The Achilles' Heel of Quality: The assessment of student learning

Abstract

This paper explores the dependability of assessments of student achievement when used as performance indicators for internal and external quality monitoring (IQM and EQM). Problems are identified that jeopardise attempts to monitor, control and enhance quality in higher education. Responses are suggested with preference being given to a radical approach based on accepting that reliable national data about complex student achievements are not to be had. It is argued that this means that reliance on EQM is unwise and that more attention should be paid to internal quality enhancement.