Private Higher Education Institutions Research Articles

SERVQUAL Gap Analysis Between Two Private Higher Education Institution Campuses in South Africa

Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) have expanded globally, embedding themselves in highly competitive markets. To navigate this environment, the enhancement of service quality, particularly through the SERVQUAL model, is crucial for gaining a competitive advantage. This paper addresses the gaps in the SERVQUAL application within PHEIs, focusing on their impact on service quality. The primary objective is to propose a measurement matrix to identify and analyse SERVQUAL gaps across PHEI campuses. The study compares two campuses, ABC and XYZ, and reveals significant discrepancies, particularly in the dimensions of reliability and responsiveness, where Campus ABC underperforms. These findings highlight the critical need for PHEIs to address service quality deficiencies in order to remain competitive and meet evolving student expectations. The research concludes that continuous improvement in service quality is essential for PHEIs to attract students and sustain their competitiveness in a globalised education market.

Transformational leadership for sustainable productivity in higher education institutions of Cameroon

AbstractThis study investigates the need for transformational leadership in the sustainable development of the productivity in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Cameroon. While institutions always request additional funding, the need for effective allocation and utilization of existing resources is relevant for sustainability. Participants for this study included teachers from state and private HEIs in Cameroon. Correlation and regression models were used to assess the impact of transformational leadership on sustainable productivity grounded in Michael Fullan’s (2011) six secrets of educational change theory. A positive and significant relationship was observed between transformational leadership and the productivity of HEIs. While the practice of transformational leadership was observed more in state-owned HEIs, the impact was more in private than in state HEIs. The mean value for intellectual stimulation for sustainable productivity of higher institutes of learning is higher for the private as compared to that of state institutions showing that intellectual stimulation is more used in private HEIs to improve their productivity than in state-owned HEIs in Cameroon. While the correlational analysis showed that intellectual stimulation has the strongest correlate effect on sustainable productivity, the regression analysis showed that inspirational motivation has more added value to productivity. Based on these findings, we recommend a leadership model for sustaining organizational productivity, where the essence of the effective practice of transformational leadership is collaboration, especially in the change process.

Preparing pre-service teachers for Generation Alpha: A social innovation perspective

Background: This era of exponential technological advancements makes us profoundly aware of the role that education must play to ensure that ‘humankind’ is not only able to live but thrive in a world challenged by environmental and social issues. Many of our pre-service teachers are digital natives. However, they will have to be taught to become digital integrators in a learning space where technological innovation aligns with social innovation. This calls for teacher education institutions to critically analyse their curriculum design.Aim: This study aims to investigate the extent to which pre-service teachers are prepared to teach Generation Alpha and it also highlights the imperatives for reimagining teacher education curricula for future generations within the context of social innovation.Setting: This study is conducted on fourth-year Bachelor of Education students who attend a private higher education institution and teacher educators based in teacher education institutions in Gauteng, South Africa.Methods: A qualitative case study research strategy is used in this study. Data were collected through focus group interviews and individual interviews. The raw data were analysed through content analysis.Results: The key findings of this study indicate that fourth-year BEd students believe that they are not adequately prepared to teach Generation Alpha learners within the context of social innovation. This belief is validated by teacher educators.Conclusion: Pre-service teachers must be competent in technological innovation, social innovation and global citizenship to enable them to produce learners who are socially, and ethically responsible, as well as emotionally intelligent innovators, leaders and communicators.Contribution: To mobilise and expedite these competencies, teacher education institutions must redesign their pedagogical models and teacher education curricula to align with the educational needs of the future generations.

A qualitative exploration of nursing master's research supervision in a private higher education institution

BackgroundCompleting a Master's thesis is crucial for earning a master's degree and showcasing students' academic and professional skills. However, the process is often challenging owing to its solitary nature and the complexity of its supervisory relationships. PurposeThis study aimed to explore the experience of Nursing Master's Research Supervision and its impact on their thesis journey. DesignExploratory descriptive qualitative research design. Setting and participantsThe study was conducted at a private nursing institute in Islamabad, Pakistan, from January 2022 to May 2022. The study included 12 students enrolled in the Masters of Science in Nursing program. MethodsFocus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted online, using a semi-structured guide. Students were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were analysed using manual content analysis through a collaborative approach. Rigor was ensured using Lincoln and Guba's trustworthiness criteria. SRQR reporting guidelines were used. ResultsThe study explored graduate students' thesis supervision experiences and discovered six influential categories: “Expectations from Supervisor”, encompassing preceding knowledge and teaching perceptions; “Supervisor Accessibility”, involving physical access and cooperation; “Adverse Supervision Experience”, detailing challenging interactions; “Supervision Meeting Management”, addressing problem-solving and scheduling; “Assistance and Support”, covering collaboration, software, and resources; and “Suggestions”, offering guidance on thesis write-up and research committee roles. ConclusionThe study elucidated students' expectations about supervisor expertise, access difficulties, negative experiences, and the need for clear guidelines. Improved communication, defined roles, and increased support for thesis writing and assessment are crucial for satisfactory supervision. Further investigation of supervisors' viewpoints is advised.

Utilization of Digital Financial Transactions and Perspectives of Digital Payment among School Employees

This descriptive-correlational research determined the utilization of digital financial transactions and perspectives of digital payment of the employees in one private higher education institution in the Philippines and correlated these to their demographic and household profiles. A total of 115 employees participated in this study. Contingency coefficient, Chi-square test, and Spearman rho correlation test were used to determine the association of the variables. Findings reveal that the majority of the participants prefer cash for their financial transactions. In general, they are confident in making financial transactions using digital devices. They often utilize digital payment to pay for mobile recharge/loads and cable/internet, and many of the participants have been using digital payment methods for more than three years and above. Findings further show that, generally, the participants have positive perceptions toward digital payment. Single individuals, graduates of education courses, and families with two to three household members below 18 years old prefer cash transactions more than the other groups. There are demographic and household factors that are significantly correlated with confidence in and frequency of making digital financial transactions and the time period of using digital payment methods. Findings may imply the inclusion of digital and financial literacy in the development program for employees to increase awareness and understanding of the benefits, safety measures, and convenience of digital finance.

Designing a Presence Information System for Student Mentoring Activities Using the Laravel Framework

STT NF is a private higher education institution that combines technological knowledge with Islamic values. To achieve this goal, STT NF has a program called student mentoring. Mentoring is led by a mentor and attended by several mentees. The mentoring evaluation process is conducted regularly to assess the progress of each mentee in each group. The evaluation results of each group are sent to BKPK of STT NF. The researcher intends to build an information system for student mentoring attendance using Laravel Framework. The design method used the extreme programming approach. Based on the discussions conducted, it determined that there are five mentoring activities dashboards to be created. There are two known user categories, namely admin and mentor. The program was tested using black box testing with 22 scenarios. Based on the testing, it was concluded that all categories function correctly

Enhancing policy on higher education accessibility in Myanmar: Sustainable impact of technology effectiveness, opportunities, and social development

This study explores the impact of technology effectiveness, social development, and opportunities on higher education accessibility in Myanmar, focusing on private higher education institutions. Utilizing a sample of 199 respondents, with an average age of X (SD = Y), the research employs standardized questionnaires and descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis to examine the relationships between these variables. The findings indicate that technology effectiveness significantly enhances higher education accessibility, with strong positive correlations (r = 0.752, p < 0.001) and substantial impacts on educational outcomes (β = 0.334, p = 0.001). Social development also plays a crucial role, demonstrating that supportive social norms and community engagement significantly improve accessibility (β = 0.405, p < 0.001). Opportunities provided by technological advancements further contribute to enhanced accessibility (β = 0.356, p < 0.001), although socio-political and economic challenges pose significant barriers. The study highlights the interconnectedness of these factors and their collective influence on educational accessibility. Practical implications include the need for strategic investments in technological infrastructure, promotion of supportive social environments, and innovative solutions to leverage opportunities. Future research directions suggest longitudinal studies, broader demographic scopes, and in-depth analyses of specific technological and infrastructural challenges. By addressing these areas, stakeholders can develop effective strategies to improve higher education accessibility, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of Myanmar.

Navigating Competitive Waters: Marketing Mix, Strategic Branding and Growth in Private Higher Education

The entry of many private higher education institutions (HEIs) into the tertiary education industry in Sri Lanka has been conducive to a high degree of rivalry among competitors. Amid this rivalry, the private sector HEIs have realized the importance of designing and implementing strategically planned sustainable growth for institutions to provide value for their stakeholders. This study tested a theoretical model that includes two influencing factors– marketing mix strategy and strategic branding, and one moderating factor–competition, hypothesized to influence the performance and growth of HEI. Respondents (n = 322) from existing HEIs were surveyed to measure the key constructs. A multilinear regression supported a fit of data to the model. The study empirically revealed that marketing mix strategies designed and implemented by the HEIs do not positively influence the performance and growth of the institution. At the same time, strategic branding is a significant factor in influencing performance and growth. Moreover, the relationship between the marketing mix strategy and sustainability and the relationship between strategic branding and sustainability were moderated by the degree of rivalry that impacts the growth of the HEI. These results provide evidence to validate prior theories grounded in literature.

Digital Empowerment for Administrative Staff in Private Higher Education Institutions

This study aims to analyze if work flexibility mediates the relationships between technology leadership, digital skills, organizational culture, and digital adaptation of administrative staff in private Higher Education Institutions City of Bandung, Indonesia. This research is targeting 138 private higher education institutions. Of 1325 eligible administrative staff to be surveyed, 203 gave their response to the questionnaire. PLS-SEM was used to analyze the data collected. The findings suggest that technology leadership, digital skills, and organizational culture significantly affect the digital adaptation of administrative staff. Work flexibility mediates the impact of the three independent variables on digital adaptation. This research, however, has several limitations including sample limitation and baseline on the context of the private higher education institutions in Bandung’s city. Recommendations would be to improve training a technology leader and digital skills and strengthen an organizational culture that supports innovative culture and work flexibility. Further research should broaden the scope of the sample and other factors in the context.

Leveraging the Use of Learning Technologies in Higher Education to Optimise Student Learning

In recent years, lecturers and educational practitioners in higher education institutions (HEIs) have widely discussed and debated pedagogical innovation. This research aimed to critically analyse the lecturers' views on the use of learning technologies to optimise student learning in HEIs. This research was conducted at a private higher education institution in Pretoria, South Africa. The effective use of learning technologies lends itself to pedagogical innovation and optimisation of student learning so that they are better prepared to integrate into the world of work. A qualitative research design was used for this study. The method of data collection was individual interviews with five lecturers from different faculties. Faculties include Education, Humanities and Social Science, Finance and Accounting, Law and Information Technology. Data was analysed through the lens of the SAMR model framework using qualitative thematic analysis. The key findings indicated that lecturers believed learning technologies are used effectively when fit-for-purpose and integrated into quality planning. Furthermore, lecturers emphasised that training, development, and collaborative decision-making were essential in selecting learning technologies. Module developers and lecturers need to work in collaboration and not in isolation.

CERVICITIS: THE KNOWLEDGE LEVEL OF MEDICAL INTERNS AT A PRIVATE HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION IN WESTERN PARANÁ

Cervicitis is an inflammation of the uterine cervix caused by sexually transmitted agents, predominantly Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This condition is usually asymptomatic or sometimes manifests itself through nonspecific symptoms that may not attract the attention of those who are not properly trained to identify them. This lack of diagnosis is extremely problematic, since if left untreated, the patient may develop secondary complications such as PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) or other disorders such as endometritis, infertility and HIV, since the lower genital tract of women becomes much more susceptible to other infections. For this reason, this study sought to evaluate the level of knowledge of medical graduates (interns) from a private higher education institution in western Paraná regarding cervicitis, highlighting the importance of adequate and comprehensive medical training.

Exploring the mediating role of psychological distress in the relationship between psychosocial workload and work-family conflict

In the modern workplace, the imbalance between work and family roles often leads to work-family conflict, negatively impacting employees' well-being. This study examines the mediating role of psychological distress in the relationship between psychosocial workload and work-family conflict among teaching professionals in private higher education institutions in India. The Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) model was used to assess psychosocial workload and its impact on psychological distress and work-family conflict. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed, gathering data from 391 respondents across 35 multidisciplinary deemed universities. The data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results indicate a significant positive relationship between psychosocial workload and work-family conflict, with psychological distress acting as a mediator. A high psychosocial workload was found to increase psychological distress, which, in turn, intensified work-family conflict. These findings highlight the importance of interventions such as flexible work arrangements, workload management, and supportive organizational cultures to mitigate these stressors. The study contributes to the fields of organizational psychology and employee well-being, offering practical insights for university administrators to promote work-life balance and reduce psychological distress.

QUIROPRAXIA E ALÍVIO DAS DORES DE CABEÇA: EXPLORANDO AS CORRELAÇÕES ENTRE AJUSTES CERVICAIS E BEM-ESTAR

Objective: to analyze, using the Borg scale, the effects of cervical adjustment techniques on reducing headache complaints among employees of a private higher education institution in western Santa Catarina. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study, in which six chiropractic appointments were performed over a three-week period, and headache complaints (pain intensity) were assessed using the Borg Scale. Results: eight employees participated in the study, predominantly female (87.50%), with a mean age between 20 and 34 years. The results showed a significant reduction in the mean on the Borg Scale, from 7.88 (±1.73) at the beginning to 0.75 (±1.49) at the end (p = 0.001), with 75.00% of the participants achieving values equal to zero. Conclusion: Despite the low number of participants, the data suggest that chiropractic care may be an effective intervention for headache, and further research with a larger sample size and use of a control group is needed. It is concluded that chiropractic care is beneficial and can improve the quality of life of individuals suffering from chronic pain such as headache.

Analisis Kepuasan Mutu Pelayanan PMB STISIP Widuri Menggunakan Metode Service Quality (SERVQUAL)

This study examines student satisfaction with the New Student Admission (PMB) services at STISIP Widuri. In the competitive landscape of private higher education institutions (PTS), PMB is vital for attracting prospective students through effective marketing and high-quality services. The research, however, identifies that current levels of student satisfaction with PMB services at STISIP Widuri fall short of expectations. By applying the Service Quality framework, the study evaluates key service dimensions including reliability, responsiveness, and empathy. The results indicate that the services provided do not meet student expectations, leading to notable dissatisfaction. The study seeks to uncover the factors affecting student satisfaction and offers recommendations for enhancing service quality. The outcomes aim to make a significant impact on improving PMB services at STISIP Widuri, benefiting both academic and practical aspects. Ultimately, this research provides a foundation for improving higher education services, especially in the new student admission process. The recommendations are designed to strengthen the connection between the institution and its students, boost loyalty, and encourage positive word-of-mouth. Improving the quality of PMB services is crucial for achieving competitive advantage and enhancing the institution's reputation.

Exploring predominant marketing strategies for branding higher education institutions in Tanzania

It is worth noting that the utilisation of marketing strategies by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) operates within a complex and unclear environment. This study, therefore, explored the predominant marketing strategies used for branding HEIs in Tanzania. The study adopted an embedded mixed methods research design. Semi-structured interviews with 12 staff members from 6 HEIs, including 6 public relations officers (PROs) and 6 registrars were utilised. An online questionnaire was also administered to 100 students through Google Forms. PROs and registrars were purposively selected, while a convenience sampling technique was applied for student participants. Qualitative data were thematically analysed, while quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 27. The findings indicated no statistically significant differences in the marketing strategies employed by public and private HEIs. This suggests that both private and public-owned HEIs employ a diverse range of marketing strategies, encompassing both traditional and digital approaches to enhance their brand image. The study also identified that word-of-mouth recommendations from current students, alumni, and other influential individuals emerged as a particularly influential marketing channel for HEIs. University websites and various digital platforms were also identified as key branding tools. Traditional approaches such as print media, school visits, and radio/TV advertisements still hold relevance to some extent. The study recommends that HEIs continue to invest in and optimise their digital marketing capabilities while also calling for the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) to provide comprehensive guidance and support for the effective utilisation of both traditional and digital branding approaches.

Informatization of Educational Management in Private Colleges of Guangdong Province: Challenges, Investments, and Infrastructure Improvements

This study explores the state of informatization in educational management within private colleges in Guangdong Province, using H College as a case study. Despite recent advancements, the informatization process faces significant challenges, including misconceptions about digital management, insufficient investment, a lack of digital sharing mechanisms, and suboptimal user experiences for both students and faculty. Through a comprehensive analysis of educational indicators, investment patterns, and the current status of digital resources, this paper highlights the critical need for a strategic approach to educational management informatization. The findings underscore the importance of fostering a service-oriented framework that prioritizes the needs of teachers and students while advocating for increased investment in infrastructure and digital platforms. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to modernize educational governance in private higher education institutions, ensuring they can effectively meet the demands of the evolving educational landscape.

The Struggle to Retain Adept Academic Staff in Private Higher Education Institutions in Ghana

The Struggle to Retain Adept Academic Staff in Private Higher Education Institutions in Ghana

Grounded Theory on Creating and Maintaining Adult Education Programs in Selected Higher Education Institutions in the Philippines

<p style="text-align:justify">This study is an attempt to develop a grounded theory on how adult education in higher education (AEHE hereafter) programs in the Philippines are created and maintained. The grounded theory illustrates the interrelation of factors that stimulate or serve as the drivers of AEHE in higher education institutions in the Philippines as well as the management and maintenance of AEHE at the operational and strategic levels, hence illustrating the bigger picture of adult education in higher education in the Philippines. Funded by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) of the Philippines, this study was part of a larger research project that investigated adult education in Philippine higher education institutions, that is, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs). The data were derived from focus group discussions (FGD) with 43 participants from eight SUCs and nine private HEIs that have adult education programs that are regularly offered every academic year. The grounded theory drawn from the study pointed to the contextual – personal and institutional – factors, strategic and operational levels of management as well as the critical role of academic policy for the implementation and maintenance of AEHE programs, collaboration, and a compelling vision to ensure that adult education in higher education in the Philippines is prioritized in the country with involvement of relevant government agencies that will draw definite agendas and priorities to attain the goals of AEHE through a structure and management to carry out its functions and realize its compelling objective of creating a cadre of AEHE educators and specialists and adults suited for the demands of a knowledge-driven economy.</p>

Transformational Leadership and Non-Teaching Staffs’ Job Satisfaction in Selected Private Higher Educational Institutions

To better enhance the competitiveness of private colleges and universities, especially in the case of fewer and fewer students, the soft power of human resources is particularly important. Thus, research on private colleges and universities is of great significance to promoting the development of higher education in Sichuan and even the entire western region. The research found that the job satisfaction of employees was closely positively correlated with the four aspects of transformational leadership (idealized influence, inspiration motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individual consideration), and the needs for transformational leadership were different for different educational levels, age groups, and professional titles. The study showed that the higher the educational level and professional title, the stronger their demand for transformational leadership, and vice versa; in terms of age and years of work, the older and longer the staff had, the lower their demand for transformational leadership and the lower their scores. They had a fixed mindset and were more inclined to a stable leadership style. On the other hand, the study found that the job satisfaction of administrative staff was significantly affected by leadership style, that is, they had a significant correlation, among which relationship satisfaction had the highest correlation, followed by satisfaction with the environment and welfare, and then the satisfaction with personal growth and progress. The lowest correlation was the satisfaction with the work itself. This is mainly because transformational leaders have a sense of responsibility, motivate and inspire employees, guide employees, and pay attention to the balance between work and life, which evaluates various standards relatively high. The research results are helpful to promote the improvement of transformational leadership in private universities, and then improve employee satisfaction.

Marketing Practices of a Private Higher Education Institution in the Philippines

In the competitive landscape of higher education, effective marketing practices are essential for institutions aiming to enhance student satisfaction, attract and retain students and secure long-term sustainability. This study evaluated the marketing practices of a private higher education institution in the Philippines, focusing on the perspectives of its personnel and students. Using the Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning (STP) model, the research assessed various areas of marketing practices, such as target markets, marketing goals, promotions, and marketing initiatives. Using descriptive-quantitative design utilizing a researcher-structured questionnaire, the study involved a sample of 140 students and 22 personnel. The findings highlight a moderate extent of effective market targeting, strategic alignment of marketing goals and promotions, and relevant employment of marketing initiatives, with the perceptions of personnel and students having no significant differences. Key areas identified for improvement include enhancing personalized marketing approaches, strengthening integrated planning and communication, and refining promotional efforts to better align with students’ needs and expectations. Based on these findings, the study suggests comprehensive marketing strategies to improve current practices. This provides actionable insights for educational institutions seeking to optimize their marketing strategies in a rapidly evolving educational environment.