Analytic Quality Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Citation reference: Harvey, L., 2004, Analytic Quality Glossary, Quality Research International, http://www.qualityresearchinternational.com/glossary/

This is a dynamic glossary and the author would welcome any e-mail suggestions for amendments or additions.

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Regulatory body

core definition

A regulatory body, in the context of higher education, is an external organisation that has been empowered by legislation to oversee and control the educational process and outputs germane to it.

explanatory context

A regulatory body is like a professional body but it is not a membership organisation and its primary activity is to protect the public. Unlike professional bodies, it is established on the basis of legal mandate.

In some countries, regulatory bodies control aspects of education. For example, the General medical Council has regulatory power over medical education in the UK.

analytical review

PROMPT (2004), in Canada, notes:

Professional and regulatory bodies were first introduced in Canada for the dual purposes of protecting the professional status of practitioners, as well as protecting the public’s interest and safety. Today there are 38 diverse occupational regulatory bodies in Ontario. Current accountability mechanisms are limited. In general terms, by virtue of the fact that occupational regulatory bodies are created and given their mandates by public statute, they are responsible to the Government of Ontario, which is in turn accountable to the public.

associated issues

related terms