Higher Education

Cluster lead: Dr Ann Read

The Higher Education research cluster is an interdisciplinary, cross service/ faculty grouping that aims to investigate and promote understanding of issues relevant to higher education and to explore and promote the use of innovative research approaches. Research outputs inform policy and practice as well enhancing the student experience.

Southampton Solent has a strong tradition of undertaking research in higher education policy and practice. In

2006, an independent Research and Information Unit was established with the aim of informing University policy by providing evidence to support policy and management decisions. The unit organised the first UK Higher Education Institutional Research conference and the University continues to actively support national initiatives.

Researchers from other services, particularly the Academic Standards and Quality Service, and from the University’s three faculties also under take institutional research and have a keen interest in identifying and developing approaches to investigating institutional problems.

Recent research areas/projects include:

• Developing a typology for academic misconduct
• Assessment and feedback practice
• Employability
• Developing a flexible curriculum
• Complaints and appeals
• Professional development frameworks
• Engagement monitoring
• Student information

Recent outputs/publications

Recent conference presentation include:

• Gladstone,C. Irving, A & Read, M (2010) Accuracy and usefulness of corporate data in annual course monitoring. Higher Education Institutional Research Conference, June, Dublin.
• Henderson, S. Coe, D. Read, A. Wink, B.(2010) Identifying students at risk of committing academic misconduct 4th International Plagiarism Conference, June. Newcastle
• Verney, C. & Read, A. (2010) Best practice in supporting External Examiners. AUA, March, Warwick.
• Weston, F. Ankers, P. Woodfine, N. and Read, A. (2009) Improving students’ understanding of feedback. Solent Conference, Southampton, Sept.
• Read, A. & Cross, P. (2009) Monitoring and shaping research in a non-research intensive University. Higher Education Institutional Research Conference. July, Sheffield.
• Read, A & Daly,S. (2009) Employer Engagement: what does it mean for administrative and QA systems? AUA, April, Exeter.
• Irving, A, Read, M. & Gadstone, C. (2008) Double, joint, dual awards: the continuing QA challenge, Society for Research in Higher Education Conference, December, Liverpool.

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