Key Aspects of Managing the Students’ Satisfaction with the Learning Environment at the International University

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The article defines the role of assessment of students’ satisfaction with the educational process and the learning environment at the university and identifies the possible criteria for students’ satisfaction. Methods/ Statistical analysis: The authors applied multivariate analysis, study, generalization, comparison, sociological survey (namely a questionnaire survey), factor analysis and grouping for the research. The statements and conclusions of this publication were based on the following sources: the author’s study of 500 students of the RUDN International University, RUDN University internal documentation, articles in issue-related magazines and websites. Findings: The authors present the results of their study of students’ satisfaction in RUDN University, during which the basic and additional (secondary) criteria of satisfaction of students studying at International University have been identified. The results have been obtained using the factor analysis in the major groups of students (male and female, foreign and Russian students). The main criteria contained the following: level of the teaching staff, friendly relationships between faculty members and students, international activity of the university, possibility for further employment, image of the university inside the country and in the world, information and methodological support of the educational process and the level of university infrastructure development. The article also defines and emphasizes the role of regular surveys of student satisfaction, as well as their importance for the process of international accreditation of the higher education institution. Application/Improvements: The authors provide recommendations for the improvement of the level of satisfaction of the International University students, such as: development of professional and pedagogical skills of teaching staff, etc.