Education News

 

Library Opening Hours Extended.


Following communications between DSU and the University, it has been announced that there will be extended openings this exam period and next year.

During the examination period the library will be open from 8am until midnight every day, except Sundays when it will open from 9am to 10pm.

 

 

 Quality Assurance Audit 2008.... Your Questions Answered.

 

 

What is QAA? 

The Quality Assurance Audit is an independent body that reviews all Higher Education Institutions to assess the quality of the teaching they provide

 

What is an Audit? 

The audit is carried out by a team of academics who use their expertise and knowledge of higher education to asses the teaching standards at the University. It’s a bit like an Ofsted inspection for University education.

  

Why is there a student submission?

At the centre of the audit process is an emphasis on students and their learning experience. The best people to ask are the students themselves!Students opinions about their University and their education are really important – after all they are the ones who benefit and experience teaching on a daily basis. We want to hear about the good bits and the things you’d like to see change.

 

 

Is the student submission written by the University?
 
No! It’s written by the Sabbatical officers at the Students’ Union using evidence collected in surveys, forums and the opinions you have expressed. The University cannot veto the submission, even if they don’t like what it says, so what you say really will be listened to.

 

Is what I say going to make a difference?
 
Definitely! The team will consider all the information they are given and make recommendations. So, if you tell us there is a problem with one particular area of the University's teaching it’s likely that the auditors will suggest improvements in this area.

 

What will happen during the Audit?
 
Before the auditors come to visit they will read briefing papers sent by the University. Included in these will be the student submission. The visit lasts 3 days, during which time the auditors will meet with staff and students.

 

 

What now?

 

Fill in a short questionnaire by following this link:   http://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/durham/ugqaa

 

You might also have had a letter asking you to fill in a longer questionnaire. It will simply ask you questions about your department and your learning experience at Durham.

 
Please do take the time to have your say: your views are important.