Initiation and Trial Implementation of AUN-QA Models

The initiation and trial implementation of AUN-QA models was carried out through a pilot on-site quality assessment at Burapha University in May 2007. The aim of the exercise was to put into practice the “Manual for the Implementation of the Guidelines” by assessing the implementation of AUN-QA model at IQA system, institutional and programme level.    

An assessment team composed of Chief Quality Officers (CQOs) and myself from the five leading ASEAN universities with experience in quality assurance conducted the on-site quality assessment first at the institutional and IQA system level before proceeding to conduct the programme level assessment at the Faculty of Engineering. The assessment was carried out with the participation of CQOs and officials from other member universities, followed by a workshop to review the process and results of the assessment. The pilot assessment provided valuable insights into the interpretation of the AUN-QA criteria, assessment process and interviews, format and content of self-assessment reports, visit itinerary, and pre-assessment and post-assessment activities.  

Arising from the pilot assessment, the following challenges were identified:

·        Language is acknowledged as a barrier to assessment;

·        Time is a key factor if a complete and effective assessment is to be carried out;

·        Subjectivity of the assessment ratings and ambiguity of some AUN-QA criteria; and

·       Lack of a structured assessment process and assessment templates to capture assessment findings for continuous learning and improvement.

In overcoming the above challenges, I developed the followings to facilitate the implementation of the AUN-QA framework:

• a set of planning and reporting templates was designed and standardised for use in the actual quality assessment at institutional, IQA system and programme level;
• a systemic approach to quality assessment using the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach;
• a set of guidelines on assessment itinerary and interviews with staff, students, alumni and employers; and
• a set of requirements for Self-Assessment Report (SAR) and key evidences including the use of English as a language for assessments, interviews and reports.