INTERNAL QUALITY ASSURANCE PRACTICES IN HIGHER EDUCATION: EVIDENCE FROM A GHANAIAN UNIVERSITY

Abstract

<p>Providing quality education has become a policy priority in higher education systems around the world in recent years. This study investigated internal quality assurance practices in higher education in a Ghanaian university. The study was a descriptive survey that aimed to assess the adequateness and effectiveness of the internal quality assurance (IQA) structures and practices in place at the university. It examined the extent to which institutional quality assurance arrangements, guidelines, and strategies were introduced by the university to ensure the quality of its educational provisions. The study population consisted of the teaching staff (senior members) and third and fourth-year students from eight faculties and three schools of the University, including the Director of the Academic Planning and Quality Assurance Directorate. A purposive sampling approach was applied to choose the six representative faculties and two representative schools. From each faculty and school, two departments were randomly selected. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to select six lecturers and 20 students from each academic department. In total, a sample of 416 respondents was involved in the study. Two sets of questionnaires were adapted and used for the study, one for students and the other for teaching staff. The findings revealed that quality assurance systems and practices are at work at the university and that they improve the quality of internal processes that influence teaching and student learning. It was, therefore, suggested that the university take concrete steps to establish and document clear policy guidelines and related procedures that will consolidate the progress made in assuring the quality and standards of its programmes and awards. The university needs to consider making an explicit commitment to developing a culture and awareness of quality. It is also important for the university to design and implement progressive quality improvement strategies that will perpetuate a quality culture.</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/edu_01/0333/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>