Mechanisms for Enhancement

Enhancement activities are supported by diverse, multi-layered, and iterative mechanisms, including:

• Student feedback
• Staff reflections
• Quality assurance processes
• External reviews and benchmarking
• Performance and analytics data
• Strategic communication and outreach
• Community building and fostering belonging

These mechanisms are increasingly linked to strategic reform and are used proactively to shape internal policy, guide curriculum review, and align departmental work with institutional priorities. Departments are encouraged to adopt ‘theory of change’ approaches to deeply evaluate and embed enhancements. The 'Mapping Impact - Theory of change workshop'Link opens in a new window can help you learn more about how to embed theory of change approaches.

The following resources may prove useful:

• Transforming Access and Student Outcomes in Higher EducationLink opens in a new window (TASO) - Core Theory of Change Templates
• Transforming Access and Student Outcomes in Higher Education (TASO) - Evidence toolkit: Student access, success and progressionLink opens in a new window
• Erasmus University RotterdamLink opens in a new window
• OfS: Theory of change and setting an outcomes-focused raising attainment targetLink opens in a new window
• OfS: Theory of change (exemplars)Link opens in a new window
• HELOA: Using theory of change to review and evaluate WP activity - a University of Warwick presentation by Dr Tammy Thiele and Amanda BishopLink opens in a new window
• United Nations Development GroupLink opens in a new window
• Better Evaluation KnowledgeLink opens in a new window
• West Yorkshire Combined Authority - Theory of change toolkitLink opens in a new window