Chasing the Chimera of Academic Quality

Abstract

Presents the general thesis that absolute academic quality is something which must be sought after but, by its nature, can never be fully attained. Describes the quality‐assurance and quality‐control systems which operate within The Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, and shows how these have recently been supplemented by the establishment of an internal quality audit team within the university, charged with the task of monitoring the quality of these existing quality systems. Describes the team′s first three audits – evaluating the university′s course appraisal system, evaluating its validation and review procedures, and evaluating the quality of its teaching. Then outlines the team′s future programme as currently envisaged, showing how this is designed to help the university to prepare for its first HEQC Audit, which is expected to take place around 1995‐1996. Finally, evaluates the success of RGU′s Internal Quality Audit Team, and argues that other higher education establishments might find it useful to establish similar “meta‐quality” systems.