Using large group methods to develop effective quality cultures

Abstract

It has become evident that higher education institutions in the Sultanate of Oman are currently experiencing change, in particular when it involves implementing quality management systems. The underlying principles of quality management are participatory decision making. Our methods for conducting improvements in quality management, strategic planning and other topics model this principle. Large group methods or interventions involve gathering an entire organization to talk about, influence or invent needed changes (Bunker &amp; Alban, 2002). Change is a result of purposeful social construction by organizational members. It involves a goal (approach/plan), implementation (deployment/act/so), evaluation (results/check) and modification (improvement). This paper explores the different large group methods being used in the field today and it proposes that large group methods allow a forum to overcome some of the hurdles and challenges that are being faced in Oman such as; How do you encourage sharing information in a fiercely competitive environment? And how do you establish an informal network of peers? We were witness to some of these challenges being over come when we used large group methods during various strategic planning workshops with members of staff from the different colleges in Oman. Results from the evaluations of the workshops highlighted that participants enjoyed the opportunity to network and share ideas with their peers as well as being involved in group discussions and brainstorming ideas. The paper will also propose that large group methods can be used effectively in Omani culture strengthening goals towards Omanisation.<br /