Total quality management in higher education : case of Notre Dame University

Abstract

The research is a study on Total Quality Management in higher education. More specifically, the ways of improvement at NDU will be discussed. Total Quality Management has given very good results in industry and business as a whole. The issue has started gaining in importance in theeducational field. In Lebanon, the quality improvement efforts are still very shy. After a review of the various functions of NDU, a series of interviews were conducted with Human Resources executives in various business entreprises. Moreover, a survey was conducted wih the students at NDU. On the other hand, another survey was conducted with the faculty and administrative staff of te university. The survey results uncovered different areas where improvements can be made. Support services like the library and the computer center need some major improvements in terms of accessibility and a availability of resources. On the administrative level, the registration process is a major source of dissatisfaction. On the other hand, outside sources were concerned with the programs offered at the university. They stressed on the need for more internship hours as requirements in the programs. Moreover, more professionals should be members of the teaching body in order to introduce practical examples as complements to the theoretical aspect of the order to introduce practical examples as complements to the theoretical aspects of the courses. The solutions to be introduced on the administrative as well as on the academic level will have to take the human factor into consideration. As much as the cultural influence can have positive impacts, it can also become a major obstacle if not properly accounted for.