QUALITY ASSESSMENT FOR INSTRUCTIONAL PROCESS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the evaluation of instructional process quality at tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Concern about quality evaluation in higher institutions for the instructional process in Nigeria is not a new occurrence. In the realm of academia, institutions such as universities, polytechnics, monotechnics, and colleges of education have consistently employed various strategies to ensure the excellence of their endeavours. These mechanisms are deeply ingrained in the academic heritage, serving as vital tools for enhancing instructional practices.. Tertiary education is a significant instrument for imparting positive changes in the society. It develops not only the personality but also qualities that enable the recipients fulfil certain economic and political functions. However, the quality of tertiary education as a system which serves as a mechanism of advancement is being confronted with various challenges in Nigeria. If these challenges are not nipped at the bud, the main goals of education system in Nigeria may be frustrated. This paper therefore, reviewed the following issues: quality assessment of education system; challenges confronting quality assessment for instructional improvement in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Few of these challenges include; inadequate funding, inadequate physical facilities, poor management, insecurity, teacher’s quality among others. The role of stakeholders in ensuring attainment of quality in the education system of Nigeria was also considered. Among the notable roles of the stakeholders gearing towards instructional process include; efficiency and effective utilization of education resources as well as ensuring that the benchmark minimum standard is maintained. The paper concluded that quality assessment should be properly scheduled and timely carried out by the designated agencies and that every programme implemented should be assessed from time to time to be able to identify any setback arising from such a programme.