Insights and Reflections from a Collaborative Experience in Quality Assurance Audits of Academic Departments

Abstract

This manuscript examines the experiences and insights gained from three quality assurance (QA) audit exercises involving collaboration among an academic with a strong background in mathematics and statistics, an education specialist, and an administrator. The study aims to illuminate the complexities of QA in educational settings through interdisciplinary perspectives. An emic, qualitative approach was employed, drawing on reflective narratives derived from field notes and group discussions held during and after the audits. The paper captures the lessons learned, challenges encountered, and potential implications for future audits. It highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, preparedness, leadership stability, and institutional support structures in enhancing educational quality. The study emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary teams in QA processes and provides actionable insights for improving future audit exercises. It contributes to the literature by showcasing how diverse expertise can address the complexities of educational quality assurance and by identifying critical factors that support successful audits.