Metaassesment of the Global Instititucional Evaluation Process in Ecuador with the “V” Model

Abstract

This article presents the results of an evaluation research developed with the use of the methodological strategy of the “V” Model for integrative structural analysis of higher education institutions, which is a meta-model of assessment that allows comprehensive assessment of the problem undergoing analysis from different points of view so as to posit improvement proposals. The overall objective set for this project was to evaluate the model used for the process of institutional assessment in Ecuador regarding compliance with the quality standards that have been established within the Organic Law on Higher Education (LOES). An increase of meaning vis-à-vis the intent of this study was achieved through the use of the “V” Model analysis and synthesis tools. The main findings helped outline the need to take account of indicators to assess sections of the Law that were not covered within the model, provide more information within the assessment guidelines, introduce qualitative data collection techniques, specify the theoretical foundations and information for the methodological procedure of information substantiation, and strengthen the training process of external peer reviewers. The aforesaid will allow the structuring of a plan to improve the Ecuadorian institutional assessment model.