DO THEY HAVE REALLY NO OPINION? – THE EVALUATION OF STUDENT PARTNERSHIP USING KANOMODEL

Abstract

To improve the quality of higher education, it is essential to understand students' expectations. In this research, we will analyse the specific requirements for the elements of the student partnership using the Kano model. Our questionnaire (N=320) was filled in by students of the Faculty of Economics at the University of Debrecen. Using cluster analysis we distinguished 3 groups of students, with different expectations. The most important features of the education are clear rules and requirements, fair assessment and mutual respect as the lack of these cause dissatisfaction in those 2 clusters that cover 91% of the students. For one cluster, covers 43% of students, helpful lecturer also have the same effect. This latter cluster consists of mostly elder and part-time students, who are enthusiastic and evaluate, if they are treated as colleagues, or involve in common research, problem solving, have bidirectional communication with lecturers and can give feedback on education. However one-fifth of the students doesn’t like to participate in lectures, and 15% hate groupwork. Finally we found that there is a cluster of students, which give 9% of sample, who are totally uninterested, as they have no needs, only want to get a certificate.

Keywords

• kano-model
• tertiary education
• partnership with students