Announcements
Registrations for AUN-QA Trainings are now open!
AUN-qa Tier 2 training
2024 AUN-qa Conference
NEW! UP Guide for External QA
The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs has released version 4 of the UP Guide for EQA. This version contains information on preparing for face-to-face or virtual external review/assessment/accreditation. Check the latest version here.
OVPD-ITDC Offers Free Webinars for UP Staff
"The Office of the Vice President for Development - Information Technology Development Center (OVPD-ITDC) is offering free webinars designed to strengthen the Work-From-Home (WFH) capabilities of all UP staff" (ITDC, 2021). Check the webinars and register here.
NEW! Post-Assessment Procedure for Internal QA
The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs has released a new version of the Post-Assessment Procedure for Internal QA. This version adopts the strategic planning template developed by the UPD QA Office. Check the latest version here.
News
UP System Qa holds the 2nd external qa reviewers training
The UP System Quality Assurance and the UP System Ad Hoc Committee on Capability Building (QACB) is currently holding the 2nd External QA Reviewers Training (EQRT in Iloilo City. The program aims to train identified faculty from the different Constituent Universities (CU) to become External Assessors for future External Quality Assessments (EQA) of the various degree programs within the UP system. The program includes a 2-day training program and a 3-day observation of the External Quality Assessment of four degree programs from the University of the Philippines Visayas. August 2024
Image taken from the UP Diliman QAO Facebook Page
UP SYSTEM AD HOC COMMITTEE ON QA CAPABILITY BUILDING (QACB) AND UP Diliman Quality assurance office (UPD QAO) hold series of sar writing preparation workshops
The UP System Ad Hoc Committee on QA Capability Building (QACB) and the UP Diliman Quality Assurance Office (UPD QAO) held a series of SAR Writing Preparation Workshops for 222 UPD Faculty. Three batches of workshops were held to provide support to the various degree-granting units of UP Diliman in support of its goal to have a 100% SAR submission for all its undergraduate program by the end of 2024. July 4, 2024
Image from the 392nd AUN-QA Assessment
UP VISAYAS AND UP MINDANAO WRAP UP AUN-QA ASSESSMENT OF THEIR DEGREE PROGRAMS
From June 11-13, 2024, the University of the Philippines Visayas and the University of the Philippines Mindanao successfully concluded the 392nd ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Assessment for their degree programs. UP Visayas had its BS Biology and BS Public Health programs evaluated, while UP Mindanao's BS Biology and BS Computer Science programs underwent the assessment. This rigorous review process is a significant step in ensuring the quality and international standards of these programs, reflecting the universities' commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement. June 13, 2024
UP system qa committee holds strategic planning workshop
The UP System Quality Assurance (QA) Committee held a 3-day Strategic Planning Workshop last April 25-27, 2024 at the Summit Hotel, San Juan City.
The event aims to outline the plans of the System and the Constituent Universities for the next three years (2024-2027). All projects and initiatives are aligned with the 2023-2029 Strategic Plan of President Angelo A. Jimenez's administration.
The committee identified plans and projects that will help in the enhancement and continued development of quality assurance within the University. April 29, 2024
UPD quality assurance office holds UPD Quality Assurance week 2024
The UP Diliman Quality Assurance Office (UPD QAO) is celebrating its Quality Assurance week on April 29 - May 3, 2024.
They are conducting various activities for UPD Faculty and Staff to increase Quality Assurance awareness within the CU. The opening celebration was held last April 29, 2024 at the malcolm Hall Auditorium and a closing program will be held on May 3, 2024 at the School of Economics. May 7, 2024.
Three UPLB degree programs undergo aun-qa assessment
UPLB's BS Nutrition, BS Forestry, and BS Biology undergraduate degree programs recently underwent the AUN-QA program assessment last March 12-14, 2024. The program assessments aimed to validate the adherence of these programs to international standards of excellence in education and curriculum development. It also underscores UPLB's commitment to ensuring top-notch quality in its diverse array of academic offerings. 01 April 2024
up baguio's bs biology undergoes aun-qa assessment
The BS Biology program at UP Baguio recently underwent the AUN-QA Program Assessment last March 12 to 14, 2024. This rigorous evaluation aimed to ensure the program's adherence to international quality standards in education and curriculum design. This underscores the University's commitment to excellence in biological sciences education. 01 April 2024
UP Tacloban holds
'UPdate Orientation to Quality Assurance in Higher Education'
In a bid to uphold academic excellence, the University of the Philippines Tacloban College (UPTC) inaugurated its 'Orientation to Quality Assurance in Higher Education' project on March 20, 2024, at the Leyte Samar Heritage Center.
The initiative, geared towards faculty, staff, and students, aims to underscore the significance of quality assurance in maintaining the institution's stellar academic reputation. Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (Quality Assurance) Alyssa M. Peleo-Alampay joined UPTC Dean Patricia Arinto, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Irene Tan, Division QA Officers, and Program Coordinators who will collaborate in drafting comprehensive QA plans vital for sustaining educational standards amidst evolving landscapes.
With this proactive approach, UPTC underscores its commitment to ensuring educational quality in line with global benchmarks, reinforcing its position as a beacon of excellence in higher education. 22 March 2024
FEATURED
ARTICLES
RESHAPING THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION:
THE VITAL ROLE OF DATA
Insights from the 2024 UNESCO Conference on Education Data and Statistics
The 2024 Conference on Education Data and Statistics, hosted at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, ignited global discussions on the pivotal role of data in shaping education policies and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). Nobel Laureate Professor James Heckman's presence underscored the significance of informed decision-making in education. Delegates, immersed in insights curated by the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS), explored critical topics such as education data governance and the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED). With over half a billion children's learning levels still unknown, the conference emphasized the urgency of leveraging technology and data analytics to bridge existing gaps and promote inclusive education worldwide.
You can access the article in the January-March 2024 Newsletter of the Southeast Asian Ministries of Education (SEAMEO).
EDCOM 2 Releases year one report
The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) released findings during its first year of operation on January 23, 2024.
In its Year One Report entitled “Miseducation: The Failed System of Philippine Education”, the Commission highlighted its findings in twelve out of its twenty-eight Priority Areas, following its first year of work. This is in line with its mandate under RA 11899 to report to Congress its accomplishments, findings, and recommendations periodically.
One of the key priority areas mentioned in the report is Quality Assurance in higher education. As mentioned in the report, " Ensuring quality in higher education is a complex process that requires a blend of institutional mechanisms and strategies. These are designed to maintain high standards and foster ongoing improvement, ensuring that educational programs align with the needs of students, employers, and the broader society. Key approaches in higher education QA encompass both internal and external systems. These systems comprehensively review academic programs, teaching methods, and learning outcomes. They also include rigorous program and curriculum design, robust faculty development and evaluation processes, active solicitation of student feedback, encouragement of research and scholarship, and fostering partnerships with industry and other key stakeholders. Transparency and accountability in public reporting are also crucial." (pp 158-159)
You can download the full report here.
State of philippine education report 2023
The Philippine Business for Education released the State of the Philippine Education Report for 2023.
In this report, PBEd has identified a critical need for transformative change in the country's education system, as outlined in the State of Education Report. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippines faced a substantial learning crisis, with alarming statistics such as 9 out of 10 10-year-olds unable to read simple texts. Despite constitutional mandates for accessible and quality education, persistent issues include inequitable access, low completion rates, and poor performance in international assessments. The pandemic further exacerbated challenges, leading to school closures, learning gaps, and increased unemployment. In response, the government enacted EDCOM II, and PBEd initiated Citizens' EDCOM, aiming for a 180-degree turn in education reform.
You can access the full report here.
FORWARD FOCUS IN HIGHER EDUCATION
SKILLS, NOT SUITS
By Chloë Lane
Employers are shifting away from formal educational requirements, favoring skills and work experience due to labor shortages, as revealed by a recent Indeed study. With just one in five US job postings mandating an undergraduate degree, the value of higher education is under scrutiny. Dr. Kenneth Silver of Trinity Business School argues that education transcends workforce preparation, nurturing thoughtful citizens rather than just workers. Meanwhile, universities like Trinity emphasize skill development, preparing students for diverse career paths. However, the role of higher education in entrepreneurship is debated, with some questioning its effectiveness in fostering creativity and versatility. Despite the high cost, higher education yields tangible returns, such as increased salaries and career advancement, prompting institutions to offer financial aid and career support. Prospective students are urged to carefully weigh the long-term benefits of higher education against its costs and consider alternative paths before committing. QS Insights Magazine. April 2024.
You can access the full article here.
NEW SKILLS AND THE NEW COLLAR WORKERS
By Eugenia Lim
In today's job market, a university degree alone is no longer a golden ticket to success. Employers are increasingly valuing skills over traditional credentials, prompting universities to reassess their approach to education. The rise of new-collar workers, highly skilled individuals without university degrees, is challenging the higher education landscape, leading to discussions about the relevance of lifelong learning. While universities will remain essential, they must adapt to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market by incorporating real-world experiences into their curriculums. This includes hiring faculty with industry experience to enhance teaching quality. Additionally, there's a debate about how to vet and value skills outside of academic institutions, with calls for collaboration between universities and companies. Despite challenges, there's optimism about the industry's ability to adapt, although it may take time and involve multiple stakeholders. Establishing frameworks for mentoring, coaching, and fostering a culture of skills-based assessments are crucial steps toward preparing students for the realities of the modern workforce. AI could play a significant role in providing objective feedback to help individuals improve their skills. QS Insights Magazine. March 2024.
You can access the full article here.
THE RISE OF INTERDISCIPLINARY DEGREES
By John O'Leary
Interdisciplinary collaboration in university research is gaining momentum globally, with broad postgraduate and undergraduate programs becoming more prevalent. The recognition that AI literacy is becoming essential across all disciplines is driving interest in interdisciplinary studies. Evidence suggests that graduates with interdisciplinary qualifications are commanding higher salaries, prompting institutions like Oxford University to introduce programs like the Vice Chancellor’s Colloquium, focusing initially on the climate crisis. Other universities, like University College London and the University of Birmingham, offer similar interdisciplinary degrees, allowing students to shape their own programs and incorporate internships or study abroad opportunities. The London Interdisciplinary School (LIS) is also gaining traction, emphasizing real-world challenges and a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods. Despite challenges, LIS and similar programs are seeing high student satisfaction and demand, suggesting a potential shift away from specialization in higher education. QS Insights Magazine. March 2024.
You can access the full article here.
CLIENT SATISFACTION
UP System Quality Assurance
3F, North Wing, Quezon Hall,
University of the Philippines
Diliman, Quezon City
Phone: (02) 8981-8500 loc. 2622
Email: qa.ovpaa@up.edu.ph
