Education study 2016 on the topic of quality
eduQua, followed by ISO certifications correspond to the most important quality criteria in the context of further education offers and competences. This is confirmed by the current education study. For this purpose, hundreds of continuing education providers from all language regions of Switzerland were considered on a focus topic.
From the providers' point of view, labels promote the image of their organisation. However, according to the providers, labels hardly influence the customers' decision to book courses with them.
This year's edition of the education survey shows: For the majority of providers, continuing education is good if it meets the needs of the participants. The second most important quality criterion is the competence of the course instructors. 80 percent of the providers surveyed have one or more quality labels, with eduQua in first place, followed by ISO certifications.
In the current edition, 336 organisations participated. The results show that the vast majority of organisations systematically ensure the quality of their services. 80 percent of the respondents have one or more quality labels. In addition to eduQua and ISO, international labels also play a role, particularly in the case of larger organisations. Sector-specific quality guidelines and certificates are also used.
From the providers' point of view, labels promote the image of their organisation. However, according to the providers, labels hardly influence the customers' decision to book courses with them.
Differences in quality assurance
For small and medium-sized organisations, the effort required for quality assurance of their offerings is high. Large providers assess quality assurance as less costly. Regardless of the size of the organisation, however, almost all providers rate the benefits of the measures they use for quality assurance and development as high. Evaluations and guidelines rank first among the measures. Quality circles, coaching or intervision are used somewhat less frequently.
Around two-thirds of providers consider the quality of continuing education in Switzerland to be good overall, while one-third are more sceptical. The respondents identified a need for action above all in the areas of transparency, regulation and financing.
The education study was realized by the Swiss Association for Continuing Education SVEB in cooperation with the organizer of the Zurich Education Fair, apv communications ltd.
Further details on the study can be found in the SVEB/ FSEA News:
