The Use of the Educational Quality Assurance System of the ASEAN University Network (AUN-QA) for the Curriculum-Level Assurance in Nursing Colleges

Abstract

          There are several kinds of educational quality assurance systems with different pros and cons. Its application depends on the contexts of each educational institution. It is a challenge for any educational institution to improve its quality to reach the international standards and be able to produce graduates with high core competence. In case of nursing education, social expectation especially from employers placed on nurse graduates is quite high. ASEAN University Network - Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) is one of good options to assure international-standard quality of any nursing program. However, how to properly apply AUN-QA should be insightfully taken into consideration in order to ensure nurse graduates’ competencies in the changing world. AUN-QA places important on key stakeholders at all levels. It focuses on learning outcomes that fulfill international-level expectations. AUN-QA for program level can enhance the quality of Thai nursing education. This will be beneficial for Thai nurse graduates in general and their opportunities for international work in particular. Therefore, AUN-QA can alleviate competitive abilities of Thai education at a global level.