Malpractice, Maladministration, & Plagiarism Policy

1. POLICY OVERVIEW

​

1.1 Introduction
This policy outlines the responsibilities of the London School of Business & Education Ltd. (LSBE), a company registered in England & Wales (Company Number: 12838732), regarding malpractice, maladministration, and plagiarism. The policy applies to students registered in LSBE programs, staff involved in managing courses, and anyone handling LSBE qualifications.

​

It details the procedures for identifying, reporting, and investigating malpractice, maladministration, and plagiarism, ensuring a fair and consistent approach in compliance with regulatory standards.

​

1.2 LSBE's Responsibility
LSBE ensures all staff involved in managing, assessing, and quality-assuring qualifications are aware of this policy and take proactive measures to prevent and address malpractice, maladministration, or plagiarism. Failure to report such incidents or maintain proper arrangements for their prevention may result in sanctions against LSBE.

​

1.3 Review Arrangements
This policy is reviewed annually and updated as necessary to align with feedback, regulatory requirements, or operational improvements. Updates may also reflect trends identified from previous cases.

​

2. MALPRACTICE

​

2.1 Definition
Malpractice refers to deliberate actions or practices that violate regulations, compromise assessments, or undermine the integrity of certificates. It includes misconduct and unnecessary discrimination or bias.

​

2.2 Examples of Malpractice

• Contravention of LSBE approval conditions.

• Denying access to resources, records, or staff to authorized LSBE or regulatory representatives.

• Fraudulent claims for certification.

• Plagiarism, collusion, or cheating during assessments or exams.

• Falsification of evidence or misuse of LSBE trademarks and logos.

• Intentional withholding of information that compromises quality assurance.

• Submitting false information to gain a qualification.
   

3. MALADMINISTRATION

​

3.1 Definition
Maladministration refers to actions or practices that result in non-compliance with administrative regulations. Examples include persistent errors in student records or failing to follow proper certification processes.

​

4. REPORTING MALPRACTICE OR MALADMINISTRATION

​

4.1 Reporting Process
Suspected cases must be reported immediately to the IQA Quality Manager.

​

4.2 Details to Include in Reports

• Student's name and registration details.

• Names and roles of LSBE personnel involved.

• Course title and nature of the qualification/service affected.

• Full details and evidence of suspected malpractice.
   

4.3 Investigation Process

1. Initial review by an independent party.

2. Notification to the individuals involved.

3. Independent fact-finding process.

4. Submission of findings to LSBE's investigation panel.
    

5. INVESTIGATION TIMELINES AND PROCESS
 

5.1 Timeline
LSBE aims to resolve all cases within 20 working days.

5.2 Steps Include:

• Requesting further information from relevant parties.

• Conducting interviews (via video conferencing).

• Temporary suspension of staff involved, if necessary.

• Oversight by the LSBE Coordinator to ensure due process and communication with external stakeholders.
   

6. PLAGIARISM
 

6.1 Definition
Plagiarism involves submitting work (intentionally or unintentionally) derived from others without proper acknowledgment. It breaches academic integrity and undermines the learning process.
 

6.2 Examples of Plagiarism

• Copying or paraphrasing another person's work without proper citation.

• Submitting someone else's work as your own.

• Copy-pasting from internet sources without acknowledgment.

• Self-plagiarism (reusing one's work for multiple submissions).

• Collusion (unauthorized collaboration between students).
   

6.3 Good Academic Practice

• LSBE follows the APA 6th or 7th Edition citation system, available on the Student Services Moodle page.

• LSBE uses plagiarism-detection software to identify similarities in submitted work.
   

7. PLAGIARISM PROCESS
 

7.1 Steps for Addressing Plagiarism
 

1. Report Allegation:

   • The professor reports suspected plagiarism to the academic department using the Academic Misconduct Form.

2. Academic Integrity Meeting (AIM):

   • The student is invited to discuss the case with LSBE management.

3. Decision Outcomes:

   • Academic Warning & Penalty:

     • The student receives a 0 for the work and must retake the course (with associated fees).

   • Lower Penalty:

     • Minor offences may result in an academic warning and a retake of the assignment/course.

   • No Further Action:

     • If evidence proves no plagiarism occurred, no penalties are applied.
        

8. PREVENTING AND ADDRESSING MALPRACTICE AND PLAGIARISM
 

8.1 For Staff:

• Ensure assessments follow LSBE's academic standards and procedures.

• Monitor examinations and coursework submissions carefully.

• Provide plagiarism awareness training.
   

8.2 For Students:

• Follow academic honesty guidelines and cite all sources using APA standards.

• Avoid collusion or unauthorized collaboration.

• Utilize LSBE's resources for academic integrity guidance.
   

This policy is accessible to students and staff on the dedicated Moodle pages.
 

Contact Information:

London School of Business & Education Ltd
Kemp House, 152-160 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, United Kingdom
Email: admin@londonsbe.com
 

End of Policy