The Finnish Education Evaluation Centre has conducted an audit of the Police University College and has awarded the institution a quality label that is valid for six years from 18 April 2018. The quality system of the Police University College fulfils the national criteria set for the quality management of higher education institutions, and corresponds to the European quality assurance principles and recommendations for higher education institutions.
According to the international audit team, a key strength of the quality system of the Police University College (Polamk) is that there are comprehensive and functional quality procedures that advance the development of the institution’s core duties. Operational and financial planning at Polamk is functional and it is reviewed systematically. The quality system is widely understood by staff, students and external stakeholders. The wide accessibility of the operational quality manual on Polamk’s website is an example of good practice, which promotes both internal and external quality communication.
“The quality system works especially well for the development of degree education provided at Polamk,” notes Professor John Taylor, Chair of the audit team. “The involvement of external stakeholders in the development of education is a notable strength for Polamk. Information and experience from the field of police work is systematically used to ensure high quality, forward-looking police education at Polamk, relevant to the needs of Finnish society.”
International collaboration has become increasingly important for Polamk, and the freely selected audit target chosen by Polamk was global cooperation.
The audit team recommends Polamk to pay attention to the volume of information generated by the different feedback tools. “By ensuring that the information collected can be analysed thoroughly and efficiently, Polamk can enhance the achievement of its strategic goals,” stresses Professor Taylor. In addition, Polamk should make sure that all instructions and forms are available in Swedish for the Swedish-speaking students.
The quality procedures for practical training are exemplary and highlight some of the positive features of quality management at Polamk, especially the close involvement of stakeholders and partners, linking working life with the education provided at Polamk.
Further information:
Professor John Taylor, Chair of the audit team j.r.taylor@lancaster.ac.uk, +44 153 953 0277
Senior Advisor Hilla Aurén, FINEEC project manager hilla.auren@karvi.fi, +358 29 533 5544
Order a printed report
Assistant Anu Lehikko, anu.lehikko@karvi.fi, +358 29 533 5503
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