STUDENT'S CHARTER January 2018 - December 2022 - LIT
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LIT Student’s Charter
STUDENT’S CHARTER
January 2018 – December 2022
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 1 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
Document Control Record
Quality Assurance Handbook Volume 5:
Student Support Policies &
Procedures
Student’s Charter January 2018- December 2022
Identification No: Revision No:
Item 5.1 4.0
Document Owner:
Academic Council (Sub-Committee on Student Support and
Retention)
Document Status: Page 2 of 39 Language:
Approved English
(Ireland)
Date of Approval Academic Date of Approval Governing
Council: Body:
th
17 June 2019 25th June 2019
Document Type: Contact/Creator:
Internal Regulations Vice President of Academic Affairs and
Registrar
Revision History
Revision No. Date Comments
2.0 17th Dec 2010 Approved by Academic Council
3.0 5th Dec 2014 Approved by Academic Council
3.1 12th March 2015 Reviewed by Academic Council
4.0 9th March 2018 Introduction: page 8, paragraph 5, last sentence
amended.
Section 1.1: bullet point inserted under heading ‘We
aim to’.
Section 7.7: page 26, final paragraph, amended to
read new paragraph wording.
Section 7.8: page 27, paragraph 3, amended to read
‘Your Mentor is’.
Section 9.2: page 32, first paragraph, last sentence
replaced.
Section 10: page 33, reference to Policy on Dignity
and Respect inserted.
Section 12.1: page 35, paragraph 2, ‘by the student’
inserted.
Bibliography: minor modification to wording.
Appendices: appendices removed.
5.0 17th June 2019 Approved by Academic Council
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 2 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary ...................................................................................................................... 6
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 7
Section 1 Standards of Service ..................................................................................................... 8
1.1 - Standards of Service ......................................................................................................... 8
Section 2 - Admissions and Registration ...................................................................................... 9
2.1 - A Fair and Efficient Admissions Procedure ....................................................................... 9
2.2 - First Arrival at the Institute - Reception and Enrolment................................................... 10
Section 3 - Academic Life at LIT ................................................................................................. 11
3.1 - Teaching and Learning .................................................................................................... 11
3.2 - Participation ..................................................................................................................... 12
3.3 - Attendance....................................................................................................................... 12
3.4 - Student Workload ............................................................................................................ 13
3.5 - W ork Placements ............................................................................................................ 14
3.6 – Study Placement............................................................................................................. 14
3.7 - Research and Postgraduate Studies............................................................................... 14
3.8 - Flexible Learning ............................................................................................................. 15
3.9 - W ithdrawal from Your Programme .................................................................................. 15
Section 4 - Academic Resources ................................................................................................ 16
4.1 - Teaching and Learning Resources ................................................................................. 16
4.2 - On-Programme Support and Guidance........................................................................... 16
4.3 - Library Services ............................................................................................................... 17
4.4 - Computing Services ........................................................................................................ 17
Section 5 - Examinations and Assessments ............................................................................... 18
5.1 - Assessment ..................................................................................................................... 18
5.2 - Assessment Review ........................................................................................................ 19
Section 6 - Decision Making ........................................................................................................ 20
6.1 - Programme Representatives ........................................................................................... 20
6.2 - Institute Boards and Committees Representatives ......................................................... 20
Section 7 - Support for Students ................................................................................................. 21
7.1 - LIT Students’ Union Services .......................................................................................... 21
7.2 - LIT Sports ........................................................................................................................ 23
7.3 - Chaplaincy Service .......................................................................................................... 23
7.4 - Student Health Service .................................................................................................... 24
7.5 - Careers Service ............................................................................................................... 25
7.6 - Access Service ................................................................................................................ 25
7.7 - Disability and Special Learning Needs Support .............................................................. 26
7.8 - Mentoring Support and Guidance.................................................................................... 27
7.9 - Counselling Support ........................................................................................................ 28
7.10 - Accommodation ............................................................................................................. 28
7.11 - Catering ......................................................................................................................... 29
7.12 - Support for International and Exchange Students......................................................... 29
7.13 - Alumni Association ........................................................................................................ 30
Section 8 - Health, Safety and the Environment ......................................................................... 30
8.1 - Health and Safety ............................................................................................................ 30
8.2 - Estates ............................................................................................................................. 31
8.3 - Active Citizenship ............................................................................................................ 32
Section 9 – Finance..................................................................................................................... 32
9.1 - Fees ................................................................................................................................. 32
9.2 - Student Emergency Fund and Student Assistance Fund ............................................... 32
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 3 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
Section 10 - Policies and Procedures ......................................................................................... 33
10.1 - Student Problem-Solving Procedure ............................................................................. 33
10.2 – Statement of Academic Freedom for Students in LIT .................................................. 33
10.3 – Statement of Academic Freedom for Students in LIT .................................................. 34
10.4 – Additional Policies and Procedures .............................................................................. 34
Section 11 - Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 34
11.1 - Student Feedback ......................................................................................................... 34
Section 12 - References .............................................................................................................. 35
12.1 - References .................................................................................................................... 35
Glossary ...................................................................................................................................... 36
Bibliography................................................................................................................................. 38
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 4 of 39LIT Student’s Charter Preface Limerick Institute of Technology operates under the provisions of the Institutes of Technology Acts 1992 to 2006. Under Section 4 of the 1992 Act, membership of the Institute includes, inter alia, ‘the registered students’ of the Institute. The Student’s Charter is written to foster an inclusive Institute-wide community committed to workforce higher education and learning. The Charter seeks to promote a mutual understanding between the Institute and its students. It is a set of shared expectations. The Institute expects students and staff to honour the principles of this Charter on a reciprocal basis. It is not a contractual document and is not intended to create legal rights or obligations on any party whether contractual or tortuous or otherwise. Any breach of the obligations referred to in the Charter shall not give rise to any claim for damages or loss (including but not limited to special or consequential loss or damage). Throughout this document the term Institute shall be interpreted to mean Limerick Institute of Technology. The Student’s Charter is maintained by the Academic Council Sub-Committee on Student Support and Retention in consultation with the LIT Students’ Union. The document is subject to a tri-annual review. The Student’s Charter should be read in conjunction with the legally binding regulations of the Institute. A companion document to the Student’s Charter is the Student Code of Conduct and Student Disciplinary Procedures. This Charter replaces the previous Student Charter December 2014 – December 2017 with effect from date of approval of academic council. The most recently approved version of this document is available online on the Student and Staff Portals and on the Limerick Institute of Technology website, www.lit.ie. Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 5 of 39
LIT Student’s Charter
Executive Summary
Introduction
Limerick Institute of Technology prepares learners for fulfilling and challenging futures, fostering
the professional, intellectual, social, cultural and personal development of the individual. The
hallmark of our educational philosophy is active learning through a fusion of theory and practice.
We provide third and fourth level education; training and research, playing a pivotal role in the
economic and socio-cultural development of our region (LIT Mission Statement).
W e are a community of learners committed to one another and to the pursuit and development
of knowledge, skills and competences.
Our commitments to each other:
• respect each other, working collaboratively and in partnership;
• behave professionally, with courtesy and integrity;
• work together to develop our Institute, by asking for and using feedback;
• value our collective identity and our individual diversity;
• make a personal contribution to our communities within and beyond the Institute.
Your expectation of us:
• offer programmes of study which are regularly reviewed to ensure quality and relevance
consistent with the Irish national standards and the statutory responsibilities of the
Institute;
• publish comprehensive and accurate information about our activities, procedures and
regulations;
• operate a fair and efficient admissions procedure;
• provide a stimulating environment within which teaching, research and learning can
occur;
• maintain high academic standards through fair and challenging assessment;
• offer appropriate services to students within the resources available to the Institute;
• provide for student participation and feedback in the Institute’s decision-making
processes;
• operate appeals and complaints procedures, which are both fair and easily accessible;
• provide opportunities to develop your career goals and employability.
Our expectation of you:
• act with honesty and integrity in all of your endeavours;
• aim to pass first time by planning your workload, attending class, meeting coursework
deadlines and sitting examinations;
• develop your cognitive and affective knowledge, skills and competencies to improve your
job prospects;
• proactively participate as a member of the Institute in the educational, social, and
extracurricular activities of the inclusive Institute community;
• cultivate a personal commitment to a healthy study-work-life balance, continuous
professional development and active citizenship;
• be aware of the relevant policies, procedures and regulations of Limerick Institute of
Technology;
• remain in good standing with the Institute throughout your period of study.
Note: Like the complete Student’s Charter, the abridged version is not a contractual document
and is not intended to create legal rights or obligations on any party whether contractual or
tortuous or otherwise.
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 6 of 39LIT Student’s Charter Introduction Limerick Institute of Technology prepares learners for fulfilling and challenging futures, fostering the professional, intellectual, social, cultural and personal development of the individual. The hallmark of our educational philosophy is active learning through a fusion of theory and practice. We provide third- and fourth-level education, training and research, playing a pivotal role in the economic and socio-cultural development of our region (LIT Mission Statement). Limerick Institute of Technology Student’s Charter sets out: • W hat you may expect from Limerick Institute of Technology; • W hat Limerick Institute of Technology expects from you. The Student’s Charter is designed to cover all major aspects of your time at Limerick Institute of Technology from the initial contact made until the time you leave. It provides you with a code of practice by which you can gauge our standards. In order for the Student’s Charter’s aims to be achieved, it requires co-operation by staff and students. Limerick Institute of Technology is committed, through a partnership of management, staff and students, to ensuring that its activities are conducted in a fair and equitable manner, which is conducive to good working relations on campus and an efficient and effective academic environment. The Student’s Charter, which sets out the rights and obligations of students, has been prepared and is implemented in that spirit. Limerick Institute of Technology is committed to providing you, as a student, with the best possible experience in higher education. Student days should be among the most enriching, informative and enjoyable days of a person’s life. They should nurture and progress the human spirit, alone and in company, in its search for meaning and truth. Limerick Institute of Technology with your help and participation seeks to maintain and continuously improve a community of active learners committed to technological higher education. Third-level education involves a huge personal and financial commitment. Often, it is a once in a life-time opportunity. You should strive to obtain the maximum benefit. Limerick Institute of Technology offers a wide range of programmes of study across a range of disciplines in engineering, business, science, and art and design. Some programmes are structured both in ab-initio and in ladder arrangements. For example, a student may register on a four-year ab-initio honours baccalaureate degree, or may opt to register for a two-year higher certificate programme, followed by a one-year add-on ordinary degree, followed by a one-year add-on honours degree in a ladder arrangement. Programmes of study in Limerick Institute of Technology are composed of modules. The Student’s Charter applies to all registered full-time, part-time and ACCS students and to full-time officers of the Student Union. The Student’s Charter also applies to registered students of the Institute while participating in work experience programmes outside the Institute when such experience is documented as a required part of the course. The Student’s Charter also applies to registered students of the Institute on college trips within and outside Ireland. The Institute will strive to execute its responsibilities, as described in the Student’s Charter, as far as is reasonable and subject to available resources. As a student of Limerick Institute of Technology, the Student’s Charter is your charter. A copy of the Student’s Charter is available on the website to all students and all staff at Limerick Institute of Technology and to any other person upon request. Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 7 of 39
LIT Student’s Charter
The Charter (which has been developed in consultation with your Students' Union) is based on
the recognition of a partnership between the Institute and the student body. The Charter is
underpinned by the Institute's desire to respond to and correct difficulties quickly, should they
arise. W e commend that intent to you and look forward to a continuing dialogue with your
representatives and/or yourself in its operation, review and monitoring.
The Charter is intended to underpin the joint personal accountability between the Institute and
students. It sets out both the standards we will attempt to achieve for all students and the
commitments we seek from them.
It is certain that amendments will be needed and details changed, not least because Limerick
Institute of Technology itself will change as it responds to new needs and pressures. You are
invited to participate in identifying needs for change. You will be notified of any changes on a
regular basis.
To ensure a consistent quality of experience for students, feedback and evaluation of our
commitment and responsibilities will take place. All students and staff will be asked to help in
the process by working with the appropriate staff when difficulties occur, so that any problems
can be put right as soon as possible.
The Institute cannot guarantee the provision of services which may be subject to action external
to the Institute. The budget of the Institute is determined externally. The Institute is subject to the
wider resourcing issues in the higher education sector including the Employment Control
Framework.
The Student’s Charter sets out the ambitions of the Institute and the expectations and
responsibilities of the students. It is a document to assist and guide the students but is not
prepared for the purpose of enabling students to enforce any legal rights or entitlements as
against the Institute.
Section 1 Standards of Service
1.1 - Standards of Service
The Student’s Charter addresses the standards of service which the Institute will strive to
achieve for all students as well as the responsibilities which students are expected to undertake
as members of the Institute. These are summarised below.
We aim to:
• publish comprehensive and accurate information about our activities, procedures and
regulations;
• operate a fair and efficient admissions procedure;
• provide a suitable environment within which teaching and learning can take place;
• offer appropriate student support services within the resources available to the Institute;
• provide for student participation in the Institute’s decision-making process;
• operate appeals and complaints procedures, which are both fair and accessible;
• operate an effective and efficient assessment and examination management system and
provide a suitable environment with which examinations can be conducted.
You are invited and expected to:
• take responsibility for your own learning;
• attend lectures, practical sessions, seminars and tutorials and submit all course work as
required; apply yourself to your studies and abide by deadlines set for the submission of
work;
• be informed about and comply with the Institute’s regulations and procedures relating to
students;
• act responsibly towards staff, other students, visitors to the Institute and members of the
local community, and to respect Institute property;
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 8 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• possess all personal tools, materials and personal protective equipment as required for
your programme;
• participate in programmatic reviews, accreditation visits, marketing initiatives, as
appropriate;
• pay all fees required by the Institute as they become due.
You are encouraged to:
• seek advice and help from relevant Institute or Student Support Services and/or Mentor
should the need arise;
• contribute to the life of the Institute and help as an active, responsible member of the
student community.
The Charter sets out in more detail the obligations listed above, explaining the standard of
service offered by the Institute and the correlative response required of you the student, and
also refers to relevant documents which provide more detail.
Section 2 - Admissions and Registration
2.1 - A Fair and Efficient Admissions Procedure
The Institute aims to provide, through its Programme Handbooks and other publicity material,
clear, accurate and up-to-date information about its programmes of study, facilities and support
services.
The Institute will operate an admissions system to its programmes based upon equality of
opportunity and ability to benefit from the programme of study.
NOTE
First Year Applications are normally processed by the Central Applications Office, Tower House,
Eglington Street, Galway.
We aim to offer you the student:
• information in our Programme Handbooks and other publicity material which is accurate at
the time of publication and to inform you, before admission, of any changes which might
alter or modify your programme of study;
• full, open and careful consideration to your application, treating it efficiently and
sympathetically, responding promptly to any written requests for documentation;
• an opportunity for Portfolio Assessment to all First Year Art & Design applicants;
• notification of the outcome of your Portfolio Assessment;
• the opportunity to visit a campus of the Institute through Open Days or other means (where
relevant) before or after you have made an application;
• advice and guidance, where required, on all components of your proposed programme of
study, its teaching and assessment arrangements, and resources which you will need to
have access to, or make use of;
• guidance on the extent to which the campus is able to support a student with a particular
disability or special need;
• equal treatment for all applicants in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Statement
above;
• recognition of prior learning (RPL) where appropriate.
You are invited and expected to:
• have undertaken basic investigations as to the nature of the chosen programme and its
suitability for fulfilling your aspirations;
• provide true, complete and accurate information on all applications to the Institute;
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 9 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• keep appointments if invited to interview, and to notify the Institute if you are unable to
attend, or need to change the arrangement, if possible;
• respond to an offer of a place within the specified time period;
• provide full and accurate information relating to your health record;
• inform the Institute as soon as possible, should you decide not to enrol, so that we may re-
allocate the place;
• have made financial arrangements to cover the duration of the programme;
• familiarise yourself with the programme documentation and relevant Institute policies;
• provide full and accurate information of any personal criminal record.
You are encouraged to:
• peruse the online Institute information.
2.2 - First Arrival at the Institute - Reception and Enrolment
Once you have been offered and accepted a place on a programme the Institute will contact
you to provide the information you require.
You can expect:
• to receive clear advice on the documentation you will need to provide in order to complete
registration as a student of the Institute;
• an online registration facility;
• to be provided with a copy of the Student Handbook.
When completing registration, you can expect:
• to be dealt with as efficiently as possible;
• to receive instructions on when and where to join your intended programme of study.
At registration or during online registration, you are invited and expected to:
• fully complete all registration documentation, and provide relevant personal details as
requested;
• complete enrolment procedures and agree to pay the appropriate Student Contribution
Charge and other fees (where relevant) or make arrangements for payment;
• review and correct any inaccuracies and update changes in your student profile.
We aim to offer you the student:
• where appropriate, a general induction programme arranged by your Department which
introduces you to Institute life. It will include details of your programme, clarify Institute
expectations and explain procedures. Your induction programme will also outline key
services and facilities. A separate mature student induction programme and an
international student induction programme is also normally provided;
• information relating to your programme of study including, where appropriate, a list of
essential books and equipment;
• a programme of social activities and events organised by the Students’ Union.
You are invited and expected to:
• learn as much as you can about the programme you are embarking on and the services and
facilities available in the Institute;
• acquire, where appropriate, the list of essential books and equipment for your programme of
study;
• familiarise yourself with the various policies and procedures which students of the Institute
are bound by;
• meet and talk to a Student Leader, your Mentor, support service staff or the Students’ Union
advisers if any problems or concerns arise;
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 10 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• consult your programme leader and confirm in writing to the Admissions Office if you are
intending to withdraw from or suspend your studies;
• keep your Faculty/School Office or the Admissions Office informed of any changes in
address or other details.
Section 3 - Academic Life at LIT
W e pride ourselves on the high level of engagement that exists between our students and our
staff, and between the Institute and the Student Representative body, namely the Students’
Union. W e work together to enhance the LIT experience, one which will be unique to you, based
on the choices you make and your level of engagement with the array of opportunities available.
The expectations laid out in the Executive Summary of our Student’s Charter demonstrate the
range of possibilities open to you as a student of LIT. Taking advantage of these opportunities
will help you to expand your knowledge and abilities beyond the educational experience and
promote your job prospects.
3.1 - Teaching and Learning
The Institute is committed to ensuring high standards in its teaching and in supporting learning.
The Institute is committed to active learning. Effective teaching and learning requires proactive
staff and student involvement.
W hatever form of study your programme takes, the Institute encourages you to contribute to
your learning process. Your contribution includes the acquisition of knowledge, skills,
competencies and the development of professional standards, values and codes of ethics
appropriate to your chosen profession.
The Institute offers a range of study methods designed to encourage effective learning within its
mission of active learning, for example, guided reading, group work, lectures, seminars,
workshops, practical and field work, peer and problem based learning, as appropriate to the
modules you have chosen.
We aim to offer you the student:
• programmes of study which are regularly reviewed to ensure quality and relevance,
consistent with the national standards and the statutory responsibilities of the Institute;
• a teaching, learning and assessment strategy that is well planned, which uses different
methods, designed to help you think and work for yourself;
• study methods that are clearly explained, properly managed and clearly linked to
programme and module learning outcomes;
• study skills enhancement by organised practical sessions or self-study packages and
materials;
• information on the overall structure of the programme of study;
• programme statistics, including acceptance rates, success rates, retention rates, first
destination employment rates, etc., as appropriate;
• appropriate programme information for each programme, providing a clear guide to the
programme and module learning outcomes, the indicative module content and the
summative, formative and diagnostic assessment methods;
• teaching sessions that begin punctually and do not over-run;
• that changes to the scheduled arrangements do not occur without good reason, and that
adequate notice of such changes be given wherever possible;
• tuition, using the English language;
• class contact hours, consistent with the fees paid and the national norms, subject to
available resources;
• guidance on the selection of options and progression routes, where appropriate;
• fair assessment, feedback on assignments and advice on progress;
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 11 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• information on how to apply for consideration by Boards of Examiners of circumstances
which may have affected your performance in an assessment (extenuating circumstances).
You are invited and expected to:
• behave in a mature, self-reliant and conscientious way;
• make yourself familiar with the programme information provided;
• apply yourself to your studies in a meaningful way;
• engage in critical and creative thinking;
• develop strong cognitive and affective skills;
• take responsibility for your learning, for example by reviewing study notes and ensuring that
you follow up on any points you do not understand, through further reading, research and in
tutorials;
• prepare yourself fully for sessions by completing any pre-set reading and organising
questions for areas of which you are unsure;
• seek feedback on your progress from your lecturer and programme leader, as appropriate;
you should take on board the comments;
• be considerate, flexible and mature in your dealings with staff and fellow students;
• study recommended texts, notes and other recommended study material;
• comply with the administrative arrangements of the programme;
• be aware of and proactively adhere to academic and Health and Safety regulations covering
your programme of study;
• access messages from your lecturer, tutor, and group members;
• seek advice actively from your lecturer if you experience difficulties with your work.
3.2 - Participation
Academic success is normally all but guaranteed by persistent and constructive participation in
the academic programme. The majority of programmes include active learning approaches
which require participation and collaboration with peers. Discussions, seminars, practical
sessions and workshops, for instance, depend for their value on students' attendance and
constructive participation and on a regard for the learning of others and themselves. W hile each
student has a responsibility for organising and managing aspects of his/her own learning,
enrolment on a programme also entails commitment to participation with others and/or peers.
The nature of participation will differ between programmes. Peer (fellow student) support and
peer learning are essential components of the academic experience at LIT.
We aim to offer you the student:
• opportunities for both personal contributions and group work;
• a range of participative active learning experiences;
• a more fulfilling experience through your engagement with fellow peers and staff alike.
You are invited and expected to:
• play a full and constructive part in group work and tutorial sessions;
• share ideas and learning experiences actively with other students and staff;
• participate in scheduled learning activities in ways which support the teaching and learning
of others as well as yourself;
• submit course-work and assignments by the due date;
• seek feedback on your progress from your lecturer and programme leader, as appropriate.
3.3 - Attendance
A very important factor in academic success is attendance at all classes and scheduled
academic activities.
We aim to offer you the student:
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 12 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• clear information about the teaching timetable;
• clear information about the examination timetable;
• clear information about the schedule of assignments and due dates;
• full information about the time and location of assessment arrangements;
• attendance monitoring as appropriate.
You are invited and expected to:
• make sure you understand and comply with the attendance requirements for your
programme of study course;
• arrive on time for classes and academic sessions;
• contact the relevant member of staff as soon as possible if any class, workshop, practical or
laboratory session is missed;
• inform your lecturer of any inability to attend lectures, seminars or tutorials (or placement if
applicable);
• see the relevant member of staff as soon as possible if any lecture, workshop, practical or
laboratory session is missed;
• inform the appropriate person in your programme if you are absent for any significant period
of time;
• attend timetabled sessions promptly, including examinations and assessments;
• understand that any sustained period of unexplained or unauthorised absence or lack of
participation may be subject to disciplinary procedures. Such unauthorised absence may
make you ineligible to sit examinations or to undertake practical assessments as indicated
in relevant programme schedules. Such unauthorised absence may also have implications
for the continuation of funding from grant agencies.
3.4 - Student Workload
All programmes in Limerick Institute of Technology are compliant with the required learning
outcomes in the National Framework of Qualifications. All modules in the programmes are
specified in terms of ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). ECTS
credits are based on the workload students need in order to achieve expected learning
outcomes. The workload includes directed study (e.g. lecturers, seminars, practical sessions,
examinations) and independent study (e.g. homework and self-study). As class sizes increase
and individual lecturer-student interactions decrease, the importance of independent study
increases. As class contact hours decrease, the importance of independent study again
increases. In the ECTS User’s Guide, one ECTS credit corresponds to twenty-five to thirty
hours of work by the student. The Institute recommends a minimum of 20 hours of student work
effort per credit.
We aim to offer you the student:
• modules based on five or multiples of five ECTS credits;
• modules requiring directed and independent study;
• programme stages based on sixty ECTS credits (e.g. one-year full-time or two semesters);
• programme stages requiring fifteen hundred to eighteen hundred hours of student effort.
You are invited and expected to:
• undertake directed study as required for your chosen programme;
• undertake independent study as required by your chosen programme;
• commit about forty-five minutes of student effort per credit per week, inclusive of lectures;
• as a full-time student, commit a total of about forty-five hours of student effort per week of
academic term;
• commit additional hours of student effort to learning support and supplementary study as
needed by you in your academically weaker subjects.
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 13 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
3.5 - Work Placements
Some programmes of study involve a period of compulsory supervised work experience in the
form of placements.
W hile every effort is made to assist students to secure placements, the Institute cannot offer a
guarantee of a placement for all students who are enrolled on such programmes. Alternative
arrangements, such as the provision of a project, will be made in such cases.
We aim to offer you the student:
• information about the level of support available in the process of securing placements;
• a clear statement of the intended outcomes and appropriate assessment of the placement;
• liaison with a tutor during the placement;
• access to appropriate Institute facilities and services whilst on placement where possible;
• an in-house project substitute for placement as appropriate.
You are invited and expected to:
• play your part in securing a suitable placement, for example, prepare a CV, create a
personal webpage of your work, contact companies seeking placement, attend interviews,
keep the placement supervisor informed of your progress;
• maintain contact with tutors whilst on placement; including submission of reports as
specified in your placement programme;
• conduct yourself in a responsible and professional manner;
• comply with appropriate employer regulations;
• be pro-active in organising work at the placement, in accordance with programme
regulations;
• comply with and undertake assessment activities associated with the placement period;
• abide by local policies and procedures regarding Health and Safety;
• remember that you are a member of the Institute whilst you are on placement and remain
subject to the Institute regulations, policies and procedures.
3.6 – Study Placement
The Institute facilitates study placements. The study placement may be used to build
international experience and related affective skills.
3.7 - Research and Postgraduate Studies
The Institute is committed to the principles and requirements laid down in the Charter. The
Institute confirms its intention to continue to engage in the transnational effort to improve the
conditions for researchers throughout Europe, promote elements that make research an
attractive career, and work to enhance the quality of research and innovation by facilitation of
international collaboration and transnational interdisciplinary and intersectoral mobility of
researchers.
The Institute recommends reading the European Charter for Researchers: it is a set of general
principles and requirements which specifies the roles, responsibilities and entitlements of
researchers as well as of employers and/or funders of researchers.
We aim to offer you the student:
• supervised research opportunities;
• a range of challenging projects for research and postgraduate study within the LIT Strategic
Research Areas;
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 14 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• modern facilities for research and postgraduate study at Level-9 and Level-10;
• an induction programme on research;
• assistance getting additional resources for your research, if possible;
• information on available internal funds for research (e.g. GRO Bursaries);
• Level-10 awards from the University of Limerick, through the Limerick Graduate School;
• a limited instructional role;
• the opportunity to join the LIT Postgraduate Society.
You are invited and expected to:
• comply with the research degree regulations;
• advance your field of study;
• avail of opportunities to present at conferences and to publish or co-author in peer reviewed
journals;
• maintain contact with you supervisor, as appropriate.
3.8 - Flexible Learning
The Institute has a long tradition in the provision of programmes via alternative modes e.g. night
classes and adult education. This will continue to grow as LIT develops programmes which will
be delivered on-line, through blended learning and other means. The programmes are normally
self-funding.
We aim to offer you the student:
• a range of programmes, which match local regional and national demands;
• a number of programmes from external agencies (e.g. IPA);
• a number of programmes funded by relevant National initiatives e.g. Springboard.
You are invited and expected to:
• comply with the Institute regulations;
• familiarise yourself with the rules/regulations and procedures specifically relating to students
enrolled on Flexible Learning programmes, which are published in the Flexible Learning
Handbook and available to view on the Flexible Learning section of the LIT website.
3.9 - Withdrawal from Your Programme
The LIT Programme W ithdrawal Procedures are designed to ensure that students who are
considering withdrawing from the Institute are properly supported in their decision. The Institute
is committed to continuously improving student retention.
Withdrawal from your program is a serious step. W e would recommend that before making this
decision you would consult with at least one of the Institute offices. e.g. Lecturers, Mentor,
Head of Faculty/School or Department, the Student Services team, the Admissions Office,
and/or the Students’ Union.
Failure to follow the withdrawal procedures may result in difficulties when re-engaging with
Higher Education (e.g. student fees and grants).
If you decide to go ahead and withdraw, you are expected to:
• inform yourself of the Programme W ithdrawal Procedures published in the Student
Handbook;
• inform your Course Leader or Head of Faculty/School/Department;
• follow the procedure for withdrawal from full or part time programmes (see Admissions
Office Policies and Procedures) and return a completed withdrawal form to the Admissions
Office.
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Section 4 - Academic Resources
4.1 - Teaching and Learning Resources
Subject to availability, the Institute is committed to the provision of teaching and learning
accommodation that provides a safe, supportive and appropriate environment.
The Institute will endeavour to provide a range of learning spaces and resources to support your
studies, for example lecture theatres and tutorial rooms, the Library, open access Computer
Centre, workshops, studios, laboratories and a dedicated Learning Support Unit.
Regulations applicable to the use of these learning spaces and resources are designed to help
you make the most of the resources available, while also considering other users.
We aim to offer you the student:
• teaching sessions that are conducted in premises properly equipped and arranged for the
purpose and adequately furnished in relation to the size of the group;
• to have reasonable access to properly maintained facilities, including libraries, the computer
centre and laboratories;
• adequate study spaces to enable learning to continue beyond the scheduled sessions.
You are invited and expected to:
• act responsibly in the use of these learning resources, being mindful of the needs of other
users and to comply fully with the regulations and instructions of Institute Staff;
• use online resources (e.g. Moodle, email and social media) where appropriate;
• routinely check your email for notices from the Institute.
4.2 - On-Programme Support and Guidance
Academic departments provide on-programme student support and guidance, in partnership
with Student Support Services, the Learning Support Unit, the Students’ Union and the
Teaching and Learning Centre. These systems all aim to provide accessible and effective support
for students and to encourage students to develop their academic and personal potential. Student
Support Services are outlined in the Student Handbook.
We aim to offer you the student:
• explanation of the support and guidance systems operating within the academic
faculty/school and or department during induction and at other key points during the
programme;
• information about specialist Institute and Students’ Union support services;
• the opportunity to discuss any emerging academic or personal difficulties with an
appropriate member of staff within the academic faculty/school and or department;
• sensitive referral to appropriate specialist services;
• access to Student Support Services where your concerns will be dealt with by an online
helpdesk, telephone, email or personally, and information given on where to seek advice
and support;
• access to the Learning Support Unit for academic support in specific subject areas.
You are invited and expected to:
• familiarise yourself with any relevant information literature;
• take responsibility for consulting appropriate staff about any difficulties affecting your
studies at the earliest opportunity;
• make appropriate and timely use of any specialist support available including the Learning
Support Unit;
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 16 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
• familiarise yourself with the printed and online information concerning access to support
services;
• meet regularly with your mentor, particularly in first year.
4.3 - Library Services
The Library is central to the work of the Institute with a stock designed to support staff and
students across all areas of academic study. On each campus of the Institute, Library Services
seek to provide a Library or Learning Spaces appropriate to the needs of its staff and students.
W e aim to provide a responsive and efficient service to all members of the Institute by:
• liaising with staff to ensure that the changing needs of the user community are identified
and addressed;
• providing a range of study spaces catering for different needs, including group and
individual study;
• providing access to networked information;
• making available a comprehensive and fully searchable computer database of all holdings;
• providing a range of reference materials, statistical sources, directories, indexing and
abstracting services;
• providing lending, renewal, and reservation services in accordance with current library
regulations;
• assisting users by means of induction tours, publications outlining services and facilities,
and web pages;
• providing an enquiry service offering advice on information-related issues;
• providing an inter-library loan service;
• providing access to photocopying facilities;
• monitoring and reviewing services and facilities on a regular basis;
• responding to feedback from users;
• ensuring that staff are helpful and courteous in their dealings with users;
• providing you with information on opening hours, borrowing allowances and other aspects
of the Library service;
• providing support and services to all students.
We aim to offer you the student:
• the opportunity to participate in an induction to Library Services;
• full student borrowing rights and access to CD-ROM facilities and online databases;
• published information on access and opening times;
• help and advice with making best use of the resources available;
• access to individual and group space consistent with your programme requirements.
You are invited and expected to:
• be aware of the library regulations published in the Student Handbook, Student Portal and
on the Institute website, and abide by them;
• treat other users and staff with courtesy and consideration;
• accept responsibility for items on loan to you;
• return items within the time limits of the loan i.e. by the due by date;
• provide feedback on the Library services through your student representative;
• observe current copyright regulations in force when copying materials on library
photocopiers.
4.4 - Computing Services
The Computer Services Department seeks to provide the Institute with appropriate, quality
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) services to facilitate the learning and
research activities of the Institute.
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 17 of 39LIT Student’s Charter
We aim to offer you the student:
• modern and efficient computing services to support your taught programme, research and
private academic study;
• a computer account that permits reasonable access to the computing resources and
provides networked storage space and email facilities;
• published information on opening times;
• email or personal help and advice at the Help Desk in response to individual requests;
• access to the computer centre and computer laboratories throughout the normal working
day, subject to the calls of timetabled teaching and security constraints;
• information about the available computing services at each campus of the Institute through
induction sessions, the Institute website, the Student Handbook and Student Portal;
• information on the regulations governing the use of the computing services through the
Student Handbook, Student Portal and the Institute website.
You are invited and expected to:
• be fully aware of and abide by the Regulations governing the use of the computing services
and the guidelines which cover network use;
• take reasonable steps to protect Institute computing facilities from theft, viruses and other
threats;
• comply with the Rules of Use including General Rules, Code of Conduct for LIT Computer
Users, LIT Internet Policy, and LIT Email Policy as published in the Student Handbook,
Student Portal and on the Institute website.
Section 5 - Examinations and Assessments
5.1 - Assessment
Assessment is the means through which the Institute determines whether an appropriate
standard has been achieved for progression through stages to an award. Learning outcomes
are assessed. Grades are based on academic achievement. The focus of assessment is
primarily individual performance. Summative, formative and diagnostic assessment methods
are employed in Limerick Institute of Technology. Formative assessments particularly
contribute to the learning process.
Students often view programmes of study as primarily a series of assessments. ‘W hat do I
need to do to pass or to get honours in m y assessments?’ The focus should be on expertly
achieving and surpassing the minimum learning outcomes. The indicative content and the
assessments are supports for the achievement of learning outcomes.
For full details of assessment regulations see the Academic Council Regulations and
Procedures for Taught Programmes (ACRP).
We aim to offer you the student:
• the set of learning outcomes against which you will be assessed;
• a published set of assessment regulations;
• clarity in the purposes and methods of assessment;
• assessment strategies which employ a range of types of assessment;
• assessment criteria which are open, transparent and free from bias;
• timely feedback on assessments to aid your understanding and improvement;
• clearly communicated and, wherever possible, appropriately sequenced and distributed
assessment dates;
• advance notice of assessment requirements for each module and in respect of each
programme of study;
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• to have any extenuating circumstances considered in confidence by the Head of
Department and Board of Examiners, if submitted in writing with documentary evidence
prior to the meeting of the Board of Examiners;
• The assurance that documented extenuating circumstances will be taken into account in
deciding student awards and progression;
• within the resources of the Institute, assessment arrangements wherever possible which
take account of special needs you have arising from illness or disability, in accordance with
the Institute Regulations, providing you have notified the Institute of the special needs as
early as possible in advance of the assessment process;
• the assurance that any allegation of cheating, plagiarism or academic misconduct made
against you will be investigated in accordance with the Institute’s Procedure;
• access to timely notification of the confirmed result;
• the right to appeal a decision of a Board of Examiners, in accordance with the Academic
Council Bylaw 2: Board of Appeal.
You are invited and expected to:
• know the assessment regulations of the Institute;
• complete all assessment activities and adhere to the assessment timetable;
• submit written and project work in legible and neat format or electronically, where required;
• notify lecturers promptly if you are having difficulties which affect your performance;
• provide written evidence if you submit extenuating circumstances affecting your
assessments;
• comply with normal academic conventions and acknowledge the work of others where
appropriate;
• never engage in cheating, plagiarism, breach of copyright, fabrication of research data or
other designated academic irregularities or misconduct;
• if you are requesting special assessment arrangements, produce in advance, as early as
possible, medical or other documentary evidence to support your request;
• attend oral and written examination as required by Boards of Examiners and to take
responsibility to ensure that you attend at the right time, on the right day and at the right
place;
• follow regulations relating to attendance at formal assessment of a placement, where
required to do so;
• submit any appeal against a decision of a Board of Examiner within the designated time
limit and in accordance with the Institute’s procedure as published in the Academic Council
Regulations and Procedures for Taught Programmes;
• critically assess your own work and progress from time to time.
5.2 - Assessment Review
The Institute operates an Assessment Review Procedure where you may be entitled to request
a review of assessment decisions.
Full details of the Assessment Review Procedure are published in the Academic Council
Regulations and Procedures for Taught Programmes.
We aim to offer you the student:
• advice in the event of academic failure.
You are invited and expected to:
• comply with the Institute’s regulations for repeat assessments.
Approved AC 9th March 2018 Page 19 of 39You can also read
