University Evaluation Unit Audit
The Evaluation Unit conducts annual hearings with the Departments, Study Programs, and PhD Programs, as well as with Governance, to provide updates on the University's strategy, the evolution of the educational offerings, the sustainability plan, or other topics deemed priorities at the time.
The audits aim to directly assess the application of Quality Assurance processes by interviewing key actors, users, and internal reference stakeholders. This ensures compliance with national accreditation standards and internal procedures set by the University. Additionally, audits identify any gaps or areas for improvement and highlight strengths to be further enhanced.
In the context of a university's academic offering, the Evaluation Unit does not always need to implement a comprehensive intervention. Instead, it adopts a focused approach, addressing specific study programs, PhD programs, or Departments as needed. This targeted strategy entails one-off interventions, triggered by significant changes or the necessity to address specific challenges identified through internal and external quality assurance processes. These interventions are guided by thorough analysis of relevant documentation and evidence gathered from various assessment tools.
The Evaluation Unit conducts at least one audit per year. The selection of the study program, PhD program, or Department for review is made at its discretion, considering factors such as recent stakeholder consultation meetings for study programs and PhD programs, as well as the availability of a periodic review report completed within the past year. In making these selections, the Evaluation Unit also aims to ensure adequate representation across the various types and disciplinary areas that constitute the university's academic offerings.
Follow-up Procedure
Following the audit, a report is prepared outlining the key elements and conclusions drawn up by the audit team. This includes identifying strengths, areas for improvement, the overall status of the QA system implementation, and any observations or recommendations the audit team intends to make to enhance the application of QA processes and ensure adherence to accreditation requirements.
The audit report is then sent to the Director or Head of the audited study program/PhD program/Department, the Dean of the program's affiliated School, and, for information, to the Quality Assurance Committee. The Director or Head of the study program/PhD program/Department is responsible for addressing any recommendations in the audit report and informing both the Evaluation Unit and the Quality Assurance Committee of the actions taken in response. They are also expected to provide feedback during subsequent review processes.
The Evaluation Unit provides a summary of the proceedings and outcomes of the audits conducted throughout the reference year in its annual report.