TAG expert group
remit
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to set out the remit for the work of the expert group established by TAG in line with the proposal in the paper 'Discharging TAG's remit' presented on 9th March at the first meeting of the TAG. This document should be read in conjunction with the minutes of this meeting.
Objective of the group
The overall objective of the group is to develop a shared evidence base based on verifiable data and an agreed transparent methodology recognising that there are various definitions and measures than could be used. The role of the expert group is to provide a factual analysis of these definitions and measures for use by the TAG and others.
A suggested remit is:
"Within six months to produce verifiable data to help TAG assess:
(a) levels of funding in Scottish universities in relation to competitors;
(b) effectiveness and efficiency with which public funding is being used by universities; and (c) the impact that of this funding."
Comparing this to the original suggestions set out in 'Discharging TAG's remit' it offers the chance for the group to consider a range of measures including expenditure and economic impact. In addition measures of efficiency and effectiveness will enable the group to examine inputs, outputs and outcomes across teaching and research, the main elements of the activities of the HEIs.
By the end of the work programme the group should be able to address a) to c) and to have put forward a set of definitions and a basket of measures that can be adopted by the TAG partners as the basis for future action as they see fit.
Membership of the Group
The group shall consist of eight members. Two each from the Scottish Government and Scottish Funding Council, two from Universities Scotland and two independent experts.
Undertaking the work of the group
The approach to be undertaken to complete the work of the group is to be discussed and agreed jointly by the members of the expert group. This includes the resources required, the methodologies to be adopted, management of the work and the reporting lines and timetable.
Dr Audrey MacDougall
Head of Lifelong Learning ASU
Tel: 0141 242 5650
Annex A - Proposed timetable
Month | Task | Responsibility |
February 09 | Develop a draft of possible measures of expenditure for discussion and agreement | SG initial lead with SFC and US |
March 09 | TAG meeting | |
| Agree core membership of the expert group | All |
| Set up first meeting of the expert group | SG to organise |
May 09 | Agree remit of the expert group | All |
| Prepare draft workplan for discussion at first expert group meeting | |
May 09 - Dec 09 (Note - timetable since revised to March 10) | Agree outline workplan, resources and timescales | All - at meeting on 8th May 09 |
| Complete and agree the work of each workstream. Each piece of work will have its own project plan and timetable with an interim report on all work in Sept 09 and a final report in March 10 | All |