University quality monitoring processes

The following quality monitoring processes have highlighted the need for improvement for the University of the Highlands and Islands.

Self-evaluation documents (SEDs)

Every module leader completes a self-evaluation document (SED) which informs the Programme SED as part of the annual quality monitoring process. Valuable information is drawn from these documents, including identifying areas for development and action in the forthcoming year.

National Student Survey

Responses to the multiple choice questions in the National Student Survey (NSS) show that UHI students are less satisfied with practice in assessment and feedback in 2015 than in previous years (see Figure below).

The key message of the graph is that in 2013 we had 79% overall % assessment and feedback satisfaction; this dropped to 75% in 2014 and dropped again to 73% in 2015.

Free text comments left by students indicate that:

• There are pockets of good practice around assessment and feedback with the number of positive comments increasing over the three years in which students have participated in the survey.
• The majority of the negative comments concerning assessment and feedback relate to the quality and timing of feedback. In terms of quality students feel that feedback was not helpful or detailed enough; in terms of timing some students reported not receiving feedback at all on some assessments, as well as not receiving feedback on time e.g. "feedback on first assessments not received in time to prepare for the second assessment”.
• A new theme amongst negative comments emerged in 2015 relating to the vagueness or inaccuracy of assessment requirements and marking criteria, and the inconsistent application of policies regarding mitigating circumstances/late submission.

Our service standards - The red button

Red button

The Red button student feedback system gives students a simple mechanism to tell us about their experience. Red button annual reports have highlighted that students tell us they need feedback returned in good time (especially if it relates to the next assignment) and that accurate feedback and assessment information must be provided, particularly at induction.