A Study On The Quality Assurance Policy Of Ghana’s Higher Education From The Perspective Of Massification

Higher education in Ghana has entered the stage of massification,and there are some problems in the current quality assurance policy,leading to some negative consequences.This study aimed to explore key elements that can improve Ghana’s “massified” higher education quality assurance policy framework(QAS).The specific research questions include how the current quality assurance policy framework for mass higher education is,its implementation obstacles and corresponding reasons,the key elements of improving the framework or new policy framework options,and the implementation path of the new policy framework.This research is based on human capital theory and resourced-based theory.The research adopted a mixed-method approach.In addition to literature research methods,the focus was on the questionnaire and interview research in four universities.The survey of these universities adopted the stratified random,purposeful and quota sampling techniques.The study found that the universities are ensuring that teachers have the necessary qualifications and provide sufficient teaching materials,including library resources,teacher evaluation,continuous professional development of teachers,strengthening of university facilities,and capacity-building of supervisory institutions.With regard to the current quality assurance framework,the research suggests that its focus is mainly on teaching,with limited attention paid to teacher innovation;In the framework,students’ participation in innovation is also limited,and they are only recipients of information.The financial resources of universities are also limited,unable to meet the needs of college students,and the quality assurance departments of universities are also weak.To build a new framework for quality assurance of Ghana’s higher education,it may be necessary to consider adopting a comprehensive online learning platform,establishing innovation centers to encourage innovation,and adjusting teaching in accordance with national development requirements;The cooperation of stakeholders is also needed to ensure that resources are available for the development of new products and services.Equally important is the need for quality assurance authorities in universities to actively interact with university teachers and students.The successful implementation of the new quality assurance policy requires adequate compensation for teaching and administrative staff,stakeholder participation in the development of the new framework,effective communication,and sound feedback mechanisms,as well as astute planning and management of proposed changes.