Inspection And Regulation: Principles, Frameworks And Context

Course Code: MMAIAR_01

Masters Level Module

This distance learning module aims to deepen participants' knowledge and understanding of the nature of inspection models and frameworks drawing upon the most recent research and writing about quality, quality assurance and evaluation approaches. It investigates the forms that inspection systems can take with reference to the complexity of cultural settings and educational (and other) contexts. The module promotes a reflective understanding of the underlying principles and nature of inspection and regulation. Its approach is to investigate inspection, regulation and evaluation models in an international, national, regional and institutional context. It will help develop critical and analytical skills in relation to evaluation and judgement, institutional improvement, consultancy and advice, the use of data and evidence, inspection and audit. The sharing of personal and professional experiences in a virtual learning environment under the expert tutelage of on-line facilitators informed by current theory and research will provide a powerful learning mix.

The module aims are to:

• develop in participants an understanding of the key concepts and models in the academic and professional literature relevant to inspection, regulation, institutional improvement and its practice
• develop the capacity for critical reflection on participants' own professional practice, drawing on a range of theoretical and practice-based perspectives
• explore and critically review recent research, writing and discourses about:
  • Quality, quality assurance and evaluation approaches
  • Inspection and evaluation models
• understand from an international, national, regional and institutional context the forms that inspection and regulation systems can take with reference to the complexity of cultural settings and social and educational contexts.

Session titles include:

• Session 1: Introduction to Inspection and Regulation
• Session 2: The Evolution of Inspection and Regulation: a case study of the English system
• Session 3: The Principles of Inspection
• Session 4: Processes
• Session 5: Improvement Through Inspection
• Session 6: Inspection and Accountability
• Session 7: International Perspectives on Inspection and Regulation
• - Session 8: The Future of Inspection and Regulation

The module is assessed by means of a 5000 word assignment which asks participants to reflect on their learning from the module and its applicability to their role enhancement as an inspector.

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