Project and Data Management for Equity Evaluation

This stream will suit equity professionals working in Australian universities.

This stream comprises 3 modules, (modules 17-19 of the ACSES Student Equity Evaluation Learning Program).

Module 17: Data Quality and Standards

Overview

This module explains the importance of establishing and maintaining appropriate data management conditions to support high-quality evaluation. Building on the principles of ethical evaluation, it introduces the concept of data hygiene and discusses ethical data management, including the importance of identifying, articulating and addressing assumptions or limitations in relation to data used for equity program evaluation. It also touches on data privacy and security obligations, including the concept of informed consent and authorised collection, storage and use of personal data.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this module Learners will:

• Understand the importance of data quality and standards in effective student equity evaluation.
• Understand ways to ensure evaluation data quality and adhere to applicable data standards and ethical obligations.

Module 18: Enabling and Embedding Evaluation Efforts

Overview

This module presents some guiding principles to help practitioners establish and embed an evaluation culture that supports meaningful Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) efforts and sets programs up for future impact evaluation. It discusses applicable systems and processes underpinning the collection and management of quality data, as well as the role practitioners must play in ensuring quality and standards. Some common data collection and analysis tools/software packages which can support these efforts are also introduced.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this module Learners will:

• Understand how to establish and embed a culture that supports quality student equity program evaluation.
• Be able to identify and implement key systems and processes to support quality evaluation practices.

Module 19: Engaging and Working with Evaluation Specialists

Overview

This module helps practitioners understand how to commission an impact evaluation. It covers when and why to hire evaluation specialists, the pros and cons of using internal vs. external experts, and the tender process. It explains how to set clear specifications, evaluate proposals, and choose the right specialists. The module also highlights the critical importance of practitioner involvement throughout the evaluation process to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and accurate results, as well as the responsibility to act on and share the findings.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this module Learners will:

• Be able to prepare specifications to support a request for tender/quote to engage an evaluation specialist to undertake impact evaluation.
• Be able to assess proposals and select appropriate evaluation specialists to undertake impact evaluation.
• Understand their responsibilities in working with evaluation specialists and ensuring quality evaluation outcomes.

Once you successfully completed this stream, you'll earn a digital badge that is instantly shareable to your social networks (including LinkedIn) which showcases your new skills and knowledge mastery.

Engage

This digital badge provides foundation knowledge in a discipline and doesn't require previous knowledge.

The Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success (ACSES) is an evidence-based research and public policy centre funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and based at Curtin University.

ACSES is committed to providing the higher education sector with tangible proof of what works to improve the quality and impact of student equity practices in higher education.

For more information, visit acses.edu.au.

For more information on this stream, or any other questions about the Program, email us at acses@curtin.edu.au