HN Engineering Systems

HN Engineering Systems

U356HF1 / U356HD1 / U356HD2 / U056HF1 / U056HF2

Also available in large print (16pt) and electronic format.

Ask Student Services for details.
Contents
Programme title..................................................................................................................1
Programme code.................................................................................................................1
1. Introduction.................................................................................................................4
2. About the university....................................................................................................4
3. Programme information...............................................................................................5
3.1. Programme aims....................................................................................................................5
3.2. Programme content and structure.........................................................................................6
3.3. Unit summary.........................................................................................................................7
3.4. Reading list, course materials and equipment......................................................................12
3.4.1 Essential texts...............................................................................................................12
3.4.2 Recommended texts.....................................................................................................12
3.4.3 Library services.............................................................................................................12
3.5. Employment and progression opportunities........................................................................13

4. Programme organisation and management................................................................14

4.1. Delivery.................................................................................................................................14
4.2. Blended learning and the university virtual learning environment......................................14
4.3. College calendar...................................................................................................................14
4.4. Attendance...........................................................................................................................15
4.5. Feedback from students.......................................................................................................15
4.5.1 Course committees.......................................................................................................15
4.5.2 Student representation................................................................................................15
4.5.3 Red button....................................................................................................................16
5. Advice and support....................................................................................................17
5.1. Key staff and contact details.................................................................................................17
5.2. Personal Academic Tutor (PAT)............................................................................................17
5.3. Study skills............................................................................................................................18
5.4. Equality and diversity...........................................................................................................18
5.5. Disability matters..................................................................................................................18
5.6. Thinking of continuing or leaving?........................................................................................19

6. Assessment procedures and regulations.....................................................................19

6.1. How will you be assessed?...................................................................................................19
6.1.1 Assessment methods....................................................................................................19
6.1.2 Formative or summative?.............................................................................................20
6.2. Assessment schedule............................................................................................................20
6.3. Roles and responsibilities.....................................................................................................22
 6.4. Presentation of work............................................................................................................22
6.5. Dyslexia sticker scheme........................................................................................................23
6.6. Malpractice...........................................................................................................................23
6.7. Turnitin.................................................................................................................................24
6.8. Feedback on assessment......................................................................................................24
6.9. Mitigating circumstances......................................................................................................25
6.10. Results..................................................................................................................................26
6.11. Progression boards...............................................................................................................26
6.12. Appealing an assessment result...........................................................................................26

7. Complaints.................................................................................................................27
7.1. Expectations.........................................................................................................................27
7.2. Student partnership agreement...........................................................................................27
7.3. Data protection....................................................................................................................28
1. Introduction
Welcome to Inverness College UHI and of course HN Engineering Systems. I am sure you
have made the right decision. Being a student is one of the most important, challenging, and
exciting times of your life. Not only will you study for your future career – you should expect
to learn new skills, make new friends, and gain self-confidence as well. I hope that you will
find your course both enjoyable and stimulating and wish you every success in your studies.

The information in this booklet relates to your course and should be useful for quick
reference. We want your time with us in college to be both enjoyable and worthwhile. All
your tutors will do their best to help you achieve your goals. Your Personal Academic Tutor
(PAT) will take you through the induction programme, they will be responsible for
monitoring your progress and helping you with any problems which may occur while you are
studying with us.

For HNC Eng. Systems (FT)

Personal Academic Tutor is: Gregor Thurlow-White
Telephone number: 07497382687
E-Mail: gregor.thurlow-white.ic@uhi.ac.uk

For HND Eng. Systems

Personal Academic Tutor is: Audrey Mukora
Telephone number: 273513
E-Mail: audrey.mukora.ic@uhi.ac.uk

For HNC Eng. Systems (DR)

Personal Academic Tutor is: John Hallford
Telephone number: 273362
E-Mail: john.hallford.ic@uhi.ac.uk
2. About the University
The University of the Highlands and Islands is a leading integrated university, encompassing
both further and higher education and the only university based in the Highlands and Islands
of Scotland.

We are not a traditional university. We are different because our partnership offers both
college and university education. We are part of a new breed of tertiary institutions, the only
one in Scotland and one of only a few in Europe. Our partnership of 13 independent colleges
and research institutions serves local, regional, national, and international needs, as well as
making a distinctive contribution to the university.

Each partner has its own character. Some are relatively large colleges in the urban centres of
the region such as Perth, Elgin, and Inverness. Others are smaller institutions, including some
whose primary focus is on research. All, however, have a student-centred culture and an
individual approach to student learning. In addition to the main campuses, our partnership
also provides educational opportunities through a network of more than 70 learning centres
located throughout the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire.

There are over 10,000 students studying on undergraduate and postgraduate courses, over
31,500 enrolled on further education courses as well as many undertaking ground-breaking
research. HN Engineering Systems, is just one of those undergraduate programmes.

3. Programme Information
Programme Title: HNC / D Engineering Systems
Duration: 1 year full time, 2 years part time (Day Release)
Accredited by: Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)
SCQF level: 7/8

Further Information:

 Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF): www.scqf.org.uk

3.1. Programme Aims

The HNC / D will provide you with:

 An awareness of the place of the engineer within the profession, and within society.
 Knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to HNC/D level, of the theory and
practice of your chosen discipline in engineering.
 An awareness of the importance of continuing professional development to the
professional engineer.
 The ability to manage your own time, so that tasks are undertaken, and deadlines are
met, and to be responsible for yourself and your own work.
 The ability to analyse, synthesise and evaluate solutions to engineering problems.
 The ability to communicate and to present information using verbal, written,
graphical and electronic means, in a range of situations relevant to your professional
role.
 The ability to negotiate effective solutions using interpersonal skills.
 The ability to use appropriate resources and techniques, for example library and
electronic, to retrieve information.

3.2. Programme Content and Structure
HNC Engineering Systems
SQA SCQF
Credit Level
Core 8 credits
H7MB 34 Communication: Practical Skills 1 7
DV9R 34 Principles of Engineering Systems 2 7
DV9N 34 Engineering Communication 1 7
DV9P 34 Engineering Measurement and System Monitoring 1 7
H7K0 33 Engineering Mathematics 1 1 6
H2VY 34 Engineering Systems: Graded Unit 1 Examination 1 7
H7K1 34 Engineering Mathematics 2 1 7
Non-Core 7 credits
DR1T 34 Statics and Strength of Materials 1 7
FY9E 34 DC and AC Principles 1 7
DT9T 34 Dynamics 1 7
DT9X 34 Pneumatics and Hydraulics 1 7
DT9P 34 Thermofluids 1 7
DR1X 34 Computer Aided Draughting for Engineers 1 7
DN47 34 Three Phase Systems 1 7
Total Number of Credits 15

HND Engineering Systems

SQA SCQF
Credit Level
Core 10 credits (in addition to HNC credits)
F1BY 35 Principles of Safe Engineering Systems 1 8
F1BV 35 Engineering Systems Analysis: System Modelling and 1 8
Control
DR3M 34 Design for Manufacture 1 8
DV5J 35 Project Management: Managing the Implementation of a 2 8
Project
DG3D 35 Business Awareness and CPD 1 8
F1E8 35 Graded Unit 2: Engineering Project 2 8
F1BX 33 Engineering: Practical Skills 2 6
Non-Core 5 credits (in addition to HNC credits)
DF1YN 35 Renewable Energy Systems Technology 2 8
DT8Y 34 Quality Management: An Introduction 1 7
DN46 33 Analogue Electronics: An Introduction 1 6
DG31 34 Application of Programmable Logic Controllers 1 7
Total Number of Credits 15
3.3. Core Unit Summary
HNC Engineering Systems

Communication: Practical Skills H7MB 34 (1, 7)

This Unit is about applying practical communication skills to complex issues in a vocational
context. On completion of the Unit, candidates should be able to:

1. Respond to written information on a complex vocational issue

2. Produce written information in a prescribed format on a complex vocational issue
3. Contribute to a formal group discussion on a complex vocational issue

Principles of Engineering Systems DV9R 34 (2, 7)

This Unit has been designed to provide candidates with a broad knowledge and
understanding of a systems approach to the analysis of engineering processes and systems.
In this approach, equal weighting is given to mechanical and electrical engineering
quantities. Candidates will represent electrical, mechanical and electromechanical systems
in block diagram format. They will also identify and compare mechanical and electrical
quantities found typically in engineering systems. They will calculate typical forms of energy
found in an engineering system and undertake an energy audit on a practical engineering
system. Candidates will also investigate the properties of materials used in engineering
systems and draw typical engineering system output responses to step and sinusoidal inputs.

Engineering Communication DV9N 34 (1, 7)

This Unit has been designed to develop candidates’ knowledge, understanding and skills in
communicating and analysing engineering information. Candidates will have opportunities to
develop their skills in sketching engineering components and system layouts using
appropriate standards and conventions. They will also develop knowledge, understanding
and skills in simulating engineering systems, and sub-systems, using appropriate software.
Candidates will also be provided with opportunities to develop oral communication skills by
presenting orally information on the analysis and evaluation of an engineering system or
subsystems.

Engineering Measurement and System Monitoring DV9P 34 (1, 7)

This Unit has been designed to introduce candidates to the measurement of electrical and
mechanical quantities. Candidates will also be provided with opportunities to develop a
knowledge and understanding of the principles of operation and applications of a range of
electrical and mechanical transducers. They will also have opportunities to learn about
typical responses produced by engineering systems subject to step external disturbances
and the actions required to be taken to restore normal system operation following a
disturbance.
Engineering Mathematics 1 H7K0 33(1, 6)

This Unit is designed to enable candidates to know, understand and apply algebraic
techniques to manipulate expressions and solve equations commonly found in engineering.
It also provides candidates with an opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills to solve
problems involving vectors. The Unit also allows candidates the opportunity to develop the
necessary knowledge and skills to analyse trigonometric functions and their graphs.

Engineering Systems: Graded Unit 1 Examination H2VY 34 (1, 7)

This Graded Unit is designed to provide evidence that the candidate has achieved the
following principal aims of the HNC Engineering Systems:

 Develop knowledge, understanding and skills in an engineering systems approach to

the study of Engineering
 Develop candidates’ ability to apply analysis and synthesis skills to the solution of
engineering problems
 Develop learning and transferable skills (including Core Skills)
The table shown below indicates topics assessed within the Graded Unit examination as well
as their corresponding level of knowledge / understanding and weighting factors.

Topic Level of knowledge/ understanding Weighting

Apply mathematical Apply algebraic and vector techniques to solve 5%
techniques in the context problems commonly found in Engineering
of Engineering
Block diagram Represent mechanical, electrical and 10%
representation of electromechanical systems in block diagram
engineering systems format
Sketch engineering Accurate neat and annotated sketches of 10%
component and system component and layout
layout
Description and Explain a minimum of four electrical and four 15%
comparison of mechanical quantities given in Principles of
engineering quantities Engineering Systems unit and compare and
contrast these mechanical and electrical
quantities
Energy calculations and Perform energy calculations involving at least 15%
audit two mechanical and two electrical
energy/power forms.
Undertake an energy audit of a system where
appropriate
Material properties Identify key properties of materials used in 10%
engineering system and suggest possible
alternatives
Engineering system Draw typical engineering responses and 15%
responses and corrective recommended corrective action for a system
actions operating out with its normal range
Sensor/Transducer Describe the operation and application of at 20%
operation and least one electrical and one mechanical
applications transducer
Core Unit Summaries

HND Engineering Systems

Principles of Safe Engineering Systems F1BY 35 (1, 8)

This Unit has been designed to provide candidates with knowledge and understanding of
how to apply reliability techniques to simple engineering systems. Candidates will also learn
about basic fault management techniques used in engineering systems and key hardware,
software, human and organisational issues involved in the design of safe engineering
systems. Candidates will also investigate the stages involved in the principles of designing
safe engineering systems.

Engineering Systems Analysis: System Modelling and Control F1BV 35 (1, 8)

This Unit has been designed to allow candidates to develop their Knowledge, Understanding
and Skills of modelling engineering systems using an appropriate software-modelling
package. Candidates will also learn how to use the software models developed to investigate
what impact changes in inputs and changes in system parameters have on closed loop
output responses. They will further learn how to insert a three-term controller into an
engineering system’s model and tune the controller to allow the system’s closed loop
response to meet specified conditions.

Engineering Mathematics 2 H7K1 34 (1, 7)

This Unit is designed to give candidates knowledge and understanding and an ability to apply
differential and integral calculus to Engineering problems as well as solve trigonometric and
hyperbolic function problems.

Design for Manufacture DR3M 34 (1, 8)

The Unit is designed to enable candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of
engineering design for manufacture processes. Candidates will also be provided with an
opportunity to develop an engineering design (preferably working in a team) based on
customer requirements and to present the final design solution to the customer both in a
portfolio and as an oral presentation.

Engineering: Practical Skills F1BX 33 (2, 6)

This Unit has been designed to provide candidates with an opportunity to develop
knowledge and skills in any two of the following engineering areas: mechanical fitting,
turning, milling, sheet metalwork or welding. Candidates will also have an opportunity to
develop knowledge and skills in electrical installation and electronics. The main purpose of
this Unit is to provide candidates with an appreciation of what is involved in using these skills
in industry.

Project Management: Managing the Implementation

of a Project DV5J 35 (2, 8)
This Unit is designed to provide the candidate with the knowledge and skills required to run
a project, which has been given approval to proceed to implementation. The resultant skills
will enable the candidate to manage and control project resources including project
relationships and the budget within the context of efficient management of risk and change.

Business Awareness and CPD DG3D 35 (1, 8)

This Unit is designed to enable candidates to recognise and evaluate the external factors
affecting the performance of companies in the modern business environment. It also
provides candidates with the opportunity to identify and assess the internal measures
companies are taking in order to respond to external business pressures. The Unit also
allows candidates to recognise the importance that continued learning and Continuing
Professional Development would play in the development of their careers in a rapidly
changing business environment. This recognition is reinforced in that candidates are
provided with the opportunity to develop a Continuing Professional Development Action
Plan.

Graded Unit 2: Engineering Project F1E8 35 (2, 8)

This Graded Unit is designed to provide evidence that the candidate has achieved the
following principal aims of the Engineering Systems:

1 Develop candidates’ abilities to apply analysis and synthesis skills to the solution of
engineering problems.
2 Develop the candidate’s learning and transferable skills (including Core Skills).
3 Develop a range of Communication knowledge and skills relevant to the needs of
engineering technicians or incorporated engineers.
4 Develop applications of knowledge, understanding and skills in an engineering
system approach.
5 Develop a range of project management skills.
6 Allow opportunities for specialisation within one or more of the following
Engineering disciplines: Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Practice,
Fabrication and Welding; Manufacturing Engineering; Mechanical Engineering
and / or Mechatronics.
3.4. Reading list, Course Materials and Equipment
Your lecturer may have set up these reading lists in the University’s Reading List system, Talis
Aspire https://uhi.rl.talis.com/index.html. To find your list, simply type the name of your
course into the search box. Not all lists will appear on the system.
3.4.1 Essential Texts
You will use these texts frequently in the course and need to ensure that you have access to
copies. All essential texts are normally available from the university library, in either
electronic or print format. You may want to purchase your own, either new or second hand.

Clifford M et al (2009) An Introduction to Mechanical Engineering Part 1

Hodder Education

Clifford M et al (2010) An Introduction to Mechanical Engineering Part 2

Hodder Education

3.4.2 Recommended Texts

You are not required to purchase these texts, although you may wish to. Many
recommended texts are also available from the university library.

Bolton W (2006) Engineering Science 5th Edition Elsevier Newnes

Cather H et al (2001) Business Skills for Engineers and Technologists Newnes

Eastop TD; McConkey A (1993) Applied Thermodynamics for Engineering

Technologists 5th Edition Longman Group UK

Gentle R; Edwards P; Bolton W (2001) Mechanical Engineering Systems Newnes

Gordon JE (2008) The New Science of Strong Materials

Princeton Science Library

Hannah J; Hillier MJ (1999) Mechanical Engineering Science Pearson Education Ltd

Higgins RA (1997) Materials for the Engineering Technician Elsevier

John VB (1992) Introduction to Engineering Materials Macmillan

Education

Shigley JE; Mischke C; Budynas R (2003) Mechanical Engineering Design McGraw Hill

The following web address is also helpful:

http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/
3.4.3 Library Services
The library service is free to all students enrolled on any course. Student library accounts are
created at course registration, with the student ID number being the library
number.  Resources in any library are available to all staff and students.

The following core services are available at all university library/learning resource centres:
 access to a range of books for loan and reference, and journals, which support the
courses offered
 access to all resources held across the network through inter-site loan (speak to your
librarian), subject to local rules on borrowing
 access to PCs and other ICT facilities and access to the internet
 access to online information such as electronic journals and e-books
 access to other university libraries
 Study spaces
 Printing and photocopying facilities
 Friendly, helpful library staff to guide and assist you using the facilities and resources.

Further information:
 Your Campus library contact for the University of the Highlands and Islands
 www.uhi.ac.uk/en/libraries/using-the-libraries

3.4.4 Online Library Facilities

 The library catalogue (http://libcat.uhi.ac.uk/search~S30) can be viewed from any
computer with internet access, whether on campus, or off site
 Likewise, eBooks and eResources can be searched and viewed from anywhere with
an internet connection using the Multisearch box on the UHI Libraries website pages
(https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/libraries/)
 A few eResources need to be accessed through the university’s virtual desktop
MyUHI (https://uhi.mydaycloud.com/dashboard/students)
 Guides to Library Essentials (http://libguides.uhi.ac.uk/libraryessentials), library
resources in your subject area and on related skills like referencing, avoiding
plagiarism, effective searching – Libguides (http://libguides.uhi.ac.uk/?b=g&d=a)
 Subject Libguides (http://libguides.uhi.ac.uk/?b=s) will also give you contact details
for your Subject Network Librarian who can offer you additional help with finding
appropriate resources.

Further information:
 Your Campus library contact for the University of the Highlands and Islands
 www.uhi.ac.uk/en/libraries/using-the-libraries
3.5. Employment and progression opportunities

HNC Engineering Systems

(UHI)

HND Engineering Systems

(UHI)

BEng Electrical and

Mechanical Engineering
(UHI)

Successful completion of the HNC Engineering Systems provides direct entry to year 2 of the
HND Engineering Systems. Successful completion of the HND Engineering Systems provides
direct entry to year 3 – BEng Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. This exciting new award
has been designed to meet the demand for incorporated engineers who have a wide
knowledge and skills base covering a range of engineering disciplines including mechanical,
electrical, and electronic and management skills, making you highly sought after in the job
market. The broad-based nature of this course will give you many of the necessary skills and
competences required for the up and coming renewable energy industry.

Further information and advice about careers and employment opportunities is available
from the university’s Careers and Employability Centre. Their website provides: careers and
employment information, access to email and telephone advice including CV and application
form feedback services, a database of employment and placement opportunities, and details
of workshops and events. You can also ‘like’ their Facebook page and follow them on Twitter
to stay up to date with news of opportunities for you while you’re studying and up to two
years after graduation.

Further information:
            @uhicareers
            www.facebook.com/uhicareers
            www.uhi.ac.uk/careers
            careers@uhi.ac.uk

4. Programme organisation and management

4.1. Delivery
This course is delivered over 2 semesters, each of 19 weeks’ duration.
The college day begins at 9.00 am and ends at 5.00 pm. Your timetable will show formal
class times only. However, you might be expected to attend college out with these times if
necessary, and should always be available if this is required.

Length of classes will vary. They are normally 2 hours long; however, you may be timetabled
for one-hour lectures or 3-hour technology classes.

You will be provided with a learning plan at the start of your course, which will detail the
units to be studied over the academic session. This number of units will be divided over the
two semesters. The days of attendance in each semester may vary.

4.2. Blended Learning and the University Virtual Learning Environment

The university encourages the use of blended learning and defines blended learning as ‘a
considered approach that selects from a range of traditional face-to-face methods and e-
learning technologies to facilitate student engagement, develop independent learners and
enhance the learning experience.’

This simply means that some, or all, of your subjects will use a variety of different resources
and mechanisms to deliver your course. This could involve traditional classroom activities,
the use of video conferencing, interactive software and accessing course materials in the
virtual learning environment. This is a collection of integrated online tools. Access is usually
restricted to university staff and students.

Each unit lecturer will explain exactly how that unit will be delivered, what materials are
available and how they should be used for that subject.

4.3. College Calendar

You will be provided with a copy of the college calendar.

Further information:
 Academic calendar — University of the Highlands and Islands

4.4. Attendance
You are expected to attend all classes as scheduled on your timetable. If you are unable to
attend for any reason, you must contact your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT).

4.5. Feedback from Students

We encourage student feedback and communication. If you would like to contact someone
about any aspect of your course, your PAT is a good first point of contact. There are many
other ways to provide us with feedback, such as unit and course evaluation forms, surveys,
focus groups, the red button, the class rep system, or serving on a committee.

4.5.1 Course Committees

Course committees are the main forum for improving the learning and teaching environment
on each course. Two course committee meetings will be held each year, one per semester.
The student representative is the main voice of all the students in their class and play a key
role at course committee meetings.

4.5.2 Student Representation

The Highlands and Islands Student Association (HISA) is the Student’ Association for the
university and its partners. We represent all students studying in Higher and Further
Education. We make sure that your experience as a student is the best it can be! We do this
through elected Student Representatives (or ‘Reps’), who gather your views about your
studies and College/University life to bring about positive change. 
Who are Your Student Representatives?
All students at any UHI academic partner are represented regionally by three HISA full-time
officers, in 2020/21 they are:
 President – Ruth McFadyen
 Vice-President Further Education - TBC
 Vice-President Higher Education - TBC

Each Academic Partner also has a part-time Local Officer (sometimes known as ‘deputes’)
who represents everyone at your college. The only places where the set-up is different is at
Perth College, Inverness College and Moray College – where there are bigger teams, made
up of multiple Local Officers. While students at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI are represented
locally by their own students’ association.
How Can You Get Involved?
It is vital that all students have a say about what aspects of their life at university work well
and what can be improved. Class Representatives are elected during September and
October, they provide monthly feedback to their Academic Partner about any issues they
and their class are having. There are also occasional opportunities to become involved with
short-term representation opportunities such as subject reviews and various focus groups.
Want to be involved in a non-representative capacity? Join or create a club or society that
suits your interests!
To keep up to date with what HISA is working on follow us on social media and keep
checking our website regularly.

Further Information:
HISA:
 HISA@uhi.ac.uk
 www.hisa.uhi.ac.uk

 www.facebook.com/HighlandsandIslandsStudentsAssociation
 @tweet_hisa
Student Representation:
https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/students/get-involved/student-representation/

4.5.3 Red Button

Use the red button to let us know how we can improve our service, or to tell us what you like
about your course! Use the online form at the red button section of the website.

Further Information:
 www.uhi.ac.uk/redbutton

5. Advice and Support

Student life can be difficult however there is plenty of support available to you, therefore, if
you are struggling with your studies, finding things financially tough, looking for careers
advice or just need someone to talk to, support services are on hand to help and provide you
with advice and guidance.

Contact Student Services at Inverness College UHI or look here

www.uhi.ac.uk/en/students/support.

Further information:

 http://www.icmyvoice.co.uk/icsa/class-reps/

5.1. Key staff and contact details

Course Leader
Iain King iain.king.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273516

Teaching Staff
John Ballantyne john.ballantyne.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273574
Sheena Crumlish sheena.crumlish.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273548
John Hallford john.hallford.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273513
Stephanie Wright stephanie.wright.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273574
Steven McDonald steven.mcdonald.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273430
Andrew McIntosh andrew.mcintosh.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273367
Audrey Mukora audrey.mukora.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273513
Gregor Thurlow-White gregor.thurlow-white.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273513

Curriculum Manager
Iain King iain.king.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273516

Technicians
David Stewart david.stewart.ic@uhi.ac.uk 01463 273427

5.2. Personal Academic Tutor (PAT)

You will be allocated a PAT who will be your first point of contact for any academic or
support matters. They have an overview of your attendance, progress and attainment of
assessments and your final award. You will meet with them on an individual basis twice each
academic year to discuss your progress and plan for future developments. They may contact
you if there are any concerns about your progress on your course. If you have any queries
about your course, personal or support matters which are affecting your studies, you should
contact your PAT as soon as possible. They will discuss your concerns, and if necessary, refer
you on to the appropriate person, or specialist guidance.

Your Personal Academic Tutor is detailed on page 4. You can contact them as per details
provided on page 4.
5.3. Study Skills
Essential Student Skills is an online set of resources designed for students of the university
and contains lots of information and activities designed to help you develop the skills you
need to achieve success. Topics covered include: reading, writing for assessments, note
taking and time management.

Further Information:
 You can access the course online at http://induction.uhi.ac.uk
5.4. Equality and Diversity
The university is committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination in all aspects
of its work and study. For example, all assessments will be conducted fairly and objectively
with equality of treatment for students.

Further Information:
 https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/about-uhi/governance/policies-and-regulations/policies/
equality-diversity/

5.5. Disability Matters

If you let us know as early as possible that you have a specific or additional support need, we
will have more time to work with you to arrange and implement appropriate support. There
is a range of support services available for students with additional needs, including the
university’s Additional Support Online system.

The university is validated to conduct needs assessments with UHI students eligible to apply
for Disabled Students’ Allowance. If you wish to disclose a disability or additional support
need or think you might be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance you should discuss your
requirements with student services staff at your home academic partner in the first instance.

Further Information:
 https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/students/support/

5.6. Thinking of Continuing or Leaving?

If your circumstances have changed and you are considering continuing to the next level, or
leaving your course, be sure to speak to your PAT for advice. Advice and information are
also available online.

Further Information:
https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/students/support/
6. Assessment Procedures and Regulations
6.1. How Will you be Assessed?
SQA units are assessed on a continuous basis. This means that you will receive regular
assignments throughout the year. These assignments may involve work outside of class.
Assessment methods will vary from assignment to assignment to make sure the method of
assessment best matches the topic being assessed. Your unit lecturer will confirm the
specific details for each assessment but examples of the way in which you may be assessed
include: case studies, extended response questions, logbooks, multiple choice questions,
observations, practical exercises, projects, exams and reports.
The prospect of assessment can feel rather daunting, particularly if you have not undertaken
any academic study for a long time. There will be lots of support available to you including:

Your lecturers, student advisor and course leader

Study skills support sessions
Individual Learning Support on a short term or on-going basis
Resources on the university website: http://induction.uhi.ac.uk

Each lecturer will explain what you are required to do for each of the units you are studying.
You should make sure that you understand what it is they are looking for before you begin
the assessment. If you are uncertain, it is important that you ask for clarification. Persist
until you are clear.

6.2 Formative or Summative?

You may hear the terms ‘formative assessment’ and ‘summative assessment’ being used.
Don’t worry if you’re not sure what those terms mean just now, they will become more
familiar as you progress throughout your course.

Formative assessments are informal assessments set by your tutor which help to guide you
and your tutor to understand how well your learning is progressing whilst you are studying a
unit. The results of formative assessments should provide you with constructive feedback
and help you to set learning goals.

Summative assessments are formal assessments that measure how well you have
understood the required standards of a unit. The results of summative assessments will
inform the outcome of your final unit and group award result.

6.3 Assessment Schedule

The assessment schedule shows when each assessment for every unit will take place. You
should familiarise yourself with its content so you can plan ahead and manage your time.
Please note that your assessment schedule is dependent upon various external and internal
factors and that the designated dates may be changed. Any change will be clearly
communicated by your unit lecturer.

6.4 Roles and Responsibilities

Assessment is the formal way in which we evaluate your attainment of knowledge,
understanding and skills. A number of people play a key role in your assessment: the
candidate, the assessor, the internal verifier (IV) and the external verifier (EV). You may not
use these terms very often during your time at the university, but it’s useful to know a bit
about them so you understand how the university and SQA ensure your qualification meets
recognised standards of achievement.
 The candidate simply means you, the student. You have a duty to comply with all
assessment instructions specified in your assessment materials and the university’s
Academic Standards and Quality Regulations 2016/17.

 The assessor is the member of staff in Inverness College UHI who is responsible for
judging and recording candidate evidence. This is normally your unit lecturer, who
marks your work and ensures your results are recorded correctly in the student
records system.

 The internal verifier (IV) is an experienced subject expert in Inverness College UHI
who ensures that assessors apply standards of assessment uniformly and
consistently.

 The external verifier (EV) is a person appointed by SQA who is responsible for the
quality assurance of a centre's provision and for ensuring that standards of
assessment are applied uniformly and consistently across centres. The university is
an SQA centre.

Further Information:
 SQA Guide to assessment: www.sqa.org.uk/files_ccc/25GuideToAssessment.pdf
 Student Charter: www.uhi.ac.uk/policies

6.5 Presentation of Work

Your lecturer will explain exactly how you are expected to present your work when they
issue each assessment. If you aren’t sure what is expected of you please ask your lecturer,
they will be happy to help you.

6.6 Dyslexia Sticker Scheme

A dyslexia sticker alerts the tutor(s) marking your assignment to your dyslexia support needs.
You must have a formal diagnosis of dyslexia to be eligible to use the scheme.

Further Information:
www.uhi.ac.uk/dyslexia

6.7 Malpractice
The university and our students have a responsibility to comply with regulations set out by
Awarding Bodies. These regulations are often referred to as malpractice, maladministration
and non-compliance. These rules set out our collective responsibility to make sure staff and
students do not act, intentionally or otherwise, in a way that:
  compromises the process of assessment or the integrity of the qualification
 compromises the validity of a result or certificate; and/or
 damages the authority, reputation, or credibility of SQA or other awarding bodies,
including their staff or agents.

If you suspect malpractice, either by a fellow student or member of staff, you should report
your suspicions to either: the delivering lecturer, your Personal Academic Tutor, or other
member of academic partner staff. Existing reporting mechanisms such as the Red Button
may also be used.

Please ask your PAT or unit lecturer if you’re not sure what any of these terms mean, or how
they relate to your own studies. You will receive plenty of guidance and instruction to help
you avoid malpractice throughout your studies. For example, you will learn how to reference
you work and avoid an accusation of plagiarism.

What is plagiarism? It is important that you acknowledge sources you have consulted during
your research when these have influenced your ideas and arguments. Failure to
acknowledge the work of others you use is plagiarism. Referencing the work of others is one
way to avoid plagiarism. Referencing is a skill which takes time to master. You can access
guides on the referencing style used within the university from the Study Skills Section on
the website. Each unit lecturer should also explain what is expected of you in terms of
referencing for their coursework.

Further Information:
 Your local Library: How to Cite and Reference

 Academic Standards and Quality Regulations Appendix G: Academic misconduct

 SQA Malpractice policy and procedure

6.8 Originality Checking

You may be asked to submit assessments (essays, papers or other text-based projects)
through Turnitin. Turnitin is an online originality checking service that conducts textual
similarity reviews of submitted papers. When assignments are submitted to Turnitin a copy
of the submitted work remains in the Turnitin database for the sole purpose of originality
checking in future submitted assignments. Where applicable, you retain copyright on your
original course work. Please note that your formal acceptance of the university's regulations
permits the use of originality checking software.

Assignments are usually submitted to Turnitin through the university's virtual learning
environment. Your tutor will inform you of the procedure. For training and frequently asked
questions (FAQs) please see the links below.

Further Information:
 See the university's Turnitin FAQs and Turnitin training for students at
https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/students/your-study-tools/
If you have additional questions, please speak to your PAT or unit lecturer.

6.9 Feedback on Assessment

Feedback is the information you receive about your assessment by the assessor (your
lecturer for that unit). Your work will normally be marked and feedback given within 15
working days from the date of submission. If this is not possible, you should be told when
your assessment feedback will be returned.

Feedback provides you with information about what you have done well in your submission
(the strengths), what is not good about your work (the weaknesses) and what you can do to
improve your work. This is sometimes referred to as feed-forward because it shows you how
to move on.

Feedback may tell you whether you have understood the subject, whether you have
answered the question and whether you have written your work appropriately. Feed-
forward will tell you to pay attention to certain aspects of your work. This may be about gaps
in knowledge that have to be filled, it may be a lack of understanding that needs you to
revisit some course content or improve your reading. It could be advice to take support with
writing skills or improve your referencing technique.

You may receive feedback in a variety of ways including:

 verbal feedback from your lecturer;
 written feedback in the form of a checklist and an extended narrative.

Please make sure you ask your lecturer about any feedback you don’t understand. It is
important that you use your feedback to improve your understanding of the subject you are
studying and what is expected by each mode of assessment.

Further Information:
 Assessment feedback and feed forward policy:
www.uhi.ac.uk/en/about-uhi/governance/policies-and-regulations/policies/
assessment-feedback-feedforward-policy-and-guidance/assessment-feedback-
feedforward-policy/view
 ‘Understanding assessment feedback’ in the Assessment section of Essential Student
Skills: http://induction.uhi.ac.uk/

6.10 Mitigating Circumstances

There may be times when you cannot complete assessments to the best of their ability, are
unable to attend an examination, or are unable to meet an assessment deadline due to
adverse circumstances beyond your control e.g. illness or a serious accident at the time of
assessment. As a result, students can request that these circumstances be taken into
consideration by the university. Submitting a request does not automatically guarantee that
it will be accepted.

Further Information:
 If a student wishes to claim mitigating circumstances for any assessment, they should
complete a mitigating circumstances form and submit it to their PAT along with
supporting evidence. PATs should forward the completed claim to
mitigating.circumstances@uhi.ac.uk.
 The mitigating circumstances form can be obtained from your PAT.

6.11 Results
Your result for each assessment is recorded as pass or fail. If you do not pass your
assessment at the first attempt, you will be given one resit opportunity. You must pass all
assessments for each unit in order to achieve that unit.

Your result for your Graded Unit is recorded as A, B, C or Fail. If you do not pass your Graded
Unit assessment at the first attempt, you will be given one resit opportunity.

6.12 Progression Boards

Progression boards will convene at the end of each semester to confirm assessment
decisions and determine progression arrangements. SQA internal assessment results are
provisional until progression board ratification. Where assessment results are part of our
annual SQA external verification sample, they are provisional until the external verification
process is complete.

6.13 Appealing an Assessment Result

A student may wish to appeal against a result notified to him/her by a member of lecturing
staff, or against a decision of a progression board. This will normally only be considered on
the following grounds:

 that a student’s performance was adversely affected by illness or other factors which
they were unable or, with valid reason, unwilling to divulge, prior to the meeting of
the academic assessment body. The appeal must be accompanied by documentary
evidence acceptable to the senior manager who considers the appeal in the first
instance
 evidence of material administrative error or that an assessment was not conducted
in accordance with the university’s procedures and regulations

The appeals procedure is defined in the Academic Standards and Quality Regulations Section
18: Assessment appeals procedure.
Further Information:
 Academic Standards and Quality Regulations Section 18: Assessment appeals
procedure

6.14 Assessment Retention Policy

The university Assessment Retention Policy ensures that it securely retains evidence of
degree and SQA programme student summative assessments for a specified period where
they will remain in good condition until disposed of in a manner which ensures
confidentiality. Samples of your work will be retained for as long as is needed to inform the
assessment process, appeals and complaints process, and quality assurance processes.
Sample work is also required to assure the university and external agencies that its
assessment processes comply with UK good practice.

Further Information:
 Assessment retention policy: www.uhi.ac.uk/en/about-uhi/governance/policies-and-
regulations/policies/

7. Complaints
The university is committed to providing an excellent education and high-quality service to
our students from enrolment to graduation. We value complaints and use information from
them to help us improve our services.

If something goes wrong or you are dissatisfied with our services, please tell us.

You can complain in person, by phone, in writing, or by email via our complaints form.

The university operates under the principles issued from the Scottish Public Services
Ombudsman. These principles are that our complaints policy and process should be
accessible, fair, flexible, confidential, clear, and timely.  Complaints that arise through our
complaints handling process are monitored and mechanisms are in place to identify and
apply any lessons that have been learnt from the complaints.  Staff who deal with the
complaints process have the necessary authority and management support to carry out the
process effectively.  If you decide to make a complaint in good faith you will not be
disadvantaged in your programme of study regardless of the outcome of the complaint.

We are committed to making our service easy to use for all students. The ‘Complaints Guide
for Students’ provides further information on where to get help with making your complaint.

Further Information:
 www.uhi.ac.uk/complaints
 7.1 Expectations
The terms and conditions letter you received when you joined sets out what you can expect
from the university and what the university expects from you. In addition, it is extremely
important that you read our policies and regulations which form the ‘rules’ governing your
studies.

Further information:
 www.uhi.ac.uk/policies

7.2 Student Partnership Agreement

This agreement sets out how students and staff can work together to improve the student
experience. Find out how you can influence the work of the university and the agreed work
we are sharing with the Students’ Association, HISA.

Further information:
 www.uhi.ac.uk/student-partnership-agreement

7.3 Data Protection

When you completed your enrolment form for this course you were asked to sign a data
protection declaration which explains how your personal data will be held and used. For
example, it states that, ‘where required, your information may be supplied to other official
agencies’. This includes sharing your details with SQA as the awarding body for your HN
Engineering Systems.

Further Information:
 Why we collect data about you www.uhi.ac.uk/en/students/support/student-
records/why-we-collect-data-about-you/