Certification vs. Accreditation of institutes of higher learning: The Quality Approach

Abstract

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The research paper aims to highlight the salient features of different certification and accreditation program for educational institutes of higher learning. It will also reveal the level of benefit, effectiveness and importance of certification and accreditation for quality education. A reflection on accreditation and certification model is the core concept of this paper. Document analysis and Convergent interviews were used to elicit the need and selection of program for certification and accreditation of educational institutions. The study finds the perception of certification and accreditation. It was found that the process of accreditation or certification must be transform in the light of ground realities of a particular system of education to eliminate the factors discouraging adoption of the international programs. The research is limited to the core concept of ISO certification of educational institutions, Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, National Accreditation Council Pakistan and Quality Assurance Agency of Higher Education Pakistan. The quality practitioners can successfully identify the weaknesses and strengths of different International models and draw conclusion to adopt the best suitable model for accreditation of institution of higher learning. The research provides a valuable insight to quality practitioners into the concept of accreditation and certification to select the best suitable program for the institution of higher learning.