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Donlon Gibbons, Rachel (2022) An analysis of experiences of the implementation of Quality Assurance (QA) systems and processes in the FE Sector in Ireland. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.
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Abstract
This research set out to ascertain the diversity and range of experiences and perceptions of quality assurance implementation in Further Education (FE) among relevant stakeholders. Recent studies demonstrated how perceptions held by those interacting with quality assurance processes are vital for the commitment of these personnel and crucial to the perceived effectiveness of quality assurance (Bendermacher et al., 2017; Seyfried & Pohlenz, 2018). Twomey (2021) acknowledged varied perceptions of quality assurance in an Irish Higher Education (HE) context. Most compelling, the variation was often explained by specific roles assumed. To capture diversity in this study, participants were grouped depending on level of involvement in quality assurance implementation. An anonymised survey was executed to probe experiences of participants. Analysis progressed by applying descriptive statistics, then inferential statistics to determine statistically significant differences between groups. Data generated from open-ended questions was analysed using Braun and Clarkes Reflexive Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Finally, an integrative data analysis was completed. The analysis revealed fundamental areas of convergence, and crucially, areas of congruence. Most significantly, it was the grouping of participants that facilitated these observations. Findings revealed a distinct and measurable diversity of views depending on level of involvement in quality assurance implementation. The extent to which diversity exists and where diversity exists has been confirmed and supported with statistical analysis. Viewpoints, perceptions and experiences reflecting each grouping have been discussed, and tensions revealed. Left unaddressed, these tensions have the potential to undermine a collective approach to quality assurance in FE. This research and subsequent implications for practice demonstrate through discourse and reflection, a stronger and shared understanding can be constructed. Ultimately, this research provides insights for an evidence-based approach towards an integrated, authentically transformative quality assurance system in FE.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Masters) |
|---|---|
| Supervisors: | Name Email Casey, Leo UNSPECIFIED |
| Subjects: | L Education > LB Theory and practice of education L Education > LF Individual institutions (Europe) H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Total Quality Management |
| Divisions: | Centre for Education and Lifelong Learning > Master of Arts in Educational Practice |
| Depositing User: | Tamara Malone |
| Date Deposited: | 17 Jan 2024 11:40 |
| Last Modified: | 17 Jan 2024 11:40 |
| URI: | https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/6928 |
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