Performance Evaluation: The Path to the Excellence in Higher Education (A Case Study)

This study aimed at evaluating the performance of the Eghlid branch of the Islamic Azad University, applying a descriptive research methodology. The statistical population included all faculty members and University staff. Through stratified random classification, and using Morgan’s table, 27 faculty members and 43 staff members were selected as the sample. The Measuring Tools included two 64-item questionnaires that were filled out by the faculty and staff members, based on the EFQM model version of Higher Education. The validity of the Questionnaires was verified by experts and the reliability of both questionnaires was estimated at 97/0 and 98/0 respectively. The research data were analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean), inferential statistics (one sample t test, independent t-test, Friedman test) and the EFQM scoring logic. The results indicate that: 1. there is significant variety in terms of the application of the Excellence model criteria across the university; 2. there were differences between the views of staff and faculty on the situation of enabler’s criteria and 3. Overall, the Islamic Azad University, Eghlid branch was given a score of 302 of the maximum 500 points in terms of the Enablers of the EFQM excellence model. In addition, in terms of organizational excellence, the university’s position was evaluated as average. Therefore, university leaders should pay attention to the improvement of enabling criteria at the Islamic Azad University, Eghlid branch.