QAA launches first suite of revised Subject Benchmark Statements
| Date: | March 31 - 2022 |
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QAA has published 14 new and revised Subject Benchmark Statements, the first suite of Statements from our current review cycle. Each of the Statements has been developed by an expert subject advisory group, supported by extensive consultation with disciplinary communities in 2021 and 2022.
Subject Benchmark Statements, which have been drafted and published by QAA for over two decades, describe the nature of study and the academic standards expected of graduates in specific subject areas. They show what graduates might reasonably be expected to know, do and understand at the end of their studies.
This suite of Subject Benchmark Statements is the first which will incorporate consideration of how practice within disciplines addresses wider social goals, comprising:
- equality, diversity and inclusivity
- education for sustainable development
- the requirements of disabled students
- enterprise and entrepreneurship.
This process has been supported by engagement with a number of higher education consultants and stakeholder groups, including the Disabled Students’ Commission.
Dr Ailsa Crum, QAA’s Director of Membership, Quality Enhancement and Standards said: ‘The publication of the first set of updated Subject Benchmark Statements reflects extensive work that has been carried out since the latest review cycle began in 2020. Our engagement with the sector has highlighted the value that these Statements hold for academic communities as an integral component of course design and revalidation.
‘With the inclusion of ‘vision statements’ which reflect the wider social justice concerns that higher education institutions face, these Statements continue to serve as a pivotal resource for the higher education community. We are grateful to all Subject Advisory Group Chairs and their members and all those who engaged with the review process for their valuable contributions to this work.’
The new and revised Subject Benchmark Statements published are:
- Archaeology
- Chemistry
- Classics and Ancient History (including Byzantine Studies and Modern Greek)
- Computing
- Counselling and Psychotherapy
- Criminology
- Early Childhood Studies
- Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Environmental Studies
- Forensic Science
- Geography
- History
- Housing Studies
- Policing
- Theology and Religious Studies
These Statements are available on the QAA website via the Subject Benchmark Statements search.