Keeping our data up-to-date

Expertise, data and evaluation.

These three elements form the backbone of the services provided by UK NARIC.

In order to ensure that our information is as up-to-date as possible, each year we undertake research into education systems throughout the world; this is known as our Information Development Plan, or IDP.

Following the successful completion of 2011 planned activities, this document sets out the continued Information Development Plan for 2011-2012 (IDP) in accordance with the UK NARIC Code of Practice.

The information we hold on over 190 countries will continue to be updated on a rolling basis. However, the 2011-2012 IDP identifies priority countries that require targeted research to reflect significant changes in their education systems.

Particular attention has been given to the following data sources in the identification of UK NARIC priority countries:

• Applications received from individuals
• Information requests from member organisations
• Where significant reforms are taking place worldwide.

As a result the following regional priorities have been identified:

 Asia

To review and update existing information on higher education, particularly regarding private education providers and programme accreditation.

Middle East

To review and expand existing data within the vocational and higher education sectors, with a focus on quality assurance.

English-speaking Africa

To review and update current data in order to reflect any new developments but with a particular focus on recognised higher education institutions.

Latin America

Focusing specifically upon quality assurance and private education providers.

Additionally, 35 countries have been identified where there will be specific updates; there will also be in-country reviews taking place in Ghana, Indonesia, Morocco and the USA during the course of 2012.

The full IDP is available to download from the UK NARIC website.

Tim Buttress, February 2012