ERIC Number: EJ1153982
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0968-4883
EISSN: N/A
Student's Perceptions of Quality Learning in a Malaysian University--A Mixed Method Approach
Choy, S. Chee; Yim, Joanne Sau-Ching; Tan, Poh Leong
Quality Assurance in Education: An International Perspective, v25 n4 p500-515 2017
Purpose: This paper aims to examine students' perceptions of quality learning using a mixed-methods approach in a Malaysian university, with an aim to fill existing knowledge gaps in the literature on relationships among relevant quality variables. The study also assesses the extent to which detailed results from a few participants can be generalised to a larger sample from the population. Design/methodology/approach: A sequential, mixed-methods approach was used to obtain a more meaningful and balanced analysis of the data. In total, 12 students were purposively selected and interviewed in Phase 1, to gain insights into their perceptions of quality learning at a selected university. The results of the qualitative analysis were used to develop hypotheses for a quantitative survey of 1,490 students in Phase 2. The samples consisted of students enrolled in full-time bachelor's degree programmes. The survey data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to confirm a series of hypotheses about pathways of influence of key quality constructs. Findings: The results of the study showed strong positive relationships between student perceptions of learning outcomes, curriculum, instructional delivery and support, learning environment and quality learning. The overall findings suggest that the influences of these quality variables on the perceived quality of learning experiences of students may be complex. Practical implications: All Malaysian higher education providers are currently concerned with providing high-quality education that caters to students' needs. The results generate useful evidence for governors, administrators and other stakeholders regarding the students' perceptions of quality learning. The results provide insights for supporting diverse students served by these providers. Originality/value: The sequential, mixed-methods research design of the study contributed a rich contextual description of students' perceptions of quality learning. It also fills the knowledge gap mentioned.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Student Attitudes, Educational Quality, Mixed Methods Research, Structural Equation Models, Interviews, Student Surveys, Undergraduate Students, Outcomes of Education, College Curriculum, College Environment, College Instruction
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Malaysia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A