The JISC infoNet Approach
Like other infoKits, we have devised a very simple model as a framework for the materials, in this case comprising five elements. The main body of this Kit runs through a number of analytical methodologies but we also focus on the impact, the barriers and the contributions that people can have when you come to manage a process review. This framework also highlights the idea of continuous process improvement previously mentioned by the inclusion of the dotted arrow feeding from the last element back to the first.
Putting learners at the heart of every process review by asking 'how does this process benefit learners?' gives you the best way of engaging staff in the organisation. The turmoil of day to day activity often clouds this focus.
Process Review was a bit of a buzzword a while ago and it got a bit of a bad press when concentration on methodologies forgot about the people at the heart of the processes. Many people still perceive the term process review in a negative light. Our workshops include a brief exercise where delegates are asked to list words relating to their perceptions of process review, the following were some of the most common statements:
- fear
- improvement
- evaluation
- challenging existing methods and approaches
- resistance to change
- responding to changing conditions/student expectations
- need for involvement
- need for top management support
We'll consider now some principles of process review, reinforcing the learner-centred approach, and look at the importance of stakeholders and building a team before we move onto look at some process analysis tools and techniques.
