Academic Quality Unit
Annual Evaluation
Annual Evaluation
Annual Evaluation: summary of aims, principles and process
The preparation and subsequent discussion of Annual Evaluation (AE) Reports enables course teams, Institutes and the University to evaluate effectiveness, identify good practice, strengthen accountability and take action on the basis of informed review and analysis. In this respect the process supports the ongoing quality enhancement of course provision and the student experience, and meets the following overarching precepts of the QAA Code of Practice:
- to ensure that programmes remain current and valid in light of developing knowledge in the discipline, and practice in its application;
- to evaluate the extent to which the intended learning outcomes are being attained by students;
- to evaluate the continuing effectiveness of the curriculum and of assessment in relation to the intended learning outcomes;
- to ensure that recommendations for appropriate actions are followed up to remedy any identified shortcomings. (QAA CoP Section 7, Precept 7).
More generally, AE Reports provide the University with the evidence it requires to enable it to discharge its responsibility for the standard of each award made in its name, and to be assured that the quality of education provided for students is at least satisfactory or better. The process identifies issues requiring attention and a mechanism for ensuring that they are addressed, and highlights examples of good practice which should make a significant contribution to enhancing the quality of provision across the University.
Full details of the Annual Evaluation process, including a full explanation of the aims, principles, reponsibilities and process can be found via this link. Templates for completing the process can be found below.
Data, including external examiner reports received to date, NSS outcomes and statistical student information can be accessed on the O:drive:
O:\All Staff Documents\AQU\ANNUAL EVALUATION INFORMATION\Annual Evaluation 2011-12
Course Annual Evaluation Report (and Action Plan)
Having evaluated the evidence at award level (e.g. statistical data, NSS outcomes, external examiner reports, etc), and, in the case of collaborative provision, from link tutor reports, you will be able to complete the Course Annual Evaluation Report template.
The Link Tutor has a dual role of providing assistance and support to staff in the partner institution and providing assurance to the University that the partnership is operating appropriately. Guidance on the role of the link tutor is outlined here, and should be used in reference to completing the Link Tutor's Annual Report.
Overview Report
(To be written where the same course is run at more than one site)
For awards/courses taught at more than one site, a Course Annual Evaluation report should be produced for each site. The Overview Report should provide a summary following the evaluation of evidence at award level (eg. Statistical data, NSS outcomes, external examiner reports, etc), and from the course reports produced by each partner organisation/site.
Institute Annual Evaluation Report (and Action Plan)
Following review of Course AE reports, Link Tutor reports and, as appropriate, Overview Reports, the Chair of IQC is asked to prepare a report on behalf of the Institute. It is this report that is presented and discussed by the Audit and Review Committee in the first instance.