Just published: Quality in Higher Education 2024

QQI has published its annual thematic analysis of the annual quality reports(AQRs) submitted by Irish higher education institutions (HEIs). Quality in Higher Education 2024 identifies themes emerging from 2024 reporting by public and private/independent HEIs for the 2022/23 reporting year. 

The report also includes a system-level analysis, which identifies trends of note across the sector. Key themes emerging from the 2024 AQRs include:

• Reporting on the augmentation of facilities and substantial investments in digital infrastructure suggest that investments to enable technology-enhanced teaching and learning are an ongoing strategic priority for the sector. Whilst digitisation is a significant theme, few AQRs refer to the development, governance or implementation of whole-of-institution IT/digital strategies and plans.
• A number of HEIs reported on the implementation or continued development of systems and tools specifically designed to facilitate data-informed decision-making. Examples included the use of dashboards to inform activities ranging from recruitment and admissions through to learner support and programme delivery.
• Following the release of ChatGPT during the reporting period, the AQRs evidence multifaceted responses by HEIs to the threats posed by generative artificial intelligence (AI) to academic integrity. Reports from several institutions also indicate that HEIs are actively seeking to harness the opportunities AI presents, e.g. through the use of chatbots and AI tools to enhance service provision and enable efficiencies.
• Responsiveness to the needs of enterprise and industry remains an important driver within the sector, influencing programme development, research partnerships and knowledge transfer activities.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is also evident across multiple dimensions of reporting, including the influence of inclusive practice in teaching, learning and assessment; programme portfolio development; and the provision of learning and development for staff in diversity-related areas.
• Sustainability continues to be a notable feature of strategic plans and priorities within HEIs, influencing industry partnerships, resource allocation, research funding, the built environment and programme design.