Malpractice & Maladministration Policy

Introduction

This policy is for IMECH Institute’s candidates, including learners enrolled in IMech-approved qualifications or units, who encounter suspected or actual malpractice or maladministration. It’s also a guide for our staff to ensure consistent handling of all investigations related to malpractice and maladministration.

It outlines the steps IMECH Institute, learners, and personnel must take when reporting suspicions or instances of malpractice or maladministration, as well as our obligations in addressing such cases. Additionally, it details the procedures we will follow when reviewing these cases.

Definition of Malpractice

Malpractice refers to any deliberate action or behavior that violates regulations and undermines the integrity of assessment processes or the validity of certificates. This includes misconduct and any form of discrimination or bias against specific groups of learners.

Examples of malpractice include, but are not limited to:

1. Plagiarism or unauthorized collaboration in assessments.
2. Falsifying or fabricating evidence for assessments.
3. Allowing unauthorized access to assessment materials.
4. Misrepresentation of learner identity or qualifications.
5. Providing assistance or receiving unauthorized help during assessments.
6. Breaching confidentiality related to assessments.
7. Intentional withholding of information from us which is critical to maintaining the rigour of quality assurance and standards.
8. Deliberate misuse of our logo and trademarks.
9. Inappropriate assistance to learners by centre staff (eg unfairly helping them to pass a unit or qualification)
10. Persistent instances of maladministration within our centre

These examples serve as guidance for understanding malpractice but do not encompass all possible scenarios.

 Definition of Maladministration

Maladministration refers to any action or practice that leads to a failure to comply with administrative regulations and requirements. This encompasses the consistent occurrence of errors or inadequate administration within a center, such as the improper utilization of learner records.

Process for Reporting Allegations of Malpractice or Maladministration

If anyone identifies or becomes aware of suspected or actual cases of malpractice or maladministration at any time, they should immediately report their findings to the Director of IMech Institute. This report should be in writing or via email and include appropriate supporting evidence.(monis@imech.in)

• Learner’s name and Registration Number
• Details of IMECH Institute personnel involved (names, job roles) if applicable
• Title and identification of the IMECH Institute course or qualification affected, or nature of the service affected
• Dates when suspected or actual malpractice occurred
• Description of the suspected or actual malpractice
• Details and outcomes of any prior investigation conducted by the IMech Institute or others involved, including any mitigating circumstances
• Written statements from informants, including their name, position, and signature

If IMECH Institute conducts an investigation before formally submitting the report, they should:

• Ensure that the staff leading the investigation are impartial and not directly involved in the matter being investigated
• Inform the individuals suspected of malpractice about the case details and potential outcomes
• Submit the investigation findings along with the report to the appropriate authority

IMECH Institute will always protect the identity of the informant in line with confidentiality obligations and legal requirements.

Investigation timeliness and process

IMECH Institute aims to complete all stages of the investigation within 20 working days upon receiving the allegation. The investigation process may involve:

• Requesting additional information from IMECH Institute personnel or the candidate
• Conducting interviews (in person or via telephone) with individuals involved in the investigation

If an IMECH Institute staff member is under investigation, they may be temporarily suspended or reassigned to other duties until the investigation concludes.

Throughout the investigation, the Center Coordinator at IMECH Institute will oversee the investigation team’s work. They will ensure that proper procedures are followed, relevant evidence is collected and reviewed, and communication is maintained with external parties as necessary.