Policy and Staff Support & Development Framework for the MSc in Distance Learning

    1. Quality Policy and Strategic Approach

    The Master of Science Programme (MSc) “Innovation, Technology and Culture”, within the framework of its internal quality assurance system and continuous improvement of its academic and administrative functions, implements a documented policy for the support and professional development of its human resources in matters related to distance learning.

    This policy applies to all personnel involved in the operation of the Programme, namely:

    • teaching staff,
    • academic advisors,
    • administrative staff,
    • technical and support staff.

    The purpose of this policy is:

    • to ensure the quality of the distance learning educational process,
    • to continuously enhance digital and pedagogical skills,
    • to provide effective administrative and technical support,
    • to adapt to technological developments,
    • to ensure compliance with the regulatory framework, accessibility principles, and personal data protection requirements.

    2. Scope of Application

    This policy applies to all academic, administrative, and support functions of the MSc related to:

    • synchronous online teaching,
    • asynchronous educational support,
    • production and management of digital learning material,
    • remote communication with students,
    • electronic administrative services,
    • use of information systems and digital infrastructures.

    3. Support and Development Actions for Teaching Staff

    The MSc ensures the continuous professional development of teaching staff through structured actions such as:

    3.1 Pedagogical Training

    • design of distance learning courses,
    • student-centred learning approaches,
    • active learning techniques,
    • methods for enhancing participation and interaction,
    • assessment of learning outcomes in digital environments.

    3.2 Technological Training

    • use of LMS platforms,
    • videoconferencing tools,
    • creation of digital and multimedia material,
    • online student feedback tools,
    • use of collaborative digital applications.

    3.3 Academic Empowerment

    • participation in seminars and workshops,
    • exchange of good practices,
    • mentoring of new instructors,
    • promotion of innovation in teaching.

    4. Support and Development Actions for Administrative and Support Staff

    Administrative personnel are supported through professional development programmes focusing on:

    4.1 Digital Skills

    • use of student records and administration systems,
    • electronic document management,
    • digital communication with students and staff,
    • collaboration and remote working tools.

    4.2 Student Support Services

    • effective support for distance learning students,
    • management of electronic requests,
    • English-language communication,
    • timely information and guidance for students.

    4.3 Quality and Regulatory Compliance

    • personal data protection,
    • information security,
    • implementation of quality procedures,
    • administrative effectiveness.

    5. Infrastructure and Support Mechanisms

    For the effective implementation of this policy, the MSc ensures:

    • access to appropriate digital platforms,
    • user technical support services,
    • manuals and user guides,
    • regular software upgrades,
    • a secure and reliable digital learning environment.

    6. Monitoring Indicators and Effectiveness Evaluation

    The implementation of this policy is systematically monitored through qualitative and quantitative indicators, such as:

    • percentage of staff participation in training activities,
    • participant satisfaction rates,
    • response time of support services,
    • level of use of digital tools,
    • results of internal evaluations.

    The collected data are used for corrective and improvement actions.

    7. Roles and Responsibilities

    MSc Coordinating Committee

    • approves the annual staff development action plan,
    • monitors implementation of the policy,
    • recommends improvements.

    Programme Secretariat

    • provides administrative support for implementation,
    • maintains relevant records and documentation.

    Teaching Staff and Personnel

    • actively participate in training activities,
    • contribute feedback for the improvement of procedures.

    8. Policy Review

    This policy is reviewed periodically, at least every two years, or earlier if required due to:

    • changes in the regulatory framework,
    • technological developments,
    • findings from internal evaluations,
    • recommendations from external evaluation / accreditation processes.

    9. Commitment to Continuous Improvement

    The MSc is committed to ensuring that all staff possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and support to effectively respond to the demands of contemporary distance postgraduate education, in accordance with the quality principles of the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education.