Also the in-class performance of teachers has received more emphasis than other teaching activities. Nevertheless, the use of teaching portfolios, peer review, self-assessment and alternatives to the questionnaire approach to student feedback, are all being employed more systematically. The University recognises that rewarding staff for excellent teaching performance and assisting staff with teaching problems relies on adequate, comprehensive evaluation of teaching. The academic standard of awards is an explicit consideration in the development of new programmes and in programme reviews. The annual report of faculties to Senate on programmes should also provide an assurance that the standard of programmes is being maintained.
External input is an important element in ensuring that awards are pitched at an appropriate level.
External Examiners, peer review by outside experts and review by professional bodies are all part of this effort. Examination Boards are constituted for each programme and gather together all the academic staff involved, who receive complete information about individual results and grade distributions. Calibration of standards with other local and international universities is the function of External Examiners who are appointed for every programme. External Examiners review examination papers and a sample of scripts. They are also members of the relevant Examination Board.