Quality Assurance and Improvement: the University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide is committed to the principles of quality assurance and improvement through rigorous and thorough self-assessment evidenced in the fitness-for-purpose model. This model has been endorsed by the Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA) and "means both that an organisation has procedures in place that are appropriate for the specified purposes [as stated in its mission, goals, objectives etc] and that there is evidence to show that these procedures are in fact achieving the specified purposes" [AUQA Audit Manual May 2002]. The University recognises the importance of using the findings from its self-assessment to inform its planning, and in measuring, monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of its core activities.

Responsibility for Quality Improvement
The University Quality Assurance Framework
Quality Audits
Quality Enhancement Committee

Responsibility for Quality Improvement

Overall responsibility for quality assurance at the University rests with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Academic), who maintains oversight for institutional processes and the implementation of the framework. Designated staff in the portfolio area of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning & Quality) ensure day-to-day coordination of activities.

The University Quality Assurance Framework

A Quality Assurance framework for the University was approved by the Vice Chancellor's Committee on 4 April 2001 and by the Academic Board on 2 May 2001.

Committees
In line with the framework, a Quality Improvement Board was established in mid-2001 to set overarching priorities and objectives in quality assurance and improvement and to coordinate, monitor and promote their implementation.

Quality Assurance and Improvement Plans:
Quality Assurance and Improvement Plan, 2001 - 2003
Quality Assurance and Improvement Plan, 2002 - 2004
Quality Assurance and Improvement Plan, 2003 - 2005

Quality Audits

The University has undergone a series of whole-of-institution audits since the mid 1990s. The 1993-95 audits were conducted by theme: Learning and Teaching, Research and Research Management and Community Service. The most recent AUQA audit took place at the University between 14-16 October 2002 where the institution was allowed to select its own themes based on the goals and objectives of its core business.

Australian Universities Quality Agency Audit Manual
Performance Portfolio, July 2002 (pdf 5MB)
AUQA Audit Report, March 2003 (pdf 342kB)
Quality Improvement Action Plan v1.1 (Aug 2003) (pdf 340kB)
Quality Improvement Progress Report, 2003-2005 (pdf 260kB)

Quality Enhancement Committee

In line with the University's quality assurance framework, a Quality Improvement Board was established in mid-2001 to set overarching priorities and objectives in quality assurance and improvement and to coordinate, monitor and promote their implementation.

As part of a review by Council of the sub-committees of Academic Board, the Quality Enhancement Committee has been established in March 2005 and replaces the Quality Improvement Board. The Quality Enhancement Committee provides advice on matters related to quality assurance and improvement across the University.