Standards of Behaviour

In order to maintain a happy and safe environment for all members of our community, and to engender an atmosphere of respect and dignity, all learners, SMEs and staff are asked to observe certain standards of behaviour and professionalism while studying or working with us.

These are set out below:

Communications Between Learners and SMEs

Learners should not ask for or use SME personal contact details or an SME’s online presence to communicate with them outside the context of their Professional Academy Diploma or Certificate itself. Where outside contact is necessary, the Operations Team at support@ucdpa.ie will be happy to relay a message to an SME on behalf of a learner. 

SMEs should also follow proper GDPR practice in communications with learners. In cases where ‘opting in’ to a method of group communication is offered, learners who opt out must not be disadvantaged in any way.

Cooperation

Learners are expected to cooperate and communicate with their peers in a mutually supportive manner, sharing ideas and resources, while respecting the privacy and integrity of others.

Cultural Sensitivity

All members of the community are responsible for maintaining an atmosphere of mutual respect for diverse cultures during their online sessions.

Dress Code

Both SMEs and learners are expected to be respectful of the online classroom environment and wear clothing that is appropriate for the virtual classroom.

Inclusiveness

Learners and SMEs should endeavour to ensure that all individuals they encounter during their online sessions are treated with respect regardless of any aspect of personal identity, such as ethnicity, cultural background, gender, disability or sexual orientation.

Personal Well-Being

Learners should try to ensure that they are able to take a rest during the breaks scheduled during the session. Neither learners nor SMEs should be under the influence of any substance during their online session.

Politeness

Learners and SMEs should be spoken to and interacted with in an appropriately friendly, polite, and encouraging manner at all times. Please utilise hand-raising functions within your online session environment. Be respectful when others are talking and ensure that your microphone is muted unless you are speaking.

Preparation

Both SMEs and learners should ensure that they have prepared adequately for their online sessions, to ensure session time is used as productively as possible.

Punctuality

Learners and SMEs should log-in to their online sessions in plenty of time to begin their session.