraduate level for managers and professionals, to enhance their effectiveness as managers through the development of critical awareness of management theory and practice;
2
To develop a broad appreciation and understanding of the principles, concepts, terminology and practice of management;
3
To develop an awareness of the opportunities afforded and the constraints imposed by the environment in which organisations and managers operate at local, national and global level;
4
To develop practical research skills based upon appreciation of relevant research methods and analytical techniques;
5
To develop the facility to analyse complex organisational and managerial issues using appropriate theoretical and conceptual frameworks and to prepare well argued recommendations for dealing with the situation;
6
To develop individuals’ managerial and leadership competencies to enable them to operate effectively in a wide range of organisational contexts;
7
To provide individuals an opportunity to take a positive and contributing role in a participating organisation;
8
To promote continuing personal and professional development.
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES This M Level programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate: A
SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING A1 Critical knowledge and understanding of theoretical approaches and their relevance to practice in the core functional areas relating to the management of organisations, their resources, operations and strategy; A2 Critical awareness of methods and techniques for the analysis of financial and other quantitative data;
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A3 Systematic understanding of business research design, evaluation and application; A4 Understanding of complex practices relating to the management of self, other individuals, groups and organisations in an international context; A5 Critical comprehension and use Communication Technologies (ICT);
of
relevant
Information
&
A6 Critical understanding of corporate and social business responsibilities as well as the growing global business and management context. B
INTELLECTUAL SKILLS B1 The ability to acquire, summarise and synthesise data from a range of appropriate sources in order to abstract meaning to share information and develop knowledge; B2 Critical appraisal of the merits of competing explanations and interpretations of organisational and managerial phenomena, using appropriate conceptual and theoretical perspectives and relevant evidence, and where appropriate develop new hypotheses; B3 The ability to conduct research into business and management issues to produce reasoned arguments, justifying conclusions with reference to appropriate theoretical frameworks and supporting evidence; B4 Critical reflection upon the relationship between the theory and practice of management as well as own managerial experiences and competencies, in order to develop as a ‘reflective practitioner’.
C
SUBJECT SPECIFIC SKILLS C1 Analysis of financial and other business-related quantitative data; C2 Analysis of the environmental and internal characteristics of an organisation in order to identify actions for improvement where appropriate; C3 Critical analysis and evaluate management practice from a theoretically informed perspective; C4 Appraisal and selection of appropriate research methods in addressing organisational and management issues following ethical guidelines;
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C5 Presentation of scholarly work using appropriate formats and conventions. D
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS D1 Communication of ideas and arguments effectively orally, in a variety of written formats and in the context of formal presentations; D2 Use of IT effectively, including the online resources and relevant applications including, spreadsheets and word-processing; D3 Analysis of a range of empirical data and solve numerical and quantitative problems using appropriate techniques; D4 Working in collaboration with others, often from diverse cultural backgrounds in the investigation of problems and in the presentation of arguments and evidence; D5 Acting autonomously in problem solving, decision making and planning activities; D6 Development at a personal and professional level to become independent and reflective learner-practitioners
LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGIES AND METHODS Core knowledge and understanding is acquired through lectures, discussions, exercises, and independent learning. Students will be expected to undertake independent reading and case analysis. They will utilise and improve their research skills in preparing for classes and presentations. Discussions in class and feedback on assignments will allow students to refine and develop their understanding. Intellectual skills are developed through the learning and teaching methods and strategies outlined above. Each taught unit of the programme involves extensive in-class discussions and the opportunity to deal with real data and 'live' problems, often through guest speakers. Students will be required to research material, and provide a rationale for decisions made based on often incomplete information. Subject specific skills are developed through the learning and teaching methods and strategies outlined above. Each taught unit of the programme involves extensive in-class discussions and the opportunity to deal with real data derived from recent research and 'live' management problems. Students will become effective researchers in identifying problem areas and finding appropriate information to provide solutions. Transferable skills are developed through the learning and teaching methods and strategies outlined above. Students will be encouraged to contribute to MBA FT Student Handbook
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seminar discussions which will allow them to develop not only their understanding but also their ability to communicate their ideas. ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES AND METHODS The core knowledge and understanding is assessed through appropriately structured coursework assignments and examinations and the requirement for the Research Project/Consultancy units. The intellectual skills are assessed through assignments and examination, often involving case-studies, plus the Research Project/Consultancy units. Outcomes C1 to 5 are assessed through examination and assessment. Outcomes C4 to 5 are also assessed through the Research Project/Consultancy units. Effective communication of ideas is an important criterion in the assessment of all student work. D1 to 3 are assessed through the assignments and examinations across the course. D4 is assessed through feedback on case study presentations. D5 is assessed in all parts of the course. Although not formally assessed, outcome D6 is embedded in all units.
WORK PLACEMENT (INTERNSHIP) This aspect of the programme aims to attach further practical context to the value of the learning experience. This part of the course is designed to provide the MBA students with a unique opportunity to take a positive and contributing role in a participating organisation. The internship will give valuable experience on different aspects of a business, from Operations, Marketing, Finance to Management. The duration of the internship will vary from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the organisation, its requirements as well as the preferences. The Business School is developing links with a number of organisations to provide opportunities for MBA students. The course director will discuss potential opportunities with students late in the first semester to assess interest and levels of participation. The internship is not formally assessed as it is not a core part of the MBA and it is optional for students to take this opportunity, however those undertaking an internship will be expected to submit a reflective account of their experience. The Business School cannot guarantee internship placements but will aim to support those interested in participating.
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PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT This unit is core to the MBA. It is not a credit-bearing unit however it is hoped that this unit will give the added value required and expected on an MBA. The key aspects of this unit are to develop a number of skills over and above the core taught units on the course, from learning how to market oneself as a MBA student to participating with industry speakers in workshops and presentations. Throughout the year there will be a number of extra sessions, some of which will be timetabled and some of which will be announced nearer the time. This unit is not assessed however a portfolio including a reflective piece on the learning gained from these sessions is expected at the latter end of the course. The assistance and guidance given will be in various ways including lectures, master classes, as well as workshops and one to one consultations. The following are the Personal and Professional Development (PPD) sessions scheduled to date:
Career Strategy Discussions Thursday 23 October
11.00 am – 3.00 pm (introduction to MBTI and career planning)
Tuesday 3 March
12.00 noon – 3.00 pm (job search, job applications, interviews etc)
Bill Faust – Pitch Yourself Effective Self Marketing Thursday 16 October
10.00 am – 4.00 pm (Masterclass 1)
Thursday 30 October
10.00 am – 2.00 pm (Masterclass 2)
Nathaniel Hobby – Media Training March 2015 (date and time to be confirmed)
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CENTRE FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP EVENTS If you are interested in attending any of the presentations or events hosted by the Centre for Entrepreneurship, please see events listed on the website (www.bucfe.com/events/) and to book your place so that they can plan and manage numbers. The first event you can attend in the academic 2014-15 year is: WOW - “Double Your Customer Spend in 12 Months!” 5.30 pm arrival for 6 pm start, Tuesday 23 September, Executive Business Centre Peter Czapp is co-founder of The Wow Company, a proactive accountancy practice that advises small businesses across the UK, helping them make more profit, pay less tax and have more fun! Some of Wow’s clients have achieved amazing things; growing quickly, winning awards for their customer service & generating large profits. The one thing that Wow’s top performing clients all have in common is that they are masters at generating revenues from their existing customers. In this seminar, Peter shares insights into what Wow’s most successful clients do differently, including sharing practical tips that you can apply in your own business right away. If you’re looking to double your client spend, attend this event to find out how!
CAREERS FAIR Wednesday 12 November and Thursday 13 November 2014 11 am – 3 pm Kimmeridge House, Talbot Campus
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PROGRAMME DIAGRAM
Master of Business Administration Core Units (Compulsory) 20
Stage 3/Level M
Strategic Management
Option Units Consultancy
40
Exit Qualification: Master of Business Administration
Research Project
40
Requires 180 Level M Credits
Core Unit (Compulsory) - Personal and Professional Development
Stage 2/Level M
Work Experience
Elective Units
Core Units (Compulsory) Performance Management & Analytics Leadership and Organisational Behaviour
20
20
Entrepreneurial Management
20
Business Law and Intellectual Property
20
Advanced Marketing
20
Industrial Economics
20
Financial Services
20
Business in New Media Environments
20
Stage 1/Level M
Core Units (Compulsory) Accounting and Financial Management
20
Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment
20
Strategic Applied Marketing
20
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Progression Requirements: No progression requirements to Stage 3 Exit Qualification: PGDip Business Administration Requires 120 Level M credits PGCert Business Administration Requires 60 Level M credits
Progression Requirements: No progression requirements to Stage 2 Exit Qualification:
26
PGCert Business Administration Requires 60 Level M credits
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ADMISSIONS REGULATIONS The regulations for this programme are the University Standard Admissions Regulations for taught postgraduate programmes. Applicants for whom English is not their first language, must offer evidence of qualifications in written and spoken English. Acceptable qualifications are IELTS (academic) 6.5 and TOEFL 232 (computer based), 90 (internet based) or 575 (paper based), or direct equivalents. Applicants from Bournemouth University International College programmes which have approved articulation routes must meet the minimum entry requirements in terms of course average and English requirements as stipulated by the Business School at Bournemouth University. Admissions with Credit There will be no admissions with credit to the full time programme.
ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS The regulations for this programme are the University’s Standard Postgraduate Assessment Regulations (see Appendix B).
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UNIT SPECIFICATIONS Unit title:
Personal and Professional Development
Level:
M
Credit value:
0 (0 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This core and non-credit bearing unit aims to help students develop the selfawareness, skills, behaviours, attributes and competences to make them effective, independent and credible professionals for the global business environment. The unit encompasses a variety of distinct subject matters: personal and professional development; emerging management topics through the use of master-classes offered by internal and external academics and practitioners. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 develop a practical understanding of academic writing skills; 2 become familiar with statistical skills relevant to the business and management; 3 become confident in their skills of advanced presentation skills; 4 develop greater understanding of career development skills, tools and techniques to help enhance individual employability; 5 to be exposed to a range of key emerging management topics through a programme of Masterclasses including ethical and responsible management 6 develop their skills as reflective practitioners 7 develop an understanding of business research and how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to develop and interpret knowledge in business and management; LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS Students will be given guidance and assistance in various ways including lectures and masterclasses, as well as workshops and one-to-one consultation.
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ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 7 will be assessed through Coursework and awarded with Pass or Fail therefore all students are expected to complete the assessment successfully. Indicative Assessment Information Students will be guided to build a portfolio of all their learning activities on this unit including development of their reflective skills. INDICATIVE CONTENT • Academic writing skills • Goal setting • Self management • Basic business statistics • Advanced presentation skills • Team building proficiency • Cross-cultural communication, management and leadership • Project Management • Reflective practitioner • Career development and employability • Business Research skills • Business Ethics INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Whetten, D. and Camron, K., 2005. Developing Management Skills, 6th edition. Pearson. DfEE resources and links on http://www.lifelonglearning.co.uk/
lifelong
learning
available
from
This unit is structured to include a series of inter-related themes that focus on the key transferable skills to meet the challenges of today’s work environment. The above Key resources are complemented by additional reading from monographs, journals and company data sources which can be located via the Library resources and relevant online databases and e-journal & e-book collections.
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STAGE 1 Unit title:
Accounting and Financial Management
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This unit aims to equip students with the conceptual understanding, techniques and skills that are required to analyse and evaluate accounting and other forms of financial data for the purposes of performance evaluation, decision making and risk analysis. As well as providing a robust foundation for managerial action, the skills learned are also essential tools for consultancy, research and organizational analysis. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1
2 3
4
5
demonstrate an awareness of the general principles of financial and managerial accounting, and financial management and also the limitations of accounting data for the valuation of assets and evaluation of performance analyse accounting and other forms of financial data and produce reasoned evaluations of financial status and performance demonstrate ability to make sound operational and investment decisions based on an understanding of relevant costs, discounted cash flow and risk appraisal demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which business organizations are financed, the sources of capital available to them and their associated obligations apply sound principles of financial management, budgeting and cash flow forecasting in different organizational contexts
LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS In this unit students will experience lectures, seminars, discussion sessions, individual and group exercises, case studies and on-line learning materials. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 5 will be assessed by coursework (100%).
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Indicative Assessment Information The coursework assessment for this unit will typically involve two reports and a presentation. The first report will typically be done independently, involve the critical analysis of a company’s annual report, assess ILOs 1 and 2 and account for 50% of the overall assessment. The second report and presentation will typically be done in pairs, involve the critical assessment of an investment project, assess ILOs 3, 4 and 5, and account for 50% of the overall assessment. INDICATIVE CONTENT • Corporate ownership structures and reporting requirements, accounting regulation, audit, the role of directors and corporate governance • The annual report and the key financial statements and notes contained therein • Analysis of performance and financial position, ratio and trend analysis • Budgeting, technical and behavioural issues, cash flow forecasting • Costing: relevant costs, cost-volume-profit analysis, full absorption costing • Recent developments in management accounting • Sources of capital, obligations to providers of capital, cost of capital • Investment decision making INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Key Texts Atrill, P. & McLaney E., 2014. Accounting and Finance: An Introduction. 7th ed., FT Press Van Horne, J.C. & Wachowicz, J.M., 2008. Fundamentals of Financial Management. 9th ed. FT Prentice Hall Other Recommended Texts Aerts, W. & Walton, P., 2013. Global Financial Accounting and Reporting: Principles and Alaysis. 3rd ed. Cengage Learning EMEA Alexander, D., Britton, A. and Jorissen, A., 2014. International Financial Reporting and Analysis. 5th ed. Cengage Learning Atrill, P. and McLaney, E., 2011. Accounting and Finance for Non-Specialists. 7th ed. Harlow: FT Prentice-Hall Brealey, R.A., Myers, S.C. & Marcus, A.J., 2011. Fundamentals of Corporate Finance. 7th ed. McGraw-Hill Higher Education
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Journals Accountancy Student Accountant http://www.accaglobal.com/students/student_accountant/ Journal of Corporate Finance Journal of Applied Corporate Finance Corporate Finance Journal of Business Finance and Accounting Financial Management Web-based sources http://www.accaglobal.com/ http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/ http://www.companyreporting.com/ http://www.frc.org.uk/ http://www.icaew.com The above texts are complemented by additional reading from: • relevant Professional Body study texts; • selected book chapters and journal articles downloadable from myBU • The Financial Times • monographs, journals and other sources, predominantly made available online located via the Library Catalogue; and relevant e-journal & e-book collections and other online databases. Databases and other supplemental online resources: • Datastream/Thomson Analytics • “MyAccountingLab” – on-line resource from Pearson
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Unit title:
Contemporary Issues in the Global Business Environment
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This unit explores a range of contemporary issues affecting businesses both internally and through developments in the macroeconomic environment. As part of this unit, the role government policy and international trade play in shaping the global business environment will be examined. The unit will also examine the issues that impact sustainable business and develop strategic management and leadership skills to a high level in a global business context. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 apply economic concepts and principles to understanding the role of government and financial institutions in shaping national and international markets; 2 show an understanding of analytical methods, both theory and model based; 3 demonstrate a critical understanding of the theory and practice of management in a global business context and the development of sustainable business practice; 4 Critical understanding of corporate and social business responsibilities as well as the growing global business and management context. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will be delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars that will feature student centred activities including group discussion forums and individual learning activities. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 and 2 will be assessed by exam (50%) and ILOs 3 and 4 will be assessed through a group assessment (50%). Indicative Assessment Information The exam will be closed book and be 3 hours in length. INDICATIVE CONTENT • Using AD/AS analysis to examine the role of macroeconomic policy in managing the business cycle • Understanding fiscal policy and its impact on consumption, investment and public expenditure/taxation MBA FT Student Handbook
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• • • • • • •
Monetary policy and the role of financial institutions and markets in the current business environment Understanding recent trends in international trade, exchange rates and globalization Cultural diversity Building and maintaining trust Global and dispersed working groups Globalisation and sustainability Corporate, Social Responsibility (CSR)
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Businessculture.com Worldbiz.com Key text books Buckle,M. and Thompson, J. 2004. The UK Financial System. 4th ed. Manchester: Manchester University Press Carroll, A. B., 2010. Corporate Social Responsibility Evolution of a Definitional Construct. Sage Publications Chamberlin, G. and Yueh, L. 2006. Learning
Macroeconomics. London: Thomson
Dalton, M., Earnest, Deal,C. and Leslie, J. 2002. Success For The New Global Manager. London: Jossy Bass Griffiths A. and Prentice Hall
Wall, S. 2007. Applied Economics. 11th ed. London: FT
Hill, C. W., 2006. International Business, 6th ed. McGraw Hill Hofstede, G., 2005. Cultures And Organisations; Software Of The Mind, 2nd ed. New York: McGraw Hill Krugman, P., Wells, R. and Graddy,K. 2008. Economics. European Ed. New York: Worth Miskin, F. 2010. The Economics of Money, Banking and Financial Markets. 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education Mulhearn, C. and Vane, H. 2012. Economics for Business. New York: Palgrave MacMillan Parkin, M., Powell, M. and Matthews, K. 2012. Economics. 8th ed. Harlow: Addison-Wesley MBA FT Student Handbook
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Trompenaars, F. and Turner, C. H., 2000. Riding The Waves Of Culture: Understanding Cultural Diversity In Business, 2nd ed. New York: N Bradley Publishing Tueth, M. 2010. Fundamentals of Sustainable Business – A Guide for the Next 100 Years, World Scientific Publishing Wall, S. Rees, B., 2004. International Business, 2nd ed. FT Prentice Hall Wood, D., Logsdon, J.M., Lewellyn, P.G. and Davenport, K. 2006. Global Business Citizenship: a transformative framework for ethics and sustainable capitalism, London: M.E. Sharp
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Unit title:
Strategic Applied Marketing
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This unit aims to equip students with an understanding and skills relating to the fundamental concepts and principles that underpin the marketing process. This will focus on the principles of marketing, incorporating the macro environment within which marketers operate. This unit aims to develop and enhance the range of skills and attributes that marketers need in order to operate effectively in the marketing environment, also taking an international perspective. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to be able to: 1 demonstrate a critical understanding of the theory and practice of marketing, nationally, internationally and globally; 2 planning, developing and running strategic marketing campaigns; 3 demonstrate understanding of co-ordinating the marketing mix; 4 demonstrate a critical understanding of contemporary marketing issues. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS In this unit students will learn from lectures, case studies, class discussion, simulations, role-play exercises involving negotiations and review meetings. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 4 are assessed by 100% Coursework through a written assignment. Indicative Assessment Information Assessment will evaluate both conceptual understanding of the issues both in written and verbal form. The assessment will comprise of an individual report (70%) and a group presentation (30%). INDICATIVE CONTENT Topics to be covered include: • • •
Co-ordinating the marketing mix Organising marketing activities Planning strategic level marketing activities/marketing communication campaigns
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• • • • • •
Understand the concepts of segmentation, targeting and positioning Building and developing relationships and networks Dealing with language difficulties and ambiguity Administering the marketing budget Customer Relationship Management Strategic application of Social Media in marketing
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
In addition to the suggested text, the study on this unit will be supported by guided reading from journals, professional publications, relevant online databases, e-journals and e-book collections. Suggested Texts: Baines, P., Fill, C. and Page, K. 2010. Marketing. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press Blythe, J. and Megicks, P. 2010. Marketing Planning: Strategy, Environment and Context. Harlow, FT/Prentice Hall Cole, G.A. and Kelly,P. 2011. Management: Theory and Practice. 7th ed. London, Cengage Learning Palmer, R., Cockton, J. and Cooper, G. 2007. Managing Marketing: Marketing Success Through Good Management Practice. Oxford: OUP Pickton, D and Broderick, A. 2004. Integrated Marketing Communications. 2nd ed. Harlow: Prentice Hall
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STAGE 2 Unit title:
Performance Management and Analytics
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 credits (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This unit aims firstly to develop students’ numeracy and quantitative skills that will support decision-making, and secondly to equip students with the techniques and skills that are required to evaluate and outline opportunities for improvement of organisational performance and its management. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 demonstrate critical understanding of core theories, frameworks, models and tools for measuring and managing organisational performance; 2 appraise organisational performance using appropriate analytical tools; 3 be able to identify feasible management solutions for enhancing business performance; 4 be able to use and understand statistics and basic econometrics; 5 apply these techniques to financial modelling and investment analysis. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will be delivered via a mixture of lectures and seminars, supplemented by workshops, formative assessment, on-line material, discussion sessions, case studies and a surgery. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 and 2 will be assessed via group-based coursework (50%). ILOs 3, 4 and 5 will be assessed by individual coursework (50%). Indicative Assessment Information The group-based coursework for ILOs 1 and 2 will be based upon a case study. The individual work for ILOs 3, 4 and 5 will be a combination of subelements. INDICATIVE CONTENT • The role of performance management • Performance management approaches, frameworks, methods and tools • Theories, frameworks and methodologies for measuring organisational performance MBA FT Student Handbook
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• • • •
Performance metrics, key performance implications of their use Descriptive statistics Inferential statistics Regression and time series analysis
indicators
and
practical
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Thompson Analytics SPSS E Views In addition to the above sources, the study on this unit will be supported by guided reading from monographs, journals, professional standards which can be located via the Library Catalogue and relevant online databases, e-journal and e-book collections.
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Unit title:
Leadership and Organisational Behaviour
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 credits (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None AIMS This unit aims at providing a framework to critically evaluate and assess group and team building, development, dynamics, emergent leadership, and performance. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 2 3 4 5
Understand and appreciate different roles and structures for groups and teams; Determine critical factors affecting group dynamics and performance; Demonstrate an understanding of leader-member exchange mechanisms in groups; Critically evaluate how teams and groups develop and change; Critically appreciate and analyse how decisions are made within groups.
LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit is delivered using a mix of methods such as front lectures, seminars, exercises, case studies, e-learning support platforms, video-cases. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 2 are assessed by coursework (60%) and ILOs 3 to 5 by exam (40%). Indicative Assessment Information The coursework is assessed by a mix of tools that range from class participation to presentations of student work, poster sessions, and/or paperwork. The exam is a paper of 2,000 words. INDICATIVE CONTENT The unit focuses on: • • • • •
Group/team dynamics & development Emergent leadership Group/team critical factors and structure Motivation mechanisms Group vs individual decision making
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INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Baltes, B.B., Dickson, M.W., Sherman, M.P., Bauer, C.C. and LaGanke, J.S., 2002. Computer-mediated communication and group decision making: A meta-analysis. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 87(1), 156-179. Bettenhausen, K.L., 1991. Five years of group research: What we have learned and what needs to be addressed. Journal of Management, 17, 345381. Bonaccio, S. and Dalal, R.S. 2010. What types of advice do decision-makers prefer? Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 112, 11-23. Cohen, S.G. and Bailey, D.E., 1997. What makes teams work: Group effectiveness research from the shop oor to the executive suite. Journal of Management, 23, 239-290. Colquitt, J.A., Noe, R.A. and Jackson, C.L., 2002. Justice in teams: Antecedents and consequences of procedural justice climate. Personnel Psychology, 55(1), 83-109. Cropanzano, R. and Schminke, M., 2001. Using social justice to build effective work groups. In: Turner, M.E. ed., Groups and Work: Theory and Research. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum,143-172. Dane, E. 2011. Paying attention to mindfulness and its effects on task performance in the workplace. Journal of Management, 37(4), 997-1018. Hare, A.P., 1981. Group size. American Behavioural Scientist, 24, 695-708. Jones, T.M., 1991. Ethical decision making by individuals in organizations: An issue-contingent model. Academy of Management Review, 16(2), 366-395. Karau, S.J. and Williams, K.D., 1993. Social loafing: A meta-analytic review and theoretical integration. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 65(4), 681-706. Kerr, N.L. and Tindale, R.S. 2004. Group performance and decision making. Annual Review of Psychology, 55, 623-655. Kidder, D.L. and Parks, J.M., 2001. The good soldier: Who is s(he)? Journal of Organizational Behavior, 22(8), 939-959. Lindell, M.K. and Brandt, C.J., 2000. Climate quality and consensus as mediators of the relationship between organizational antecedents and outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology, 85, 331-348.
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Levi, D. 2011. Group Dynamics for Teams. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Moore, D., Kurtzberg, T.R., Thompson, L.L. and Morris, M.W., 1999. Long and short routes to success in electronically mediated negotiations: Group affiliations and good vibrations. Organizational Behaviour and Human Decision Processes, 77, 22-43. Secchi, D. 2011. Extendable Rationality. Understanding Decision Making in Organizations. New York: Springer Strauss, S.G. and McGrath, J.E., 1994. Does the medium matter? The interaction of task type and technology on group performance and member reactions. Journal of Applied Psychology, 79, 87-97. Wang, L., Howell, J.P., Hinrichs, K.T. and Prieto, L., 2011. Organizational citizenship behaviour: The role of value/identity-based motivation. Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies, 18(1), 14-24. Woolley, A.W., Chabris, C.F., Pentland, A., Hashmi, N. and Malone, T.W., 2010. Evidence for a collective intelligence factor in the performance of human groups. Science, 330, 686-688. Other resources are available via BU’s library stacks and its e-resources (ejournals databases and e-books catalogue)
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Unit title:
Entrepreneurial Management (Elective)
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS The aim of the course is to examine the nature of strategy and strategic management in entrepreneurial ventures. Particular prominence is given to growth strategies and managing the consequences of growth. A strong emphasis is placed upon strategic management style and managerial activities that best cope with the challenges facing entrepreneurial ventures, especially alternative competitive advantage-seeking behaviour. Importance is placed upon the actions taken by management to both facilitate and control growth and development in the context of the venture and participants will have the opportunity to gain a practical appreciation of the facilitating mechanisms and obstacles to growth and development. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to demonstrate: 1 an understanding of the relationship between entrepreneurship and strategic management; 2 the ability to identify the characteristics of growing enterprises and the influences upon growth; 3 the application of appropriate theoretical concepts, models, frameworks, tools and techniques which facilitate strategy development and strategic management; 4 alternative approaches to strategic management in entrepreneurial ventures; 5 understanding of the relationship between entrepreneurial opportunity and competitive advantage in successful strategies. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, case vignettes, internet sourced materials, and in-class discussion of readings/journal articles. The lectures and journal articles will be used to examine key ideas and concepts associated with the topic while case studies introduce an applied perspective to the module and will investigate in more detail selected topics of interest that are associated with the lecture programme. All of this requires that students actively engage with the material, the lecturer and with each other.
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ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 5 will be assessed by 100% coursework. Indicative Assessment Information The coursework will consist of a report, no more than 5,000 words, on an entrepreneurial venture that, in the recent past has displayed a period of sustained growth, and, for which, the student can obtain sufficient primary and/or secondary data to undertake the following tasks. • • • •
An identification of the business and the environmental and competitive context in which it started operations, ENTRY A strategic analysis of the internal and external environment and an assessment of particular attributes that could have underpinned the sustained growth, GROWTH An analysis of how the business has managed to create and sustain competitive advantage, i.e. how has the business managed to protect its advantage, SUSTAINABILTY An evaluation of what the business would need to do to sustain such an advantage into the future. A discussion of future strategies informed by the analysis from the first 3 sections.
INDICATIVE CONTENT Topics to be covered include: The importance of strategy and its application to entrepreneurship Strategic Management and Entrepreneurial Growth • Strategy Making and the Environment • Generic Strategies, Direction and Method of Growth • External Fit Growth and Entrepreneurial Firms • Evaluation of Small Firm Performance: Failure, Success, Growth • Reasons Why Firms Might Not Want To Grow • Relationship between Growth and Organisational Change • Growth as Revolution and Evolution Constraints/Barriers upon Entrepreneurial Growth • Areas of Market Failure • Methods of Overcoming Barriers to Growth Resources, Competitive Advantage & Leadership • Resource-Based View • Resources, Capabilities & Competencies • Resource Accumulation & Inimitability • VRIO Framework & Performance MBA FT Student Handbook
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• • •
Integrating VRIO with Competitive Strategies Analysing for Sustainable Advantage Organisational Learning
Strategic Networks • Collaborative Strategies • External Drivers and Internal Prerequisites of Collaboration • Costs of Collaboration • Forms of Collaboration • Reasons for the Failure of Collaboration INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Key Texts Hitt, M. A., Ireland, R. D., Camp, S. M., and Sexton, D.L. 2002. Strategic Entrepreneurship Oxford: Blackwell. Burke, G., Clarke, L., Molian, D., and Barrow, P. 2008. Growing Your Business: A handbook for ambitious owner-managers, London: Routledge. Other Readings Analoui, F., and Karami, A. 2003. Strategic management in Small and Medium Enterprises. London: Thomson. Bowman, C., and Faulkner, D. 2000. Competitive and Corporate Strategy. London: Irwin. Birley, S. And Muzyka, D. London:Financial Times Pitman.
F.
2000.
Mastering
Entrepreneurship.
Bridge, S., O’Neill, K., and Martin, F. 2008. Understanding Enterprise, Entrepreneurship and Small Business. New York: Macmillan. Cummings, S. and Wilson, D., 2003. Images of Strategy. Oxford: Blackwell. Deakins, D. and Freel, M. 2009. Entrepreneurship and Small Firms. London:McGraw Hill. De Wit, B. and Meyer, R. 2003. Strategy Process, Content, Context: An International Perspective. New York: West. Grant, R. 2002. Contemporary Strategy Analysis: Concepts, Techniques and Applications. 4th ed. Oxford: Blackwell Business. Mintzberg, H., Ahlstrand, B. and Lampel, J. 2002. Strategy Safari. London: Prentice Hall MBA FT Student Handbook
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Mintzberg, H., Quinn, J., and Ghoshal, S. 2003. The Strategy Process: Concepts, Contexts and Cases. London: Prentice Hall. Penrose, E. T. 1995. Theory of the Growth of the Firm. 3rd. ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Storey, D. 1994. Understanding the Small Firm Sector. London: Routledge. Stutely R. 2002. The Definitive Business Plan. Harlow: Pearson Education.
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Unit title:
Business Law and Intellectual Property (Elective)
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 credits (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None AIMS This unit aims to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the essential commercial legal framework and legal context in which business operates and to equip students with the ability to critically evaluate the impact of legal regulation, procedure and practice on business management. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 demonstrate a critical awareness and understanding of key concepts of business law; 2 critically understand and assess the rationale and implementation of key regulatory issues; 3 appreciate and demonstrate awareness of the impact of legal frameworks and concepts on an organisation’s structure, management and performance; 4 demonstrate an ability to use and apply the law to identify, protect and exploit the intangible assets of an organisation. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops that will feature student centred activities including computer-aided materials, guided reading and workbooks. ASSESSMENT Summative assessment ILOs 1 to 4 will be assessed through coursework (50%) and examination (50%). Indicative assessment The coursework may be a written assignment of 2000 words. The examination may be a 2 hour paper comprising a combination of essay type and problem questions. INDICATIVE CONTENT • Principles and concepts of business law • The law relating to management and regulation of resources MBA FT Student Handbook
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• • •
Legal and policy issues relating to corporate governance Regional and national laws of Patents, Designs, Trade Marks, and Copyright Current policy and legal issues
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Dine, J. 2007. Company Law. 7th ed. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Kelly, D. 2011. Business Law. 6th ed. London: Routledge. MacQueen, H. 2011. Contemporary Intellectual Property: Law & Policy. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Marson, J. 2011. Business Law. 11th ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Sargeant, M. 2012. Employment Law. 6th ed. London: Longman. http://www.ipo.gov.uk/ http://www.bis.gov.uk/
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Unit title:
Advanced Marketing (Elective)
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None AIMS This unit aims to critically evaluate key emerging themes impacting the marketing industry and critically assess their significance for a specific sector or industry. Students are expected to develop understanding at a strategic marketing level relating it to the key themes identified, whilst understanding the ever-evolving nature of these themes. Responses should reflect contemporary marketing practice, reflecting new developments, demonstrating innovation and creativity in thinking. This unit aims to develop and enhance the range of skills and attributes that marketers need in order to operate effectively in the marketing environment, as well as developing understanding from a global and international perspective. A key focus of the unit is understand the changing nature and evolvement of marketing and how this can impact decision making, strategic direction as well as the longer term strategic focus of the organisation. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to be able to: 1 critically evaluate key emerging themes and assess their potential impact upon one specific sector or industry, both internally and externally; 2 develop contemporary strategic marketing and business responses to a particular emerging theme; 3 demonstrate a clear understanding of emerging marketing themes at a national and international and global level; 4 demonstrate a critical understanding of emerging themes in different contexts and their impact on organisational decision making; 5 critically analyse the changing and evolving nature of marketing and its impact at an organisation and industry level. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS In this unit students will learn from lectures, case studies, class discussion, simulations, role-play exercises involving negotiations and review meetings. There will also be directed learning, where students are able to work on different scenarios and case studies to discuss in class. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILO’s 1 to 5 are assessed by 100% Coursework. MBA FT Student Handbook
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Indicative Assessment Information ILO’s 1 to 3 are assessed by a written assignment (60%) and ILO’s 4 to 5 are assessed by a presentation (40%). The written part of the assessment may take a number of forms for example a report, a discussion paper, a practitioner paper, a research paper, a white paper. INDICATIVE CONTENT Topics to be covered include: • Identifying key emerging marketing themes • Emerging themes across different contexts • Communication in the marketing industry • Service Dominant Logic • Understanding how macro environmental factors impact marketing activities at both a strategic and tactical level • Understanding emerging themes in marketing at a national, international and global level INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Due to the nature of the unit, the study on this unit will be supported by guided reading from journals, professional publications, relevant online databases, ejournals and e-book collections. Example of Articles (subject to change) Cooke, M. and Buckley,N. 2008. Web 2.0, Social Networks and the Future of Market Research. International Journal of Market Research, 50(2), 267-292. Paddison, A. and Calderwood, E. 2007. Rural Retailing: A Sector in Decline? International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 35(2), 136-155. Piercy, N.F. 2001. Market Led Strategic Change: New Marketing For New Realities. The Marketing Review, 2(4), 385- 404. Russo, J. and Clarke, K. 2008. 15 Trends for 2015. Convenience Store News, 44(1), 44-46.
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Unit title:
Industrial Economics (Elective)
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS The unit aims to develop students’ understanding of firm conduct and performance in various market structures. Students will be introduced to a traditional microeconomic analysis of firms and markets, with a focus on imperfect competition and government intervention. Students will also examine more recent developments in the area including pricing theory, game theory and theory of the firm. The unit also aims to develop students’ ability to analyse various business practices (e.g. pricing, advertising, innovation) with reference to the latest research. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 apply fundamental economic concepts and principles to understanding firm strategy and market structures; 2 show understanding of analytical methods, both theory and model based; 3 demonstrate an ability to apply knowledge through clear and effective communications in a written format. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will be delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars that will feature student centred activities including group discussion forums, presentations and individual learning activities. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 3 will be assessed by 100% coursework. Indicative Assessment Information The coursework will consist of two summative presentations during term and a final written explanatory case-study of approximately 2,500 words INDICATIVE CONTENT • Outline of the Structure-Conduct-Performance paradigm and discussion of resent developments in the area • Understanding market behaviour with the use of microeconomic theory in the areas of demand, supply, elasticity, production and costs
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• • • •
Examination of various market structures and the implications for firm conduct, with an emphasis on monopolistic competition (product differentiation) and oligopoly (collusion, game theory) Examination of the role government intervention (market failure) and regulation play in influencing market structure and firm conduct Using theory of the firm (including information asymmetry and contracting) to understand firm strategy Analysis of firm conduct in relation to pricing, collusion, integration, advertising, innovation and international trade
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Key text books Baye, M. 2009. Managerial Economics and Business Strategy. 6th ed. London: McGraw Hill. Carlton, D. W. and Perloff, J.M. 2005. Modern Industrial Organisation. 4th ed. Harlow: Addison Wesley Krugman, P., Wells R. and Graddy, K. 2008. Economics. European ed. New York: Worth. Mulhearn, C. and Vane, H. 2012. Economics for Business. Palgrave MacMillan.
New York:
Parkin, M., Powel, M. and Matthews, K. 2012. Economics. 8th ed. Harlow: Addison-Wesley. Pepall, L., Ricards, D. and Norman, G. 2008. Industrial Organisation: Contemporary Theory and Empirical Applications. 4th ed. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. Png, I. and Lehman, D. 2007. Managerial Economics. 3rd ed. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. Waldman, D. and Jensen E. 1997. Industrial Organisation: Theory and Practice. Harlow: Addison-Wesley
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Unit title:
Financial Services (Elective)
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS The aim of this unit is to develop the knowledge and skills of managers in, or planning to work in, the financial services sector. Particular prominence is given to regulation and marketing in this specific context. Students will develop the necessary knowledge and skills to enable them to work constructively and responsibly as a manager within financial services regulatory parameters; and to critically evaluate and develop marketing strategies/plans in the financial services sector. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES On completion of the unit the student will be able to: 1 critically assess and understand the rationale for the key regulatory theories applicable to current regulatory issues; 2 critically review the various forms of regulation from the regulator’s and the regulated’s perspective; 3 demonstrate an awareness and understanding of marketing as it applies to financial services; 4 critically assess the marketing strategies and plans of Financial Services organisations. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops that will feature student centred activities. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 2 are assessed by coursework (50%) and ILOs 3 and 4 by exam (50%). Indicative Assessment The coursework will be based on current regulatory financial services topic. The exam will be closed book. INDICATIVE CONTENT • The key regulatory theories and concepts relating to financial regulation • The key aspects of the regulatory rationale and framework of the financial services sector in terms of prudential and conduct of business regulation.
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• • • • • • •
The regulatory policy of rule use and the making of rules in the regulatory context and the role of ethics Buyer behaviour and segmentation of financial services Measuring and enhancing service quality Customer relationship management and practice Managing and developing financial services products Marketing communication in financial services International development in financial services
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Study on this unit will be supported by guided reading from monographs, journals, professional standards together which can be located via the Library Catalogue and relevant online databases and e-journal & e-book collections. Key journals International Journal of Bank Marketing Journal of Financial Service Marketing Journal of Service Marketing Indicative Web-based sources fsa.gov.uk bankingcommision.independant.gov.uk hm-treasury.gov.uk bankofengland.co.uk
The above Key Texts are complemented by additional reading from monographs, journals, professional standards together which can be located via the Library Catalogue and relevant online databases and e-journal & ebook collections.
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Unit title:
Business in New Media Environments (Elective)
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS More than a decade since Harvard Business Professor Michael Porter predicted the disruptive influence of the Internet for business, we continue to witness significant impacts of new media on all aspects of culture, politics and the economy. To a varying degree, every sector of the economy is touched by the influence of computer-mediated communication technologies. Understanding this influence and charting its future direction is the central aim of this unit. In order to achieve these aims, students will first be provided with an overview of academic research and theory pertaining to new media environments, with the expectation that they will gain a deeper understanding of the socio-economic transformations and new kinds of behaviour anticipated by electronic media. A second objective of this unit is to apply these understandings to developing managerial competencies including research and evaluation of market trends. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed the unit, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate: 1 2
3
4
a critical awareness and understanding of the structural changes taking place across the media and related communications industries; a comprehension of the social, cultural and economic effects resulting from the diffusion of new media and communications technology within broader society; the ability to draw critically upon and synthesize ideas from both professional and academic sources of knowledge and to apply such ideas to the practice of management as it relates to the new media environment; the ability to work effectively in a team to conceptually propose and develop innovative business models in a new media environment.
LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will consist of both lecture materials and student-directed activities. Lecturer-led presentations will provide introduction to and elaboration upon the key issues and related academic research and theory (Learning Outcomes 1 to 3). These lectures will be complemented by a practical, student led activity comprised of pitching and prototyping a business model for an emergent media service or platform, and critically evaluating the process and outcomes (Learning Outcome 4).
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ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 4 will be assessed by 100% coursework. Indicative Assessment Information This unit will be assessed by coursework comprising one assignment of 5000 words (Learning Outcomes 1 to 4). This is likely to comprise of a research report on a specific aspect of new media or emerging platform, a literature review situating the research findings in academic and business context, and a set of proposed recommendations for managing change in light of the research and literature reviewed. The assignment may draw upon the practical activity carried out by students in the unit. INDICATIVE CONTENT • Socio-political impact of new media • New media and communications technologies • Socio-economic transformations • Media regulatory frameworks INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Journals New Media & Society Convergence European Journal of Communication New Media Age Television & New Media Critical Studies in Media Communication The International Journal of Media Management Journal of Media Economics Media, Culture & Society Websites www.wired.com www.media.mit.edu/ www.boingboing.net www.slate.com www.opendemocracy.net www.ofcom.org.uk
www.eff.org www.bbc.co.uk www.mediaguardian.co.uk www.salon.com/ www.medialens.org/ www.pewinternet.org/
Books Aris, A. and Bughin, J. 2009. Managing Media Companies: Harnessing Creative Value. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons. Deuze, M. 2012. Media Life. London: Polity Press. Gauntlett, D. 2010. Making is Connecting. London: Polity Press. MBA FT Student Handbook
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Harcourt, A. 2005.The European Union and the Regulation of Media Markets. Manchester: Manchester University Press. Hesmondhalgh, D. 2007. The Cultural Industries. London: Sage. Hindman, M. 2009. The Myth of Digital Democracy. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. Jarvis, J. 2009. What Would Google Do? New York: Harper Collins. Jenkins, H. 2006 Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide. New York: NYU Press. Mattelart, A. 2003. The Information Society: An Introduction. London: Sage. Shirky, C. 2008. Here Comes Everybody. New York: Allan Lane.
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STAGE 3 Unit title:
Work Placement (Optional)
Level:
M
Credit value:
0 (0 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES There are no pre-requisites or co-requisites to this aspect of the MBA. AIMS The part of the course is designed to provide the MBA students with a unique opportunity to take a positive and contributing role in a participating organisation, subject to availability. This aspect of the programme aims to attach further practical context to the value of the learning experience. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed the practical experience the student is expected to: 1 gain first-hand knowledge of a specific organisational environment; 2 experience a working environment and in particular the problems encountered in trying to meet organisational objectives and to understand how such problems are tackled; 3 evaluate the business context through application of theoretical concepts; 4 make an effective contribution to the learning process within the course after returning to the University; 5 reflect on the learning experience and develop further understanding of management practices. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS Students will be given guidance and assistance specifically in the Personal and Professional Development Unit and throughout the Programme including: a) detailed information contained in the Course Handbook on the nature and purpose of the work experience; b) guidance through work placement and career advice workshops; c) close working relationship with the Employability and Career Services to develop further relationship with existing and new participating organisations. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment This aspect of the programme will assess ILOs 1 to 5 through a reflective journal.
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Formative Assessment Students will be expected to conduct a reflective account of their work-based learning experience during their internship to build towards a long-life learning portfolio. Relevant criteria applied in assessing the Work-based Learning will include: a) reflective practitioner; b) clarity and suitability of expression, explanation and communication; c) an appropriate level of technical detail; d) suitable practical application of the relevant theoretical principles; INDICATIVE CONTENT • Placement search strategies • Deconstructing job and person specifications • Team working, leadership and delegation of tasks • Planning, organising, implementing and evaluating recruitment techniques and devices • Identification of career interests • Assessment of individual strength and weaknesses • Evaluating workplace performance • Life-long learning INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Adler, S. 1991. The reflective practitioner and the curriculum of teacher education. Journal of Education for Teaching, 17, 2, 139-150. Boud, D., Keogh, R. & Walker, D. 1985. Reflection: turning experience into learning, London: Kogan Page. Boyd, E. M. & Fayles, A. W. 1983. Reflective Learning: key to learning from experience, Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 23, 2, 99-117. Kolb, D. A. 1984. Experiential Learning: Experience as a Source off Learning and Development. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Moon, J, A. 2000. Reflection in Learning & Professional Development: Theory and Practice. London: Kogan Page. Schon, D. 1983. The reflective practitioner: How professional think in action. New York: Basic Books. Wedman, J and Martin, M. 1986. Exploring the development of reflective thinking through journal writing, Reading Improvement, 23, 1, 68-71. The above Key Texts are complemented by additional reading from monographs, journals, professional standards together with economic and company financial data sources which can be located via the Library MBA FT Student Handbook
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Catalogue and relevant online databases and e-journal & e-book collections such as Databases Business Source Complete Emerald Insight Fame E-Journal & E-Book* Collections Blackwell Publishing Reference Collection* CREDO Reference* Ebrary* Emerald Insight Oxford Reference Online Premium Collection* Wiley Jnls Online Developing skills to enable students to use these online resources effectively will form a part of individual Intended Learning Outcomes within the curriculum and will be achieved by a mix of tutor-led mediation, student-led learning and information skills workshops and 1-to-1 advice provide by the School’s Library Subject Team.
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Unit title:
Strategic Management
Level:
M
Credit value:
20 (10 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This unit aims to review the main concepts, methods and tools which are used in the strategy analysis, formulation and implementation processes. These processes intend to be linked to corporate, business and operational levels of an organisation. The perspective of the unit is that of a general manager whose responsibility is to take into account the realities and practices of managing and subsequently maximise the overall performance of an organisation. In this respect, the unit analyses the drivers of an organisation’s performance and identifies external and internal changes that affect this performance. Other important issues such as leadership, globalisation, innovation, entrepreneurship and practice of strategy are explored within the remit of this unit. Ultimately, the unit aims to provide a balance between theories of strategy and their application to real-life situations in a way that institutional analysis leads to strategy formulation, which in turn leads to the successful implementation of strategy by the management of the organisation. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to demonstrate: 1. A critical understanding and knowledge of the theories and practices of strategy and how these can be utilised effectively to optimise a manager’s individual and team work contributions to business performance; 2. core knowledge of strategic management and strategy practices, to include: critical awareness of corporate, business and operational strategies; the impact of the organisation’s external, global and internal environment; the effect of contemporary change in organisations and their environments. Students should be able to analyse strategic opportunities, critically apply the tools and techniques presented and develop a coherent, evidence based argument for action as well as to evaluate strategic alternatives from various relevant stakeholder perspectives; 3. practical skills that focus on developing the ability to critically evaluate and implement specific concepts and techniques to manage in a strategic fashion that would include a range of business scenarios and case studies; 4. transferable and key skills to include: working autonomously as well as with others; showing initiative and personal responsibility through critical MBA FT Student Handbook
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engagement with ideas and situations; and communicating effectively with a range of audiences. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS The unit will be delivered based upon an interactive approach, which will actively encourage effective student participation. Theory and practice will be introduced, explored and critically examined, through assorted methods of delivery such as: tutor-led discussion; student-led research; and group-based learning. Tutors and students will together rely on a broader variety of resources such as: directed reading; independent learning; case study analyses. The Virtual Learning Environment (myBU) will be used extensively, employing multi-media methods, to facilitate the sharing of ideas and assessment. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment ILOs 1 to 4 will be assessed by coursework (60%) and exam (40%). Indicative Assessment Information • Participation and contribution to class discussions (20% of the final mark); particular attention will be given to the degree of preparation of the case studies to be discussed in class; • an individual 2,500 word assignment (40% of the final mark) and; • a written 2 hour examination (40% of the final mark). INDICATIVE CONTENT Topics to be covered include: • • • • •
Definition, nature and phases of the strategy process Tools and techniques of strategic analysis Alternative approaches to strategy formulation such as Blue Ocean Strategy Managing contemporary trends in strategic management such as Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Strategy as Practice Evaluation of principal organizational topics such as Leadership and Managing Change.
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Key Texts Grant, R.M. 2010. 7th ed. Contemporary Strategy Analysis: Text and Cases. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons. (Supplementary text book – Editions 5th and 6th could also be used) Johnson, G, Scholes, K and Whittington, R. 2011. Exploring Strategy: Texts and Case. 9th ed. Harlow: Pearson Education. MBA FT Student Handbook
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Johnson, G, Scholes, K & Whittington, R. 2008. Exploring Corporate Strategy: Texts and Cases. 8th ed. Harlow: Pearson Education. Other Readings Apostolakis, C, 2007. Strategy for Collaboration: An Operational Framework for Local Strategic Partnerships, In: British Academy of Management Conference Proceedings Coventry: Warwick Business School, University of Warwick. De Wit, B. and London:Thomson.
Meyer, R. 2004. Strategy Process Content. 3rd ed.
DuBrin, A. J., 2006. Leadership; Research Findings, Practice and Skills. 4th ed. London: Houghton. Ellis, J & Williams, D. 1995. International Business Strategy. Pitman: London. Fitzroy, P., Hulbert, J.M. and Ghobadian, A. 2012. Strategic Management – The challenge of creating value. 2nd ed. Oxford: Routledge. Haberberg, A. and Rieple, A. 2001. The Strategic Management of Organisations, New York: Prentice Hall. Jenkins, M., Ambrosini, V. and Kollier, N. 2007. Advanced Strategic Management: A Multi-Perspective Approach. 2nd ed. Basingstoke: Palgrave McMillan. Johnson, G. and Scholes, K. 2001.Exploring Public Sector Strategy Harlow: Prentice Hall. Johnson, G., Langley, A., Melin, L. and Whittington, R. 2007. Strategy as Practice - Research Directions and Resources Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Kelley, T. 2006. The Ten Faces of Innovation London: Profile Books. Lynch, R. 2012. Strategic Management. 6th ed.Harlow: Pearson Education. Mellahi K. 2005. Global Strategic Management. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Mintzberg, H. 2009. Managing. Harlow:Pearson Education. Mintzberg, H., Lampel J., Quinn J. and Process, Oxford: Prentice Hall.
Ghoshal, S. 2003. The Strategy
Pettigrew, A., Thomas, H. and Whittington, R. 2000. Handbook of Strategy and Management. Sage: London.
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Thompson, J. and Martin, F. 2005. Strategic Management: Awareness and Change. 5th ed. New York: Thomson Learning. White, C.2004) Strategic Management. New York: Palgrave Macmillan. Whittington, R. 2000. What is strategy and does it matter? 2nd ed. London: Thompson. Journals British Journal of Management Harvard Business Review Strategic Management Journal Online Resources Databases Business Source Complete JSTOR Science Direct Emerald Insight Fame Thomson Analytics Westlaw Financial Journals Index E-Journal & E-Book* Collections Blackwell Publishing Reference Collection* CREDO Reference* CCH Online* (full text online of UK and International Accounting Standards, GAAP, etc.) Ebrary* Emerald Insight Oxford Reference Online Premium Collection* Wiley Jnls Online The above sources are complemented by additional reading from monographs, journals, professional standards, together with economic and company financial data sources, which can be located via the Library Catalogue and relevant online databases and e-journal & e-book collections. Developing skills to enable students to use these online resources effectively form a part of individual Intended Learning Outcomes within the curriculum and will be achieved by a mix of tutor-led mediation, student-led learning and information skills workshops and 1-to-1 advice provided by the University’s Library.
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Unit title:
Consultancy (option)
Level:
M
Credit value:
40 credits (20 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES None. AIMS This unit aims to develop an understanding of principles and practice of consultancy and equip students with the required techniques and skills to work as a team in undertaking a consultancy project. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 demonstrate critical understanding of consultancy processes and trends; 2 demonstrate ability to apply analytical and evaluative skills gained through the MBA programme; 3 an ability to carry out a consultancy project for an external client that is of practical and useful benefit to that client; 4 Demonstrate a critical awareness of the issues of creating an effective small team 5 ability to reflect critically on their own performance throughout the activity; LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS This unit is introduced by presentations on models of consultancy prospecting and negotiating briefs. Participants will be encouraged to generate their own clients. This will be followed by a series of workshops on various aspects of consultancy e.g. negotiating, producing a brief, report writing and presentation skills. Participants will then work in groups of 2-4 to develop and carry out a consultancy project. Each group will be allocated a member of staff as a mentor. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment Outcomes 1 to 4 will be assessed through a group presentation (20%) supported by a group report (20%) and an individual assignment on theory of consultancy in practice (20%). Individual contribution will be further determined through a peer review exercise (10%). Outcome 5 will be assessed through an individual reflective journal (30%). Summative feedback will be provided throughout the process of the project but mainly prior and post meetings with clients.
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Indicative Assessment Information Assessment will be based on carrying out a consultancy project for an external client. The group report is expected to be approximately 5000 words, with an accompanying presentation of approximately one hour (expected to be equivalent to approximately 2500 words written submission), and the students will be required to rate peers in the group to help assess individual contribution. The individual reflective journal approximately 2500 words. The group presentation element must evidence contribution by all individual members of the group, all group members are expected to have the knowledge and understanding to answer any questions. INDICATIVE CONTENT • Introduction and trends in consultancy • Marketing and selling/developing a proposal • Conducting a Consultancy Assignment • Models of Consultancy • The Consultancy Cycle • Models of Consultancy • Organisational Intervention • Consultancy Processes • Idea generation and creativity • Conflict resolution • Writing Consultancy reports • Report Writing • Writing reflectively INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Key Text: Czerniawska, F. 2004. Management Consulting in Practice: award winninginternational case studies. London:Kogan Page. Grundy, T. and Brown, L. 2002. Be your own Strategy Consultant. London: Thomson. Margerison, C.J. 2001. Managerial Consulting Skills - a Practical Guide. 2nd ed. London: Gower. Neighbour,R. 2005. The Inner Consultation: How to develop an effective and intuitive consulting style. London:Radcliffe. Stroh, l. and Johnson H. 2006.Basic Principles of Effective Consulting. New York: Mahwah.
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The above Key Texts are complemented by additional reading from monographs, journals, professional standards together with economic and company financial data sources which can be located via the Library Catalogue and relevant online databases and e-journal & e-book collections such as Databases Business Source Complete Emerald Insight Fame E-Journal & E-Book* Collections Blackwell Publishing Reference Collection* CREDO Reference* Ebrary* Emerald Insight Oxford Reference Online Premium Collection*
Developing skills to enable students to use these online resources effectively will form a part of individual Intended Learning Outcomes within the curriculum and will be achieved by a mix of tutor-led mediation, student-led learning and information skills workshops and 1-to-1 advice provide by the School’s Library Subject Team.
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Unit title:
Research Project (option)
Level:
M
Credit value:
40 credits (20 ECTS equivalent credit value)
PRE-REQUISITES AND CO-REQUISITES There are no pre-requisites or co-requisites to this unit, however it is expected that the students will have acquired research methods skills underpinned in the Personal and Professional Development stream. AIMS This unit aims to develop Masters level students with an opportunity to undertake a substantial self-managed research in a relevant business area of particular interest. The project may be based upon live organisational issues. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES Having completed this unit the student is expected to: 1 be able to identify specific business and management issues and associated research questions; 2 demonstrate an understanding of a range of business data, research sources and appropriate methodologies; 3 be able to distinguish relevant techniques and be able to conduct investigation into relevant business and management issues; 4 acquire and analyse data and information, to evaluate their relevance and validity, and to synthesise a range of findings; 5 develop an understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry may be used to develop and interpret knowledge in business and management. LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS Students will be given guidance and assistance in various ways including: a) detailed information contained in the Course Handbook on the nature and purpose of the Research Project; b) guidance through research project start-up workshops; c) general assistance in the selection and formulation of the topic; and d) more specific support by their supervisor in the completion of the Research Project. ASSESSMENT Summative Assessment Outcomes 1 to 5 will be assessed by a research project (100%) 10,000 words.
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Formative Assessment Students will be expected to complete a research proposal successfully and feedback will be provided on this and throughout discussions with the supervisor. Indicative Assessment Information Relevant criteria applied in assessing the Research Project will include: a) b) c) d) e)
research skills; clarity and suitability of expression, explanation and communication; an appropriate level of technical detail; suitable practical application of the relevant academic principles; an appropriate bibliography.
INDICATIVE CONTENT The subject area and general form of the Research Project will be negotiated with the Research Project supervisor allocated to the particular student subject to the final agreement of the Course Leader. It is expected that a Research Project will include: a) an introduction defining the scope and aims of the study; b) a comprehensive literature review in the chosen area, culminating in detailed research questions; c) an appropriately detailed methodology, outlining research approach, data collection and analysis methods; d) a data analysis appropriate to the research purpose; e) conclusions, and where appropriate, recommendations for action and further research. INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES Note: this list is indicative only – refer to Unit Guide/Assessment Briefs for upto-date list
Bryman, A. and Bell, E. 2007. Business Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Clough, P. and Nutbrown, C. 2002. A Students Guide to Methodology. London: Sage. Hart, C., 1998. Doing a Literature Review. London:Sage. Jankowicz, D., 2005. Business Research Projects. London: Thomson. Mason. J. 2002. Qualitative Researching. London: Sage. Rugg, G. and Petrie, M., 2007. A Gentle Guide to Research Methods. New York: McGraw Hill.
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Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A., 2007. Research Methods for Business Students. London: Prentice Hall. Wallace, M. and Wray, A. 2006. Critical reading and Writing for Postgraduates. London: Sage. The above Key Texts are complemented by additional reading from monographs, journals, professional standards together with economic and company financial data sources which can be located via the Library Catalogue and relevant online databases and e-journal & e-book collections such as Databases Business Source Complete Emerald Insight Fame Thomson Analytics Westlaw Financial Journals Index E-Journal & E-Book* Collections Blackwell Publishing Reference Collection* CREDO Reference* CCH Online* (full text online of UK and International Accounting Standards, GAAP, etc.) Ebrary* Emerald Insight Oxford Reference Online Premium Collection* Wiley Jnls Online Developing skills to enable students to use these online resources effectively will form a part of individual Intended Learning Outcomes within the curriculum and will be achieved by a mix of tutor-led mediation, student-led learning and information skills workshops and 1-to-1 advice provide by the School’s Library Subject Team.
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PROGRAMME INFORMATION, ADVICE AND HELP Notice Boards There are no Notice Boards at the EBC. Information for students is available on the electronic notice boards (myBU) which form part of the BS Learning & Teaching website. On enrolment, all students will be issued with their own computer 'user name' and 'password' in order to access this website. The address is: http://mybu.bournemouth.ac.uk. Students should regularly check the electronic notice boards for updates, which may include class notes, timetable changes, urgent messages or other important information. Instructions on getting started with myBU are at Appendix F. As many of these may be subject to change at short notice, it is essential that students keep a regular look-out for changes. Change of Address or Contact Details Please remember to advise the School Office, 4th Floor of the EBC, or askBU of any change of home or term address. It is essential to notify us of any change of your address as soon as you move, as failure to provide us with an up-to-date address may mean that you do not receive notification of your assessment results or other important correspondence. Attendance Our expectation is that a student will attend all classes and activities timetabled for him/ her. If you have reason to be absent for more than three consecutive days, in the first instance please inform the Programme Administrator in writing. Students and lecturers share a common goal – the students’ successful completion of the course. We do not operate a quota system in respect of passes, or grades of passes. Everybody who is accepted on to a course should have the capacity to successfully complete that course – and we hope that they will. Attendance at lectures, seminars and workshops is essential if you hope to be successful in assessments. A clear correlation has been established across the programmes in the school between poor attendance during the year and poor performance in the examinations. Don’t get drawn into the downward spiral of poor preparation, poor attendance and poor performance. If you are in the UK with a Student Visa in your passport, one of the conditions of your visa is that you attend classes regularly. In order to extend your leave to remain in the UK when your visa expires, you will need the University to confirm details of your attendance. If your attendance has not been good, we
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will have to say this on your visa extension form, and it is likely that your visa extension will be refused. Much support and guidance is available centrally by the University or the partner institutions. Within the School there are additional support and guidance mechanisms for both academic and personal problems. There is also askBU, see Appendix G for further information. Personal Problems: •
If the problem results in academic issues, such as the need to seek an extension to your coursework submission date, then contact your Framework Co-ordinator.
•
It is very common and perfectly acceptable for students with personal problems to approach any member of staff with whom they can relate. All staff within the School will treat you sympathetically and where appropriate put you in contact with other support mechanisms.
Academic Problems: •
Unit Tutors will help if you do not understand part of their subject.
•
For Dissertations, you will be allocated a Supervisor, who is the first port of call for any project discussion.
•
More generic issues can be fed in to the course team via the mechanisms discussed above.
Whatever the type of problem, it may be necessary to meet a member of staff. All staff operate an “Open Door policy”. If they are at their desks and not engaged then they will be happy to discuss any issues with you. The academic staff, due to the nature of their work, are less likely to be available during normal working hours. If tutors are not at their desks then students should e-mail the tutor to make an appointment to see them at a mutually convenient time. You can of course discuss issues at any time if they are available and free.
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English Language for Academic Purposes If English is not your first language, you may wish to use the English for Academic Purposes toolkit which is an interactive site that looks at both Academic Study Skills and English Language Skills for international students on Higher Education courses in the UK. Bournemouth University helped to pilot this course which was developed by Southampton University. In order to access this website you will need a user name and password which is: User name: eaptoolkit4 Password: croeso07 Please visit the website: http://www.elanguages.ac.uk/eaptoolkit14/
You can also access this site and a variety of other English language resources via the myBU community called The English LAB. To enrol in The English LAB community you should email the Language Centre on languagecentre@bournemouth.ac.uk
Language and academic support are also available to Business School students with Sue Barnes, International Academic Support Officer, based on the 4th Floor of the EBC. You can contact her to make individual tutorial sessions on sbarnes@bournemouth.ac.uk. In such sessions, she can help with conventions of academic communication (referencing and plagiarism, essay structuring, understanding assignment requirements, presentation skills, report writing, researching) and English writing in the academic context (using appropriate writing styles, formulating paragraphs).
Please note: she does NOT provide a proofreading service for writers of English as a second language.
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ASSIGNMENT AND EXAMINATION ARRANGEMENTS Submission of Coursework Assignments (i.e., assessed coursework) must be submitted by the dates specified in the Assessment Schedule and in the required way (see below). It is of vital importance that you follow the correct procedure for handing in completed written assignments. (i)
All assignments for your programme should be submitted electronically only via Turnitin in myBU in accordance with the assignment submission guidelines as follows. Instructions on how to submit your assignments via myBU are in Appendix E. Please ensure that your assignment has the following on the front page of your assignment: • • • •
The name of your course (eg ‘MBA FT) The unit (subject) name (eg ‘Strategic Applied Marketing’ or ‘Strategic Management’) The assignment title (given to you by the unit tutor) The name of the unit tutor
(ii)
Please insert the Assignment Submission Form at the start of all your assignments. A copy of the form is on myBU.
(iii)
All completed assignments must be submitted by 12.00 noon on the due date. Late submissions will be penalised (see below). Please DO NOT e-mail your completed assignments directly to tutors.
(iv)
You are required to keep a copy of each element of coursework that you submit.
Failure to submit a piece of coursework by the required deadline will result in a mark of 0% being awarded and the matter will be considered by the Assessment Board at their meeting. In cases of illness or genuine mitigating personal circumstances, and on the submission of written evidence of the above, the procedure outlined below must be followed. Extensions may be allowed provided the application is made before the due date, there is good supporting evidence and the application is made in writing. Students’ requesting an extension to their assignment ‘hand in’ date should complete the ‘Mitigating Circumstances form’, which must be approved by the Programme Director. Written evidence should accompany the form. MBA FT Student Handbook
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Mitigating Circumstances form can be found at: http://portal.bournemouth.ac.uk/C11/Mitigating%20Circumstances/default.asp x Examinations Examinations are normally scheduled at the end of each taught stage of the programme. Students are reminded to regularly check their notice boards for any changes to these dates and times. Additionally, exams timetables can be checked on the university website at https://studentportalservices.bournemouth.ac.uk/examtimetable/default.aspx. It is possible to sit or re-sit an exam overseas in either a British Council Office or a local University. The Exams department will need at least 10 days notice of where you will be sitting the exam, plus the contact details. Results Results of all assessments are published 7 days after the meeting of the Assessment Board (Dates will be published on myBU). Results lists are published on myBU by student ID number only. These results lists will only show the decision of the Assessment Board and not the results of individual units, for example: Proceed – this decision means that all units for which assessments have been submitted have been successfully completed. Refer (e.g. ‘Re-sit’, ‘Re-submit’ or ’Repeat Unit’) – this decision means that a student has been unsuccessful in one or more elements of their assessments and must re-sit and examination and/ or re-submit coursework in the unit(s) stated or repeat with attendance the unit stated. Award (e.g. MBA) – this decision means that all elements of the course have been successfully completed and the student is eligible to graduate. If you do not see your ID number on the Results Lists, please contact your Programme Director as soon as possible. Please note that we are not able to send students their results by e-mail and cannot advise you of your results by telephone.
Further detailed information on this section can be found at Appendix D.
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ASSESSMENT EXPECTATIONS AND CRITERIA Introduction The University’s Standard Assessment Regulations as reproduced at Appendix B. The assessment regulations could be subject to minor change, see link to Assessment Regulations in case of any updates: http://portal.bournemouth.ac.uk:81/C17/Assessment%20Regulations/default.a spx Assessment Criteria These generic assessment criteria are derived from good practice developed in various Schools of the University and in other universities. Using these Generic Assessment Criteria These criteria may be used as they stand, or as an essential frame of reference for the development or review of Schools’ assessment criteria. These criteria are primarily intended for use in the assessment of written assignments or examinations. They will, of course, need to be appropriately adapted for the assessment of, for example, fieldwork, student presentations, and laboratory work. Details of the Level M Descriptors and Generic Assessment criteria that apply to taught postgraduate programmes can be found at Appendix K.
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APPENDIX A – CAMPUS MAPS
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APPENDIX B – STANDARD ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS
ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS FOR TAUGHT POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES (as from September 2014) Please note – the assessment regulations could be subject to minor change, see link to Assessment Regulations in case of any updates: http://portal.bournemouth.ac.uk:81/C17/Assessment%20Regulations/default.aspx 1.
PRINCIPLES
1.1
These regulations conform to the principles set out in the current version of the University's Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures.
2.
PERIOD OF REGISTRATION
2.1
The maximum periods which a student may take to complete the programme, from first registration, are normally as follows:
PGCert PGDip MA/MSc/LLM CPD
Full-time maximum (years) Part-time maximum (years) 1 2 2 3 3 5 As above from first registration to a CPD framework
2.2
Periods of registration may be formally adjusted by the Assessment Board on reasonable grounds. Maximum periods of registration may be set for students who enter with credit.
3.
PASS MARK
3.1
The pass mark for each unit will be 50%. Where the unit is assessed by a combination of formally defined separate elements of assessment a pass will be awarded where the total unit mark is at least 50% and the mark in each separate component of the unit assessment is not less than 46.0%.
3.2
Where a formally defined separate element is assessed on a Pass/Fail basis, an overall unit pass will be awarded where the total unit mark is at least 50% and a pass is achieved in the Pass/Fail element(s). Where a unit is assessed entirely on a Pass/Fail basis, a pass must be achieved in all formally defined separate elements of assessment.
4.
COMPENSATION
4.1
When the total mark for a unit is less than 50%, but not normally less than 48.0%, and providing that no formally defined element contributing to the unit assessment has a mark of less than 46.0%, the Assessment Board will normally compensate for up to 40 credits at any one level and award a pass provided that the student to date has obtained a pass mark of 50% in the remaining credits in the same level as the unit or units for which compensation is considered. Such compensation will only apply to the first attempt (including any subsequent attempt taken as a first attempt due to mitigation) and may not normally apply to a unit or units with a total value of more than 40 credits at any one level. Where compensation has taken place the precompensation unit mark will be recorded.
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4.2
As compensation is based on the appraisal of the student’s performance to date in the level for which compensation is considered, it cannot be applied before the student has attempted a minimum of 60 credits at that level.
5.
PROGRESSION
5.1
Progression requirements are defined in the Programme Specification for the programme concerned and include, where appropriate, successful completion of the specified work experience.
6.
SUBMISSION OF COURSEWORK AND ATTENDANCE AT EXAMINATIONS Submission of coursework
6.1
Failure to submit a piece of coursework by the required deadline will result in a mark of zero (0%) being recorded.
6.2
Extensions, without penalty, may be allowed in cases of illness or genuine mitigating personal circumstances provided that an application is made before the submission deadline, normally before the submission date, and there is good supporting evidence. The application must be made in writing and the signed form submitted to the relevant administrator for authorisation before the deadline. Coursework submitted after the extended deadline will result in a mark of zero (0%) being recorded. Attendance at examinations
6.3
Failure to attend an examination will result in a mark of zero (0%) being recorded.
6.4
Examination postponement requests, without penalty, may be allowed in cases of illness or genuine mitigating personal circumstances provided that an application is made before the start time of the examination, normally before the examination date, and there is good supporting evidence. The application must be made in writing and the signed form submitted to the relevant administrator for authorisation before the deadline. Failure to attend an examination on a revised date will result in a mark of zero (0%) being recorded.
7.
AWARDS
7.1
All named awards are based on credit. The credits required for each named award are defined in the Programme Specification for the programme concerned.
7.2
A Postgraduate Certificate will normally be awarded to a student who has been credited with at least 60 credits at Level M, and who does not wish to progress further on the programme or who fails a subsequent stage.
7.3
A Postgraduate Diploma will normally be awarded to a student who has been credited with at least 120 credits at Level M, and who does not wish to progress further on the programme or who fails a subsequent stage.
7.4
A Masters degree will normally be awarded to a student who has been credited with at least 180 credits at Level M.
7.5
An Aegrotat award may replace any of the above awards when the student has not achieved the required number of credits for the level they are considered (see section 10.3). An Aegrotat award is always unclassified.
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7.6
Where defined as a requirement for the award, the student must have successfully completed the specified work experience.
7.7
In the absence of a named award, or eligibility for a named award, the award of credit is given for the successful completion of individual units.
8.
CLASSIFICATION
8.1
All units will normally have a weighting towards final classification.
8.2
For a Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma classification will be based on the credit-weighted aggregate mark as follows: Pass Merit Distinction
8.3
50 - 59% 60 - 69% 70% or more
For a Masters degree classification will be calculated in whichever of the following is more advantageous to the student: •
Credit weighted aggregate mark as calculated in 8.2.
•
Mark profile. Where a student achieves an aggregate mark which is not more than 3 marks below a classification boundary (60 or 70) and has at least 120 credits in a higher classification than the aggregate mark, the Assessment Board will recommend that the higher classification be awarded.
8.4
A viva voce examination may be required, at the discretion of the Assessment Board, at any stage of assessment at Level M.
9.
PROVISION FOR FAILED CANDIDATES
9.1
Normally students will be required to make good a failure in one of the following ways. Failure and reassessment
9.2
The Assessment Board will permit a student who fails at the first attempt to be reassessed within the limit for reassessment for the level (up to 3 units with a total value of no more than 100 credits), on one occasion only, in one of the following ways: • • • •
resit the examination; resit the examination and resubmit the coursework; resubmit the coursework; resubmit a piece of work of equal weight and comparable standard as directed by the Assessment Board.
Where a student exceeds the level entitlement for reassessment as detailed above, the Assessment Board will act in accordance with 9.6 thereafter. 9.3
Where a student fails a 120-credit dissertation or project at the first attempt, the Assessment Board will permit the student to be reassessed in this unit only.
9.4
Where a reassessment has taken place, the formal element mark will not exceed 50%.
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9.5
Any late resubmission(s) will be regarded as a fail. A mark of zero (0%) will be recorded for coursework resubmitted after the specified resubmission deadline. Repetition of units
9.6
Once a student’s reassessment allowance has been exhausted, i.e. the total amount of credits of failed units is beyond the credit limit for reassessment entitlement for the level (see 12.2 above), the Assessment Board will normally permit the student to repeat the remaining failed unit(s) for that amount of credit once only, or to withdraw from the programme. The Assessment Board should decide how reassessment and repetition should be applied to the student’s profile.
9.7
Where a student fails in a reassessment for a unit as described in 9.2 above, the Assessment Board will normally permit them to repeat the failed unit(s) once only, or to withdraw from the programme.
9.8
In the case of unit(s) which are no longer current or available, an acceptable alternative will be identified.
9.9
Where a unit has been repeated, the unit mark will not exceed 50%. The Assessment Board will permit a student who fails at the first attempt in a repeated unit, to be reassessed, on one occasion only, in one of the ways identified in 9.2 and the unit mark will not exceed 50%.
10.
PROVISION FOR FAILED CANDIDATES WITH VALID REASONS FOR POOR PERFORMANCE
10.1
If it is established to the satisfaction of the Assessment Board that a student's absence, failure to submit work or poor performance in all or part of an assessment for an award was due to illness, or other cause found valid on production of acceptable evidence, the Assessment Board will act as follows.
10.2
Where mitigating circumstances are confirmed, a student may be reassessed as if for the first time in any or all of the elements of assessment, as specified by the Assessment Board. If an assessment affected by illness was itself, a second attempt the student will be permitted to be reassessed as if for the second time. Where a student has passed a unit at a first attempt but his/her performance has been affected by mitigation, the Assessment Board may allow the student an opportunity to be assessed as for the first time. In such cases the second mark will stand.
10.3
In exceptional cases, where the student’s ability to complete his/her studies is affected by serious circumstances (such as terminal illness of the student), and it is established that the student is likely to be unable to complete/return to complete his/her studies within a reasonable time period, the Assessment Board may act in one of the following ways: •
where the Assessment Board is satisfied that there is sufficient evidence of the student's achievement to determine the classification of an award, the student may be recommended on the basis of the available evidence for the award for which he or she is a candidate, or for an intermediate award specified in the Programme Specification. The decision of the Assessment Board must be ratified by the Chair of Senate.
•
an Aegrotat award may be recommended when the Assessment Board does not have enough evidence of the student’s performance to recommend the award for which the student is a candidate, or an intermediate award specified in the Programme Specification. Before such a recommendation is made the student must have demonstrated achievement at the level for which an Aegrotat award is considered. The Assessment Board must be satisfied that on the
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balance of probabilities but for illness or other valid cause the student would have reached the standard required. The decision of the Assessment Board must be ratified by the Chair of Senate. Where appropriate, the student must have signified that he or she is willing to accept the award. 10.4
The above awards in 10.3 may only be considered when the student has not achieved the required number of credits. Although the award title is conferred, the student will only be accredited with the credits achieved.
11.
ACADEMIC OFFENCES
11.1
Where an assessment offence has been committed, the Academic Offences Panel/Board will stipulate the mark to be awarded for the affected unit or element of assessment and the Assessment Board should consider whether the student is eligible for reassessment under Section 9 above.
11.2
Where the Academic Offences Panel/Board has stipulated that no opportunity of reassessment shall be permitted, the Assessment Board will withdraw the student from the programme. In such cases, the Academic Offences Panel/Board will stipulate whether the student may or may not be considered for an intermediate award in accordance with the assessment regulations.
12.
REFERENCES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
12.1
Details of the Academic Offences and Appeals Procedures are given in the current version of the University’s Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures, including 6H - Academic Offences: Policy and Procedure for Taught Awards and 11A Academic Appeals: Policy and Procedure for Taught Awards. These are also available via the Student Portal at Rules and regulations.
12.2
The QAA’s Chapter A1: The National Level (incorporating the Framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ)) describes the level and achievement represented by all taught and postgraduate research awards (other than honorary degrees and higher doctorates) granted by the University. Also see Chapter A6: Assessment of achievement of learning outcomes and Chapter B6: Assessment of students and the recognition of prior learning (both formerly in Section 6: Assessment of students of the QAA Code of Practice).
12.3
The QAA Higher education credit framework for England: guidance on academic credit arrangements in higher education in England provides guidance and information on the use of credit in programmes leading to a higher education qualification in England.
12.4
These Regulations have been mapped against the requirements outlined in the Meeting the equality duty in policy and decision-making at Bournemouth University.
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APPENDIX C – GUIDE TO VIEWING TIMETABLES ON-LINE •
Go to the Student Portal - http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/
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Click on the ‘Online Timetable’ link under ‘Quick Links’.
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Log in with your user name and password.
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The system will recognise what course you are enrolled on, you need to confirm that this is correct. Click on ‘Personalise’ (at top right of the page) choose the Class (Seminar) group and
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Options (if applicable) you require from the drop down list. •
Choose the dates you require at the top left of the page
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Click ‘Get Timetable’.
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You can choose either ‘Calendar View’ or ‘List View’.
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Click on Next Week if you wish to see your timetable for the week after or select different dates to view a different week.
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If required click on BU Week to view the teaching week calendar.
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Click Logout when you wish to end the session.
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APPENDIX D – ASSESSMENT IN MASTERS PROGRAMMES
INTRODUCTION Masters Frameworks are designed to provide learning opportunities at a higher level than first (Bachelors or Undergraduate) degree level. First degrees are generally progressive in the way they are structured and typically take between 3 and 5 years to complete, depending on the pattern of study. Masters degrees tend to be seen as study at one (higher) level, based on the assumption that the learner has gained study skills and a state of intellectual development that prepares for the higher level challenge. However, it is common to include some study of underpinning subjects, particularly in programmes that do not require previous study in the discipline area. Most UK Masters use a credit system based on student study hours which includes time spent on own research and preparing assessment as well as formal classes. The expectation is that study hours are 1800 (i.e. 10 hours for each credit point), and this normally takes 12/15 months full time and 2/3 years part time. Simple arithmetic will show that this is full time in every sense of the word for study in that mode! Universities increasingly use what are called Level Descriptors to describe what is expected of students. The current Bournemouth University “M” Level descriptors can be found in Appendix K. You will see the emphasis on words such as complexity, evaluation, synthesis, argument and research and you will find these words being used both in the specifications of the units of study in your Masters degree and in the individual assessment tasks that are set for you to do.
PHILOSOPHY OF LEARNING The Business School has a distinctive (though not unique) approach to learning that determines the structure of its Masters frameworks. Bateson (1970) saw learning in three stages, firstly the acquisition of new knowledge, that is facts, figures, relationships; secondly learning how to apply that knowledge in particular situations; finally what he calls “transformational” learning by which he means the way that we interface with the world (including other people) around us. Learning is about changing as a result of going through this process. We also use the work of Kolb (1984) who developed what he calls a Learning Cycle which seeks to explain not only how individuals go through a cycle, but each individual has a preference for going through the cycle in a particular way. In recognition of this, we design the learning activities in such a way that we cover all preferred styles. You will be introduced to Kolb early in the programme as an understanding of your own style will help your learning. Staff in the School recognise that the student population comes from a wide range of educational backgrounds and individuals have studied in a way that is probably different from that offered in our programmes. Our emphasis is on individual learning, albeit often in a group setting or working with others, so the role of staff as “teacher” is
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less obvious than perhaps you will be used to. You will therefore need to be perhaps more active in your own learning than in your previous studies. ROLE OF LITERATURE You will see and hear much reference to the “Literature” during your studies. This term is used generically to refer to a wide range of sources of material. We use the word mainly to signify what is written about a subject and is central to academic debate as it is the permanent record of the debate. Types of Literature The obvious form of literature is books. You will need to use text books that are usually written to provide instruction about a particular topic area. In some cases a unit is structured around a specific text and you should expect to buy this. The second major form is Journals which are published regularly on a wide range of topics. You would not normally buy these as the library subscribes to the most important and others are available through on-line services. In recent years the web has become a major source of literature, either directly by having information and debate posted directly onto sites or by access to more conventional material such as journal articles through databases. You will receive instruction on how to access all forms of literature from the library staff. Using the Literature You will be expected to read extensively during your programme. Text books are a source of knowledge about a topic. They are written by experts in their field and often bring together a range of other peoples’ work on the topic in a digestible form for students. Some such as those in Accounting and Finance also give instruction in techniques that you need to learn. Each unit will have a list of suggested texts and at the start of the unit you will be told which, if any, you should buy. The literature is also the place for academic debate and knowledge development. It is where the results of research are published and opposing views are debated. Academic journals have a particular role to play in debate and it is in these that you will find up-to-date material although increasingly the web is being used for conducting such debates. When using the literature to support your work you will need to make reference to the original author. This is known as “citing” and the University uses the Harvard referencing system. This allows the reader to identify the original source and provide enough information to consult and check the source. Guidelines on Referencing are included in Appendix H.
ROLE OF ASSESSMENT Study for a Masters degree is made up of a number of units, each of which has a Unit Specification.
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Each Unit of study has: • • • • • • •
a title, which indicates the discipline or specific study area number of credits allocated which indicates how many hours you should expect to spend studying Rationale – why this unit is included Aims – what we expect you to get from this unit Objectives (or Learning Outcomes) the specific things you should be able to do at the end of the unit Indicative Content – the main topic areas that will be covered in the unit. Note that not all may be covered to the same extent. Assessment – an indication of the type of assessment vehicle that will be used.
There is a wide variety of assessment vehicles and each programme will use a range depending on the content of the unit, the expected outcomes and the overall balance in the programme. The primary role of assessment is to measure the achievement of outcomes. In all cases you should be able to see a connection between the Aims, Objectives and assessment. Other units have what is known as “Coursework” or “Assignments” which are done in your own time, either individually or as a member of a group and submitted by a deadline. Typically the tasks set are “Active” rather than “Passive”. That is they require you do something on your own to research and develop ideas rather than simply remember and repeat what you have been told in the classroom. Assessment is therefore part of the learning process. Assessment also provides the University with a record of your achievement that is essential in awarding you the degree if successful and providing through the transcript of marks evidence of your level of achievement which you can use for example when applying for a job. It is important, therefore that work submitted is your own (except where a group piece of work is specifically required) and the mechanisms we use to ensure this are discussed later.
TYPES OF ASSESSMENT Each piece of assessment will specify the format to be used. The most common formats are explained below. Most units have more than one piece of assessed work intended to assess different outcomes. Often there is a smaller, interim piece of work on which you will get feedback before your final piece of work. There is a link between the number of credits and the size of the assessment task. Most Business School units are rated at 20 credits, and the total size of assessed work in each unit is 40006000 words - although part of the assessment may be a presentation. Essays This is a general term that is used for what is now seen as traditional academic work, where you will be asked to write about a specific topic (or a choice of topics). Because
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Business and related disciplines are what we call “Applied” you will often be asked to relate theory to either practice or current real world issues. Examiners will be looking for both content, that is the range of material you have used and how it relates to the question; and structure, that is how you have assembled and presented the material. It is common in this type of work to use ideas and material from other sources, but it is essential to provide a reference of the source so that we can identify what is your own original work. You will be given guidance on referencing other people’s work. Reports Some tasks require a “Business Style” report that is different from an essay in that it is not intended to be read necessarily as a whole, although it is expected to have a logical structure. Reports tend to use headings and sub-headings and may also use a numbering system which makes cross-referencing and searching easier. The document that you are currently reading has many of the characteristics of a report. It has a contents page and although there is (I hope!) a logical structure it would be possible for the reader to go straight to the sub-heading on “Reports” and it should make sense without reading everything what went before. This section does, however, compare reports with essays, but it would be easy to refer to the section above for clarification. Reports are commonly used in business, and many organisations have a “House” style that you will learn when you start work. We do not therefore, prescribe a style, but will give you guidance about what makes a good report. Presentations Increasingly in work you will need to make presentations, to peers, subordinates, superiors or clients. These can be nerve-wracking experiences, particularly if you are operating in your second language. We therefore believe that you should have the opportunity to try out presenting in a “safe” environment. Usually you will be asked to prepare and make the presentation in a group, which relieves the pressure in one way but in another makes it important that you work well with your colleagues. A feature of modern presentations is the use of computer based presentation packages such as PowerPoint and we will show you how to use this. Presentations are usually made to a member of staff who may have a colleague or an outside visitor with him or her. Please note: Presentations may be filmed/ recorded to assist in the marking process. They will not be distributed to any 3rd party. Examinations Many of you will be familiar with this kind of assessment. They are usually used for the “Knowledge” units where it is possible to assess your understanding of the principles of the subject with a set of questions. We also use this medium for assessing some “Application” units when we often use case studies so that you can apply your knowledge to a particular situation. Sometimes the case studies are issued in advance so that you can do some preparation, although you will not know what the questions will be until you get into the examination room. For security and fairness examinations take place in a formal setting at a prescribed time and you will be provided with clear instructions about the process. You will be
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identified by your number and not name for security. Although they can be stressful (and we will give you information on what help you can get to relieve the stress) they have the advantage of being over in a finite time. From an educational point of view they have distinct advantages in allowing us to make a check on your progress and give us a record of work that is solely yours. Examiners try to design the exam so that it adds to your learning rather than just being a test of memory. Group Work Later on in this Appendix you will find a rationale for assessing the work of groups. Essentially we recognise that we increasingly work in groups or teams, particularly in an international setting. The Business School has worked for a number of years with multi-national clients helping them build effective work teams. On the one hand many tasks can only be carried out by a team of people and on the other it is important that the individuals understand how groups operates. We call this “Task” and “Process”. Our group working activities are structured to explore both sides. We also recognise that the Masters degree is awarded to individuals so in all units where group work is used there is an element of individual assessment. This might include a reflective diary that explores what you have learned through the process. Research The “M” level descriptors in Appendix K mention Research 4 times and its importance is emphasised by the University’s Masters Curriculum Framework that requires a minimum of one third (60 credits) of assessment to be allocated to individual research work. Whilst this is formalised into the Research Project at the end of the programme you are encouraged to research in a more general sense throughout the programme. The final piece of work is what earns you the Masters degree and we will provide underpinning preparation to help you do this work. You will be provided with a detailed handbook as guidance in addition to classes and individual supervision.
ASSESSMENT MARKING Defining Tasks Each unit has its own assessment, set by the tutor responsible for delivering the unit and agreed by the programme team. You will be issued with a set of instructions that explain what is required to complete the work. You may well be directed towards particular sources or texts that might prove useful in preparing your assignment. In some units, particularly where case studies are used, the tutor may offer specific workshops to help you develop your ideas. For examinations, samples of past papers are available and you will be advised of the specific format for your examination in time to help your revision. The instructions for both assignments and examinations will clearly indicate the allocation of marks to particular aspects of the task if appropriate. Setting Criteria The assignment brief may indicate what is required to achieve a pass and whether marks will be given for example for the use of a particular style of presentation. The
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marking scheme for Masters programmes sets the pass mark at 50%, a mark of 60% represents Merit and a mark of 70% represents Distinction. This is a relatively narrow range of marks but usually proves adequate to differentiate between individual pieces of work. It is important to remember that by the very nature of the work you do in Business and Management there are no absolute and correct answers. Therefore examiners are looking for how well you have presented your answer, partly in relation to what they are expecting and partly in relation to what your peers have done. Marking Process Your work will be marked by the tutor who set it, or in some cases where more than one tutor is involved there may be a joint mark. The School operates a system of Independent Marking which means that a proportion of work is marked by a second person. This helps to ensure fairness and consistency. Every piece of work that does not meet a pass standard is also second marked. This is particularly important for examinations where failure means that you will be required to re-sit. You may receive details of your assignment marks before the end of a stage, but they will be subject to confirmation by the Assessment Board. Examination marks are not available until after the Assessment Board has met and you will be able to get details of your marks from the Programmes Office. You will also get a record of all your marks at the end of the programme. Assessment Regulations Masters programmes are each covered by a set of assessment regulations, a copy of which is at Appendix B. The regulations contain details of what you need to do to progress on the programme, how the Assessment Board deals with fails and marginal fails and procedures for considering candidates who might have circumstances that affect their performance. The Assessment Board has discretion to ensure that all candidates receive fair treatment.
DOING YOUR ASSIGNMENTS What is Expected The University’s Student Assessment Procedures Handbook can be found using the following web link – please ensure that you read this: http://portal.bournemouth.ac.uk/StudentRegulations/default.aspx This Programme Handbook includes a schedule of assignment dates. This is set to provide you with a balanced workload. You will therefore do some assignments before the end of the taught part of the unit. This does not mean you can stop attending classes. The units are designed as a coherent whole and there is an assumption that you have completed all the work before progressing to the next stage. You will receive a briefing sheet for the assignment which will specify the format required and indicate, where appropriate, weightings of the marks.
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What Help is Available The programme of study is a progressive learning experience. We do not expect all your work to be perfect from the beginning. We offer a comprehensive learner support programme in the School covering English and study skills. The University also provides workshop and tutorial sessions on a range of study skills including how to cope with exams. Details of the University provision are available on our website (http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/learning/study-support/). We recognise that some students may require help with English language, particularly in reading drafts of assignments and correcting spelling and grammar. This kind of help is acceptable, provided it is limited to language help and the content remains the same. Remember, you have to sign that the work is your own. Submitting work that is not your own is an offence (see link to Assessment Offences at Appendix J) and may lead to failure of the unit and in extreme cases you may be asked to leave the course. If you have any doubts about the level of help you are getting you should speak to the unit tutor or Framework Co-ordinator. Assignment Submission Assignments are normally word-processed and it helps to put the work in a folder so that it does not get lost or fall apart. You are required to submit one hard copy and one electronic copy by 12 midday on the hand-in date (both copies MUST be submitted by 12 noon). (See Appendix E for instructions on how to submit electronic copies.) You should include the Assignment Report Sheet, filled in as appropriate and signed to confirm that it is your own work. Instructions on how to submit your electronic copy are also available near the assignment boxes. The hand-in date must be met - any work submitted late without an agreed extension will get a mark of 0%. It is your responsibility to submit your work on time. We suggest you put it in the box personally rather than asking somebody else to do it. The box is cleared immediately at 12 midday and all assignments logged as received. Extension Requests If you require an Extension for any of your assignments, or you need to seek Permission to Postpone an examination, for example because you are ill you should refer to the Mitigating Circumstances Procedure and submit a completed application form, together with supporting evidence, to your Programme Administrator before the assignment due date. The application form can be found using the following link: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/mitigating In addition you should speak to your Framework Co-ordinator and explain your circumstances. Please note that computer or other equipment failures do not normally constitute grounds for an extension. You may be granted an extension to the hand in date, and this will need approval by the unit tutor and/or Framework Co-
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ordinator. Your Programme Administrator will let you know if your request is approved and will confirm your new submission date. Mitigating Circumstances If you feel your performance in any assessment has been affected by Personal or Medical circumstances that you wish the Assessment Board to consider then you should refer to the above Mitigating Circumstances Procedure and submit a completed application form, together with supporting evidence, to your Programme Administrator before the meeting of the Assessment Board. Announcements will be placed on myBU during the year advising you of the deadline for submission of completed application forms. Please note that any such matters that could have been raised before the meeting of the Assessment Board but, without valid reason, were not raised will not be considered in the event of an appeal. Role of Feedback You will receive written feedback on your assignment work. In normal circumstances you will get this within 3 working weeks of submission, although it may be longer, for example when the expected hand back date is close to a meeting of the Assessment Board. Some units may also provide general feedback to all students on how well the task had been carried out. As already discussed, assignments are designed to aid and reinforce your learning as well as testing you for the award so feedback is helpful in improving your work. You will be advised of the mark you have gained on assignments, but this will always be subject to confirmation by the Assessment Board. If you fail an assignment you may be permitted to resubmit for a pass. Because of their nature it is not easy to give individual feedback on examinations although tutors will provide general feedback including model answers where appropriate. If you fail an examination you will normally be allowed to re-sit for a pass. You will be advised whether you need to resit/re-submit after a meeting of the Assessment Board.
ASSESSMENT AS A RECORD OF ACHIEVEMENT Determining Award Masters Programmes are structured in a way that allows the award of Certificate and Diploma for the achievement of a specific number of credits. Progression from one stage to another is by completion of the units of study at each stage. Assessment Offences In Appendix J is a link to the University policy on Assessment Offences together with the procedures for dealing with suspected offences. This policy is designed to ensure that awards are made only for work that is produced by the individual student. It is important that everybody obeys the rules as this safeguards the integrity of the award.
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The policy identifies a range of offences, but the most common is what is termed as Plagiarism – broadly defined as presenting another’s work as your own (see Appendix M). There is no absolute distinction, as academic work requires you to refer to other people’s work. The University policy requires us to provide advice to prevent offences. We do this in two ways. This handbook directs you to the policy and explains what it means. In addition you will be given direct advice during the Framework Co-ordinators workshop. Tutors set assignments that allow individuals to present their own ideas or solutions to a problem or discuss an issue. They expect you to discuss the assignment with others and consult the literature and information sources such as websites and government statistics (for example). However, if you use such material to illustrate your work you must acknowledge the source and reference it correctly. It may be tempting to use passages verbatim from published or internet sources, but this is very easily spotted by tutors, usually because of changes in style and language. Also do not be tempted to submit another student’s work as yours. All assignments in a unit are marked by one tutor (with independent marking as described earlier). It is therefore easy to spot similarities in work. Remember also that we keep a copy of all your work, partly so that we have a record of everything you have done and partly for security. If we suspect an offence then we will review all your work to identify any inconsistencies and you may be subject to the procedures outlined in the appendix. If an offence is admitted you may be permitted to resubmit the work, but in serious cases or where an offence is repeated you may be asked to withdraw from the programme. If you have any doubts about whether a piece of work is acceptable you should speak to the tutor concerned. Assessment Boards These are constituted in accordance with the University’s Academic Policies Procedures and Regulations. You can view this on myBU. The Assessment Board meets regularly during the programme, to review work to date and advice on re-sits and re-submission. In this way you will be able to make good failed work without waiting until the end of the programme. Once the Assessment Board has made its decisions the results are posted on myBU using student numbers to preserve anonymity. It is your responsibility to find out your results. Note. Element marks will be capped at a maximum of 50% where a re-sit or resubmission has taken place. The unit mark is capped when a repeat unit has taken place. After the Assessment Board has met, the Programmes Office will advise you when you can collect your examination marks and assignments from the office. You will receive your assignment marks on the feedback sheet that is returned to you with your assignment copy (some assignments will be retained as a sample for the External
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Examiner). If you wish to discuss your results please make an appointment to see your Framework Co-ordinator. At the end each stage you will receive a record of your marks up to that point. Please note that the University policy does not allow the notification of results or marks by telephone or e-mail. We can however send this information by post or in urgent cases by secure fax. You will need to give us written confirmation that you wish this information to be faxed and supply the fax number. Appeals All students have the right to appeal against the decision of an Assessment Board. The permitted grounds for appeal and the required procedure are outlined in Academic Appeals Procedure available in the Academic Procedures at http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/help/rules-regulations/index.html. Please note that you cannot appeal against academic judgement. This means that you cannot appeal the marks you have received, unless there has been an error in calculation.
External Examiners The University appoints external examiners, usually academics from other Universities to be members of Assessment Boards. Their role is explained in detail in the Academic Policies and Regulations. From a student point of view, they are required to comment on how standards compare with other similar courses. They do this by agreeing all assessment tasks, including examinations and reviewing samples of student work. Your assignment work may therefore be retained and sent to the external examiner for review. It is possible that this review process may result in a change of marks, which is why all marks are subject to Assessment Board approval. However, this very rarely happens and once marks are approved they will become part of your transcript. A list of the current External Examiners for your course can be found in the BS Community pages within myBU, see link below. Please note that appointments are listed for transparency and students should not contact External Examiners directly. https://mybu.bournemouth.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id= _283_1
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ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT INFORMATION FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS 1.
UNITS
Your programme is made up of a number of units. The ‘size’ of a unit is measured in credits. Normally, 180 credits is required for a master’s qualification, 120 credits for a Postgraduate Diploma and 60 credits for a Postgraduate Certificate. The programme will be divided into units usually worth 20, 40, or sometimes 60 credits or more. Each individual unit specification in this handbook has a “Summative” Assessment” section which specifies the formal assessment requirements, or formal elements, for that unit. Formal elements can be either ‘coursework’ (such as essays, projects and presentations) or ‘examinations’ (which typically happen at the end of the unit, under formal examination conditions). Formal elements are weighted and this weighting is shown in the “Summative Assessment” section. For example, a unit may have two formal elements assessed by two pieces of coursework (eg, an essay and an exam). The essay may be worth 40% of the total unit mark, and the exam worth 60% of the total unit mark. In another unit, there may only be one formal element worth 100% of the unit total. Formal elements may be sub-divided into informal sub elements, i.e. a number of pieces of work which together make up a formal element. The nature and number of assessment tasks will depend on the content and credit size of the unit. You will be given detailed information of the exact work required for each unit. 2.
SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETING A UNIT
2a.
Formal Elements
As explained above, the “Summative assessment” section in each unit specification shows the number of formal elements for each unit. To pass the unit, you need to achieve at least 46% for each formal element and achieve an overall unit total of at least 50%. 2b.
Sub Elements
In some cases, a formal element is made up of a number of tasks, known as informal ‘sub elements’ of assessment. For example, the formal assessment may be written in the Summative Assessment section as 100% coursework (that is, one formal element). However, the tasks set may, in fact, be two or more ‘sub elements’ such as a presentation, and a number of written pieces of work. The presentation and written work would be marked separately and returned to you, all marked out of 100%. The marks you receive from these sub elements of assessment are then combined to produce one mark which is recorded as the formal coursework mark. The sub elements may be weighted differently. 2c.
The different formal elements and sub elements make up what is required to pass a unit
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Let us look at an example: A unit is assessed by two pieces of coursework, each given a weighting of 50% of the overall unit mark. A student receives his/her marks for the work and sees that he/she has obtained marks of 35/100 for the first piece and 65/100 for the second. (a) If the Summative Assessment section shows the two pieces are formal elements, the student FAILS the unit overall as one element has been given a mark of less than 46%. (See 2a above). (b) If the Summative Assessment sections shows one formal element weighted at 100% and the two pieces are informal sub elements the student PASSES the unit overall as the marks are added together, with equal weighting, to produce one overall score: (35/100 + 65/100) = 100/200 = 50% (See 2b above). The overall score would be different if the sub elements were weighted in a different way. However, provided the overall score was at least 50%, the unit would be passed. 2d.
Further information
Details of the formal elements are provided in the unit specifications and also in any unit guides issued separately to you. Details of sub-elements and any weightings will be given to you in Unit Guides/Assignment Briefs. If in doubt, contact your Programme Administrator. 3.
COMPENSATION
As Section 2 explains, to pass a unit, an overall unit mark of at least 50% is required. To pass the master’s award, you need to successfully gain 180 credits. If you fail no more than 40 credits with overall unit marks of not less than 48% (and formal element marks of not less than 46%), the Assessment Board, on the basis of your overall performance, may allow you to obtain the credit for those units although the actual marks obtained will not change. This is called “compensation”. Compensation can only be applied if you have completed at least 60 credits and only for up to 40 credits across the whole programme. 4.
DEADLINES AND THE CONSEQUENCES OF MISSING THEM
All hand-ins of assessment tasks, both formal and ‘sub elements’, have a deadline. You should have a calendar of assignment deadlines in your area of myBU to help you plan your time. This is critical as work that is submitted after the deadline is automatically recorded as LATE however soon after the deadline it is handed in eg, within the next minute. LATE submissions are awarded a mark of 0%. It is important to remember that the deadline you are given is the FINAL time to submit your work by, not the ONLY time to submit your work. Try to manage your time and submit in advance of the deadline time. Something may happen to you which you could not anticipate, which is outside of your control, and which impacts on your ability to complete the assignment and/or hand in by
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the designated deadline time. Valid reasons for non-submission by the designated deadline are called “mitigating circumstances”. If you believe you have mitigating circumstances, you must let your Programme Administrator/Framework Coordinator know as soon as you can – before the hand-in deadline, if at all possible. The Mitigating Circumstances: Policy & Procedure outlines what circumstances may or may not be accepted as mitigating circumstances. You will also find at this address the application forms for mitigating circumstances to be taken into account. Please note, in particular, that experiencing problems with printing is not in itself considered an acceptable reason for late submission. If you consider you have mitigating circumstances that mean you are unable to submit on time, then you should submit an application for an extension, and obtain an extension before the deadline. Further advice may be obtained from your Programme Administrator. Applications will require supporting evidence. If you submit work up to three weeks after the deadline without an approved extension, the mark will be formally recorded as “0” but you will receive feedback. If you submit over three weeks after the deadline without an approved extension, the outcome will be presented to the Assessment Board as a non-submission and you may not receive any feedback and normally your work will not be marked. If you submit the work after the deadline without an extension but consider you had mitigating circumstances for doing so, you should apply for Assessment Board consideration of mitigating circumstances. Again, the form and process may be downloaded from the Student Portal. Your assignment will still formally be recorded as “0” but you will obtain feedback if the work is submitted within three weeks of the deadline. The Assessment Board will decide whether or not the work should be given a mark. 5.
WHAT HAPPENS IF UNITS ARE NOT COMPLETED SUCCESSFULLY
If units are not completed successfully, the Assessment Board will decide what you would have to do next, taking into account any mitigating circumstances submitted and accepted by the Assessment Board. The decision may include: Resubmit coursework: You would be required to resubmit coursework within a timeframe specified by the Assessment Board. This may be a re-working of the original assignment, or a new assignment. You would receive details of exactly what is required. Regardless of the mark given to the resubmitted work, the overall unit mark would be capped at 50%. Refer to the assessment regulations for further information on the capping of marks for resubmitted work.
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Submit coursework as if for the first time (or, as first time): You would be required to resubmit coursework as above but the mark would not be capped. This normally only occurs where mitigating circumstances have been accepted by the Assessment Board. Resit exam: You would be required to take an exam with a new set of questions within a specified timeframe. You would be required to pay a small fee to cover administrative costs for exam resits. Always check the website for details of the resit exam period so that you can avoid booking holidays at this time as the exam dates are not negotiable. Overall unit marks are capped. Refer to the assessment regulations for further information on the capping of marks. Sit exam as for the first time (or as first time) If the Assessment Board accepts submitted mitigating circumstances, you may be allowed to sit a new exam paper in the resit exam period with marks uncapped. Always check the website for details of the resit exam period so that you can avoid booking holidays at this time as the exam dates are not negotiable. Note: If all resubmitted/re-sit work is successfully completed, you would normally be able to proceed to the next stage/graduate with the rest of your cohort. Repeat units with attendance: If asked to repeat units with attendance, this means that you have to re-enrol for the units concerned in the next academic cycle and attend all lectures etc and complete all assignments. There will be a charge for the units being taken based on the number of credits affected. Overall unit marks are capped. Please refer to the assessment regulations for further information. Repeat units with attendance as for the first time (or as first time): If the Assessment Board accept that you have mitigating circumstances, you may be allowed to re-enrol in the next academic cycle to re-take any failed units by attending all lectures and completing all assignments with marks uncapped. Please refer to the assessment regulations for further information. Note: It is not normally possible for students to improve their performance by resubmitting coursework, re-sitting exams or repeating units they have already passed. In some circumstances, the Assessment Board may offer students with severe mitigating circumstances the opportunity to do so.
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BUSINESS SCHOOL POLICY ON GROUP WORKING/ MARKING Most courses in the Business School include units that are assessed through group activities. There are many benefits of this type of work, both in enhancing the learning through tackling a complex problem with a group, and in replicating working in a team which is increasingly common in the world of work. Within each course, the tutors select a balance of working and assessment patterns to maximise the learning opportunities for you. These guidelines indicate the School’s policies on selection of group, the different ways in which group work can be assessed and how tutors and course management ensure the smooth operation of the process. 1.
Group Selection
Tutors will make it clear to participants the basis for selection, as this will vary dependent on the objectives of the work. Possible means are: a) b) c)
Tutor selected - usually to gain a balance of skills or nationalities for a particular task Self-selected according to topic Self-selected according to preferred working relationships
2.
Group Assessment
Usually group work results in a presentation and a written report - usually split 50/50 for marking purposes. a) b) c) d) e)
3.
Presentation usually results in a group mark, with all members assumed to have contributed equally The group as a whole may submit written reports with all members getting the same mark Individual reports with individual marks may be required Participants may be offered a choice of b or c, but the choice must be unanimous within the group Peer group assessment is sometimes used, but the tutor will make it clear why this is used, what level of influence it has on the marks and all participants will need to agree to the process. Resolving Difficulties
Part of the value of working in a group is taking part in the process of managing group relationships while achieving the group task. There may well be times when one or more group members feel that others are not playing their part. The primary responsibility for resolving these difficulties lies with the group. If a group feels that differences cannot be resolved in this way then the members should discuss the problem with the tutor responsible for the unit, who may involve the course tutor. This process should lead to a satisfactory solution.
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APPENDIX E – ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF ASSIGNMENTS
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APPENDIX F – GETTING STARTED WITH myBU A GUIDE FOR THE BUSINESS SCHOOL POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS During your study programme at Bournemouth myBU will be your Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You can access myBU from any computer with a web browser and an internet connection. It is important that you access myBU on a daily basis to see what announcements and other materials have been posted relating to your programme. This guide takes you through the simple steps required to access the notices, lecture notes, presentations and Library resources relating to your programme, and to the University-wide organisations/communities that may be of interest to you. Please note that some screens and terminology may differ from those shown below as developments to the program are ongoing at the time of writing these guidelines. This should not cause you any problems. IT IS ADVISABLE TO LOG INTO myBU USING MOZILLA FIREFOX. LOGGING ON 1.
Open your Web browser. If you are on campus, myBU will have been set as your Home page. From off campus the url is http://myBU.bournemouth.ac.uk
2.
Find the Login box on the myBU Welcome to myBU page:
3.
Type in your Username and Password – these are the same as your normal login to the University network.
Note – If you have any problems with the login process, contact IT Services on 01202 965515 or https://bournemouth.service-now.com/. They will need to know your username and programme.
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ACCESSING YOUR COURSES WELCOME PAGE When you log into myBU you will see the Welcome page with tabs along the top linking to other pages. In the centre of the Welcome page you will see a box containing links to your programme (My Communities) and individual units. The information you see here comes from the Student Record System. If the information is incorrect, contact your Programme Administrator immediately. To the right of this is another box which will tell you whether or not there are any Announcements (messages) relating to your programme and units which have been posted in the last 7 days. MY UNITS When you select a unit, the left-hand side of your screen will show the navigation links to all the information posted relating to that unit.
Click a link to view unit information, materials, etc. MY COMMUNITIES This gives you access to your Programme page and the communities (organisations) you may have joined, for example Special Interest Groups or Student Union Clubs and Societies. To view all University-wide communities, under Tools (on the left-hand side of the screen), click Browse all communities. This will allow you to view the communities set up under each of the subject areas listed.
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BUSINESS SCHOOL PG IT SUPPORT (within ‘BS PG Students’ Community) As a student in The Business School at Bournemouth University, there are numerous ways in which you can get help with your IT problems. These can be via: • • • •
IT Services 24 hour IT Helpline on 01202 965515 A visit to IT Services Help Desk situated on the ground floor of the Sir Michael Cobham Library on Talbot Campus IT Services online IT help facility entitled ITS-I Skills accessed via your My Community tab on myBU IT Workshops provided by IT Services
Your attention is also drawn to a community set up on myBU specifically for Business School students. After registration, you will be enrolled in The Business School PG IT Support Community. Here you will find workshop exercises and user guides relating to: • • • • • • • •
myBU – How to get started, working in groups and online assignment submission The Bournemouth University IT Network – using the wireless network or the blue sockets provided for your laptop Assignments and Final Project Office 2007 – all you need to know to format your dissertation Excel 2007 – from basic to more advanced exercises MS Project – if you are interested in project management PowerPoint 2007 – how to create an animated presentation SPSS – a basic user guide on how to set up a database to analyse quantitative data Word 2007 – all you need to know to create your assignments and dissertation
LIBRARY TAB Here you can access specific library modules such as a federated search engine to access Databases, E-journals and E-books. There are also links to myBU Integrated Library Resources, as well as other resources such as past exam papers. You might find the Academic Skills tab very useful, they have information about assessment, plagiarism and much, much more. THE BUSINESS SCHOOL TAB Here you can view your class lists, see contact details of key people there are also links to regulations, forms and resources.
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ACADEMIC SKILLS TAB It may have been some time since you wrote an essay; if you require development of your learning and presentation skills, select the ‘Academic Skills’ tab on your myBU home page. Here you will find resources which can assist you in developing academic skills that are essential to presenting your work and effectively demonstrating your subject knowledge. The materials located here will enable you to evaluate your current skills and then provide you with activities that guide you in building up the appropriate expertise you will need for success in your academic work. If you require advice and support which relates specifically to research or other library skills then you may prefer to go directly to the ‘Using Information Community’ which can be accessed by clicking on the link under the heading ‘Communities in which you are participating’ on your myBU home page. Here is a brief outline of some of the topics you can find by clicking on the ‘Academic Skills’ tab on your myBU home page: •
Academic writing: Generally, academic writing means adopting an objective approach and using correctly referenced evidence to underpin your argument. However, different types of assignments may require particular types of academic writing. Locate the ‘Reading and Writing’ heading and click on ‘Academic Writing’. You will find a range of resources to help you successfully complete your academic assignments no matter what the style.
•
Critical analysis: Problems with academic writing often reflect an inability to critically analyse. Yet this is an academic skill that can be learned and improved upon like any other. The most fundamental skill is applying critical awareness to your reading. Learning how to identify the strengths and weaknesses in academic texts not only provides grounding in the production of good literature reviews, it also helps to embed an understanding of what expectations lecturers will have of your own written work. Go to ‘Learning Activities’ and select ‘Critical Thinking’ for a variety of useful resources.
•
Electronic communication: Electronic communication within our lives provides greater potential for flexible study. This is reflected in the integration of online learning and assessment into academic programmes. For a basic introduction and guidelines for these study tools follow the link for ‘Electronic Communication’ under the heading ‘Communication’.
•
Reflective Learning: Reflective learning may be required in some units, for example maintaining a ' reflective' journal or submitting a 'reflective assignment'. If you wish to become more familiar with this particular style of learning and writing then go to ‘Learning Activities’ to access the information provided on this topic.
•
Study strategies: Use this link in the ‘Learning Activities’ area to find interactive materials which will help you recognise the best conditions for studying, assess your own particular learning style, adopt good study habits, cope with stress and manage your time.
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These are just a few examples of the material available, but there is much more on offer in the Academic Skills tab. For further help and advice on any of the topics in the Academic Skills Tab, please email academicskills@bournemouth.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1202 965959 and the team will respond quickly to any enquiry. ACCESSING YOUR UNIT MARKS AND FEEDBACK
(If you submitted electronically only) To view a marked paper: • Go into the unit where you submitted the work • From the Unit Menu, click on the ‘Tools’ option and then ‘My Grades’. In some units there may be a direct link to ‘My Grades’ on the Unit menu, in which case you can click on this instead.
• Once you are in My Grades, look for the name of the assignment. If it is not there, the marks have not yet been released. If the marks have been released, you should see the mark next to the name of the assignment. Click on the mark to open the grade details.
• In the next screen, click on the icon of the document next to ‘My Paper’.
• This will open your work in a separate window. At the top left of this window, click on the ‘GradeMark’ button (so that it turns blue) in order to view the comments from your marker.
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GradeMark consists of:
• A document viewer frame which shows the Grade and the title and author of the paper. The similarity index will be displayed if your lecturer has allowed you to view the Originality Report for the assignment • Paper text - the full content of the submitted paper, including images, as well as any marks made by your lecturer • The GradeMark sidebar - displays the comment list, general comments, and rubric scorecard information (if available) for your paper Document Viewer Frame
Sidebar
Paper text
Viewing Comments and Marks In order to view comments placed within your work: • Locate and click on a comment bubble. This will select and open the comment attached to it
Located at the bottom of the sidebar are buttons which enable you to view General Comments and a Full Comments List. Comments are then viewed in the Sidebar
Comment icon
Full list icon
Rubric icon
Clicking on the full list icon opens a scrollable window of all comments or marks placed on the paper within the sidebar. To view the location of a mark on the paper, hover over a comment or mark in the comment list and click on the show on paper link that appears.
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If your lecturer has used rubrics (a set of marking criteria) to mark your paper, you can view the rubric scorecard for the paper by clicking on the rubric icon. Your Grade is displayed in the top right corner of the document viewer. If you have access to view the Originality Report for the assignment the Similarity Index will also be displayed in the top right corner.
Printing In order to print your paper that has been graded using GradeMark: • Open the GradeMark paper view • Once the paper is open, click on the printer icon on the bottom of the viewing window.
HELP Here you will find student guides and information about myBU plus contact details if you require further help. OTHER TOOLS AND RESOURCES Each screen within myBU contains links to other screens and help pages. The following 3 will be of particular interest and help to you: Tools:
provides links to Unit and Community Catalogues which you can browse. You can enrol in a community where the enrol button is visible. You can also view your grades via My Grades (if applicable).
BU Resources:
provides access to your University e-mail, your timetable and h: drive (read only). Also provides access to the Student Portal.
LOG OUT Don’t forget to Logout at the top right of the screen when you exit myBU.
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APPENDIX G – ABOUT askBU STUDENT SERVICES askBU is a centralised accessible and convenient enquiry and information service for all students at Bournemouth University. This service is able to offer guidance and assistance with all routine non-academic enquiries such as: • • • • • • • • • •
Student Financial Support including Bursaries, Scholarships and Funding International Student Support including immigration, visa issues and working in the UK Changes to Addresses and Personal Details Re-setting and Re-issuing Computer Passwords Council Tax Exemption Certificate replacements Exam Timetables Graduation Queries Orientation Queries (where to find…) Student ID Card replacements Standard letters to confirm student status, to open bank accounts, or to apply for extensions to an international student visa
In addition, the askBU Students Service will offer advice and guidance in relation to procedural issues such as University rules and regulations, mitigating circumstances, complaints, appeals etc., as well as acting as a signposting service, referring students to the correct department or contact as appropriate. The askBU Students Service can be contacted in person at either of the following locations: Talbot Campus The Base, Poole House Fern Barrow Poole BH12 5BB
Lansdowne Campus 1st Floor, Bournemouth House 17-19 Christchurch Road Bournemouth BH1 3LE
Standard Term Time Opening Hours: 8.30 am – 5 pm, Mondays to Thursdays 8.30 am – 4.30 pm, Fridays The service will normally be closed between 2.00 pm and 3.30 pm on Wednesdays for team development/training. E-mail: Tel:
askbustudents@bournemouth.ac.uk +44 (0)1202 969696 (internal ext: 69696 including from University managed accommodation)
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APPENDIX H – CITING BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES AND LIBRARY INFORMATION The principles used in the Harvard System, also known as the ‘Author Date’ method, are widely applied and interpretations exist which differ from the Bournemouth University guide. However, our guidance is based on British Standards for the citation of references in the Harvard Style and interpretations of that system used in academic and research institutions. See link below: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/citing_references/docs/Citing_Refs.pdf If you are a LAW student, you should use the guide to help you cite ALL types of materials in your work. You should use the footnote system of referencing, which is conventional in legal academic writing. Access the BU guide to referencing at: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/citing_references/citing_refs_law.pdf This guide is based on The Oxford Standard for Citation of Legal Authorities (OSCOLA); see http://www.law.ox.ac.uk/published/OSCOLA_4th_edn_Hart_2012.pdf for the full version of OSCOLA 2012. Remember that you must acknowledge your source every time you refer to someone else's work. Failure to do so amounts to plagiarism, which is against the University rules and is a serious offence. Further information on how to avoid plagiarism can be found on the following web page: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/how-to/plagiarism.html When you are copying or downloading material, you must also ensure that you comply with copyright rules. Further information about copyright can be found on notices next to photocopiers, and on the copyright compliance web pages at http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/using-the-library/copyright.html. When including third party material in theses and dissertations it is the responsibility of the individual to ensure the appropriate copyright permission has been obtained. A version of the Bournemouth University Harvard Style is available for EndNote users from http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/how-to/citing-refs.html LIBRARY INFORMATION Sign-on to Bournemouth University Library E-resources • • •
Off-campus you will be able to access the majority of Library e-resources using your Bournemouth University login. On-campus access to e-resources from within Bournemouth University campuses will not normally require a login. To access Library e-Resources it is recommended that you use the links on the Library tab on myBU or the Library web pages. These links have been created specifically to optimise ease of access.
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A small number of e-resources have specific usernames and passwords. Details are available, via the Library tab on myBU. If you have any questions about this please do not hesitate to contact the Library staff. Library Catalogue Access the Library Catalogue at: http://catalogue.bournemouth.ac.uk/TalisPrism/index.do or via myBU to search for books, journals and multimedia. You can search many of the resources by title, subject, keyword or author. If you know the item you're looking for, simply type the author and title in the boxes. Otherwise type what you are looking for into the keyword box. Then choose where you want to search from the list of Library Sites and simply click the Search button. Reading lists, provided by your tutors, are a good starting point for your search. mySearch Access mySearch at: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/resources/mySearch.html or via the library tab on myBU. mySearch is an interface which allows you to search across a range of library resources simultaneously. Resources can be selected by using pre-defined subject categories or by selecting resources from an a-z list. The mySearch quick search box allows you to search databases, e-journals and e-books by selected category. Databases Access specific databases at: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/resources/databases.html by selecting either the A-Z or the subject options. Alternatively use myBU to select ‘Databases’ under the ‘Further Information’ heading on your library page. Information located on the databases may include bibliographic information, giving reference to journal articles, conference proceedings, book chapters and newspapers. Frequently you will be able to access full text documents. You will also find data such as company financial information here. E-books, Journals and Newspapers You can also locate electronic books, journals and newspapers. Approximately 57,000 e-books are available; most can be found by searching the library catalogue. Access to a wide range of full text electronic journals or e-journals is also available. Links may be to individual titles or packages of titles, grouped by subject or publisher. A selection of newspapers can be accessed in full text with the option to search across a number of newspapers simultaneously. In addition, links to a range of newspaper web sites are available. Simply select the appropriate link under the ‘Further Information’ heading on your myBU library page.
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APPENDIX I – LIBRARY I-FLOOR Library i-floor – 1st Floor, Executive Business Centre (EBC) The Library i-floor on the 1st Floor of the Executive Business Centre is the focus of Library service provision for all Business School postgraduate students based at the Lansdowne Campus. It provides access to the Library’s extensive portfolio of online resources, via both 5 'technobooths' with PC and interactive touch screens and also 16 PCs, plus silent and group study spaces and a social learning zone. To support EBC students, weekly timetabled Subject Advice support, where no prior appointment is necessary, will be provided, 4pm - 6pm, Monday - Friday. Students wishing to make a separate 1-2-1 appointment can do so. However, please try to use the above-mentioned Subject Advice times for an initial consultation. Scheduled Library Induction and ‘information skills’ sessions will also be timetabled during the Autumn Term. Following the Autumn Term, patterns of use of the weekly timetabled Subject Advice support will be reviewed and, if appropriate, revised as needed for the rest of the year. In addition, students can access all existing library services provided by ‘virtual means’ – both School-specific, via. •
Direct telephone contact with members of the Business School Subject Team, with expert support on Business, Management and Law, via:
•
Anne Davey Melissa Bowden Jean Harris Martin Foy
01202 965260 01202 965570 01202 965477 01202 965461
E-mail to BS/SM Subject Team names as above or to BSLibTeam@bournemouth.ac.uk
and generic, with referral onwards as required via the Library’s Information Line 01202 (9)65959 or, via the Library tab on myBU, the Library Chat and Ask BU service at: https://us.refchatter.net/chat/bulibrarychat@chat.refchatter.net?skin=705&identity=Libraria n Print postgraduate Business, Management and Law textbooks and journals plus additional access to printing, photocopying and open access computing facilities are provided at Bournemouth House Library, and Open Access Centre at Studland House. Wherever possible, key texts are made available in full or as scanned chapters accessible via Unit Reading Lists or Unit Materials on myBU. Likewise, the vast majority of relevant journals are accessible e-journals via the Library tab on myBU.
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APPENDIX J – LINKS TO STUDENT RULES, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES
Academic Offences www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/academic-offences
Accommodation www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/accommodation-rules
Admissions www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/admissions
Appeals www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/appeals
Assessment www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/assessment-rules
Complaints www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/complaints
Conduct and Welfare http://portal.bournemouth.ac.uk/C6/Welfare/default.aspx
Finance www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/financial-rules
Intellectual Property www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/ip-rules
Library www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/library-rules
Mitigating Circumstances www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/mitigating
Research www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/research-rules
Student Policies, Procedures and Regulations www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/rules
Transport www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/transport-rule
Use of IT Facilities www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/ict-rules
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APPENDIX K – LEVEL M/7 DESCRIPTORS AND GENERIC ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
1
General
1.1
Intellectual /cognitive skills
1.1.1 The student acquires and demonstrates great depth of knowledge in a complex and specialised area, and/or across specialised or applied areas. This may include work at the current limits of theoretical and/or research understandings. 1.1.2 The student develops and demonstrates ability in some or all of the following areas, as appropriate to the subject or course:
1.2
•
mastery of a complex and specialised area of knowledge and skills;
•
handling of complexity, lacunae and/or contradictions in the knowledge base;
•
confident selection of tools for a job;
•
expert use of highly specialised and advanced technical, professional and/or research skills;
•
effective conduct of research or advanced technical or professional activity;
•
formulation of solutions in dialogue with peers, clients, mentors and others;
•
autonomous synthesis of information and ideas;
•
creation of responses to problems that expand or redefine existing knowledge and/or develop new approaches in new situations;
•
independent evaluation and argument of alternative approaches to situations, issues or problems;
•
accurate and justified assessment and reporting of own and others work;
•
design and application of appropriate research methodologies;
•
communication of results of own research to peers.
Operational contexts
1.2.1 The student develops and demonstrates ability to:
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• • • •
operate in complex, unpredictable and normally specialised contexts demanding innovative work which may involve exploring the current limits of knowledge. work autonomously within bounds of professional practice, taking a high level of responsibility for self and possibly others; accept accountability in related decision-making, including use of supervision; take consideration of ethical dilemmas likely to arise in research and professional practice.
2
Descriptor for a qualification at Masters (M) level: Masters degree
2.1
Masters degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated:
2.2
•
a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice;
•
a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship;
•
originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline;
•
conceptual understanding that enables the student:
•
to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline;
•
to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses.
Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: •
deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences;
•
demonstrate self-direct and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level;
•
continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level.
and will have: •
the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring:
•
the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility;
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3
•
decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations;
•
the independent development.
learning
ability
required
for
continuing
professional
References Inter-Consortium Credit Agreement (InCCA) 1998 A Common Framework for Learning Higher Education Quality Council (HEQC) 1997 Graduate Standards Programme: Final Report
4
Source documents Northern Ireland Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (NICATS): Revised Level Descriptors (1998)
South-East England Consortium for Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SEEC): Level
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LEVEL M/7 GENERIC ASSESSMENT CRITERIA Very weak fail (0 - 39%) Assessment category Subject knowledge and understanding
Intellectual skills including analysis, evaluation, and critical judgement Subject-specific skills including applications and problem solving Transferable skills including communication and presentation
Performance criteria Little or no evidence of factual and conceptual understanding of the subject, appropriate to this level. There will be little or no evidence of extensive independent study and thinking, or of relevant reading/ research. The student will be clearly unable to work at the forefront of theoretical understanding in their field of study. No evidence of appropriate analysis. An inability to independently critically analyse current research /knowledge. Unsubstantiated opinions reflecting a lack of familiarity with key concepts. No evidence of ability to demonstrate the synthesis of ideas and place them within an appropriate context. No original ideas or insights evident. Unstructured and/ or incoherent. Markedly poor English and/ or inappropriate style. Other presentational aspects, including citations and bibliography may be incorrect or missing. May be seriously deficient in quantity.
Variations within this mark range will generally relate to the adequacy of the approach to the question, and the relative lack of understanding of the material, the paucity and weaknesses of the arguments used, and the factual and conceptual inadequacies. This is likely to be coupled with responses that are largely unrelated to the question and often limited in quantity.
Fail (40 - 49%) Assessment category Subject knowledge and understanding
Intellectual skills including analysis, evaluation, and critical judgement Subject-specific skills - including applications and problem solving Transferable skills including communication and presentation
Performance criteria Has been unable to develop in-depth knowledge, appropriate to this level, across specialised and applied areas. There will be insufficient evidence of extensive independent study and thinking. The student will be unable to work at the forefront of theoretical understanding in their field of study. Has not demonstrated an ability to deal with complexity, contradictions and incomplete data in the knowledge base. An inability to independently critically analyse current research knowledge and argue alternative approaches. Unable to assess own and others’ work with justification and judgement appropriate to postgraduate level. Unable to independently synthesise information and ideas and seldom, if ever, offers new insights/original responses to problems that expand or redefine existing knowledge. Not able to develop new approaches to unpredictable situations. Unable to communicate effectively. Presents poorly structured and reasoned arguments that show a lack of maturity appropriate to postgraduate level.
Variations within this mark range will generally relate to the level of understanding, the approach to the question, the factual and conceptual inadequacies, and the relative levels of weakness of the arguments used.
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Pass (50 - 59%) Assessment category Subject knowledge and understanding
Performance Criteria
Intellectual skills including analysis, evaluation, and critical judgement
Has demonstrated an ability to deal with complexity, contradictions and incomplete data in the knowledge base. Can independently analyse current research/ knowledge and present alternative approaches. Can independently assess own and others’ work with justification and appropriate judgement.
Subject-specific skills including applications and problem solving
Can independently synthesise information and ideas and occasionally offer new insights/ original responses to problems and/ or develop new approaches to unpredictable situations.
Transferable skills including communication and presentation
Can effectively communicate their work to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Presents structured arguments that show a level of maturity appropriate to postgraduate level.
Has developed in-depth knowledge across specialised and applied areas. There will be some evidence of extensive independent study and thinking. The student will, at times, be working at, or their work will be informed by, the forefront of theoretical understanding in their field of study.
Merit (60 - 69%) Assessment category Subject knowledge and understanding
Performance Criteria
Intellectual skills including analysis, evaluation, and critical judgement
Has demonstrated an ability to deal effectively with complexity, contradictions and incomplete data in the knowledge base. Can independently critically analyse current research/ knowledge and argue alternative approaches. Able to reason effectively. Can independently assess own and others’ work with clear justification and sound judgement.
Subject-specific skills including applications and problem solving
Can independently synthesise information and ideas and offer new insights/ original responses to problems and/ or develop new approaches to unpredictable situations. Will be able to demonstrate an ability to undertake further specialist research.
Transferable skills including communication and presentation
Can effectively communicate their work clearly to specialist and nonspecialist audiences. Able to present tightly structured, rigorous arguments that show a high level of maturity appropriate to postgraduate level.
Has developed a good in-depth knowledge across specialised and applied areas. There will be clear evidence of extensive independent study and thinking. The student will be working at, or their work will be informed by, the forefront of theoretical understanding in their field of study.
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Distinction (70 - 79%) Assessment category Subject knowledge and understanding
Intellectual skills including analysis, evaluation, and critical judgement
Subject-specific skills including applications and problem solving
Transferable skills including communication and presentation
Performance Criteria Has developed very good in-depth knowledge across specialised and applied areas. There will be clear evidence of very extensive independent study and thinking. The student will generally be working at, or their work will be informed by, the forefront of theoretical understanding in their field of study. Has demonstrated an ability to deal very confidently and effectively with complexity, contradictions and incomplete data in the knowledge base. Can independently critically analyse current research knowledge and cogently argue alternative approaches. Able to reason in a clear and effective manner. Can independently assess own and others’ work with very clear justifications and sound judgement. Can independently synthesise information and ideas and create a range of new insights/ original responses to problems that may expand or redefine existing knowledge and/ or develop new approaches to unpredictable situations. Will be able to demonstrate a clear ability to undertake further specialist research. Outstanding problem solving skills. Can effectively communicate their work clearly to specialist and nonspecialist audiences. Able to present confident, tightly structured, stimulating, and rigorous arguments that show a high level of maturity appropriate to postgraduate level.
High Distinction (80% +) Assessment category Performance Criteria Subject knowledge Has developed an exceptional in-depth knowledge across specialised and and understanding applied areas. There will be clear evidence of very extensive independent study and thinking. The student will generally be working at, or their work will be demonstrably informed by, the forefront of theoretical understanding in their field of study. Shows considerable mastery of facts and concepts. Intellectual skills – Has demonstrated an outstanding ability to deal with complexity, including analysis, contradictions and incomplete data in the knowledge base. Can evaluation, and independently critically analyse current research/ knowledge and cogently critical judgement argue alternative approaches. Able to reason in an exemplary manner. Can assess independently and with confidence own and others’ work with very clear justifications and sound judgement. Subject-specific skills - Can independently synthesise information and ideas and create a range of including applications new insights/ original responses to problems that may expand or redefine and problem solving existing knowledge and/ or develop new approaches to unpredictable situations. Will be able to demonstrate a clear ability to undertake further specialist research and make significant contributions to the subject. Outstanding problem solving skills. Transferable skills Can effectively communicate their work clearly to specialist and nonincluding specialist audiences. Able to present exemplary, tightly structured, highly communication and stimulating, and rigorous arguments that are likely to be at the limits of may presentation be expected at this level.
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APPENDIX L – ADDITIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT (ALS) 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 The following is a statement of the standards of service that students with sensory or physical impairments, medical or mental health conditions, or specific learning differences can expect to receive from Additional Learning Support (ALS). Examples of conditions that are supported under the Equality Act 2010 are: • • • •
Specific learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s Syndrome, AD(H)D/ADD, Asperger’s Syndrome, OCD Sensory or Physical impairments, such as deafness, visual difficulties, mobility issues, wheelchair users Medical conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME), multiple sclerosis, asthma, diabetes, motor neurone disease, cerebral palsy Mental health issues such as depression, extreme anxiety/stress, bi-polar affective disorder, schizophrenia
Please note that this list is not definitive but provided for example only. 1.2 The adjustments outlined below are for students with evidenced conditions undertaking Bournemouth University programmes at the Talbot and/or Lansdowne campus as well as at the Anglo European College of Chiropractic (AECC), University Centre Yeovil (UCY) and Portsmouth St Mary’s. Students studying at partner institutions (e.g. Bournemouth & Poole College, Kingston Maurward College, Wiltshire College, Bridgwater College etc.) should contact the learning support or disability officer at the Partner Institution. We can provide you with the contact details for these staff. Students studying at any other locations other than the above should contact ALS at the Talbot Campus (DLG17, 01202 965663, als@bournemouth.ac.uk) to discuss their learning and assessment adjustments. 2
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN ALS AND PROSPECTIVE/CURRENT STUDENTS
2.1 ALS aims to: a) Deliver a preliminary appointment with an ALS Student Adviser within 15 working days during term time and 7 working days during holidays b) Offer a subsequent first appointment with an ALS Specialist Tutor or Mentor within a further 15 working days during term time and 10 working days during holidays c) Arrange an appointment as soon as possible, if appropriate, with an external assessor (e.g. Educational Psychologist, DSA assessor). As these services are provided through individual contracts by an external provider, we cannot be responsible for the frequency or availability of appointments d) Signpost you to other University services as appropriate e) Provide information in alternative formats on request such as large print or Braille 2.2 ALS expects prospective and current students to: a) Contact ALS as early as possible MBA FT Student Handbook
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b) Provide bona fide evidence of any disability, medical or mental health condition, or specific learning difference c) Provide full details on the Summary Information form d) Notify ALS as soon as possible if you are unable to attend your appointment, preferably giving at least 48 hours’ notice e) Attend all booked appointments promptly f) Keep contact details up to date and notify ALS if there are any changes in your circumstances g) Provide ALS staff and the external assessor with an accurate account of your difficulties and support requirements h) Raise any concerns you may have at the earliest opportunity about any assessment undertaken and the content of any report provided 3
CONTACT WITH OTHER UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENTS
3.1 ALS will undertake to: a) Make appropriate recommendations to your School about reasonable adjustments for your learning and assessment b) Inform your School, where appropriate, of any health and safety risk assessments arising from your disability or condition that should be considered. This is very important should you need a personal emergency evacuation procedure (PEEPs) c) Communicate with Practice and Placement staff and Mentors in Practice, as well as School staff, to ensure appropriate support is identified for off-campus study, practices and placements d) Liaise with the University Estates, Accommodation Services, the Library, Academic Services (exams), Careers and Employability and other areas as appropriate to negotiate reasonable adjustments e) Provide information about appropriate sources of extra funding e.g. Disabled Students’ Allowances
3.2 To ensure that other University departments have adequate information, potential and current students are expected to: a) Complete all ALS appropriate documentation and confirm agreement with, and acceptance of, recommendations b) Raise any potential support requirements for practice/placements/field trips with ALS far enough in advance to allow appropriate arrangements to be made c) Raise any accessibility requirements that may affect accommodation, learning spaces, or lecture theatres, such as induction loops, lifts or alternative formats, as soon as possible 4
CONFIDENTIALITY
4.1 Bournemouth University is registered as a Data Controller and collects personal information for the purposes registered with the Information Commissioner. All information is held and processed in accordance with the requirements of the Data Protection Act, 1998 (DPA). Any information provided to the University by an applicant
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or current student will remain confidential and will only be provided to those University staff who need to know for a particular purpose. 4.2 As required by the DPA, the University will not normally disclose your information to a third party other than with your explicit permission except where there is a legal obligation to do so. Likewise it is not possible for the University to obtain information about you from a third party (such as a doctor) without your explicit consent. 5
COMPLAINTS
5.1 If you are not satisfied with the provision of services from ALS you are advised to follow the students’ complaints procedure which is available on the University website. 6
CONTACT DETAILS Additional Learning Support DLG 17, The Sir Michael Cobham Library Student Support Services Talbot Campus Bournemouth University Fern Barrow Poole BH12 5BB Tel: 01202 965663 Email: als@bournemouth.ac.uk Url: http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/learning/als/come-and-talk-to-us.html
ALS also has Drop in Sessions in term time only on Tuesdays from 10 am to 4 pm in S212 (2nd Floor, Studland House).
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APPENDIX M – PLAGIARISM
What is plagiarism? Plagiarism means representing someone else's work as your own or using someone else's work without acknowledgement. It is a form of cheating and therefore constitutes a serious breach of University rules. Penalties are severe - at the very least, you are likely to receive 0% for the work. Examples of plagiarism as defined in Academic Procedure 6H - Academic Offences Policy and Procedure for Taught Awards:
the direct importation into one's work of more than a single phrase from another person's work without the use of quotation marks and identification of the source; making a copy of all or part of another person's work and presenting it as one's own by failing to disclose the source; making extensive use of another person's work, either by summarising or paraphrasing it merely by changing a few words or altering the order of presentation, without acknowledgement; the use of the words, constructs or ideas of another person without acknowledgement of the source, or the submission or presentation of work as one's own which is substantially the ideas or intellectual data of another.
Plagiarism also includes self-plagiarism. This primarily occurs when a student submits a piece of work to fulfil the assessment requirement for a particular unit and all or part of the content has been previously submitted by that student for formal assessment on the same/a different unit. Further definitions of what constitutes plagiarism and self-plagiarism can be found within the Academic Offences Procedure for Taught Awards information. For information on student workshops please contact Library and Learning Support on +44 (0) 1202 965959. Where can I find support for avoiding plagiarism? The University's guide to Citing References tells you how to acknowledge other people's work properly. The Academic Skills Community on myBU (Referencing and Plagiarism section) contains further advice and related activities for students. The Copyright Compliance web page helps you to ensure that you are also working within the copyright regulations. The JISC Plagiarism Advisory Service offers general advice and guidance on plagiarism to both staff and students.
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APPENDIX N – IT SERVICES
Student Computer Accounts A student user account, including a home directory (H drive) and e-mail account, will be set up for you at the beginning of your first course at the University. Log-in details and passwords will be sent to you as part of the on-line registration procedure. When you change your password remember that a minimum number of 8 characters must be used and there should be a mix of UPPER and lower case characters, numbers and symbols. Please do not include 3 consecutive letters from your name in your password, as the system will not allow this. Note your password has a lifetime of 115 days and that your account will lock after 5 failed log-ins. Student E-mail Accounts All students are given an e-mail address. The e-mail address is your username@bournemouth.ac.uk. When you access your e-mail for the first time using Outlook Live you will need to provide some information. Follow the instructions on screen. You only need to do this once. The web address is www.outlook.com and click Log-in Services box. Please do not change your password again. Your Outlook Live password is linked with your log-in at the University. Please note – your Windows Live ID is your e-mail address. Off-Campus Access When you are studying off campus, access to your H drive and e-mail is available at all times through myBU, the University’s virtual learning environment. For further information go to: http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/learning/it-support/index.html If you experience any problems, telephone the IT Service Desk, which provides 24 hour telephone support 7 days a week, on +44 (0)1202 965515. Student Portal The student portal at http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk is an excellent resource that brings together a wide range of information and services in a single place and we encourage all students to make use of this on a regular basis. Within the student portal you will find information on current news and events, quick links to the most used areas of information, access to log-in services such as myBU and student e-mail, the library resources and the Student’s Union. The askBU link on the portal will take you to sources of useful information, help and advice and if you can’t find what you are looking for, our ‘Frequently asked questions’ tool allows you to search for an answer to your query. iBU Mobile App http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/help/mobile-app/index.html Software Available to Students http://studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/learning/it-support/it-on-campus/software.html
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APPENDIX O – ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Alumnus (n), alumni (npl), a graduate of a college or university, from the Latin alere to nourish Did you know that (exams permitting!) you’ll be a BU alumnus next summer? As a BU graduate you are automatically a member of the Alumni Association and have access to a wide variety of fantastic services and benefits. You can also use our new alumni website to: • • • • •
stay in touch with your friends see what’s going on at BU find out about reunions look at how we can continue to help you and much more…
You will also receive our free, bi annual magazine, Talbot. It’s a great way to keep in touch and find out what your fellow graduates are up to. Have a look at www.bournemouth.ac.uk/alumni, click through from the BU homepage, or contact us at alumni@bournemouth.ac.uk for further info.
Alex Liivet Alumni Association Manager
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APPENDIX P – CAREERS & EMPLOYABILITY
Our offer to you:
confidential, impartial advice and guidance on any careers related matter; opportunities to meet employers on campus at the annual careers fair, workshops and company presentations; quality assured portfolio of employability resources to meet your career planning needs.
Our online careers system MyCareerhub (accessed using your student login) is where all our careers related materials are domiciled and includes: job vacancies; job sector information; employability blog; careers events on and off campus; application and job hunting resources. To take a look: https://mycareerhub.bournemouth.ac.uk 1:1 appointments Book an appointment with our professionally qualified staff via MyCareerhub or drop in to The Edge (next to the library on Talbot campus). We can provide careers advice and guidance on a number of matters including:
where your degree could take you; what you want to do next; job search strategy; how to make effective job applications; how to tackle interviews/assessment centres and/or online psychometric tests; what different sectors offer, and how to go about finding available vacancies; looking for alternatives to employment when you graduate.
Employer events on campus these are advertised on MyCareerhub on a regular basis. You can access our service during your time at BU and up to 3 years after you have left.
Bournemouth University DL113, Talbot Campus Fern Barrow Poole Dorset BH12 5BB
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