Q: What processes and procedures govern the quality assurance process?

A: Much of the work undertaken with respect to quality assurance is governed by:

Minister’s Binding Policy Directive: Framework for Programs of Instruction

The delivery of programs of instruction is the core business of colleges of applied arts and technology in Ontario. As defined in O. Reg. 34/03 under the Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology Act, 2002, a program of instruction means a group of related courses leading to a diploma, certificate, or other document awarded by the college. The Act identifies the colleges’ objects or mandate to offer a comprehensive program of career-oriented, postsecondary education and training that:

• assists individuals in finding and keeping employment;
• meets the needs of employers and the changing work environment: and,
• supports the economic and social development of their local and diverse communities.

This binding policy directive applies to all colleges of applied arts and technology and defines expectations for all programs of instruction offered by colleges regardless of the funding source, except for ministry-funded apprenticeship training.

Ontario College Quality Assurance Service (OCQAS)

The OCQAS is responsible for ensuring quality at both the program level through the Credential Validation Service (CVS) as well as at the institutional level through the College Quality Assurance Audit Process (CQAAP).

Credentials Validation Service (CVS)

The CVS undertakes a thorough review of the applications for validation that are submitted by the colleges. This review ensures that the programs meet or exceed the expectations and requirements set out in government policy through the Minister’s Binding Policy Directive, Framework for Programs of Instruction. The staff of the CVS provides on-going training and orientation with college personnel to ensure full comprehension of the validation application process and the requirements thereof.