Our work: Research and Evaluation
What we do
Information is everything. You need to know how well things are working and why? What has changed and by how much? What are the key issues and challenges in your market? Where do we go from here?
KSA builds a unique and tailored approach for you, helping you focus exactly on what matters most in converting your ideas into action. We will work with you in an open and transparent way that builds ownership of the results by those involved.
Our research and evaluation services include:
- Strategy and policy reviews
- Market research
- Needs assessments
- Feasibility and scoping studies
- Mapping exercises
- Stakeholder surveys
- Programme and project evaluations
The research we do is carried out in accordance with The Market Research Society Code of Practice and Data Protection Act.
Case Study: Work Based Learning Study
KSA conducted (on behalf of the Higher Education Academy) a national research and evaluation project funded by the DfES which aimed to illuminate the higher education landscape by painting a picture of the extent to which the sector is currently supporting workforce development. The evaluation element - which involved analysing a wide range of case studies - helped to increase understanding about the different approaches to work based learning by developing a typology and identifying critical factors in the delivery of effective practice. Our work was disseminated at a national conference in June 2006.

Recent projects:
- Northumbria University, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Salford and UCLAN - Urban Regeneration: Making a Difference
- KSA is currently evaluating the HEFCE funded Urban Regeneration: Making a Difference programme which is a collaboration between the higher education institutes and designed to transfer university expertise to practioners and stakeholders in the areas of enterprise. community cohesion, crime and health.
- Coventry University - Evaluation of the Employer Engagemnet Pilot Project
- KSA is evaluating the HEFCE funded employer engagement pilot project led by Coventry University which seeks to create sustainable partnerships between learners, employers and higher education.
- Aim Higher Humber - Learner Segmentation
- This was a large piece of research with 1500 young people from the aim higher cohort in years 7-13. The research identified their attitudes and aspirations towards higher education.
Client feedback:
"The work you have done in steering the Newcastle 14-19 self evaluation has been first class. You've helped us achieve a clear understanding of where we are and we have consequently been able to prepare a document in which we can have a great deal of confidence."
Seth Pearson, Newcastle Learning Partnership Co-ordinator



