Tag

Biz School Accreditation

Jul 01
5

AACSB Business Accreditation Standards: Updates 2023

By | Resource

AACSB Business Accreditation Standards: Updates 2023

AACSB significantly updated its Business Accreditation Standards in 2020.  Since then it issues annual amendments and updates – usually on 1 July.

QED’s overview of the updates made as part of the 2023 publication, together with an assessment of the significance of the change can be found in this downloadable PDF file.

The updates reflect clarification and additional explanation. These should not provide any significant change for schools.

As always, QED recommends that all schools within an AACSB accreditation process (whether initial or renewal) should review and ensure they have understood the changes and clarifications – particularly to ensure the updates do not highlight any potential internal misunderstanding of AACSB principles and standards.

NB: QED’s material represents QED’s interpretation of the AACSB Updates.  We always recommend that you view the updated standards directly – which are available from AACSB’s website in the following formats: 

As above, QED’s summary of the updates across the key documents is available in this downloadable PDF file.

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Apr 21
0

WEBINAR RECORDING: An Introduction to International Business School Accreditation

By | Webinars

Are you new to the world of international business school accreditation?

 

Joanne Powell was the key speaker for a webinar hosted by KIMEP University’s Bang College of Business.  The topic is ‘An Introduction to International Business School Accreditation systems’, and it presents a high level summary of each of the top accreditations (AACSB, AMBA, EFMD Programme Accreditation, and EQUIS).  A recording of the webinar is available for viewing here (original English version) with translations in  Kazakh and Russian also.

 

If you’ve any questions on the topics raised in this webinar, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Feb 16
0

Free Webinar: An Introduction to International Business School Accreditation

By | Webinars

Are you looking for an introduction to international business school accreditation systems? If so, this webinar might be for you. Joanne Powell is guest speaker at KIMEP University‘s Bang College of Business webinar on Thursday, March 16th. Times are listed below and registration is required at https://lnkd.in/eNUu7Bqp

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Dec 12
5

ANZQAN Takeaways 2022

By | Conference Update, Resource

ANZQAN Takeaways

 

After the ANZQAN Conference, one attendee reached-out to us with, “all generally share the same challenges, but there are so many different ways to approach those challenges”. This is where the real benefit of these events arises – the ability to hear alternative approaches to challenges and perhaps be inspired to find more innovative approaches within our own domains.

Below are our takeaways:

Key Learning #1: There was a great Dean’s Panel discussion on managing accreditation strategies.  This covered a variety of themes but the key take-away and reminder was to “keep doing the small (everyday) stuff” and not just wait for the “big events” to happen.  This comment took place in the context of sustainability and a reminder that everyone has a role to play (and the importance of discussing and sharing good practice).  However, it resonated more widely as a reminder that change is often present in a multitude of smaller habits that take place consistently.  “We are what we repeatedly do: Excellence then is not an act, but a habit.”(Will Durant, attributed to Aristotle)

Key Learning #2: There was some great sharing of good practice related to socialising the mission. We really liked the suggestion to “embrace mission in both function and optics”.  It spoke to the importance of ensuring that an organisation’s mission needs to be front and centre of

  1. discussions, decisions and strategy (function)
  1. documents, merchandise, and other visuals (optics)

By embracing both function and optics, schools (or other organisations) are better placed to optimise the integration of the mission into every-day operations and strategy.

Key Learning #3: Internationalisation was a key topic for multiple reasons – including both general challenges arising from the Covid 19 pandemic, as well as ongoing geo-political challenges in several regions of the world.  Reference was made to EFMD’s internationalisation framework (EFMD Accredited Process Manual Annexes (Annex 10, page 61)) OR  EQUIS Standards and Criteria 2022 (last section of Chapter 8, page 73, “Further Guidance on Assessing Internationalisation” ) with one school (Curtin) illustrating how it has developed a set of parameters for each of the 12 dimensions of internationalisation (across the four categories of Policy, Content, Context and Network).  The parameters for each dimension outline what characterises low, medium and high performance, in line with the School’s own mission and strategy.  This seems like an excellent way to frame a School’s internationalisation priorities and a great example of good practice.

Finally, both EFMD and AACSB presented to the meeting.  A key takeaway from each that might be of interest:

  • EFMD: The EFMD update included the news that in certain (limited) circumstances, eligibility (for schools in the initial EQUIS process) may be extended to 48 months rather than limited to the current 24 months.  This potentially impacts the length of time available to complete the Self Assessment Report (SAR) and Peer Review Visit for schools that have significant, key areas to address and where it makes sense to delay the process.  Such situations are likely to require the approval of the EQUIS Board and Schools will be required to complete some interim reporting.  No further details are publicly available to date, but QED expects that the 2023 Process Documentation will include updated guidance.  In the interim, we suggest that any questions are submitted directly to your EFMD account manager or advisor.
  • AACSB’s session focused on reporting for positive societal impact.  There was a lot of good advice here, but the key points noted were: i) ensure the vision for positive societal impact is identified clearly in the context of a School’s mission and values;  and ii) consider using ‘counter factuals’ to help conversation (e.g. “What would happen if we didn’t do xyz?”)

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

 

Nov 17
5

AABS Deans’ & Directors’ Forum 2022

By | Conference Update, Resource

AABS Deans’ & Directors’ Forum 2022

 

The AABS (Association of African Business Schools) forum for Deans & Directors was almost three days of learning, meeting people, amazing conversations and discovering.  While QED, specifically our Joanne, attended the conference as a speaker and below are the takeaways from the Forum:

1. Sometimes if you don’t disrupt, you may end up getting disrupted! 

In his keynote, Prof Fred Olayele (Carleton University, Canada) spoke to the need for those involved in business education to take a step back and really think about not just WHAT they do, but also HOW they do it.  A key challenge lies in policy innovation and the fact that forging a ‘more dynamic economy’ across Africa requires (in addition to research etc) more openness to experimentation, testing, piloting and prototyping – all with the focus of creating more innovative approaches to the policy development process.

Key Question: What can business schools (not just in Africa) do to ‘move the needle’ in terms of business sector innovation? 

2. Peter Diamandis’ 6D Framework 

Kevin Allen spoke around exponential organisations and the challenges therein. There was so much to digest, but it was good to be reminded of Peter Diamandis’ 6D framework to describe the basic roadmap of technical innovation.  The 6 Ds are: Digitize, Deceptive, Disruptive, Demonitize, Dematerialize, and Democratise. An explanation of each is available at https://www.diamandis.com/blog/the-6ds

Key Question: Where does the use of technology within << Test Organisation >> sit on Diamandis’ 6D Framework and what else should/could your organisation (or department) be doing to move further along the technical innovation roadmap? 

3. Fast beats Slow 

What a privilege it was to listen to both Tim Mescon and Jon Foster-Pedley on the topic of Deanship.  Our take-away was watching how both these leaders shared an incredible richness of experience and wisdom with humility, lack of ego and generosity. There was much to choose from, but we think the focus on being clear on your purpose and really working to explicate the distinctiveness of your organisation were some of the key points. We were particularly struck by Tim’s reminder that “fast beats slow” – and the need to be agile and nimble (rather than large) so that the organisation can adapt to the changing context.  Whilst the challenge was posed to deans and directors, there is a sense that this guidance is valid for all of us in some way within our own individual roles.

Key Question: What small thing could you do within your role (whativer your organisation) to improve adaptability in a changing context? 

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

 

 

Jul 18
5

AACSB Business Accreditation Standards: Updates 2022

By | Resource

AACSB Business Accreditation Standards: Updates 2022

AACSB significantly updated its Business Accreditation Standards in 2020.  Since then it issues annual amendments and updates – usually on 1 July.

QED’s overview of the updates made as part of the 2022 publication, together with an assessment of the significance of the change can be found in this downloadable PDF file.

Many of the updates reflect clarification and additional explanation. However, there are a small number of changes which could potentially impact schools (particularly those schools that are pre-eligibility). As always, QED recommends that all schools within an AACSB accreditation process (whether initial or renewal) should review and ensure they have understood the changes and clarifications.

NB: QED’s material represents QED’s interpretation of the AACSB Updates.  We always recommend that you view the updated standards directly – which are available from AACSB’s website in the following formats: 

As above, QED’s summary of the updates across the key documents is available in this downloadable PDF file.

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Jul 01
5

AACSB Business Accreditation Standards: Updates 2021

By | Resource

AACSB Business Accreditation Standards: Updates 2021

AACSB significantly updated its Business Accreditation Standards in 2020.  Over the past year, it has continued to consult and receive feedback on the new standards – from pilot schools, members and volunteers. It has now published its first set of amendments/updates (1 July 2021).

QED’s overview of the updates made as part of the 2021 publication, together with an assessment of the significance of the change can be found in this downloadable PDF file.

Whilst the vast majority of changes reflect clarification only,  there are a small number which could potentially impact schools.  Regardless, QED recommends that all schools within an AACSB accreditation process (whether initial or renewal) should review and ensure they have understood the changes and clarifications.

NB: QED’s material represents QED’s interpretation of the AACSB Updates.  We always recommend that you view the updated standards directly – which are available from AACSB’s website in the following formats:

As above, QED’s summary of the updates across the key documents is available in this downloadable PDF file.

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Oct 13
0

AACSB: Transition Table for 2020 Standards

By | Resource

AACSB: Transition Table for 2020 Business Accreditation Standards

AACSB’s  2020 Business Accreditation Standards were released at the end of July 2020.    The new standards represent a streamlined, principles-based framework and provide flexibility for the Business School of the future

The broad transition period for the 2020 Standards is outlined in the table below:

qed-aacsb-2020-transition-table

Any school that is currently in the initial accreditation process, and expects to have a peer review visit after July 2021 should consult with their AACSB Staff Liaison to discuss their preferred transition time.  Queries of a technical nature can be addressed to your AACSB Staff Liaison (for member schools), your mentor (for those in the process of initial accreditation) and/or your external advisor (such as QED).

 

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Sep 22
0

Webinar Series: AACSB 2020 – What you need to know?

By | Webinars

qed-academ-webinar-series

Using their combined expertise and knowledge, QED and RimaOne are partnering to provide a series of three webinars, covering the new AACSB 2020 Business Accreditation Standards. Whether you’re preparing for initial accreditation, or for a continuous improvement review, these webinars will provide a practical insight into the new standards.

The webinars will last 45 mins to an hour (including time for Q&A) and will provide an overview of some of the key changes arising, together with practical examples and advice of how schools should or can prepare. Registration is free and participants are encouraged to submit questions in advance.

All webinars will start at 1pm Central European Time.

Webinar 1: What do the changes mean for you?

Guest Speaker: Frank Bostyn – Dean UAEU & Board Member AACSB

Date: October 15th 2020

AACSB’s 2020 Business Accreditation Standards were approved in Summer 2020. Our first webinar is focused on providing an overview of the changes (both in terms of the standards and the related processes). Key topics include:

  • Summary of new standards & comparison with 2013 standards
  • What stays the same? What has changed?
  • Process changes overview – including transition arrangements
  • Scoping (including collaborative provision)

Register for Webinar 1 here

 

Webinar 2: Faculty Qualifications and Sufficiency (Standard 3)

Guest Speaker: Sarah Vaughan – Associate Dean Accreditations, ICN Business School, France.

Date: October 22nd 2020

The second webinar in the series focuses on Standard 3 (Faculty and Professional Staff Resources) with particular emphasis on Faculty Qualification and Tables 3.1 and 3.2 (previously 15.1 and 15.2). Key discussion points include:

  • 2013 vs 2020: What stays the same? What has changed?
  • Key points to consider when transitioning to Tables 3.1 and 3.2 (old tables 15.1 and 15.2)
  • The focus on ‘discipline’ rather than ‘department’ or ‘subject group’ within the 2020 Accreditation Standards.

Register for Webinar 2 here

 

Webinar 3: Assurance of Learning

Guest Speakers: Venkata Yanamandram (Associate Professor and Director of AoL, University of Wollongong, Australia) and Sara Isabel Marin-Zapata (International Accreditations, Universidad EAFIT, Columbia)

Date: October 29th 2020

Our final webinar in the series takes an overall look at Standard 5 (Assurance of Learning). In this we talk about the changes in language within the new standards, and the importance of taking time to really define the learning competencies for each programme. Key areas include:

  • 2013 vs 2020: What stays the same? What has changed?
  • Table 5.1 (“new” Assurance of Learning table)
  • Microlearning Credentials: what do I need to know?
  • Non-degree Executive Education: what’s required?
  • Latest insights into the moves by AACSB to allow leverage of work done for National/Regional Regulatory bodies.

Register for Webinar 3 here

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.

Jul 29
0

AACSB: 2020 Standards now released

By | Resource

AACSB: New 2020 Business Accreditation Standards released

As anticipated, July 28th 2020 saw the release of AACSB’s newly approved 2020 Business Accreditation Standards.  This has been the culmination of two years of dialogue and review.  The new standards represent a streamlined, principles-based framework and provide flexibility for the Business School of the future.

QED will be providing plenty of guidance (including a series of webinars planned for the Autumn) – but  – for now – what are the key things you need to know?

What is the key difference between the 2013 and the 2020 standards?
The 2020 standards have a principles based approach –  providing some flexibility for different types of business schools and the changing needs of business schools into the future. This gives more scope for business schools to adapt to the individual requirements of their School.

Is that not just another way of saying that the standards are ‘easier’?
No – absolutely not!  Many of the same standards and targets apply – but there has been a huge effort to streamline the standards (now 9 standards, instead of 15) and to ensure that a focus on principles means that Schools continue to align with the ‘spirit’ or ‘intention’ of each standard in a way that directly supports high quality practices and processes.

For Schools that are already ‘in the process’ or are accredited, what areas are important to flag as potential areas for change?
There are several key areas of change and QED would always recommend that the School makes space for staff to become familiar with these.  Areas to which particular attention might be paid include:

  • Language changes: For example, students are referred to as ‘Learners’.  Instead of ‘learning goals’, the standards talk about ‘learning competencies’.  N.B. It is important to review the definitions provided by AACSB whenever relevant – as terminology and the meaning of words can vary internationally.
  • More detailed guidance around collaborative provision partnerships – and whether the related programmes fall in-scope or out-of-scope (part of the AACSB philosophy in the prequel to the standards);
  • New requirement (and standard) for ‘Engagement and Societal Impact’ (new Standard 9);
  • More attention paid to risk planning, including a formal risk analysis;
  • Faculty tables to be organised by ‘Discipline’ (not department or programme etc).  This is likely to be an easy transition for many schools, but potentially difficult for others….! It will highlight any short-comings in the academic underpinnings for individual subject areas within the School.  However, Schools have more flexibility in deployment of faculty, once the standard is met at the discipline level.
  • AoL: Schools are encouraged (and expected) to have a combination of direct and indirect measures – depending on how best to assure learning for each competency within a programme.

When do the 2020 standards become effective?
AACSB has established a transition time frame and all Schools with an interest in AACSB accreditation or re-accreditation should be aware of this. The transition time frame uses the Peer Review Visit as the key ‘transition point’ and Schools will need to work backwards from there to establish the point of planning and transition within the School.

  • 2020/21:  Only Schools with CIR visits that have been accepted onto the initial pilot phase will be accredited under the new standards between January and June 2021.
  • 2021/22: Schools expecting Peer Review Visits between July 1 2021 and June 30 2022 can CHOOSE whether to be accredited under the 2013 standards or the 2020 standards
  • 2022/23: Schools expecting Peer Review Visits between July 1 2022 and June 30 2023 can CHOOSE whether to be accredited under the 2013 standards or the 2020 standards.
  • 2023/24 onwards: Any school expecting a Peer Review Visit from 1 July 2023 will be required to align with the 2020 Standards.

Any school that is currently in the initial accreditation process, and expects to have a peer review visit after July 2021 should consult with their AACSB Staff Liaison to discuss their preferred transition time

Where can I learn more about the new Standards?
The new standards and AACSB’s Interpretative Guidance document are good places to start.  All of the new documentation is available on AACSB’s website.  Of course, AACSB will be rolling out a comprehensive set of learning events, to support Schools’ transition to the new standards.  In addition, QED will be partnering with RimaOne in Autumn 2020 to provide a set of three free webinars, targeting key areas of focus within the new standards.  QED will also be providing in-school workshops and briefings (virtual events, and – when travel permits – on-site) – tailored to the specifications of each client.  For any information on QED webinars, briefings or workshops, please contact QED directly.

For advice and further details on any of the above, please contact the QED Accreditation Team at info@QEDaccreditation.com.