CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) PRACTICE IN VOCATIONAL COLLEGES

Abstract

Continuous quality improvement (CQI) is an important element in quality management. This is because CQI is a key factor in improving the quality of education and ensuring that improvements in teaching and learning activities are continuously implemented. The implementation of CQI in Vocational Colleges (VCs) is increasingly being carried out in line with the application of the outcome-based learning (OBE) approach. However, reports from the board of accreditation showed differences in CQI practices for several programs under the same institution. Thus, this study can give a clear picture of CQI practice in VCs. This study was conducted to identify CQI practices in VCs and make comparisons of practice based on demographic factors namely gender, age, and teaching field. This survey-based study used questionnaires as a research instrument. The respondents of the study consisted of 87 VCs lecturers in the states of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was used to attain the practice level and make comparisons on demographic factors. The findings of the study found that the practice of CQI in VCs was at a high level. However, there were significant differences based on demographic factors for the age group in the dimensions of customer focus and teamwork. This study could provide input to the Vocational Educational and Training Department (BPLTV) on the practice of CQI in VCs. With this input, actions and improvement measures can be planned and implemented to improve VCs. Therefore, it is hoped that this study could be a platform for improvement in VCs quality management.