Quality Transformation in Higher Education Was Discussed

The Institute of Sufi Studies at Üsküdar University organized an event titled “Quality Assurance System and Sustainability.” Lecturer Dr. A. Hande Erol Bingüler, a guest speaker at the online seminar, highlighted the decisive role of the concepts of quality culture and sustainability in educational processes, emphasizing that quality is not a matter of chance but the result of a systematic approach. Highlighting the importance of the planning, implementation, monitoring, and improvement processes within the PDCA cycle, Bingüler noted that the understanding of quality in higher education has now evolved into a structure that is outcomes-focused, measurable, and based on continuous improvement. It was also noted during the event that quality assurance systems are not merely a monitoring mechanism but a fundamental tool for institutional learning and development.

Dr. A. Hande Erol Bingüler, a lecturer at Marmara University, was a guest speaker at the online seminar.

Elif Erhan, Director of the Institute of Sufi Studies, and İlknur Güzel, Head of the Strategy Development and Quality Department, also participated in the program. 

“It is impossible to separate ourselves from quality and sustainability” 

Assistant Professor Dr. A. Hande Erol Bingüler spoke about the culture of quality. Bingüler stated, “Since ancient times, it has been impossible to separate quality from sustainability. Our goal here is to raise students’ awareness of quality management processes. In fact, it is about finding the answer to the question, ‘Why does this concern my future?’”

“Randomness does not meet the requirements of sustainability”

Addressing the importance of quality standards, Bingüler said, “Not every diploma is the same. It may be the same department, but the quality can vary. It may be the same course, but the learning outcomes differ. All of these are part of education and instruction. We may face situations where graduates from the same program have different employment rates. When viewed this way, if we don’t have a system in place, quality is a matter of chance. However, when viewed correctly, quality is not a matter of chance. When we proceed with a specific systematic approach, we can achieve more successful results. From a sustainability perspective, randomness does not meet sustainability requirements. Therefore, quality means providing products and services that meet or exceed expectations. Compliance with requirements is crucial here.” 

“Our goal is to ensure continuity in education”

Speaking about a system based on continuous improvement, Bingüler said, “When we look at the definition of quality management, it involves a system where the organization prioritizes continuous improvement and stakeholder satisfaction. We adopt the PDCA Cycle approach. That is, plan, do, check, and act. Our goal here is to ensure continuity in education. In doing so, we also aim to support transparency and participation,” he said.

“Quality is not just about being good; it’s about getting better every day”

Emphasizing the importance of the concept of quality in sustainability, Bingüler said, “In higher education, quality has now evolved into an outcome-based, measurable, and sustainable structure. This is also a very important development in terms of societal progress. When we look at the pillars of sustainability, there is not a single element that lacks quality. They are all quality-related elements. Higher education systems are undergoing a significant transformation in the face of globalization, increasing competition, and pressures for accountability. This transformation has necessitated redefining the concept of quality—moving beyond the framework of mere ‘compliance with standards’—and reorienting it toward learning outcomes, stakeholder satisfaction, and sustainable development. Here, quality is not merely about being good; it is about becoming better every day.”

“Quality assurance is not merely a control mechanism”

Explaining the stages of the quality assurance system, Bingüler said, “Quality assurance systems are not merely a control mechanism; they are a fundamental tool for institutional learning and organizational development. What we refer to as quality assurance consists of the processes of planning, implementation, monitoring, and improvement. Quality assurance emerges as a comprehensive management approach that encompasses the systematic planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of educational, research, and administrative processes in higher education institutions. “In this context, quality assurance is not merely a control mechanism but also a fundamental tool for institutional learning and organizational development,” he said. 

The online event concluded following a question-and-answer session.