Thematic Review

Thematic review constitutes an element of the higher education QA system gradually introduced since 2019.  The purpose of the thematic reviewa is to support changes in the improvement areas that have been identified in completed assessments. Thematic reviewa allow to take stock of the situation, share best practices and receive independent feedback and recommendations from experts.

Thematic reviews shall be conducted in some or all higher education institutions. The topics are horizontally relevant and, as a rule, related to the quality improvement suggestion made during external assessments of study programme groups (i.e. fitness for purpose and up-to-dateness of teaching methods; student assessment; development of students’ key competencies; involvement of students from all cycles of higher education in RDC activities; etc.). Thematic reviewa predominantly use a research-based assessment method.

The following principles apply to thematic evaluations:

  • Thematic reviews can be sample-based, but preferably include all HEIs (as well as the vocational education institutions, where appropriate).
  • HAKA shall form an expert panel whose task will be to develop a research methodology, to carry out the review and to prepare a report. If and when necessary, foreign experts may be involved.
  • Thematic reviews do not require preparation of a traditional self-evaluation report, but a survey shall be conducted that involves different stakeholders and may include aspects of self-evaluation. In parallel with surveys, assessment interviews, focus group interviews etc. are conducted.
  • The HAKA Quality Assessment Council shall sign off the expert report.
  • After the expert report is approved, a public presentation of the findings and a discussion will take place.
  • The strengths and areas for improvement presented in the findings will also be used as input for planning further activities as well as trends for both higher education institutions and the Ministry of Education and Research.

Find out more about the conducted reviews and access reports from the left side menu.