Changing Academics

Quality audit is the main way in which the quality of university teaching and learning is assessed. However, it is a source of controversy. There are issues of power and control underlying the operation of audit related mechanisms. The book addresses this international trend through the analysis of academics' values and perceptions. It presents a picture of how academics in England perceive the impact of quality audit on their work. Rather than privileging views 'from the top', the book interprets different views held by front-line academics regarding quality audit, giving an in-depth account of the culture and practice of quality audit in the university sector. Reflecting on real stories from academics, this book identifies a central tension between quality audit and academics' professionalism. It offers an empirically grounded and up-to-date account, providing an essential resource for academics, students, parents, employers, and policy analysts.