Academic Workloads and TRAC
This document discusses the integration of TRAC (Transparent Approach to Costing) in managing academic workloads, focusing on strategies for effective implementation and robustness of data collection. It outlines requirements for Teaching Assistant Support (TAS), the importance of accurate schedules, and the significance of consistent audit reviews. Practical steps include mapping exercises, a comprehensive review of activities and time, and statistical sampling for improved data accuracy. The initiative aims to enhance the reliability of workload management information while ensuring adherence to TRAC guidance.
Academic Workloads and TRAC
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Presentation Transcript
Academic Workloads and TRAC Will FosterMarch 24 2009
Academic Workloads and TRAC • What TRAC requires from a TAS • Practicalities to make WLBM fit for purpose • Issues and Responses • Building on the Basics- Data becomes Management Information
What TRAC requires from a TAS What is needed to achieve a robust method- • Schedules are used • Cover periods that are representative of 12 months within 3 year cycle • 3 In-Year responses • Individual academics complete themselves • Response rates are statistically sound • Data is collected over a 3 year cycle
Practical Steps • Individual WLBM • School WLBM • Mapping Exercise • School TRAC • Faculty/ University TRAC • TRAC % allocations • TRAC schedules
Audits/Reviews • 2001-4 Internal Audit Reviews • 2004-5 QA Review KPMG • 2008 QAV Health Check
Issues and Responses • 2001-2004 Internal Audit Some issues on robustness “The information provided by the WLBM continues to be at least as robust as data obtained under the methods suggested in the TRAC guidance” • Internal initiative to improve process
Issues and Responses 2004-5 KPMG QA Review • In current form not considered robust under the TRAC guidance To achieve robustness- • Academics to review (positively) 3 * Year • Classification should be formalised • All activities and time to be covered • Head of School to undertake reasonableness check
Issues and Responses • Meeting with JM Consulting • Action Plan • Statistical Sampling Statistical Advice (Internal) Simple Questionnaire Statistical Review • Better Documentation • Clearer Linkage to TRAC definitions
2008 QAV Health Check • “should review sample responses. If proven to be +/- 10% the University are advised to introduce an alternative method in accordance with TRAC guidance” • Sample results- 2008 2005 No change 74 58 Change < 10% 12 32 Change > 10% 14 10
Building on the Basics • Using WLBM for TRAC always seen as a means to achieve internal benefit • Activity Costing calculated at School level from Year 1 • Pilot Course Costing from 2002 • Full Exercise from 2004 onwards • Professorial Data Review 2008