Institutional Research Showcase 2026
22 May 2026 (12–1pm AEST / 2–3pm NZST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
Facilitator: Lester DSouza, Manager, Government Reporting at University of Technology Sydney
Student load planning from manual to automated process
Louise Branch-Smith, Senior Analyst, Student Load Planning at Murdoch University
This project is not simply a shift from Excel to Power BI, but a broader maturity journey in how student load planning decisions are made across the University. Rather than focusing on tool features for the new product, the emphasis is on progressively strengthening planning capability – from fragmented, manual processes to integrated, data-driven decision-making. By breaking the process into detailed requirements and test cases, we’ve created a structured foundation that reconnects previously siloed teams and standardises how planning is performed. This approach hopes to achieve a more collaborative, scalable, and ultimately predictive planning model that will evolve with institutional needs.
A flash of insight: The annual course review
Ilse Hogendorf, Manager Market Insights and Institutional Research at Charles Darwin University
This lightning talk shares the story of CDU’s Annual Course Review, from connecting and planning the data through to shaping the final report and socialising it across the university. It highlights practical approaches to turning complex information into clear, useful insights that support course quality and decision making.
Comparing educator and student perceptions of unacceptable and risk of harm comments in student evaluation of teaching surveys
Dr Sarah Dart, Strategic Lead – Learner Experience and Evaluation, Queensland University of Technology
This session examines how students and educators assess potentially ‘unacceptable’ and ‘risk of harm’ comments in the context of student surveys. It reports on preliminary findings of a research study that gathered data from structured focus groups with students and educators, where participants classified example comments and discussed their reasoning. The outcomes of statistical and thematic analysis are presented, with implications for institutional comment screening processes discussed.
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: $75.74 (AUD$65 + GST + booking fee)
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
Why Rankings and Which One/s (Part 1)
28 May 2026 (12–1pm AEST / 2–3pm NZST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
SIG Chairs:
- Elvira Fonacier, Head of Performance Evaluation at University of Technology Sydney
- Lin Jiang, Rankings Specialist at University of Technology Sydney
Global university rankings are widely referenced by students, partners, governments and funding bodies as indicators of reputation and performance – but why do most Australian universities participate in them, and how should these rankings be understood and used?
This session provides an opportunity to step back and examine why universities engage with rankings, which ranking systems matter in different contexts, and how results and methodologies are interpreted across the sector.
We will explore the purposes rankings serve, the differences between major global ranking systems, and the practical implications for data submissions, institutional benchmarking and performance analysis. Participants will gain insight into how rankings influence strategic decision making and how institutions can engage with them in a more informed and effective way.
Designed for both experienced practitioners and those new to rankings, this session encourages shared learning, open discussion, and practical understanding of rankings as part of institutional strategy and performance evaluation.
Whether your work involves reporting, planning, analytics or executive support, this session will help build confidence in interpreting rankings and understanding their role within the higher education landscape.
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: $75.74 (AUD$65 + GST + booking fee)
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
Welcome to AAIR: Connect, Learn and Get Started
22 June 2026 (12–1 pm AEST / 2–3pm NZST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
Facilitators:
- Sharon Liddell (AAIR Executive Committee member), Surveys Coordinator at University of Technology Sydney, Australia
- Alexandra Simpson (AAIR Social Media Coordinator), Data Analyst (Learning & Teaching) at Bond University, Australia
New to AAIR? A friendly introduction to institutional research in higher education
Whether you’re brand new to the Australasian Association for Institutional Research or simply looking to reconnect, this welcoming session is designed to help you feel confident, informed and part of the community.
We’ll introduce you to institutional research in the higher education context, explain how AAIR supports your professional growth, and show you how to get the most value from your membership. You’ll meet fellow members, learn about our Special Interest Groups and events, and have the opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed, supportive environment.
New members are especially encouraged to attend, and long-standing members are warmly invited to join us to share their experience and connect with our newest colleagues.
Come along, say hello and start building your AAIR network.
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: Also FREE
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
AAIR Forum 2026
25–27 November 2026
Albany, New Zealand
The 2026 AAIR Forum will be hosted by Massey University at its stunning Albany campus in Auckland, New Zealand. Bringing together institutional research professionals from across Australasia, the Forum will offer valuable opportunities to connect, share insights and explore emerging trends in data, analytics and strategy in higher education. More details will be released soon—stay tuned for what promises to be an inspiring and collaborative event.
Registration Fees
Coming soon