PESTEL-analysis of the system “state – independent quality assessment agencies”: Political and socio-economic aspects

Abstract

The aim of the study. The article is devoted to determining the influence of political and socio-economic factors on the process of external evaluation of the quality of higher education at the university. The main factors that motivate a thorough analysis of the educational environment are described both from the point of view of the participants in this process and from the point of view of auditors, independent institutions. The analysis of external factors is the first stage of creating an effective strategy for the advanced development of the educational institution and ensuring its financial stability. Methodology. The use of PESTEL-analysis as a tool for assessing the impact of external factors on the quality of education is substantiated. The list of criteria (indicators) of external assessment of the quality of educational programs is presented and the use of these criteria for the creation of effective mechanisms of maintenance of the quality of higher education in HEI is offered. Results. When considering the relationship “state – independent quality assessment agencies” input parameters are factors of external influence, system parameters – financial performance indicators, management parameters – regulatory framework and criteria for assessing the quality of educational programs, output parameters – recommendations for building an internal quality assurance system education in HEI. Among the political factors of influence can be identified both destabilizing and positive factors on the quality assurance system of free economic zones. Destabilizing factors provoke a constructive response from NAQA in the form of development and active implementation of the regulatory framework in the activities to ensure the quality of education. Practical meaning. The criteria for the external evaluation of the educational program and the activities of the NAQA in terms of improving the national regulatory framework respond to the economic challenges facing the quality assurance system of education. In response to social challenges, the system of external evaluation of the quality of education becomes more “flexible” and prone to a variety of methods for solving problems. Prospects for further research. The analysis of all these factors, as well as the tools to influence these factors, developed by the NAQA, should be the basis of the strategy for the development of free economic relations and regulations on the development of quality assurance in education. The creation of a tool of technological influence on the analyzed factors by the management of the HEI determines the prospects for further research.