Benchmarking Australian enabling programmes: assuring quality, comparability and transparency
Article
Article Title | Benchmarking Australian enabling programmes: assuring quality, comparability and transparency |
---|---|
ERA Journal ID | 19964 |
Article Category | Article |
Authors | Syme, Suzi (Author), Davis, Charmaine (Author) and Cook, Chris (Author) |
Journal Title | Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education |
Journal Citation | 46 (4), pp. 572-585 |
Number of Pages | 14 |
Year | 2021 |
Place of Publication | United Kingdom |
ISSN | 0260-2938 |
1469-297X | |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1080/02602938.2020.1804825 |
Web Address (URL) | https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02602938.2020.1804825 |
Abstract | Cross institutional benchmarking provides the opportunity to ensure comparability of standards by comparing learning outcomes and assessment practices, and acts as a catalyst for change and improved practice. The comparability of standards is crucial for the transparency and portability of qualifications as well as the assurance of quality student learning outcomes. In Australia there are 48 enabling programmes which provide non-award preparatory study for students who would otherwise be excluded from higher education. Given the diversity of programmes and offerings, this pilot study investigated whether it was possible to establish common learning outcomes and standards across three regional Australian enabling programmes that could set the stage for a national benchmarking framework. Three Australian enabling programmes benchmarked their learning outcomes, curriculum and assessment practices in three subjects: study skills preparation, academic communication and mathematics. The findings clearly indicated that despite differences in offerings and programme structure, there were common learning outcomes and standards, the assessments and assessment practices were comparable and rigorous, and that best practice could be shared and adapted to the benefit of students, staff and institutions. |
Keywords | Benchmarking, enabling, bridging, quality, standards |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 390199. Curriculum and pedagogy not elsewhere classified |
390303. Higher education | |
Byline Affiliations | Southern Cross University |
Open Access College | |
Central Queensland University | |
Institution of Origin | University of Southern Queensland |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/q5x89/benchmarking-australian-enabling-programmes-assuring-quality-comparability-and-transparency
307
total views13
total downloads4
views this month0
downloads this month