Smart University Quality Assurance Framework

The Smart University Framework of SIMI Swiss is designed to integrate advanced technologies and innovative approaches into its infrastructure, teaching methodologies, administrative processes, and campus management. This framework aims to enhance learning experiences, operational efficiency, and sustainability. It includes a comprehensive quality assurance structure that aligns with the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG), focusing on content strategy, accreditation, technology integration, and service strategy to ensure high educational quality and support.

To map the Quality Assurance (QA) of SIMI Swiss within the Smart University Framework to the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG), it is essential to analyze the specific elements of the framework provided on the SIMI Swiss website against the ESG criteria.

While a direct mapping requires an in-depth review of both resources, the Smart University Framework emphasizes technology integration, content strategy, accreditation, and service strategy. These areas can be aligned with ESG standards on quality teaching, learning resources, student support, quality culture, and management of higher education institutions. For precise alignment, one would compare the specific practices and quality assurance measures from SIMI Swiss against each of the ESG's standards, including teaching and learning, research, service provision, quality assurance policies, and mechanisms.

Standard:

Institutions should have a policy and associated procedures for the assurance of the quality and standards of their programmes and awards. They should also commit themselves explicitly to the development of a culture which recognises the importance of quality, and quality assurance, in their work. To achieve this, institutions should develop and implement a strategy for the continuous enhancement of quality.

The strategy, policy and procedures should have a formal status and be publicly available. They should also include a role for students and other stakeholders.

Mapping of SIMI Swiss QA Systems:

The standard aligns with Documents:

1. MR1 SIMI Regulatory Framework: Regulations and Procedures Governing Taught Programmes of Study Leading to Awards – General Principles and Guidelines.

2. MR2 - Validation Handbook: Provides comprehensive guidelines for the validation and approval processes of new and modified academic programmes, aiming to ensure the quality and relevance of courses offered in alignment with the Swiss Institute of Management & Innovation's standards and external awarding bodies.

3. MR3 - Student Academic Handbook: Serves as a guide for full-time hybrid learning students, detailing the academic policies, procedures, and support mechanisms in place to facilitate their learning journey and success in their studies.

4. Process from admission to graduated (QA) including:

• Information Given To Students _ QA Info Code
• Recruitment And Enrolment Of Students_ QA Recruit Code
• Programme Delivery QA Delivery Code
• Assessment QA Assessment Code
• QA Progress Equality And Diversity Policy

SIMI Swiss has successfully adapted its quality assurance policies to effectively integrate the crucial relationship between research, learning, and teaching, fully acknowledging the national and institutional contexts in which it operates, along with its strategic approach. The institution has established a well-organized quality assurance system that is comprehensive and accessible, ensuring that all stakeholders, including departments, schools, faculties, institutional leadership, staff members, and students, are well-equipped to fulfill their quality assurance responsibilities.

SIMI Swiss places a strong emphasis on upholding academic integrity and freedom, implementing rigorous measures to prevent academic fraud and promote an environment where academic endeavors can be pursued freely and ethically. Furthermore, the institution is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all, implementing strict policies against intolerance and discrimination to protect its students and staff.

Recognizing the importance of external stakeholders in the quality assurance process, SIMI Swiss actively involves industry partners, alumni, and accrediting bodies, ensuring that its programs remain relevant and meet the highest standards. Through continuous evaluation and improvement, SIMI Swiss demonstrates its commitment to maintaining and enhancing the quality of its educational and research outputs, aligning with the needs of the community it serves and the broader job market. This adaptive approach underscores SIMI Swiss's dedication to excellence in higher education, making it a model of quality assurance practices that are both effective and responsive.

STANDARDS:

Institutions should ensure that the programmes are delivered in a way that encourages students to take an active role in creating the learning process, and that the assessment of students reflects this approach.

MAPPING WITH QA SYSTEMS OF SIMI SWISS:

The "ASSESSMENT (QA Assessment Code)" series encompasses a comprehensive set of documents and guidelines meticulously designed to support and enhance the assessment processes and procedures within an educational or institutional setting. This series includes:

1. Student Disciplinary Procedure: Outlines the steps for addressing student misconduct, ensuring fair and transparent processes.
2. Examination Regulations: Details the conduct expected of candidates during examinations, including the roles of invigilators and examination officers.
3. Approval of Examination Centres: Describes the criteria and process for approving new examination centers.
4. Exceptional Mitigating Circumstances Affecting Student Assessment: Provides guidelines for considering circumstances that may impact a student's assessment performance.
5. Unfair Practice in Assessment: Addresses the identification and handling of unfair practices in assessments.
6. Guidelines for Moderators: Offers directives for moderators overseeing the assessment process.
7. Policy on Internal Moderation: Establishes the framework for internal moderation of assessments to ensure consistency and fairness.
8. External Examiner Handbook: A comprehensive guide for external examiners on their roles and responsibilities.
9. Nomination and Appointment of External Examiners: Details the process for nominating and appointing external examiners.
10. External Examiner Report Form: A standardized form for external examiners to report on the assessments they oversee.
11. Academic Appeals Process: Outlines the procedure for students to appeal academic decisions.
12. External Examiner Nomination Form: A form used for nominating external examiners.
13. Announcement at Start of Examination: A document containing the announcement to be read at the start of an examination.
14. Examination Candidates Attendance Register: Ensures accurate tracking of student attendance during examinations.
15. Examination Officer and Invigilators Details: Lists roles and contact information for staff overseeing exams.
16. Examination Invigilators Report: A report form for invigilators to document examination conduct and incidents.
17. Examination Script Front Sheet: A cover sheet for examination scripts, detailing candidate and examination information.
18. Written Feedback Policy: Outlines the policy for providing written feedback on assessments to students.
19. Assessment Brief Template Level 6: A template for creating assessment briefs for Level 6 qualifications.
20. Internal Assessment Approval Form: A form used for the internal approval of assessments.
21. Word Count Policy - Undergraduate: Details the word count policy for undergraduate assessments.
22. Word Count Policy - Postgraduate: Specifies the word count policy for postgraduate assessments.
23. Dissertations Marking Guidelines: Provides guidelines for marking dissertations, ensuring consistency and fairness.

The SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are meticulously designed to embrace and foster student-centred learning and teaching, recognizing its pivotal role in enhancing students' motivation, self-reflection, and engagement in their educational journey. This commitment is reflected in the careful planning of study programs, their delivery, and the nuanced approach to assessing student outcomes.

In implementing student-centred learning and teaching, SIMI Swiss:

• Respects Diversity: Acknowledges and caters to the diverse needs of students, facilitating flexible learning paths that accommodate different learning styles and life circumstances.
• Utilizes Varied Delivery Modes: Employs a range of delivery methods to enhance accessibility and engagement, adapting to the evolving educational landscape.
• Employs Diverse Pedagogical Methods: Adopts a flexible approach to teaching, using varied pedagogical techniques to cater to different learning preferences and objectives.
• Evaluates and Adjusts Teaching Methods: Continuously assesses the effectiveness of delivery modes and teaching methods, making necessary adjustments to optimize learning outcomes.
• Encourages Autonomy with Support: Fosters a learning environment that encourages student autonomy, balanced with the provision of comprehensive guidance and support from educators.
• Promotes Mutual Respect: Cultivates a culture of mutual respect within the learner-teacher relationship, recognizing the value and contributions of each individual.
• Addresses Students’ Concerns: Establishes clear procedures for addressing and resolving students' complaints, ensuring a responsive and supportive educational environment.

Regarding assessment, SIMI Swiss's quality assurance processes are carefully structured to support students' progression and future career success, incorporating the following principles:

• Expert Assessors: Ensures assessors are well-versed in a variety of testing and examination methods, with ongoing support for the development of their assessment skills.
• Transparent Assessment Criteria: Publishes criteria for assessments and marking in advance, ensuring clarity and fairness in the evaluation process.
• Outcome-Focused Assessments: Designs assessments to enable students to demonstrate their achievement of intended learning outcomes, coupled with constructive feedback and, where necessary, advice on the learning process.
• Multiple Examiners: Where feasible, employs more than one examiner to ensure a broad and unbiased assessment perspective.
• Mitigating Circumstances Considered: Takes into account mitigating circumstances in assessment regulations, ensuring fairness and understanding in the evaluation of student performance.
• Consistency and Fairness in Assessment: Maintains consistency in assessments, applying criteria fairly to all students and adhering strictly to stated procedures.
• Formal Appeal Procedures: Implements formal procedures for student appeals, offering a structured pathway for addressing concerns related to assessment.

Through these comprehensive measures, SIMI Swiss demonstrates its unwavering dedication to a student-centred educational approach, ensuring that quality assurance systems support an enriching, equitable, and effective learning environment for all students.

STANDARDS:

Institutions should consistently apply pre-defined and published regulations covering all phases of the student “life cycle”, e.g. student admission, progression, recognition and certification.

MAPPING WITH SIMI SWISS QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEMS:

• 1. INFORMATION GIVEN TO STUDENTS _ QA INFO CODE: The overall intent of the documents and processes related to student admission to graduation at SIMI is to ensure a comprehensive, quality-assured educational journey that is aligned with institutional standards and external benchmarks. From rigorous admissions audits to ensure only qualified students are admitted, through detailed program validation, continuous feedback mechanisms, and systematic internal assessments, to external examinations and audits for maintaining academic integrity and standards, each step is designed to support students' academic success and personal development. The process culminates in graduation, marking the achievement of educational objectives and readiness for professional advancement, all within a framework of continuous improvement to enhance the quality of education provided.
• 2. RECRUITMENT AND ENROLMENT OF STUDENTS_ QA RECRUIT CODE documents is to outline the principles, policies, and procedures that govern the recruitment and enrolment of students at the institution. This includes ensuring transparent, fair, and consistent processes in admissions, recognizing prior learning, and setting clear terms and conditions for enrolled students. It also addresses the admission of students with criminal convictions to ensure safety and compliance with legal and ethical standards, aiming to provide equal opportunities for education while maintaining community trust and security.

SIMI Swiss's Quality Assurance Systems are thoughtfully crafted to guarantee that every student gets the support and conditions needed to excel academically. This strategy benefits not only the students but also elevates the caliber and standing of our programs, the institution, and the educational landscape at large. With an eye on facilitating smooth transitions and continuous progress for students, especially those moving within and between higher education frameworks, SIMI Swiss has rolled out a suite of initiatives:

• Clear Admission and Access Policies: We make sure our admission processes and criteria are uniformly and transparently applied, offering a straightforward and fair admission path for all potential students.
• In-depth Induction Programs: We host detailed orientation sessions for newcomers, easing their entry into their chosen programs and the institution at large. These sessions cover crucial aspects of academic life and the support systems in place to aid in student achievement.
• Active Monitoring of Student Progression: At SIMI Swiss, we've put in place effective methods and tools to track and respond to data on student progress. This allows us to provide timely help and ensure students are on course to fulfill their academic objectives.
• Equitable Recognition of Qualifications: Our institution stands by equitable recognition practices for academic qualifications, previous study periods, and prior learning, counting non-formal and informal learning. Such recognition is vital for supporting student mobility and their educational journey.
  • Adherence to Lisbon Recognition Convention Principles: Our procedures for recognizing qualifications are in line with the Lisbon Recognition Convention, making sure students' accomplishments are respected internationally.
  • Collaborative Efforts for Uniform Recognition: We collaborate with other educational institutions, quality assurance bodies, and the national ENIC/NARIC center to guarantee consistent recognition practices across the board, aiding both national and international student mobility.
• Graduation and Academic Records: When students graduate, they receive detailed records that outline their qualifications, including the learning outcomes achieved, and the context, level, content, and status of the studies they've completed successfully. This documentation is a crucial testament to their academic journey and the standard of education they've received.

Through these targeted measures, SIMI Swiss is committed to fostering an environment conducive to student success, encouraging academic mobility, and maintaining the global validity and recognition of our qualifications. Our comprehensive take on quality assurance in admissions, progression, and recognition practices highlights our unwavering commitment to higher education excellence.

STANDARDS:

Institutions should assure themselves of the competence of their teachers. They should apply fair and transparent processes for the recruitment and development of the staff.

MAPPING STANDARDS WITH QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEMS OF SIMI SWISS:

1. MR1 - Regulatory Framework: Establishes the regulatory principles and guidelines governing taught programmes of study leading to awards, outlining general principles, procedures, and regulations to ensure compliance and quality assurance in educational offerings.

2. The Position Description (PD) documents serve as comprehensive guides outlining the roles, responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations associated with various positions within SIMI Swiss. These documents are meticulously crafted to provide clear and transparent guidelines for both current employees and prospective candidates, ensuring alignment with the institution's goals and values.

    

   Within the Position Description documents, each role is meticulously outlined, including:

    

   1. Roles and Responsibilities: A detailed breakdown of the duties, tasks, and functions associated with the position. This section clarifies the specific contributions expected from individuals occupying the role, ensuring clarity and accountability in their day-to-day activities.

   2. Qualifications and Experience: Clear specifications regarding the educational background, professional qualifications, and relevant experience required for the role. This ensures that candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills to perform effectively in their positions.

   3. Expectations and Performance Metrics: Defined expectations and performance metrics against which individuals in the role will be evaluated. This section provides a framework for assessing job performance and identifying areas for growth and development.

   4. Reporting Structure and Relationships: Information on reporting lines, internal and external relationships, and collaboration requirements. This helps individuals understand their place within the organizational hierarchy and fosters effective communication and teamwork.

   5. Career Development Opportunities: Insight into potential career paths, growth opportunities, and professional development resources available to individuals in the role. This demonstrates SIMI Swiss's commitment to supporting employee growth and advancement.

   6. SIMI’S Policy on Internal Moderation: Establishes guidelines for internal moderation to ensure consistency and fairness in assessment marking.

   7. CI 2 – SIMI Sampling Basis for Moderation: Outlines the criteria for selecting assessments for internal moderation to ensure a representative and fair review process.

   8. CI 3 – Internal Verification Policy: Outlines the procedures and responsibilities for internal verification of assessments within Pearson/BTEC awards offered by SIMI. The policy ensures that all assessments are created and marked accurately, fairly, and consistently in line with module specifications and assessment criteria. It aims to maintain standards set by the awarding body through regular and systematic review of assessment activities and decisions.

   9. CI 4 – Procedure for Minor Modifications to Existing Programmes: Describes the process for proposing, approving, and implementing minor modifications to existing academic programmes. The intent is to ensure that changes maintain or enhance academic standards and the quality of the student learning experience, with clear guidelines for documentation, approval processes, and administrative tasks following approval.

   10. CI 5 – PROGRESS2 Annual and Monitoring Review Proforma: This document is designed for annual monitoring and review, covering key areas such as student progression, curriculum, learning and teaching, assessment, student support, and learning resources. It aims to collect comprehensive data and feedback from various stakeholders, including students, staff, and external examiners, to evaluate the effectiveness of programmes and identify areas for improvement.

SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are meticulously aligned with the evolving role of teachers in delivering a high-quality student experience, crucial for fostering knowledge, competences, and skills acquisition. Acknowledging the increasingly diverse student demographics and the shift towards learning outcomes-focused education, SIMI Swiss champions student-centred learning and teaching. This approach necessitates a dynamic adaptation in the teacher's role to meet these contemporary educational demands, in line with Standard.

Understanding the critical importance of faculty in shaping educational excellence, SIMI Swiss takes primary responsibility for the quality of its staff, ensuring they are supported in an environment conducive to their professional and pedagogical development. This supportive environment is characterized by:

• Transparent Recruitment and Fair Employment: Implementing clear, transparent, and fair staff recruitment processes and conditions of employment that underscore the significance of teaching, ensuring that educators are valued and their contributions to student success are recognized.
• Professional Development Opportunities: Offering and promoting a range of opportunities for the professional growth of teaching staff, enabling them to stay abreast of the latest pedagogical strategies, subject matter developments, and research findings. This commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that our educators are well-equipped to provide the highest quality of education.
• Scholarly Activity and Education-Research Link: Encouraging scholarly activities that enhance the symbiotic relationship between education and research, reinforcing the institution's commitment to integrating cutting-edge research into the learning experience. This approach enriches the curriculum and ensures that teaching is informed by the latest academic and scientific advancements.
• Innovation in Teaching and Technology Use: Fostering innovation in teaching methods and the integration of new technologies into the learning environment. SIMI Swiss supports its educators in exploring and adopting innovative pedagogical techniques and technological tools that enhance learning outcomes and student engagement.

Through these initiatives, SIMI Swiss demonstrates its dedication to creating a nurturing and progressive environment for its teaching staff, recognizing their pivotal role in achieving educational excellence. This holistic approach to supporting faculty development and innovation in teaching practices underscores SIMI Swiss's commitment to adapting its Quality Assurance Systems to meet the changing demands of higher education and ensure the best possible student learning experience.

STANDARDS

Institutions should have appropriate funding for learning and teaching activities and ensure that adequate and readily accessible learning resources and student support are provided.

MAPPING STANDARDS WITH QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEMS OF SIMI SWISS:

1. PROGRAMME DELIVERY QA DELIVERY CODE documents is to ensure the highest standards of programme delivery and research at the SIMI Swiss. This includes monitoring student progress, recruiting qualified tutors, providing ongoing academic staff development, offering clear guidance for face-to-face tutoring, ensuring effective learning and assessment strategies, and regularly reviewing academic staff performance. These documents collectively aim to enhance the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment, thereby ensuring that students receive a supportive, effective, and high-quality educational experience.
2. HS 1 Health and Safety Policy document outlines The Swiss Institute of Management & Innovation's comprehensive approach to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of its staff, students, and others affected by its activities. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to local and national health and safety laws, detailing the institute's commitment, organizational responsibilities, and specific procedures for managing and mitigating risks. The policy covers a wide range of areas, including emergency procedures, risk assessments, and the management of incidents, aiming to create a safe and healthy environment for all.
3. The Learning and Teaching Committee (LTC) Documents encompass a set of guidelines, policies, and procedures established by the Swiss School of Management & Innovation (SIMI) to ensure the quality and effectiveness of learning and teaching practices within the institution. These documents are designed to provide clear direction, standards, and support for faculty, staff, and administrators involved in delivering academic programs and supporting student learning experiences. The LTC Documents cover a wide range of areas related to curriculum development, assessment practices, student support, and quality assurance, aiming to uphold academic standards, promote innovation, and foster continuous improvement in teaching and learning. Key aspects addressed in these documents include:

• Curriculum Development: Guidelines and procedures for designing, reviewing, and updating academic programs and courses to ensure alignment with educational objectives, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Assessment Practices: Policies and protocols for assessing student learning outcomes, including guidelines for designing assessments, ensuring fairness and reliability, and providing feedback to students to support their academic progress.

• Student Support: Resources and procedures for providing comprehensive support services to students, including academic advising, counseling, accessibility services, and support for student well-being and success.

• Quality Assurance: Mechanisms for monitoring, evaluating, and improving the quality of teaching and learning activities, including processes for internal and external review, accreditation, and continuous enhancement of academic programs.

• Professional Development: Opportunities and requirements for faculty and staff to engage in ongoing professional development activities to enhance their teaching skills, stay current with educational trends, and contribute to institutional goals.

The SS series documents encompass a wide range of student-related policies and procedures, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive educational environment. From SS1, establishing a learning contract between students and the institution, to SS10, underscoring the importance of academic freedom, each document plays a vital role in shaping a positive and conducive learning experience. SS2 focuses on monitoring and support for online programs, while SS3 details the complaints procedure. SS4 and SS5 address safeguarding and student conduct, respectively. SS6 and SS7 differentiate refund policies for EU and non-EU residents, and SS8 covers withdrawal for non-academic reasons. Finally, SS9 and SS10 emphasize freedom of speech and academic freedom, ensuring a respectful and open academic dialogue.

The titles for each of the SS documents are as follows:

1. SS1: Student Learning Contract
2. SS2: Student Monitoring and Support Procedure for Online Programmes
3. SS3: Student Complaints Procedure
4. SS4: Safeguarding Policy Statement
5. SS5: Student Code of Conduct
6. SS6: Refund Policy for EU Residents
7. SS7: Refund Policy for Non-EU Residents
8. SS8: Withdrawals for Non-Academic Reasons
9. SS9: Freedom of Speech Code of Practice
10. SS10: Academic Freedom Policy
11. SS11: Acceptable Use Policy.

SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are comprehensively designed to enhance the higher education experience by providing an extensive range of resources and support services tailored to assist student learning. Recognizing the critical role of both physical and human resources in supporting a diverse student body, SIMI Swiss ensures that its libraries, study facilities, IT infrastructure, tutors, counsellors, and advisors are of the highest quality and easily accessible to all students, including mature, part-time, employed, international students, and those with disabilities.

In alignment with the shift towards student-centred learning and the need for flexible learning modes, SIMI Swiss has adapted its resource allocation, planning, and delivery to meet the evolving needs of its student population. This approach facilitates not only the mobility of students within and across higher education systems but also supports their academic and personal development in a variety of learning environments.

SIMI Swiss organizes its support activities and facilities in a way that best suits its institutional context, while internal quality assurance measures ensure that all resources are fit for purpose, accessible, and well-communicated to students. The institution places a high emphasis on the availability and quality of these services, recognizing that informed students are better equipped to take full advantage of the support offered.

Moreover, the role of support and administrative staff is considered paramount in delivering these services effectively. SIMI Swiss is committed to ensuring that these individuals are not only qualified but also have ample opportunities for professional development, enabling them to enhance their competences and better support the student community.

Through these strategic efforts, SIMI Swiss demonstrates its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment. This holistic approach to quality assurance in learning resources and student support services underscores SIMI Swiss's dedication to excellence in higher education, ensuring that all students have the necessary tools and support to succeed academically and personally.

STANDARD:

Institutions should ensure that they collect, analyse and use relevant information for the effective management of their programmes and other activities.

MAPPING STANDARD WITH QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM OF SIMI SWISS:

SIMI Swiss collect the data for quality assurance and improvement through out the management meetings and data collect from daily management acativities through the QA Assessment series of documents.

The "ASSESSMENT (QA Assessment Code)" series encompasses a comprehensive set of documents and guidelines meticulously designed to support and enhance the assessment processes and procedures within an educational or institutional setting. This series includes:

1. Student Disciplinary Procedure: Outlines the steps for addressing student misconduct, ensuring fair and transparent processes.
2. Examination Regulations: Details the conduct expected of candidates during examinations, including the roles of invigilators and examination officers.
3. Approval of Examination Centres: Describes the criteria and process for approving new examination centers.
4. Exceptional Mitigating Circumstances Affecting Student Assessment: Provides guidelines for considering circumstances that may impact a student's assessment performance.
5. Unfair Practice in Assessment: Addresses the identification and handling of unfair practices in assessments.
6. Guidelines for Moderators: Offers directives for moderators overseeing the assessment process.
7. Policy on Internal Moderation: Establishes the framework for internal moderation of assessments to ensure consistency and fairness.
8. External Examiner Handbook: A comprehensive guide for external examiners on their roles and responsibilities.
9. Nomination and Appointment of External Examiners: Details the process for nominating and appointing external examiners.
10. External Examiner Report Form: A standardized form for external examiners to report on the assessments they oversee.
11. Academic Appeals Process: Outlines the procedure for students to appeal academic decisions.
12. External Examiner Nomination Form: A form used for nominating external examiners.
13. Announcement at Start of Examination: A document containing the announcement to be read at the start of an examination.
14. Examination Candidates Attendance Register: Ensures accurate tracking of student attendance during examinations.
15. Examination Officer and Invigilators Details: Lists roles and contact information for staff overseeing exams.
16. Examination Invigilators Report: A report form for invigilators to document examination conduct and incidents.
17. Examination Script Front Sheet: A cover sheet for examination scripts, detailing candidate and examination information.
18. Written Feedback Policy: Outlines the policy for providing written feedback on assessments to students.
19. Assessment Brief Template Level 6: A template for creating assessment briefs for Level 6 qualifications.
20. Internal Assessment Approval Form: A form used for the internal approval of assessments.
21. Word Count Policy - Undergraduate: Details the word count policy for undergraduate assessments.
22. Word Count Policy - Postgraduate: Specifies the word count policy for postgraduate assessments.
23. Dissertations Marking Guidelines: Provides guidelines for marking dissertations, ensuring consistency and fairness.

SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are comprehensively designed to enhance the higher education experience by providing an extensive range of resources and support services tailored to assist student learning. Recognizing the critical role of both physical and human resources in supporting a diverse student body, SIMI Swiss ensures that its libraries, study facilities, IT infrastructure, tutors, counsellors, and advisors are of the highest quality and easily accessible to all students, including mature, part-time, employed, international students, and those with disabilities.

In alignment with the shift towards student-centred learning and the need for flexible learning modes, SIMI Swiss has adapted its resource allocation, planning, and delivery to meet the evolving needs of its student population. This approach facilitates not only the mobility of students within and across higher education systems but also supports their academic and personal development in a variety of learning environments.

SIMI Swiss organizes its support activities and facilities in a way that best suits its institutional context, while internal quality assurance measures ensure that all resources are fit for purpose, accessible, and well-communicated to students. The institution places a high emphasis on the availability and quality of these services, recognizing that informed students are better equipped to take full advantage of the support offered.

Moreover, the role of support and administrative staff is considered paramount in delivering these services effectively. SIMI Swiss is committed to ensuring that these individuals are not only qualified but also have ample opportunities for professional development, enabling them to enhance their competences and better support the student community.

Through these strategic efforts, SIMI Swiss demonstrates its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment. This holistic approach to quality assurance in learning resources and student support services underscores SIMI Swiss's dedication to excellence in higher education, ensuring that all students have the necessary tools and support to succeed academically and personally.

STANDARD:

Institutions should publish information about their activities, including programmes, which is clear, accurate, objective, up-to date and readily accessible.

MAPPING STANDARD WITH QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEMS OF SIMI SWISS:

1. The "QA INFO1 - Marketing and publicity approval guidelines" document outlines the procedures and expectations for creating marketing and publicity materials at the Swiss Institute of Management & Innovation. It ensures that all materials accurately represent the institute's brand and offerings, are clear, current, and reflect the learning opportunities accurately. The guidelines cover various types of materials, including prospectuses, websites, and social media content, and detail the approval process to ensure compliance with these standards.
2. The "QA INFO2 - Procedure for the Production, Publication, and Amendment of Student Handbooks" document details the process for creating, updating, and maintaining student handbooks at the Swiss Institute of Management & Innovation. It emphasizes the importance of keeping handbooks accurate and up-to-date, outlining the roles of the Quality Manager, Quality Co-ordinator(s), and the CEO cum Quality Manager in the update, approval, and publication processes. This procedure ensures that student handbooks reflect current policies, regulations, and program information, facilitating clear communication and guidance for students.
3. The "QA INFO3 - Programme Specification Form" document is a comprehensive template for outlining the academic and operational details of a new or existing program. It includes sections for qualification objectives, quality standards, regulatory information, structure, entry requirements, and assessment methods. This form ensures that all programs are designed with clear objectives, meet regulatory and quality standards, and provide detailed information on delivery, assessment, and outcomes, facilitating a structured approach to program development and review.
4. "QA INFO4 - Procedure for the Production, Approval, and Maintenance of Hybrid Module Learning Material" outlines the standards and processes for creating online learning materials at SIMI. It emphasizes content appropriateness, engagement, and compliance with educational standards and house style. The document details collaboration between writers, module leaders, and reviewers to ensure content meets academic requirements and enhances student learning. It also addresses the revision process, ensuring materials remain current and effective over time.

SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are meticulously crafted to ensure that transparency and easy access to information about our institution's activities are a top priority. This is vital for not only prospective and current students but also for graduates, other stakeholders, and the general public. Recognizing the importance of keeping everyone well-informed, SIMI Swiss is dedicated to providing detailed and clear information across a broad spectrum.

Our commitment includes sharing comprehensive details on:

• Our Programs: We offer in-depth information about the range of programs available, giving students a clear understanding of what they can expect from their education with us.
• Admission Criteria: We're transparent about our selection process, making sure prospective students know exactly what we're looking for.
• What You’ll Learn: We outline the intended learning outcomes for each program, so students have a clear idea of the knowledge and skills they'll gain.
• Degrees Offered: We provide specifics on the qualifications students will earn, underscoring the academic and professional value of their studies.
• How We Teach and Assess: Insight into our teaching and assessment methods is shared, so students know how they will learn and be evaluated.
• Success Rates: We're open about our pass rates, offering an honest look at student success and program effectiveness.
• Extra Learning Opportunities: Details about extracurricular activities, internships, and study abroad programs are readily available, showcasing ways to enrich the student experience.
• Career Outcomes for Graduates: We share employment data for our alumni, giving both prospective and current students valuable insights into their future career prospects.

By making sure this information is easily accessible, SIMI Swiss not only meets our quality assurance goals but also promotes a culture of openness and trust. This strategy empowers students and stakeholders, enabling them to make informed decisions about their education and future careers, and solidifies the trust and credibility in the educational experiences and outcomes offered by SIMI Swiss.

STANDARD:

Institutions should monitor and periodically review their programmes to ensure that they achieve the objectives set for them and respond to the needs of students and society. These reviews should lead to continuous improvement of the programme. Any action planned or taken as a result should be communicated to all those concerned.

MAPPING STANDARD WITH QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM OF SIMI SWISS

The Learning and Teaching Committee (LTC) Documents encompass a set of guidelines, policies, and procedures established by the Swiss School of Management & Innovation (SIMI) to ensure the quality and effectiveness of learning and teaching practices within the institution. These documents are designed to provide clear direction, standards, and support for faculty, staff, and administrators involved in delivering academic programs and supporting student learning experiences. The LTC Documents cover a wide range of areas related to curriculum development, assessment practices, student support, and quality assurance, aiming to uphold academic standards, promote innovation, and foster continuous improvement in teaching and learning. Key aspects addressed in these documents include:

1. Curriculum Development: Guidelines and procedures for designing, reviewing, and updating academic programs and courses to ensure alignment with educational objectives, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

2. Assessment Practices: Policies and protocols for assessing student learning outcomes, including guidelines for designing assessments, ensuring fairness and reliability, and providing feedback to students to support their academic progress.

3. Student Support: Resources and procedures for providing comprehensive support services to students, including academic advising, counseling, accessibility services, and support for student well-being and success.

4. Quality Assurance: Mechanisms for monitoring, evaluating, and improving the quality of teaching and learning activities, including processes for internal and external review, accreditation, and continuous enhancement of academic programs.

5. Professional Development: Opportunities and requirements for faculty and staff to engage in ongoing professional development activities to enhance their teaching skills, stay current with educational trends, and contribute to institutional goals.

SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are fully aligned with the principle that ongoing monitoring, review, and revision of study programs are crucial to maintaining their relevance and to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment for our students. Our commitment to excellence involves a comprehensive evaluation process that addresses several key areas:

• Cutting-edge Content: We ensure our programs remain current by regularly updating their content based on the latest research in the discipline. This keeps our curriculum at the forefront of academic and professional fields.
• Societal Needs: Our courses are responsive to the evolving needs of society, preparing students to meet the challenges and opportunities of the changing world.
• Student Workload and Success: We closely monitor student workload, progression, and completion rates to ensure that our programs are manageable and effective in facilitating student success.
• Assessment Effectiveness: The procedures we use to assess student performance are continually evaluated for their effectiveness, ensuring fair and meaningful evaluation of student learning.
• Meeting Student Expectations: Feedback on student expectations, needs, and satisfaction is actively sought and used to inform program improvements, guaranteeing that our courses meet or exceed what our students hope to achieve.
• Learning Environment and Support Services: The fitness for purpose of our learning environment and support services is regularly assessed, ensuring they effectively contribute to the academic and personal development of our students.

In our pursuit of maintaining the highest standards, programs are not only reviewed and revised on a regular basis but also involve the active participation of students and other stakeholders in the process. This inclusive approach ensures that our programs remain dynamic, relevant, and closely aligned with both academic advancements and market demands. The insights gained from these evaluations are carefully analyzed, leading to informed adaptations that keep our offerings up-to-date. Furthermore, any changes to program specifications are promptly published, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all current and prospective members of the SIMI Swiss community.

Through these rigorous quality assurance practices, SIMI Swiss demonstrates its unwavering dedication to creating an educational environment that is both challenging and supportive, ensuring our students are well-prepared to excel in their future endeavors.

STANDARD:

Institutions should undergo external quality assurance in line with the ESG on a cyclical basis.

MAPPING STANDARD WITH QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM OF SIMI SWISS

The overall intent of the Continuous Improvement Forms (CIF) documents is to provide a structured framework for initiating, documenting, and tracking various aspects of quality assurance and continuous improvement processes within the Swiss Institute of Management and Innovation (SIMI). These documents collectively facilitate the planning, implementation, and review of actions aimed at enhancing the quality of educational programs, courses, and institutional practices. Each form is tailored to address specific areas such as action planning, course proposals, feedback collection, course amendments, course closures, internal assessment approvals, validation planning, external examiner reporting, and admissions auditing. This comprehensive suite of documents ensures systematic engagement with continuous improvement activities, aiming to uphold and enhance the academic standards and student learning experience at SIMI.

1. The "CIF1 Action Plan Form" is designed for documenting actions in response to corrective action requests within the Swiss Institute of Management and Innovation. It helps track progress and plan new actions needed to address specific issues or implement improvements. The form facilitates accountability and systematic improvement efforts by detailing ongoing and planned actions, responsible parties, and deadlines.
2. The "CIF2 New Course Proposal" document is designed for faculty or department members to propose new courses at SIMI. It requires detailed information, including the rationale for the new course, title, mode of delivery, partnering bodies, and the date of first intake. Additionally, proposers must provide a market analysis to justify demand, potential risks, impact on resources, proposed course structure, and financial analysis. This template ensures that new course proposals are comprehensive and aligned with SIMI's strategic goals and market needs.
3. The "CIF3 Module Feedback Questionnaire" is a tool for gathering student feedback on various aspects of a module, including content, teaching and learning, support, assessment, and overall satisfaction. It aims to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement by asking students to rate their experiences on a scale from strongly agree to strongly disagree. This feedback is crucial for module teams to consider what aspects of the module worked well and which might be improved, ensuring a responsive and student-centered approach to teaching and learning enhancement.
4. The "CIF4 Course Amendment Form" is used for proposing major modifications to any existing course. It collects comprehensive details about the proposed changes, including changes to the course title, summary of changes, modifications in delivery or pedagogy, impact on awarding body partnerships, and the first intake affected by the changes. Additionally, it requires a rationale for the changes, analysis of potential risks, impact on current students, transitional arrangements, resource implications, and a financial analysis. This ensures thorough consideration and documentation of significant course amendments.
5. The "CIF5 Course Closure Form" is designed for documenting and proposing the closure of a course. It requires detailed information including the proposer's name, course and award title, reason for closure, date of closure, potential risks, impact on existing students, exit arrangements for current students, any associated module deletions, and a financial analysis. This form ensures that all factors are considered and documented in the decision-making process for closing a course.
6. The "CIF6 Internal Assessment Approval Form" is a checklist designed to ensure that internal assessments meet specific quality criteria before being administered to students. It includes items like ensuring the assessment addresses all learning outcomes, provides clear guidance on completion, states the deadline clearly, has clear questions and criteria, offers guidance on word count and referencing, and checks for grammar and punctuation. This form is essential for maintaining the integrity and quality of assessments.
7. The "CIF7 Validation Planning Form" is designed to facilitate the planning and documentation required for the validation or re-approval of academic programs. It collects key program information, including details about the program leader, target award, program title, level, program code for re-approvals, and information regarding external body awards or accreditations. The form ensures that all necessary steps and considerations are documented for a thorough validation process, including external panel nominations, employer engagement, and adherence to academic regulations.
8. The "CIF8 External Examiner Quarterly Report Form" is designed for external examiners to report on the academic standards, assessment, marking and assessment procedures, and student achievement within the programs they oversee. It provides a structured format for examiners to express their level of agreement with statements related to these areas and to offer detailed comments. This ensures a comprehensive external perspective on the quality of education, assessment integrity, and the comparability of standards and student achievement within SIMI's offerings.
9. The "CIF9 Admissions Audit Template" is designed for conducting audits of the admissions process, ensuring compliance with academic standards and policies. It captures detailed information on student admissions, including standard and non-standard entries, advisor details, and the basis for admission. The template also includes a section for feedback and an action plan, which allows for the documentation of key findings, identification of significant issues, recommendations for enhancement, and specific actions needed to address any concerns. This form is crucial for maintaining the integrity and quality of the admissions process.

SIMI Swiss Quality Assurance Systems are strategically designed to embrace the role of external quality assurance as a pivotal element in validating the effectiveness of our internal quality measures, driving continuous improvement, and introducing fresh perspectives to our institution. This approach not only reinforces our commitment to maintaining high standards but also provides a clear assurance to both the institution and the public about the quality of our activities.

We actively engage in cyclical external quality assurance processes that are mindful of the legislative framework governing our operations. Recognizing that these frameworks can vary, our participation in external quality assurance is adaptable, ensuring that it is relevant and appropriately targeted, whether at the program, faculty, or institutional level. This flexible approach allows us to address specific areas of focus effectively, enhancing our overall quality assurance strategy.

Quality assurance at SIMI Swiss is seen as an ongoing journey rather than a destination. The feedback and insights gained from external quality assurance activities are integral to our continuous improvement cycle. We are committed to not only implementing the recommendations from these external evaluations but also to monitoring and documenting the progress made since the last review. This ensures that when preparing for subsequent external quality assurance engagements, we are fully aware of our advancements and areas for further enhancement.

By integrating these principles into our quality assurance framework, SIMI Swiss ensures that our educational offerings remain at the forefront of academic excellence, meeting the evolving needs of our students and the wider community. Our dedication to a proactive and responsive quality assurance process underscores our commitment to excellence, innovation, and accountability in higher education.