Students' Engagement in the Self-Evaluation Process, is it a Useful Visible Step? Saudi Pilot Study

Abstract

Purpose: to assess the visibility of the nursing students’ engagements in the mission & objectives self-evaluation process as part of on going academic accreditation.

Methodology: A structured self-administered questionnaire developed by the National Commission for Academic Accreditation and Assessment (NCAAA) was used for data collection. A pilot sample of senior students representative currently enrolled in 5-year Bachelor of Nursing Science was approached.  The institutional mission and objectives standards were rated by the staff as part of ongoing process of accreditation as well as the students. Students' experience was evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively.

Findings: The students were able to perform the evaluation without having more difficulties than the staff and with no inflated scores. The students showed strong positive attitudes and reflections toward their experience in the self-evaluation process. Their experience increased their understanding and awareness of the mission and objectives of the institution as well as their role as responsible party in the education process.

Value: The students' experience provided a useful indicator that assured student maturity and willingness to participate in quality issues, and considered a potential candidate for future wider studies of larger number of students' engagement with different academic level.

Keywords: Students' engagement & perception, accreditation, self-evaluation, NCAAA.