Overview
The complaint concerned The Robert Gordon University (the University)'s decision to reject an appeal and to allow a student to continue his course.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:
- (a) Assessment Boards reached their decisions on the basis of incomplete information, that agreements with staff were never implemented and that work presented was not marked (partially upheld);
- (b) grounds for rejecting the appeal were contrary to stated University policy (not upheld);
- (c) the course leader had a conflict of interest when acting as Chairman of the Assessment Board (not upheld); and
- (d) the University's handling of the matter demonstrated poor information management (not upheld).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that the University emphasise to its academic staff the importance of following carefully the Academic Regulations when dealing with cases like Mr C's.
The University have accepted the Ombudsman's recommendation and will act on it accordingly. She asks that they notify her when it is implemented.