Quality Matters in Transnational Education: Undergoing the GATE Review Process. An Australan-Asian Case Study

Monash University offers transnational education programs to some 4,000 students based in Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore. The University's transnational programs have been twice reviewed (in 1996 and 1999) by the international quality assurance body Global Alliance for Transnational Education (GATE). Based upon the experience of Monash, this article looks at the "nuts and bolts"practicalities of what is involved for an institution undergoing review by GATE, including. conducting the initial self-review; composing the "Dossier" required by GATE; and preparing for the interview schedule. In light of the GATE reviews and the University's ongoing self-evaluation, the article also reflects upon some of the key issues in transnational education: cultural appropriateness of curriculum and pedagogy; the relationship between provider and host; and the provision of education resources.