Global Journal of Education, Finance and Management (GJEFM)

Students’ Ratings of Internal Quality Assurance in Universities: Open and Distance Learning Perspective

Lifuka, Evans

8 August 2026 · Vol. 2, Issue 8, pp. 286-298

DOI: 10.65150/EP-gjefm/V2E8/2026-06

Abstract

In the context of higher education, the importance of internal quality assurance (IQA) mechanisms has gained increasing recognition, particularly within Open and Distance Learning (ODL) institutions. This study explores the quantitative ratings of students regarding the effectiveness of IQA in universities, focusing on ODL environments. Utilizing a comprehensive survey methodology, data were collected from diverse cohort of students enrolled in different bachelor of education/science degree with education programmes under ODL. The analysis examines key dimensions of IQA, including curriculum quality, competence and qualifications of academic staff, assessment activities, availability of teaching and learning resources and administrative support. The findings reveal significant variations in students’ perceptions, highlighting areas of strength and identifying critical gaps needing improvement. The results underscore the need for universities offering ODL to continually enhance and improve their IQA systems and processes to meet stakeholders (students) and ensure quality provision of education in this delivery mode. This study is expected to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence into student perspective on IQA, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers and educators in the sector.

Keywords: Quality Assurance, Internal Quality Assurance, Open and Distance Learning.

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Lifuka, & Evans (2026). Students’ Ratings of Internal Quality Assurance in Universities: Open and Distance Learning Perspective. Global Journal of Education, Finance and Management, 2(8), 286-298. https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-gjefm/V2E8/2026-06

@article{Lifuka2026,
  title   = {Students’ Ratings of Internal Quality Assurance in Universities: Open and Distance Learning Perspective},
  author  = {Lifuka and Evans},
  journal = {Global Journal of Education, Finance and Management},
  year    = {2026},
  volume  = {2},
  number  = {8},
  pages   = {286-298},
  doi     = {10.65150/EP-gjefm/V2E8/2026-06},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-gjefm/V2E8/2026-06}
}

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