Factors associated with the impact of implementing quality management systems at schools: a multilevel analysis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the simultaneous effect of a set of predictors of the impact perceived by teachers and managers of implementing two Quality Management Systems (QMS): European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) and ISO:9001 STANDARDS. A sample of 2869 subjects from 114 Spanish schools has been taken, to which a 91-item questionnaire has been applied to assess the perceived impact that the implementation of QMS has had on the schools. Data analysis was carried out using hierarchical-linear modelling. Results show a high level of impact in Management and Planning system and medium impact in Communication, the Learning Process and External Relations. The main predictors of the impact are the position and years of service at the school (on Level 1 -Subject-) and ownership, school size and QMS implemented (on Level 2 -Schools-), finding that the impact perceived in schools with EFQM was higher. The specialised literature shows the scarcity of studies on the impact that QMS have on organisations, especially in the education sector. Thus, this study provides conclusions to the scientific and professional community with objective evidence of predictors of the impact perceived by teachers and managers of implementing QMS in schools.