1 INTERNAL QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM
Part 1.1
PURPOSE AND BINDING FORCE
Article 1
Purpose and Binding Force
(1) The GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education internal regulations is the basic document of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education at the GMBS.
(2) Under the Standards for the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education, the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG Guidelines) and the requirements of the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA), the GMBS management defines the integrated Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education and Quality Management System (hereinafter referred to as the "GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education"), and the policy, quality objectives and procedures thereof, in the form of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education internal regulation, the Quality Manual and the related organisational standards (implementation documents).
(3) With this document, the GMBS management demonstrates its readiness and commitment to ensure and permanently improve all processes affecting the quality of the education and the related services it provides, and thus to meeting the requirements of students and other stakeholders, the legislative requirements, and to permanently increasing satisfaction with both the educational services it delivers, and the results of its own creative activities (scientific and research and publishing activities).
(4) In its individual chapters and related documentation, the "GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education" Internal Regulation sets out the responsibilities and procedures for developing, documenting, implementing and maintaining the processes of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education and the responsibilities and procedures for the continuous improvement of the education provided.
(5) The GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education Internal Regulation is binding on all the GMBS staff and all persons involved in the implementation of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education processes.
Part 1.2
MISSION, MAIN TASKS AND LONG-TERM PLAN OF THE GMBS
Article 2
Mission, Main Tasks and Long-Term Plan of the GMBS
(1) The main mission of GMBS is to provide, organize and secure higher education in accredited study programmes, to carry out creative scientific research, and to provide advanced education through a wide range of courses and educational activities.
(2) The GMBS focuses on education, research, production and dissemination of innovations in a wide range of applied study programmes and scientific disciplines, with an emphasis on preparing professionals that are in demand in the labour market, with the aim of contributing to building a knowledge-based and sustainably competitive economy.
(3) The GMBS cooperates with domestic and foreign higher education institutions, business, the public sector, and NGOs, and is active in international projects and mobility. The forms and modalities of cooperation and mobility are governed by contracts. In the case of local representatives or franchises of foreign providers, the quality management practices of the parent provider and the role of the local representativ or franchise shall apply.
(4) The GMBS pursues its mission in educational and research activities independently and freely. Academic rights and freedoms are exercised at the higher education institution in line with the principles of democracy, humanity and in accordance with the legal order.
(5) The concretization of the objectives and the measures to achieve them, resulting from the mission of the GMBS, is contained in the document "GMBS Long-Term Plan".
Part 1.3
PROFILE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF GMBS
Article 3
Introductory Information
(1) The GMBS operates as a private higher education institution. It provides online higher education in EQF/MQF 5-8 accredited study programmes.
(2) The GMBS consistently applies quality assurance policies in its strategic management. Their basic principle is the acceptance of primary responsibility for the quality of education provided in all GMBS components, at all levels and in all aspects.
(3) The GMBS has a clearly defined mission in its strategic documents, in particular in its Long-Term Plan, and has been consistently delivering this mission.
(4) The GMBS has clearly defined strategic objectives in its strategic documents, in particular in its Long-Term Plan, in terms of its educational activities, creative activities and other related activities that are in line with its mission.
(5) The GMBS has established and formalized quality assurance policies and has followed them consistently. To this end, it has appropriate structures and processes in place, which are linked into a coherent Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education (hereinafter referred to as the "Internal System") that encompasses the whole institution. The GMBS has defined the authority, scope and responsibility of the various structures, senior staff, other staff and other stakeholders to assure the quality of its higher education and related activities.
Article 4
Understanding the Environment of GMBS Operation
(1) The GMBS identifies the internal and external environmental factors that are relevant to its business and strategic direction and that affect its ability to achieve the results expected of its Internal System.
(2) The GMBS monitors and reviews information on these internal and external factors.
Article 5
Understanding Stakeholder Needs & Expectations
(1) The GMBS determines:
a) Stakeholders that are relevant to the Internal System;
b) Stakeholders' requirements.
Article 6
Determination of the Subject Matter and Scope of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education
(1) The subject matter and scope of the Internal System is education and related scientific and research and publishing activities.
(2) In defining the subject matter and scope of the Internal System, GMBS considers:
a) External and internal environmental factors;
b) Requirements of relevant stakeholders;
c) The services it provides.
Part 1.4
POLICIES OF THE INTERNAL QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Article 7
Policies of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education
(1) The subject matter and scope of the Internal System is documented. Documentation includes quality assurance policies ? the Internal Regulation and other documentation and records.
(2) The strategic objectives of the GMBS are set out in a long-term development plan.
(3) The GMBS has established and implements policies for quality assurance as part of the strategic management of the school. The GMBS has formalised and introduced the quality assurance policies in the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education (hereinafter referred to as the "Internal System") Internal Regulation, which regulates, or defines by specific reference to the internal regulation of the GMBS, in particular:
a) Policy and quality objectives;
b) Rules for the creation, modification, approval and cancellation of study programmes at theGMBS;
c) The status, scope, composition, responsibilities and powers, activities carried out, method of deliberation and decision-making of the GMBS Accreditation Council;
d) The status, scope, composition, responsibilities and powers, activities carried out, method of deliberation of the GMBS Curriculum Council;
e) Monitoring and periodic evaluation of study programmes;
f) Code of Ethics in the conditions of GMBS;
g) Guidelines in relation to final theses under the conditions of the GMBS;
h) A system for evaluating the creative activity of staff in relation to the quality assurance of education at GMBS;
i) A system of support for students and applicants with specific needs at the GMBS;
j) Scheduling of the workload of lecturers in the study programmes at the GMBS;
k) The admission procedure principles at the GMBS.
In addition, the specific internal regulation and documents that support the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education include:
a) Quality Manual;
b) Directive on GMBS collaboration with external practice partners;
c) A directive on evaluating the creative activities of staff in relation to the quality assurance of education at the GMBS;
d) Process Map;
e) The GMBS organisational structure;
f) Process Cards (PC):
PC 01 Education
PC 02 Scientific Research Activities
PC 03 Editorial and Publishing Activities
PC 12 Material and Technical Provision of Education
PC 13 Quality of Staff
PC 14 Management of Documents and Records
PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System
g) Risk Analysis;
h) External and internal factors, stakeholders and their requirements;
i) Documentation for internal audits;
j) Other documentation and records.
PART 1.5
PROCESSES AND ORGANISATION OF THE INTERNAL QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Article 8
Processes and Organisation of the Internal Quality Assurance System of Higher Education
(1) The GMBS and its components have an efficient Internal System, clearly defined links and information transfer between its different components. The GMBS regularly evaluates the effectiveness of its Internal System.
(2) The GMBS Internal System is process-driven. The GMBS has established processes for a coherent Internal System for the entire institution. Processes were identified and managed into three categories due to their relationship to the GMBS mission and services provided (main, managerial, ancillary).
(3) The interactions between the processes influencing the quality of service delivery and improving the performance of the Internal System have been identified and examined. The GMBS has defined the authority, scope and responsibility of the various structures, senior staff, other staff and other stakeholders for quality assurance in its higher education and related activities. Inputs and outputs have been defined with responsibilities for their timely delivery. The processes, their inputs, outputs and responsibilities are described in this Internal Regulation, by Process Cards and the Process Map (Figure 1, GMBS Process Map).
(4) The GMBS internal quality assurance system of higher education is documented in the "GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System of Higher Education" Internal Regulation, in the Quality Manual, Process Cards and other related documentation. A uniform documentation management procedure is in place. The GMBS has procedures in place to manage records on the status of the Internal System, its compliance with requirements and continuous improvement procedures.
(5) The GMBS management sets the measurable and time-bound Quality Objectives in line with the GMBS Quality Policy, and evaluates their achievement. In the GMBS, the responsibilities and authorities for the implementation and auditing of the defined processes are clearly defined and communicated via the process owners (see Quality Manual for more details).
(6) In line with the GMBS Long-Term Plan, procedures have been established and documented to ensure the timely and sufficient provision of the resources needed for continuous improvement of the Internal System and to increase customer satisfaction (see Quality Manual for more details). Management has established performance monitoring criteria for all processes with a clear definition of responsibilities in Process Cards. Procedures for permanent monitoring and measurement of process performance and their continuous improvement have been implemented and documented.
(7) The content and boundaries of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education are shown graphically in Figure 1, GMBS Process Map (Figure 1) and GMBS Organisational Structure (in the Quality Manual).
PART 1.6
Documents and Records
Article 9
Documents and Records
(1) The GMBS maintains the documented procedures to ensure effective process implementation and management, and records to provide evidence that processes were carried out as planned.
(2) The GMBS documentation is a set of all quality policies, internal documents (e.g. directives, regulations, manuals, guidelines, orders and records) and external documents (e.g. laws, decrees, regulations) in electronic form.
(3) The detailed procedures of the Documentation and Records Management process are set out in the Quality Manual and the PC 14 Documentation and Records Management Process Card.
Part 1.7
Management Commitment
Article 10
Management Commitment
(1) The GMBS management is committed to supporting the development of activities towards the implementation of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education and its continuous improvement. Accordingly, the GMBS management:
a) Ensures that the GMBS undergoes an annual audit of the Internal System;
b) Aligned the Internal System with the MFHEA Standards for Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education (VS Standards), in accordance with the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG Directives), and defined the integrated Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education and the Quality Management System (hereinafter referred to as the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education);
c) Has established and will regularly review the implementation and appropriateness of the GMBS Quality Policy;
d) Has set and will regularly review quality objectives;
e) Defines the functions, responsibilities and powers of staff and other educational stakeholders involved in quality assurance;
f) Will promote a risk-based process approach and management;
g) Will regularly and consistently inform the staff about the importance of perfect compliance with customer and legislative requirements;
h) Will periodically carry out a review of the effectiveness and suitability of the Internal System;
i) Will plan/secure the resources needed for the development and improvement of the Internal System and evaluate the effectiveness of their spending;
j) Will promote improvement;
k) Will ensure that customer requirements and applicable legislative and other mandatory requirements are identified, understood and continuously being met;
l) Will focus on increasing customer satisfaction.
(2) The GMBS management shall ensure that the GMBS undergoes periodic external quality assurance reviews to assure that the GMBS Internal System is developed and implemented in accordance with the Internal System standards.
1.8
QUALITY POLICY
Article 11
Quality Policy
(1) The GMBS management has adopted a quality policy and established the basic principles for its successful implementation. The quality policy is based on the mission and development concept of the GMBS. The current GMBS Quality Policy is set out in the Quality Manual.
(2) The review of the implementation and adequacy of the GMBS Quality Policy is undertaken as part of the management review processes of the internal quality assurance system for higher education.
(3) The GMBS management shall ensure that the Quality Policy is communicated to staff and made available to relevant stakeholders. Feedback on employees' understanding and identification with the quality policy is communicated in meetings of the
Academic Community and GMBS Departmental Councils, which are attended by all GMBS staff.
PART 1.9
QUALITY OBJECTIVES
Article 12
Quality objectives
(1) The GMBS management has set transparent, publicly available and realistic Internal System objectives in line with the school's mission and, through the Internal System tools and feedback tools (from participants in GMBS life both inside and outside), ensures that they are monitored and evaluated to enable the sustainable development of the GMBS and the study programmes.
(2) The GMBS management takes into account the applicable requirements of the relevant stakeholders and determines the rules and tools for the implementation of the Standards for the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education, with the Study Programme Standards leading to the improvement of services, which are systematically monitored, communicated and updated, in the form of quality objectives.
(3) The quality objectives are adopted generally for a period of one year in accordance with the Quality Policy, the results of fulfilment of the previous period's targets and Internal System reviews. The GMBS management plans what will be done, what resources will be needed, who will be responsible, when the objectives are to be met, and how the results will be evaluated. The evaluation of the fulfilment of objectives is carried out through the process of regular review of the Internal System by the management.
Part 1.10
THE STRUCTURES OF THE INTERNAL QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Article 13
Structures of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education
(1) The GMBS has defined the authority, scope and responsibility of the various structures, senior staff, other staff and other stakeholders for quality assurance of its higher education and related activities.
(2) The interrelationships of the GMBS organisational units and their staffing are graphically illustrated in the GMBS Organisational Structure (Annex 1 to the Quality Manual). The specific responsibilities and authorities for the implementation of the processes are described in the GMBS Quality Manual and related Process Cards.
(3) For the purposes of developing, monitoring and improving the Internal System, coherent Internal System structures, separate professional units and positions have been established: The GMBS Quality Board, Leadership, GMBS Accreditation Council, GMBS Scientific Council, GMBS Academic Senate, GMBS Curriculum Council, GMBS Rector's College, GMBS Departmental meetings, GMBS Ethics Committee, GMBS Disciplinary Board, Rectorate, Study Department, Student Counselling and LMS/VLE support, Coordinator for Students with Specific Needs, Office for Economic and Personnel Activities, and Internal Auditor.
(4) GMBS Quality Board: The GMBS Quality Board is an advisory body to the Rector of the GMBS in the area of quality assurance of the higher education provided in accordance with the requirements and Standards for the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education. The Quality Board prepares, audits, evaluates and coordinates the development, implementation and improvement of the Internal System in accordance with the above standards at the GMBS and its individual workplaces. The GMBS Quality Board has a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, and members, with a position created for a student, an employers' representative, and a Secretary. Further details are set out in the Statutes of the Quality Board.
(5) Leadership: Responsibility for the Internal System rests with the senior management, represented by the GMBS Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development. He/she is responsible for identifying, establishing and maintaining and improving the Internal System processes, developing and implementing methods and awareness to achieve and improve the system, planning and securing resources to maintain and improve the level of each process. It also defines procedures and criteria in education, motivating staff and communicating with third parties on matters of system improvement.
(6) GMBS Accreditation Council: The Accreditation Council is the highest decision-making body in the creation, approval, implementation and modification of each study programme. The Accreditation Council shall consist of a Chairman, a first and second Vice-Chairman and members of the Accreditation Council. The rules of operation of the Accreditation Council are set by this Internal Regulation document from the GMBS for the manner and conduct of proceedings of the Accreditation Council and its working groups.
(7) GMBS Scientific Council: The GMBS Scientific Council usually meets twice a year. The procedures and responsibilities related to the deliberations of the Scientific Council are laid down in the Rules of Procedure of the GMBS Scientific Council. The basic competences of the Scientific Council are laid down in the GMBS Statutes.
(8) GMBS Academic Senate: The GMBS AS shall meet in regular sessions at the times specified in the Schedule of Meetings at least once per semester. An extraordinary meeting of the GMBS AS shall be convened by the Chairman of the GMBS AS within fourteen (14) days in the following cases:
a) If requested in writing by the Rector or, on his/her behalf, by the Vice-Rector or the Managing director;
b) If requested in writing by at least 1/3 of the members of the GMBS AS;
c) If requested in writing by at least 1/3 of the academic community of the GMBS.
The approval of an absolute majority of the members of the Academic Senate present is required for the adoption of a valid resolution of the Academic Senate. The Academic Senate decides by public vote. In the event of a tied vote, the Academic Senate Chairman shall have a casting vote. Minutes of the meetings of the Academic Senate shall be drawn up and signed by the Chairman of the Academic Senate.
The responsibilities of the Academic Senate are set out in the GMBS Statutes.
Procedures and responsibilities related to the deliberations of the Academic Senate are set out in the GMBS Academic Senate Rules of Procedure. The competencies of the Academic Senate are defined in the GMBS Statutes.
(9) GMBS Curriculum Council: The main task of the GMBS Curriculum Council is to develop proposals for the accreditation of a new study programme, any proposal for the modification of a study programme, or a proposal for the suspension or cancellation of a study programme.
The status, scope, composition, activities, responsibilities and method of deliberation of the GMBS Curriculum Council shall be governed by the provisions of this Internal Regulation document.
(10) The Rector's Collegium: The Rector's College is a permanent advisory body to the Rector. As a component within the College meeting, the GMBS ensures that, as part of raising awareness, members are informed of changes to the Internal System and measures to improve the Internal System. At least once a year, the content of the College is to review the Internal System by management.
(11) Departmental Meeting: The head of the department usually convenes a Departmental Meeting twice a year. A regular agenda item in the meeting is the discussion of the results of the monitoring and evaluation of the quality of education to the following extent: results of student/graduate /employer feedback; results of teaching observation activities; results of science and research; evaluation of the quality of staff; evaluation of study programmes; results of internal audits; evaluation of corrective and preventive actions; fulfilment of quality objectives, and the proposal of departmental objectives for the next period.
(12) GMBS Ethics Committee: The GMBS Code of Ethics is an expression of the moral values applied across the GMBS environment. It establishes ethical principles and standards of conduct for the GMBS staff and students, taking into account the specifics of their position. The Code of Ethics specifically regulates the ethical principles applied in educational and scientific and research activities.
Violations of the GMBS Code of Ethics are heard upon a written complaint filed with the GMBS Ethics Committee.
The GMBS Ethics Committee has three permanent members, who are the Director of the GMBS, the Rector of GMBS and the Vice Rector for Education of GMBS. The Rector is the Chairman of the GMBS Ethics Committee.
(14) GMBS Disciplinary Board: The GMBS Disciplinary Board (hereinafter referred to as the "Disciplinary Board") is the body of academic self-government that considers the alleged disciplinary offences of GMBS students. The status, scope and proceedings of the Disciplinary Board are governed by the GMBS Disciplinary Regulations for Students. The Disciplinary Regulations also regulate the procedure for imposing disciplinary measures, and the procedure for reviewing the decisions of the Rector imposing the disciplinary measures. The Disciplinary Board has four members, including the Chairman, two of whom are from the student part of the GMBS academic community, and two from the staff part of the GMBS academic community. The Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education is the Chairman of the Disciplinary Board.
(15) Rectorate, Study Department: The Rectorate and the GMBS Study Department carry out activities related to study administration and counselling for students and lecturers.
(16) Advice for students: Students have easy access to counselling and technical services that meet their diverse needs and are a prerequisite for their progress in their studies and for their personal and career development. Counselling is provided by the GMBS Vice-Rectors and the GMBS Study Department.
(17) Coordinator for Students with Specific Needs: At the GMBS, care is provided for applicants for study and students with specific needs through the Coordinator for Students with Specific Needs (hereafter referred to as the "Coordinator"). The Coordinator for Students with Specific Needs is a GMBS staff member with adequate training. The Coordinator is subordinate to the Rector or the Vice-Rector authorised by the Rector.
(18) Department for Economic and Personnel Activities: They provide for economic and personnel activities across the GMBS.
(19) Internal Auditor: Qualified Internal Auditors are appointed to perform an internal audit of the Internal System. The role of the Internal Auditor is to prepare, conduct and evaluate the internal audit processes in accordance with the GMBS Internal Audit Plan. The auditors ascertain compliance with the requirements of the Internal System, conformity of documentation with the processes implemented, evaluation of the effectiveness of the quality system and detection of areas of potential improvement in the Internal System.
PART 1.11
GMBS QUALITY BOARD
Article 14
Introductory Provision on the GMBS Quality Board
(1) The GMBS Quality Board is an advisory body to the Rector of the GMBS in the field of quality assurance of the higher education provided in accordance with the Standards for the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education, the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG Guidelines), and established by a decision of the Rector of the GMBS.
Article 15
Basic Tasks and Activities of the GMBS Quality Board
(1) The GMBS Quality Board prepares, monitors, evaluates and coordinates the development, implementation and use of the internal quality assurance system for higher education.
(2) The GMBS Quality Board further:
a) Coordinates the establishment, use, functionality and implementation of the internal quality assurance system for higher education (hereinafter referred to as the "Internal System") at the GMBS;
b) Proposes to the GMBS Rector corrective and preventive measures related to building, evaluating and updating the Internal System and makes suggestions for improvement with the aim of strengthening the quality and performance of the managed systems;
c) Audits the cost-effectiveness of all activities falling within the scope of GMBS quality assurance and the Internal System.
(3) The activities of the GMBS Quality Board is governed by the rules of operation, powers and responsibilities of the Quality Board. The building of the Internal System and its implementation in the management practice at all levels of the GMBS management in an integrally understood system is carried out by the trained and professionally competent internal staff of the GMBS, with the help of recognized consultants for building the Internal Systems, as well as with the use of regular systemic assessment of the level and compliance of the successive steps leading towards the set goal. These guided and coordinated activities of the GMBS Quality Board result in coordination of the Internal System in accordance with the Standards for Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education.
(4) The activities of the GMBS Quality Board are coordinated by the Chairman of the Board, who is the Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development responsible for the time and material schedule for the implementation of the Internal System at the GMBS. The Vice-Rector prepares and provides information on quality assurance at the GMBS to the GMBS advisory, self-governing and other bodies as required by the GMBS Rector.
Article 16
Composition of the GMBS Quality Board
(1) Members of the Quality Board are appointed and dismissed by the GMBS Rector.
(2) The Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development is the Chairman of the GMBS Quality Board. The GMBS Quality Board has a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, members, with a position created for a student, an employers' representative, and a Secretary.
Article 17
GMBS Quality Board Meeting
(1) Meetings of the GMBS Quality Board shall be convened by the Chairman as required.
(2) The Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development (hereinafter also referred to as the "Chairman of the Quality Board") has the right to invite representatives of individual organizational units to the meetings of the Quality Board, in the case of discussion of issues falling within their competence.
(3) The Quality Board may set up working groups, in particular for the implementation of the quality management system.
(4) Members of the GMBS Quality Board are obliged to participate in the meetings of the GMBS Quality Board and to fulfil the tasks adopted by it.
Article 18
Rules Applicable to the GMBS Quality Board
(1) The status and activities of the GMBS Quality Board shall be governed by this Internal Regulation document and other internal regulations of the GMBS, as appropriate.
Article 19
Binding Force of Decisions
(1) Decisions taken in the GMBS Quality Board in the field of quality assurance and Internal System management are binding on all GMBS employees.
PART 1.12
RISK ANALYSIS AND RISK TREATMENT
Article 20
Risk Analysis and Risk Treatment
(1) During quality management system planning, the GMBS considers the external and internal environmental factors, stakeholder requirements and expectations, and identifies risks and opportunities to be addressed.
(2) Risk analysis is performed to ensure that the Internal System achieves the expected results, supports the desired outcomes, avoids or reduces unintended consequences, and achieves improvements.
(3) The GMBS plans measures to treat risks and opportunities and how to implement appropriate measures into the Internal System processes and evaluates the effectiveness of these measures.
PART 1.13
CHANGE PLANNING
Article 21
Change Planning
(1) When the GMBS identifies the need for changes to the Internal System, the changes must be implemented in a planned manner.
(2) When making changes, it is necessary to consider:
a) The purpose of the changes and their potential consequences;
b) The integrity of the Internal System;
c) Availability of resources;
d) Division or redistribution of responsibilities and powers.
PART 1.14
RESOURCES
Article 22
Introductory Information
(1) The GMBS has identified and secured the resources necessary to establish, implement, maintain and continuously improve the Internal System.
(2) The GMBS has sufficient financial resources allocated for the comprehensive provision of study programmes and the related creative, support and other activities consistent with its mission.
(3) The spatial, material, technical, infrastructure-related and institutional provision of educational, creative and other related activities is appropriate to the desired learning outcomes, the number of students and their specific needs.
(4) The GMBS has functional contractual partnerships with the specialized teaching facilities and other institutions that are required to deliver the learning outcomes.
(5) Access to information resources, library collections and services is easy and corresponds to the learning outcomes, the focus of creative activities and the number of students.
(6) Students have ready access to counselling and other support services and administrative resources that meet their diverse needs and which are a prerequisite for their progress in their studies and for their personal and career development.
(7) The GMBS has qualified support staff providing the tutoring, technical, counselling, administrative and other support services and related activities for students, with the capacity to meet the number of students and their diverse needs.
(8) The use of all resources is efficient and effective.
(9) Resources are accessible to students and students are informed of their accessibility.
Article 23
Human Resources
(1) The GMBS has developed a system (rules and requirements) for quality assurance for teaching staff, including their qualification progression, and for assessing the level of competence of all new lecturers in accordance with CP 13, Staff Quality.
(2) The lecturer quality assurance system includes procedures from recruitment, through adaptation, development and training, to the evaluation of the quality of lecturers, scientists and researchers.
(3) The GMBS workplaces define the basic qualification requirements in the form of job descriptions in order to ensure the development of the relevant field of science, research and the study programmes provided.
(4) The newly recruited lecturer enters the adaptation process. The adaptation programme is developed and managed by the lecturer's immediate supervisor or designated tutor. The aim of the adaptation process is to ensure the quality of the teaching process during the change of its staffing and the continuous development of the study programmes. Every new teaching staff member participates in the adaptation process after the end of the recruitment procedure. The course of adaptation, its results and the subsequent evaluation of the lecturer's competence are evaluated by the tutor in the Teacher Adaptation Programme (CP 13/02-01).
(5) The GMBS provides opportunities for its teaching staff to further develop and improve their teaching skills through the Teaching Competency Course for higher education lecturers.
(6) The GMBS has developed a mechanism for applying the results of lecturer evaluations by students and other teaching staff through a student feedback tool (LMS Study Programme Quality Survey), the Class Visit tool and in the New Teacher Adaptation Programme. The results are part of the regular evaluation of teaching staff.
(7) A procedure for planning and evaluating the activities of teaching staff is carried out on an annual basis in CP 13/01-01 Employee Activity Plan in the field: I. Teaching activities
(IA. Teaching, IB. Final Theses, IC. Other pedagogical activity), II. Research activities ? plan (IIA. Publication activity, IIB. Participation in conferences and symposia, IIC. Reviews and opinions of opponents different from the opposing of theses, IID. Projects), III. Other creative activity, IV. Development of lecturers' teaching competences ? planned and implemented activities; V. Student feedback on pedagogical provision of courses (according to the LMS survey); VI. Lecturer feedback (observation) on the pedagogical provision of the subject (according to the results of the teaching-observation activity).
(8) The Lecturer Quality Assurance System is further described in the Quality Manual, the PC 13 Staff Quality Process Card, and other parts of this Internal Regulation document.
Article 24
Infrastructure
(1) The GMBS regularly assesses the provision of the material, technical and information resources to support student learning in its study programmes.
(2) The GMBS encourages collaboration with extracurricular third parties in the provision of physical and human resources to support student learning appropriately according to the requirements of the study programmes.
(3) The sub-processes, procedures and responsibilities of the material, technical and information provision (infrastructure) of education and research are defined in Process Card PC 12 Material and Technical Provision of Education.
(4) Through its study programme monitoring and evaluation system, the GMBS regularly assesses the quality of its education infrastructure and identifies needs for its development.
Article 25
Environment for the Implementation of Processes
(1) The GMBS provides, secures and maintains the designated environment necessary to implement processes and achieve service compliance with requirements.
(2) It is achieved through a combination of human and physical factors, which are: social factors (non-discriminatory, peaceful and non-confrontational environment), psychological factors (peaceful environment, aesthetically harmonizing environment), physical factors (adequate hygiene, temperature, lighting, noise and humidity).
Article 26
GMBS Knowledge
(1) The GMBS has identified the knowledge required to implement the processes necessary to ensure that its services meet the requirements of stakeholders. This knowledge is maintained and accessible. In doing so, it draws on: internal sources (school Internal Regulation, intellectual property, staff knowledge, lessons learned from failures and successful projects, undocumented knowledge gained, results of process and service improvement) and external sources (the Higher Education Act, standards issued by the MFHEA, norms, scientific institutions, domestic and foreign universities and higher education institutions, information obtained from scientific and research activities and through benchmarking).
(2) Information is shared to the extent necessary, which is ensured by the exchange of information and experience (meetings; meetings of the Academic Council, Quality Board, Academic Senate, Scientific Council and Rector's College; departmental meetings, etc.).
PART 1.15
AWARENESS
Article 27
Awareness
(1) The GMBS ensures that the staff it manages are aware of the quality policy, the relevant quality objectives, their contribution to the effectiveness of the Internal System, including the benefits of improving their performance, and the consequences of failure to comply with the requirements of the quality management system.
(2) Awareness is ensured by internal communication (meetings; meetings of the academic community, Academic Senate, Scientific Council, Rector's College; meetings of the departments) and by publishing information.
PART 1.16
COMMUNICATION
Article 28
Communication
(1) In accordance with the requirements for effective process management, the GMBS management has established stable and controlled communication channels and processes for the exchange of information, knowledge and joint decision-making (e.g. meetings of the academic community, Academic Senate, Scientific Council, Quality Board, Rector's College; departmental meetings, etc.).
PART 1.17
MANAGEMENT OF DOCUMENTS AND RECORDS
Article 29
Management of Documents and Records
(1) The information documented by GMBS is a set of all internal documents (e.g., directives, regulations, manuals, methodical guidelines, orders and records) and external documents (e.g., laws, standards issued by the MFHEA, decrees, regulations) in paper or electronic form in the following structure.
(2) The detailed process of the management of documentation, and the internal and external organisational standards of the GMBS is set out in Process Card 14 Documentation and Records Management. The Process Card details the responsibilities and procedures of school staff in creating, commenting on, approving, distributing, and communicating documentation to the GMBS staff.
(3) The information documented by the GMBS is managed and distributed electronically through an employee accessible portal.
(4) The management of external documentation, specifically legislative standards, is the responsibility of the respective process owner. The relationship of the standard to the process is defined directly in the Process Map. The process owner is responsible for implementing changes to the process in accordance with applicable legislation to ensure the continued compliance of the internal GMBS system with applicable legislation.
(5) Records management, i.e., the management of post-validity documents and records of GMBS activities and the compliance of these activities with the documented procedures in force at the time of their creation includes the recording, preservation, protection, and disposal of records. The detailed procedure for records management is laid down in Internal Regulation on the use of the system for the management of the Registry.
(6) The GMBS maintains documented procedures to ensure effective process implementation and management, and records to provide evidence that processes were carried out as planned.
PART 1.18
IMPLEMENTATION OF SERVICES
Article 30
Planning and Management of Service Delivery
(1) In the field of quality assurance in higher education, the GMBS provides the following service implementation processes:
a) The learning process;
b) The process of science and research;
c) The process of editorial and publishing activities.
(2) The GMBS understands creative activity as a research activity, development activity, artistic activity and other creative activity of GMBS that is relevant to the fulfilment of of the GMBS mission, especially in relation to its objectives and outcomes in education.
Article 31
Education Process
(1) The GMBS has developed an effective system for the creation, modification, approval, implementation, cancellation, monitoring and periodic evaluation of the study programmes.
(2) The GMBS has developed formal procedures and a timetable for the periodic evaluation (internal and external) of its study programmes in terms of objectives and expected learning outcomes.
(3) The GMBS allows for the participation of students, employer representatives and other relevant
organisations in the creation, modification, approval, implementation, cancellation, monitoring and evaluation of the study programmes.
(4) The sub-processes of the Education process are: the Development of Study Programmes, Academic Year Management, Student Admission, the Teaching Process, Final Theses and Defences, Study Programme Evaluation.
(5) Admissions procedure rules are developed.
(6) The GMBS has developed transparent and publicly available criteria for student assessment and their support and policies that support the achievement of educational goals and expected learning outcomes.
(7) The GMBS has published and adheres to the rules and conditions for advancement to higher levels of study and for the award of academic degrees through the GMBS Study Regulations.
(8) The GMBS has developed and implemented an effective, clear and consistent policy for the selection of those responsible for the study programme delivery, lecturers of subjects of study, approval of final thesis supervisors, and the authorities and responsibilities of members of the examination and assessment boards.
(9) The detailed procedures in the process and the course of its sub-processes are set out in other parts of this Internal Regulation document, the Quality Manual and the PC 01 Education Process Card.
Article 32
Creative Activity
(1) Lecturers providing the subjects across the study programme shall demonstrate the results of creative activity in the relevant discipline(s) of study in which the study programme is carried out at the required level, depending on its level.
(2) The GMBS demonstrates creative activity through the most significant outputs of creative activity of lecturers providing the profile subjects in the study programme.
(3) The GMBS understands creative activity as research activity, development activity, artistic activity and other creative activity at the GMBS that is relevant to the fulfilment of the GMBS mission, especially in relation to its objectives and outcomes for education.
(4) Detailed procedures of the process are set out in other parts of this Internal Regulation document, the Quality Manual, the Process Card PC 02 Scientific Research Activity, the Process Card PC 03 Editorial and Publishing Activities, and the related Directive Principles of Editorial Activities of the GMBS.
Article 33
Process of Science and Research
(1) The GMBS management defines the objectives in the field of scientific and research activities, and plans and manages the process of scientific and research activities through the professional departments.
(2) The GMBS management plans and monitors the transfer of its own original outputs of scientific and research activities into the educational process and study programmes. The above relationship is supported by the results of the GMBS educational, research, and development activities.
(3) In the field of science and research, responsibilities and competences for planning, preparation, support and implementation of the scientific and research projects in basic and applied research at the national and international levels in the research areas of accredited study programmes have been established.
(4) The area of science and research is managed, planned, monitored and evaluated by the Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education in cooperation with the heads of departments.
(5) The Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education elaborates the Concept of Development of Science and Research at the GMBS. The Concept is approved by the GMBS Scientific Council. The Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education plans and delivers the science support tools in collaboration with the GMBS management. For the promotion of science and research, the Vice-Rector manages the database of scientific and research projects and plans. It also plans and organises the GMBS professional and scientific events and develops national and international GMBS cooperation in the field of science and research.
(6) Heads of departments manage the involvement of department members in scientific and research activities according to the above research areas so as to ensure sufficient scientific and research performance in every workplace.
(7) Upon the individual evaluation of the employees, the heads of departments, in cooperation with the Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education prepare an Evaluation of Scientific Research Activities according to the research areas of the workplace (PC 02_7-0, Form D, Evaluation of Scientific Research Activities) as a basis for the evaluation of the Study Programmes.
(8) The Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education evaluates performance in a given area of science and research according to the Outputs attribute, and the Awards attribute in a given area of research through indicators.
(9) The quality of GMBS research projects is demonstrated by the quality of outputs and feedback. The principal investigator of the scientific and research project coordinates the processing of outputs to maximise the quality of the outputs.
(10) Detailed process procedures are set out in other parts of this Internal Regulation document, the Quality Manual and the PC 02 Scientific and Research Activity Process Card.
Article 34
Process of Editorial and Publishing Activities
(1) The editorial activities of the GMBS are provided by the GMBS Rectorate.
(2) Coordination of the GMBS editorial activities is carried out by the GMBS Editorial Board through the GMBS Editorial Plan. The Editorial Board is responsible for the professional quality of book publications, approves reviewers and appoints scientific/professional editors for publications in the following defined categories-editorial series: scientific monographs, university textbooks, professional book publications (professional monographs), scripts, periodicals, and special-purpose publications.
(3) The request for inclusion of a title in the Editorial Plan for the following calendar year is submitted by the author (head of the author team) through the head of the department. In the case of titles published according to the Editorial Plan, the GMBS guarantees the payment of the costs of printing the work, the review of the draft and a pre-agreed royalty.
(4) The GMBS manages the professional quality of the publications published according to the Editorial Plan. Each published work must be peer-reviewed by at least two independent reviewers, at least one of whom must be from outside GMBS. Eminent personalities in the relevant discipline with a scientific and pedagogical rank usually higher or equal to that of the author(s) are proposed as reviewers. One reviewer of a professional book publication can be an imminent expert from practice.
(5) The GMBS as a publisher of publications, in cooperation with the printing contractor, ensures the assignment of ISBN or ISSN numbers according to special regulations.
(6) The rules of the editorial and publishing activities are laid down in the Process Card PC 03 Editorial and Publishing Activities and the related Directive, Principles of Editorial Activities of GMBS.
PART 1.19
SERVICE REQUIREMENTS
Article 35
Communication with the Customer
(1) The GMBS regularly publishes up-to-date information on the study programmes offered and learning outcomes on its website.
(2) In relation to information disclosure, the GMBS Internal System policies, structures and processes ensure that:
a) Clear, accurate, adequate and up-to-date information is published about its study programmes, as well as other related activities, in accordance with the mission of the GMBS that is relevant to prospective students, students, staff, employers and other external stakeholders and the general public;
b) Up-to-date information on the implementation and functioning of the Internal System is published;
c) The information on study programmes is published in all the languages of implementation;
d) The information published is easily accessible, including for people with disabilities.
Article 36
Determination of Customer Requirements for Services
(1) In determining the requirements for the services offered to customers, the GMBS shall be based on:
a) Requirements for services arising from the applicable legislative and other mandatory requirements and requirements identified from feedback tools (from students, school leavers, their employers, other schools);
b) Capabilities it is able to provide within the declared services.
Article 37
Review of Service Requirements
(1) The GMBS management has established a formal and effective system for study programme evaluation, on an annual basis; it sets a timetable for evaluation, and establishes objectives for further improvement in the quality of the study programmes, using internal and external sources of evaluation. The system of quality assessment of study programmes is planned and managed by the Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development.
(2) The evaluation of the study programme consists of:
a) Subject evaluations based on learning outcomes, teaching-observation activities and student feedback;
b) Employer feedback assessments;
c) Graduate success rate evaluations and feedback;
d) Evaluations of scientific and research activities in the relevant scientific field of the workplace.
(3) In planning and managing the implementation of the service, the GMBS takes into account measures to treat risks and opportunities, manages the planned changes, reviews the effects of accidental changes and takes measures to mitigate their negative consequences, and ensures the management of outsourced processes. In communicating with a customer, the GMBS uses the collection and analysis of information, which is implemented through interlinked assessment tools.
(4) Detailed procedures for the monitoring and periodic evaluation of the study programmes are set out in other parts of this Internal Regulation, the Quality Manual and the Process Card PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.
Article 38 – Personal Data Protection and GDPR Compliance
(1) GMBS is fully committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of its students, employees, and all other stakeholders. The institution processes personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR) and relevant national legislation.
(2) Personal data collected and processed by GMBS includes, but is not limited to: identification data, contact details, academic records, digital activity logs, and other information necessary for educational, administrative, and support services.
(3) GMBS ensures that all data processing activities are carried out based on a valid legal ground, such as:
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Consent of the data subject;
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Necessity for the performance of a contract (e.g. enrolment);
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Legal obligation;
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Legitimate interest of the institution;
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Public interest in the field of education and scientific research.
(4) Data subjects (students, employees, applicants, partners) have the following rights under GDPR:
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Right of access to their personal data;
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Right to rectification or erasure;
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Right to restrict or object to processing;
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Right to data portability;
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Right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority.
(5) GMBS has appointed a Data Protection Officer (DPO) who is responsible for monitoring compliance, conducting internal audits, providing staff training, and serving as the contact point for data subjects and supervisory authorities.
(6) Technical and organisational measures have been implemented to ensure:
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Confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data;
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Access control and secure authentication;
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Encryption and secure storage of sensitive data;
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Regular data backups and disaster recovery procedures.
(7) All staff members are trained in data protection and are obliged to handle personal information with discretion and confidentiality. Any breach of data protection rules is subject to disciplinary action as per the GMBS Code of Ethics and Working Regulations.
(8) A Privacy Notice describing the purposes, scope, and legal basis of data processing is made available to all data subjects via the GMBS website.
PART 1.20
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Article 38
Introductory Information
(1) The GMBS has effective systems in place to collect, analyse and use the information needed to effectively deliver its study programmes.
(2) The GMBS has created an information system to collect data on the quality, success and profile of students, student performance and results, and graduates' employment in the labour market.
(3) In relation to the collection and processing of information, the GMBS Internal System policies, structures and processes ensure that:
a) Information is systematically collected, processed, analysed and evaluated, used in the effective strategic, tactical and operational management of the implementation and development of the GMBS study programmes, creative activities and other related activities;
b) The GMBS has set up and systematically monitors a set of indicators through which it evaluates, in particular, the characteristics of the profile of applicants and student population; success rates and other characteristics in the admission procedure; success rates and reasons for failure in the study programmes; rates of proper completion of study programmes; the degree of satisfaction of students with the delivery of study programmes; the availability of resources needed for study; the degree of employability of the graduates of its study programmes; the degree of satisfaction of employers and other external stakeholders with the quality of graduates of study programmes; the characteristics of the profile of lecturers and other staff; the results of creative activities and the extent to which they are linked to education, and the degree of internationalisation of the activities of the GMBS;
c) All stakeholders are involved in the collection and processing of information.
(4) In the context of the ongoing monitoring, periodic evaluation and periodic approval of the study programmes, the policies, structures and processes of the GMBS Internal System ensure that:
a) Study programmes are being continuously monitored, periodically evaluated and periodically approved, while employers, students and other stakeholders are involved in the Internal System;
b) The GMBS makes sure that the implementation of the study programs, student evaluation and achieved educational results are in accordance with the latest knowledge, technological possibilities, societal needs, the needs of students and the expectations of employers and other external stakeholders, and the GMBS creates a supportive and effective learning environment for students;
c) The GMBS shall ensure that it has adequate spatial, personnel, material, technical, infrastructure-related, information and financial resources to carry out its study programmes and other related activities;
d) At least once a year, students have the opportunity to comment on the quality of the GMBS study programmes, .s, support services and environment. Feedback is provided to students on the results of the evaluations and the actions taken;
e) Modifications to the study programmes, which are the result of their continuous monitoring and periodic evaluation, are proposed with the participation of students, employers and other stakeholders, and changes are approved by the MFHEA.
Article 39
Monitoring and Measuring
(1) The system for collecting, analysing and evaluating information on the study programmes and related services provided with a view to continuous improvement consists of a set of integrated tools for monitoring and measuring the GMBS Internal System:
a) Monitoring of processes (measurement and analysis of study programme quality and the feedback from participants in education; measurement and analysis of scientific and research activities;
measurement and analysis of the quality and development of teaching staff);
b) Internal process and system audit;
c) Evaluation of the quality of suppliers (in accordance with the Process Card PC 12 Material and Technical Provision of Education);
d) Assessment of disagreements and complaints;
e) Evaluation of corrective and preventive quality-related activities;
f) Evaluation of quality objectives and quality policy.
(2) The above analyses are part of a comprehensive Review of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education. The procedure in the field of measurement, analysis and improvement is set out in other parts of this Internal Regulation, the Quality Manual and the Process Card PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.
Article 40
Customer Satisfaction
(1) The collection and analysis of information shall be carried out through the linked evaluation tools:
a) Form A: Subject Evaluation ? The subject Sponsor integrates and evaluates A.0, A.1, and A.2 outcomes into the subject evaluation.
b) Form A.0: Current subject information sheet. The lecturer, in collaboration with Study Department staff, attaches a current subject information sheet with the completion of the subject success rate.
c) Form A.1: Student feedback questionnaire. The questionnaire is located in the LMS. Evaluation is provided by the subject Sponsor in cooperation with the Study Department.
d) Form A.2: Class visit. The application of the Class Visit tool is decided by the study programme Sponsor in the Teaching Observation Schedule, and all courses in the study programme must be evaluated once every three (3) years. The study programme Sponsor determines the visiting and visited staff member and the approximate date of the visit.
e) Form B: Employer feedback. Form B is applied during a placement when the competent person from the inviting organisation assesses the quality of the learning based on first-hand experience of the student's knowledge and competences at that stage of the learning experience. At the same time, it expresses demands for study programme innovation. Collection is provided by the lecturer, who evaluates the student's practice. The evaluation is provided by the study programme Sponsor.
f) Form C: Graduate feedback questionnaire. The questionnaire is distributed by direct mailing to the addresses of graduates. Evaluation is carried out by the Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development on an annual basis.
g) Form D: Evaluation of scientific and research activities. Processing is provided by the head of the department according to research area in cooperation with the Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Education .
h) Form: Evaluation of the Study Programme. The study programme Sponsor integrates and evaluates the results from Forms A, B, C, D into a comprehensive evaluation of the study programme and proposes measures for further improvement of learning in accordance with the criteria contained in the Internal System.
Article 41
Analysis and Evaluation
(1) The GMBS analyses and evaluates appropriate data and information from monitoring and measurement. It uses the results of the analyses for evaluation of:
a) The effectiveness of the implementation of plans and the achievement of objectives;
b) Levels of customer satisfaction;
c) Performance and effectiveness of the quality management system;
d) Effectiveness of measures taken to address risks and opportunities;
e) The need to improve the quality management system.
(2) The results of the analyses are also used by GMBS to assess whether plans have been effectively implemented, and to evaluate the effectiveness of measures taken to treat risks and opportunities.
(3) The analyses are part of a comprehensive Review of the GMBS Internal Quality Management System. The measurement, analysis and improvement process is set out in the Process Card PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.
Article 42
Internal Audits
(1) The Internal Audit (IA) tool is a valuable tool for collecting information on the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education. The objective of the GMBS internal audit is to assess the level of compliance of the Internal System processes and documentation with the standards issued by the MFHEA in practice, to assess the effectiveness of the Internal System, and to improve the Internal System processes and its documented procedures.
(2) The GMBS internal quality audits are performed by trained auditors (with a valid certificate of Internal Auditor of Quality Management Systems) in accordance with the Internal Audit Plan.
(3) Internal audit is conducted in three stages: internal audit preparation, internal audit implementation, and internal audit evaluation.
(4) Internal audit preparation: consists of the preparation of the Internal Audit Programme. It shall include: a) the objective of the internal audit;
b) Identification of the head of the auditing team and its individual members;
c) Identification of the documents required (which must be available for inspection); d) the date and place of the inspection;
e) The estimated time and duration of the audit, including the timetable for the internal audit.
(5) Implementation of internal audit: The internal audit begins with familiarising the auditee with the scope of the internal audit. The auditing team will then proceed with the collection of evidence. Evidence is collected through interviews, examination of documents, and investigation of activities and conditions in the areas of interest. All significant indications of non-compliance relating to the issue under review shall be investigated, including those not mentioned in the checklist. The findings and evidence shall be recorded in a checklist. The implementation phase ends with a final meeting with the auditee, the purpose of which is to inform the auditee of the non-conformities identified.
(6) Evaluation of the internal audit: As part of the evaluation phase, the auditor prepares an Internal Audit Report. If there are suggestions for improvement of the quality system during the IA, these shall be included in the Report. The Lead Auditor will submit the Audit Report to the Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development within three (3) working days of the IA being carried out. The Report must be signed by the auditee; it serves as evidence of acknowledgement of the non-conformities found.
(7) The evaluation of internal audits is part of the regular review of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education.
(8) The procedure for conducting internal audits is set out in the Quality Manual and the Process Card PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.
Article 43
Review of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education by Management
(1) The GMBS has developed effective procedures for implementing, using, monitoring and reviewing the GMBS quality assurance policies.
(2) The monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of the quality system, including the validity of the GMBS quality principles, shall be ascertained and evaluated as part of the Internal System review by the management. To review the Internal System, the Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development, in collaboration with the responsible process owners, will conduct an evaluation of the Internal System to the following extent:
1. Evaluation of the quality of study programmes and feedback from study participants
2. Evaluation of the scientific and research activities related to the research and innovation area of the study programme with regard to the outcomes of the scientific and research activities
3. Evaluation of the quality and development of teaching staff
4. Internal process and system audit
5. Supplier quality assessment
6. Evaluation of non-conformities and complaints and internal audit results
7. Effectiveness of corrective and preventive action
8. Process performance evaluation
9. Review of the implementation of the objectives and policies of the GMBS Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education
10. Changes that could affect the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education
11. Corrective actions and actions to treat risks and opportunities for Internal System improvement
(3) The results of the evaluation are part of the Report on the Review of the Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education by Management. The Vice-Rector submits the report to the GMBS Quality Board for consideration. The Quality Board discusses the report and measures to further improve the system. The results of the system review by the Quality Board allow for:
(a) Setting quality objectives for the next period.
b) Possible correction of the quality policy.
c) The proposal of corrective actions and measures to treat risks and opportunities related to problem areas as reported in the report on the functioning and effectiveness of the Internal System.
d) Identification of the resources needed to implement the objectives and actions for the next period.
(4) The report of the review and the actions taken serve as a basis for the establishment of the GMBS plans for the following period. Findings made by managerial review are implemented in accordance with the Corrective Action and Preventive Action procedures.
(5) Procedures for implementation, use and monitoring of the system are included in the Quality Manual and Process Card PC 15, Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.
PART 1.21
IMPROVEMENT
Article 44
Improvement
(1) Every employee is obliged to ensure or contribute to the elimination of non-conformities.
(2) The procedure for the removal of the non-conformity and the adoption of the Corrective Action shall always be proposed by the originator of the non-conformity. The relevant superior is required to follow up the non-compliance and propose corrective action to prevent future recurrence.
(3) The sources of non-conformities, types of records and responsibilities for managing them are set out in PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System. The occurrence of non-conformities and their elimination are evaluated once a year within the Internal Quality Management System Review.
(4) The procedures and responsibilities for managing complaints are set out in the SR ? 002 ? 002, Directive, Complaints Handling Policy at GMBS.
(5) The procedure for improvement is set out in other parts of this Internal Regulation, the Quality Manual and the Process Card PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.
(6) Corrective actions need to be carried out in such a way as to preclude recurrence or occurrence of non-conformities/deficiencies in accordance with the corrective and preventive action mechanism.
(7) The mechanism of corrective and preventive action consists of the following stages:
a) Monitoring process, occurrence of a non-conformity, removal of a non-conformity, identification of the actual cause of the non-conformity, corrective action (removal of the cause of the non-conformity), or
b) Monitoring process, identification of the cause of the potential non-conformity, action to treat the risk (elimination of the cause of the potential non-conformity).
(8) The causes of any potential or existing non-conformity, defect or other undesirable situation must be addressed and eliminated. If any GMBS staff member has identified deficiencies that may result, or have resulted, in a non-conformity, error or other undesirable situation, he/she is required to immediately propose a corrective action (CA) or risk treatment measure.
(9) Basic sources of suggestions for the GMBS corrective action:
a) Evaluation of study programmes and the related student feedback, teaching observation activity, employer feedback, graduate feedback;
b) Evaluation of scientific and research activities and transfer of outputs to the teaching process;
c) Staff quality assessment;
d) Internal audit results;
e) Results of inspection activities and complaints;
f) Suggestions from staff, students and other stakeholders, risk analysis, Suggestion Bank, etc.;
(10) Records of corrective measures and risk treatment measures are publicly available.
(11) The Vice-Rector for Quality, Accreditation and Development evaluates the extent of any corrective measure and its effectiveness at annual intervals as part of the Report of Internal Quality Assurance System for Higher Education Review by Management.
(12) Improvement procedures are included in the Quality Manual and the Process Card PC 15 Improvement of the GMBS Internal Quality System.