Thematic Review

At Heriot-Watt University, Thematic Review is a topic-led approach to institution-wide review of learning and teaching matters which have been identified as key priorities for the institution. Thematic Reviews are conducted on an individual topic basis. The process is led by the University Committee for Learning and Teaching and it has an enhancement focus and purpose.

From 2024/25 to 2026/27, the University is re-developing its periodic review process to align with the Tertiary Quality Enhancement Framework.  Following a series of pilots, a decision will be taken on the continuation and format of Thematic Review.

The topics for the first of the five-year programmes of Thematic Review, which concluded in 2019/20, were as follows:

Academic Year Topic for Thematic Review
2015/16 Technology-enhanced learning and teaching
2016/17 Assessment
2017/18 ALP and IDL student learning experience; PGT student learning experience
2018/19 Induction, Transition and Retention
2019/20 Employability and Graduate Attributes

The Thematic Review process is outlined in detail in Thematic Review: Handbook for Review of Institution-wide Learning and Teaching Issues.

Key information

Maggie King