Quality Assurance – what should it include? Anthony J Vickers UK Bologna Expert

What could be included? What are the various aspects of the process of Higher Education? –The entrance requirements –The study programmes –The resources (human and capital) –Information

The division between Quality Assurance and Accreditation There is not a universal rule In the UK subject content is not a part of Quality Assurance. This is dealt with through accreditation by the relevant Professional Body. Quality Assurance audit would want to know that there is some form of accreditation.

The entrance requirements Are they clear? Are they fair and non discriminatory? Are they appropriate?

The study programmes The content The pedagogical methodology The assessment methodology The process for all the above

The resources (human and capital) The academic staff The administrative staff The technical staff The library IT facilities Social facilities Financial assistance

Information Information about External Quality Assurance –Are there any external QA audits? Information about the qualifications offered –Bachelor, Masters, Doctoral Information about degree programmes offered –Physics, Music, Literature Information about courses offered –Physics 101, Astronomy Information about Internal Quality Assurance –Grading policy –Plagiarism

University of Essex Quality Enhancement Unit –Student HandbookStudent Handbook Checklist –Examinations and AssessmentExaminations and Assessment University marking policy

ENQA ESG

First Internal Audit Audit current practices Organise what you find to meet International Standards Provide consistency where inconsistencies cannot be defended

The End