This chapter examines the relationship between institutional culture and quality assurance (QA) in higher education, analysing how culture affects the effectiveness of QA practices and the overall performance of educational institutions. Broadly defined, institutional culture encompasses the shared values, beliefs, and practices that influence individual behaviour within an institution. A robust quality culture fosters continuous improvement and promotes the effective involvement of all stakeholders in QA processes. The chapter elucidates the concept of institutional culture and its significance in stakeholder engagement, leadership effectiveness, and the execution of QA systems. It discusses various aspects, from external accountability measures and their influence on academic governance to how QA processes reshape institutional operations by establishing quality and performance metrics. Centralising decision-making in this context often hampers innovation and curtails academic staff autonomy, leading to resistance to change that is rooted in established cultural norms. Key obstacles to the successful implementation of QA initiatives include staff resistance and student disengagement. The chapter also introduces the concept of institutional isomorphism, wherein institutions adopt similar QA practices due to external pressures, potentially resulting in a homogenization of approaches that may not be relevant to each institution's unique cultural context. Nonetheless, institutions can leverage their cultural strengths to enhance QA practices, cultivate a collaborative environment that encourages the sharing of best practices, and inspire innovative methods for quality enhancement. The chapter underscores the importance of leadership and stakeholder involvement in adopting and institutionalising QA measures, anchoring these discussions in change management theories. Ultimately, a strong culture of quality is essential for the successful implementation of QA systems, enhancing the effectiveness and reputation that higher education institutions seek in competitive landscapes. By actively leveraging their cultural strengths, institutions can create QA processes that not only meet external standards but also resonate deeply with their mission and community, ultimately leading to a more effective and meaningful quality assurance framework.
Author
(s) Details
Chitera Joshua
Department of Curriculum & Educational Management Studies, Bindura
University of Science Education, Zimbabwe.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49729-81-0/CH2
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