Lecturers Perceptions of the Ramifications of Diploma Disease in Private Tanzania Universities: A Case of St. Augustine University of Tanzania
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This study sought to investigate lecturer‟s perceptions about existence, extent and
ramification of diploma disease at St. Augustine University of Tanzania. It was
guided by three objectives, namely: a) to assess the lecturer perceptions about the
impact of diploma disease on students‟ knowledge acquisition behavior; b) to
examine perceptions of St. Augustine University of Tanzania students, lecturers, and
alumni about the quality of education offered at St. Augustine University of
Tanzania; c) to find out education quality assurance mechanisms that St. Augustine
University of Tanzania has been employing over the years to ensure provision of
quality education. The study was a case study that used a qualitative approach to
collect data. A sample size of 25 informants, who were selected purposively, was
used. Two research tools were used to collect data: semi-structured interviews, and
focus group discussion.
The findings showed there was high rate of student enrolment for Bachelor,
Advanced Diploma and Certificate programmes. Most students were learning in
order to get jobs and not how to do jobs. Lecturers were reducing giving individual
assignments and tests for fear of failing to complete the marking within the
deadlines. Due to the high rate of student enrolment, St. Augustine University of
Tanzania‟s quality of education has been falling gradually. Some students usually
did not participate in doing assignments and yet they got marks because fellow
group members included their names in the lists of those who participated. Many
students who joined St. Augustine University of Tanzania had poor English
proficiency and poor academic background. St. Augustine University of Tanzania
used to use TCU and national professional boards such as NBAA to ensure its
quality of education. It also usually strived to employ qualified and competent
lecturers.
Keywords
Ramifications: Diploma Disease