The Application of Total Quality Management (TQM) in Academics

This paper examines the issue of quality of education in India. The paper recognizes quality of education as one of the most widely used and spoken of concept in India, although, very little or no unanimity with regard to its meaning has been reached. This is essentially true in higher education as compared to industry where clearly definable products with quantifiable qualities exist. The 'product' of higher education is intangible and the customer very difficult to identify. However, in India today, there is mounting concern about the state of education at all levels. This is ischolar_mained in the realization that literacy levels and academic achievement will determine individual's job attainment and earning as well as the general economic well being of the society. Moreover, the quality of life in the society will be affected by the level and quality of social skills acquired in educational institutes. It is in line with this that the paper looks at the various issues bordering on quality of higher education in India and suggests different options and strategies which can be used to improve the quality of education, especially, at the university level. Thus, the following questions will be answered in the paper: How is quality perceived? Can it be measured? What is the interrelationship between internal and external assessment procedures? How can educational institutes deal with quality improvement and development within the context of Total Quality Management (TQM)? The quality has become integral feature of the education all over the world. We are continually faced with quality initiatives and controls, not only from central governments but also from awarding bodies. Often, these quality initiatives are also incorporated into appraisal schemes and in Total Quality Management (TQM). This study examines literature relating to TQM, quality assurance, and quality enhancement and also considers the impact an interpretive approach to quality would have on the pedagogic practice of tertiary institutions. The role of university management is to provide the vision and the making of that vision a reality through encouragement and active participation in quality oriented exercise. This paper will provide a framework toward achieving this.