SPM Development Services Ltd
Malpractice and Maladministration Policy
October 2024
Related Policies and Procedures:
Fair Assessment Decisions Policy
Complaints Procedure
Policy Statement: SPM Development Services Ltd defines Malpractice as any deliberate activity,
neglect, default, or other practice that compromises the integrity of the assessment process and/or
the validity of certificates. This includes the failure to maintain appropriate records, systems, or the
deliberate falsification of records to claim certificates.
Scope: This policy relates to actions by any self-employed tutors and mentors, covering all internal
assessments and examinations. It applies in conjunction with procedures established by awarding
bodies.
Consequences:
• For Learners: Suspected malpractice will lead to a thorough investigation. Serious cases may
be reported to awarding bodies and could involve police authorities and prosecution.
Consequences include withdrawal of certificates, exclusion from future enrolments, and
notification of malpractice to other bodies.
• For Staff: Suspected staff malpractice will be investigated. Consequences include withdrawal
from teaching, potential disciplinary actions, and in serious cases, notification to awarding
bodies and legal authorities.
Prevention Policies:
• Clear communication of the consequences of malpractice at the start of courses and during
tutor induction sessions.
• Use of work produced by learners for formal assessment only when their capability is well
understood by the assessor.
• Engagement in regular Internal Moderation and Standardisation events to ensure
assessment integrity.
Procedures for Handling Malpractice:
• Investigations are initiated upon suspicion of malpractice, conducted by a designated senior
manager.
• Interviews and evidence collection will follow to ensure a fair evaluation of the case.
Definitions and Examples:
• Learner Malpractice: Includes plagiarism, use of unauthorized materials, collusion, and any
actions intended to gain unfair advantage.
• Staff Malpractice: Includes loss of work, inappropriate award of marks, fraudulent certificate
claims, and retention of certificates without justification.
Review and Updates: This policy is reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with
current regulations and standards.
Integration of Emerging Technologies in Assessments:
The following section specifically addresses the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, which have
become increasingly prevalent in educational environments.
Use in Assessments:
Definition of AI Misuse: AI misuse includes using AI tools to complete or assist in assessments where
such use is not acknowledged explicitly. This includes generating content with AI that is submitted as
the student’s own independent work.
Acknowledgment Requirements: Students must clearly indicate any and all use of AI tools in their
submissions. This includes citing specific instances where content generated by AI is used.
Consequences of AI Misuse: Misuse of AI tools will be treated as a serious form of malpractice.
Consequences will mirror those of traditional forms of malpractice, including potential
disqualification, loss of certification, and mandatory reporting to awarding bodies.
Preventive Measures: Educators are required to inform students about the ethical use of AI,
including its capabilities and limitations. Regular training sessions will be held to update staff and
students on the latest guidelines and detection techniques for AI-generated content.
Detection and Reporting: Use of AI detection tools will be implemented where appropriate to
ensure the authenticity of student submissions. Suspected cases of AI misuse will be investigated
thoroughly, following the same procedures as other forms of malpractice.
Reference to JCQ Guidelines: This policy is aligned with the JCQ’s guidelines on AI use in
assessments, ensuring that our practices remain compliant with current regulations. For detailed
guidance, please refer to the JCQ document AI Use in Assessments: Protecting the Integrity of
Qualifications. https://www.jcq.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AI-Use-inAssessments_Feb24_v6.pd