Developing an evidence base for effective quality assurance of education and training

What were the key findings?

Most quality assurance processes follow the same basic framework:

• setting standards and criteria
• self-assessment
• external assessment/validation
• public reporting of outcome.

Quality assurance is changing. Instead of just checking boxes to prove rules were followed, the focus is now on improving quality.

Rather than checking everyone on a fixed schedule, regulators now focus on higher-risk areas. They are also looking more at final results rather than just the steps taken to get there. These changes follow the "Right Touch Regulation" principles used in health and social care.

Transparency throughout the process and clarity in reporting results promote effective quality assurance.

The researchers suggest ten ways for health regulators to improve their quality checks. These ideas include:

• Using specific themes to find and share best practices.
• Picking and training the right people for inspection teams.
• Using better ways to check that data is accurate.
• Writing reports that are easy for the audience to understand.
• Encouraging regulators to learn from each other.

Full report

Developing an evidence base for effective quality assurance of education and training