Incorporating TQM in students' assessment of higher education : academic performance

Part of : MIBES Transactions : international journal ; Vol.4, No.1, 2010, pages 152-164

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152-164
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Abstract:
The implementation of Total Quality Management (TQM) principles in Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) is still controversial although the debate is a long standing one. The main objective of the paper is to contribute to the preceding debate in support of the view that TQM can be implemented at departmental level in HEIs as well as in business. The paper examines whether the adoption of TQM by a department of a HEI can lead to academic quality improvement and increase in students' satisfaction. A student sample of 4325 electronic questionnaires was employed in a three semester period before, during and after acquiring an ISO 9001:2000 qualification. The results provide evidence that students' satisfaction of academic performance was enhanced due to implementation of TQM at departmental level. The strengths and weaknesses of the department were revealed while motivation of faculty members has been witnessed. The paper also suggests that TQM principles can be applied in Higher Education just as easily as in business. The contribution of the paper is the propositions made to educational authorities in order to improve the quality of tertiary education.
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Keywords:
TQM, higher education, assessment, student satisfaction
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