Quality Academics in Higher Education: Mapping the Key Components

Abstract

There is an increasing concern over the quality of education and academics of higher education institutions, including in developing nations such as Malaysia. The aim of this study is to establish and propose the key components to measure the quality of academics from a local perspective. Utilizing a case study approach, this study had selected a prominent higher education institution and carried out a research based on three comprehensive stages of work. The research stages comprised a review of literature, a series of focused group discussions, a questionnaire survey, analyses of the survey responses and the development of the framework for academics’ profile, and expert verification. Seven key components i.e. academic qualification, external attachment, teaching and learning, academic supervision, research and innovation, personal character and leadership and management have been identified as essential to signify the academics’ range of quality. The study also found the variables and parameters for each of the components along with the elements for evaluation. These findings suggest a quality academic model that would be beneficial for the continuous improvement of academics in higher education institutions thus an initiative towards providing quality higher education for the nation.