New report considers link tutors in TNE
| Date: | January 28 - 2025 |
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QAA has published a new report from its Quality Evaluation and Enhancement of UK Transnational Education (QE-TNE) Scheme.
This is the latest in our series of 'Thematic Insights' reports, and focuses on the importance of the link tutor role in transnational partnership arrangements.
This is the latest in our series of 'Thematic Insights' reports, and focuses on the importance of the link tutor role in transnational partnership arrangements.
Commissioned by Universities UK and GuildHE, the QE-TNE Scheme was commended in an independent report published in December by the Higher Education Policy Institute, which recommended that "as an ideal, the scheme should be expanded to include all UK transnational education providers".
More than 70 UK higher education institutions currently participate in the scheme, representing about 70% of our sector's entire TNE student population.
Our new report is based on the findings of the extensive range of engagements, visits and research activities that have been generated by the QE-TNE Scheme since its launch in 2021.
Our new report is based on the findings of the extensive range of engagements, visits and research activities that have been generated by the QE-TNE Scheme since its launch in 2021.
The report finds that one message which has consistently resonated through the insights gained by our series of QE-TNE engagements has been that the work of the UK institution's link officer is fundamental to the smooth running of such transnational partnerships.
The report includes input from colleagues based at the University of Bedfordshire, Cardiff Metropolitan University, De Montfort University, Queen Margaret University, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, the University of West London and Wrexham University.
It observes that successful link tutors have strong organisational skills, aptitudes for communication and collaborative working, and the ability to be proactive in pre-empting any issues which may arise.
It explores effective practices demonstrated by link tutors in relation to their responsibilities for the oversight of delivery, assessment, resourcing and the student experience, for the monitoring and review of provision, and for staff development, as well as ways in which their own institutions can support link tutor activities.
"Our new report reminds us of the key value of this role," says Shannon Stowers, Head of International Policy and Engagement at QAA. "It also highlights and shares approaches developed by our colleagues across the sector to enhance the quality of learning and support robust and sustainable partnerships which benefit the institutions and the students involved."
The report is available to access on our Membership Resources Site by institutions which are members of the QE-TNE Scheme. You can find out more about the QE-TNE Scheme in the Transnational Education section of our website.