Examination of the Quality Assurance System and Accreditation Certifications of Higher Education Institutions: The Case of Faculty of Sports Sciences and School of Physical Education and Sports

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the quality assurance system operations of Faculties of Sports Sciences and Schools of Physical Education and Sports within higher education institutions, as well as the certification processes obtained from various independent organizations. The research population consists of 208 universities in Türkiye, while the sample group includes 90 Faculties of Sports Sciences and 12 Schools of Physical Education and Sports. The quality assurance management systems of universities have been analyzed, including university quality reports, efforts to establish standards in educational processes, accreditation certificates obtained from independent organizations, and quality certifications within the scope of quality management systems. The services provided by faculties and schools have been monitored by quality commissions, which oversee workflow processes and the operational content of the quality management system. This research was conducted using the case study method, supported by qualitative research techniques such as the analysis of written documents and archival records, as well as the examination of exploratory information documents. In conclusion, it has been determined that the implementation processes of quality assurance and management systems in higher education institutions are shared transparently with the public in accordance with the principle of transparency. It was identified that 20 Faculties of Sports Sciences have been accredited by Sports Sciences Accreditation Board (SPORAK), while one School and one Faculty have obtained ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 10002:2018 certifications. Additionally, one school has received Agency for Quality Assurance international accreditation, and one Faculty of Sports Sciences has adopted the ERQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) Model. It has been observed that universities and faculties aim to provide a high-quality and measurable education service by ensuring that their vision, mission, goals, and strategic plans are in place, along with step-by-step development and improvement processes. Communication channels with prospective and active students, including websites, student information systems, and personnel information system integrations, have been effectively utilized. Quality assurance systems and accreditation processes in higher education not only enhance the academic performance of institutions but also contribute to their societal impact.