This Malpractice Policy outlines the procedures and guidelines for identifying, preventing, and addressing academic and professional malpractice at The Pet Academy. The policy ensures that all activities conducted by students, instructors, and staff uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
This policy applies to all members of The Pet Academy, including students, instructors, staff, and any other stakeholders involved in the Academy’s operations and educational activities.
Malpractice is defined as any action that compromises the integrity, fairness, and validity of the educational process at The Pet Academy. This includes, but is not limited to:
– Academic Dishonesty: Cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, or any other form of academic fraud.
– Misconduct: Unprofessional behaviour, harassment, discrimination, or actions that disrupt the learning environment.
– Data Falsification: Altering or fabricating data or information in any academic or administrative context.
– Unauthorised Collaboration: Working with others on assignments or exams where individual work is required.
– Violation of Policies: Breaching any of The Pet Academy’s policies, including the Code of Conduct, Equality and Diversity policy, or other established guidelines.
4.1 Education and Awareness
– Training: All students, instructors, and staff will receive training on academic integrity and professional conduct.
– Resources: The Pet Academy will provide resources and guidance on proper citation, collaboration, and ethical behaviour.
4.2 Clear Guidelines
– Course Syllabi: Instructors will include clear guidelines on academic integrity and acceptable behaviour in their course syllabi.
– Policy Communication: The Malpractice Policy will be accessible to all members of The Pet Academy and communicated regularly.
4.3 Monitoring and Support
– Proctoring: Use of proctoring tools and techniques to monitor exams and assessments.
5.1 Reporting Channels
– Anonymous Reporting: Anonymity will be maintained for individuals who wish to report malpractice without revealing their identity.
– Contact Information: Reports of malpractice can be submitted to the Pet Academy.
5.2 Reporting Procedure
– Submission: Reports should include a detailed description of the alleged malpractice, the individuals involved, and any supporting evidence.
– Acknowledgment: The Pet Academy will acknowledge receipt of the report within five business days.
6.1 Initial Review
The Pet Academy will conduct an initial review of the report to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a full investigation.
6.2 Full Investigation
If warranted, a full investigation will be conducted, which may include:
– Interviews: Speaking with the individuals involved and any witnesses.
– Evidence Collection: Gathering relevant documents, records, and other evidence.
– Consultation: Consulting with subject matter experts, if necessary.
6.3 Confidentiality
All investigations will be conducted with strict confidentiality to protect the privacy of all parties involved.
7.1 Decision
The Pet Academy will make a decision based on the findings of the investigation. The decision will be communicated to the involved parties within 20 business days of the conclusion of the investigation.
7.2 Disciplinary Actions
Depending on the severity of the malpractice, disciplinary actions may include:
– Warning: Issuing a formal warning.
– Probation: Placing the individual on academic or professional probation.
– Suspension: Temporarily suspending the individual from the course or The Pet Academy.
– Expulsion: Permanently removing the individual from The Pet Academy.
– Legal Action: Pursuing legal action, if applicable.
7.3 Appeals
Individuals have the right to appeal the decision. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Director of The Pet Academy within 10 business days of receiving the decision. The Director’s decision on the appeal is final.
All records related to malpractice reports, investigations, and resolutions will be maintained for a minimum of five years. These records will be kept confidential and only accessible to authorised personnel.
This Malpractice Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and relevant. Feedback from the community will be considered in the review process. Any changes to the policy will be communicated to all stakeholders in a timely manner.
By adhering to this Malpractice Policy, The Pet Academy commits to maintaining a high standard of integrity and professionalism in all its educational activities, ensuring a fair and trustworthy learning environment for all.
