INTERNATIONAL COMPARISONS OF RESEARCH QUALITY IN THE NEW ZEALAND TERTIARY EDUCATION SYSTEM

Project commissioned by the New Zealand Tertiary Education Commission

The Allen Consulting Group has been commissioned by the NZ Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) to assist them in conducting stakeholder consultations regarding the provision of international comparisons of research quality.

This project involves assessment of relevant literature and extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders to:

  1. consider what prima facie rationale exists for the TEC to internationally benchmark research quality in the New Zealand tertiary education system; and
  2. should a rationale for such an activity be established, determine whether a valid and reliable methodology for international comparison of New Zealand tertiary education sector research quality can be developed.

It is anticipated that the findings from this study in relation to each of these issues will inform future decision making regarding whether, and if so how, international comparisons of research performance are to be pursued in New Zealand.

This project is being conducted in four stages, namely:

  • a review of relevant literature surrounding the international comparison of research quality;

  • distribution of this discussion paper, to be available for download on this site by COB 8th November, with feedback on a range of issues sought from stakeholders;

  • conduct of stakeholder interviews and roundtables in Auckland (29th November), Wellington (30th November) and Christchurch (1st December); and

  • analysis of inputs gathered from stakeholders and preparation of project report to the TEC by 23rd December.

Written responses to this discussion paper PDF are welcomed from any interested stakeholders. Responses are requested by Monday 6th December 2004, so that responses can be considered prior to development of the project report.

Responses can be emailed in AcrobatTM pdf or Microsoft WordTM format to the Project Team at nztec@allenconsult.com.au or sent via fax to +61 3 9654 6363.