Performance appraisal in higher education

The proper implementation of an appraisal system in an educational institution could enhance the growth and development of its faculty members, which will positively reflect on the whole institution. This study aims at laying the ground for a better appraisal practice at the Lebanese American University (LAU). The study also attempts to identify trends and areas for further development, and to provide consolidated practical advice for universities in Lebanon. 80 faculty members filled semi-structured questionnaires at the Lebanese American University. Furthermore, 40 faculty members were interviewed using purposive sampling. The response rate was low (36.86%), for 80 out of the 217 responded to the distributed questionnaire. The interviews with faculty members acknowledged the importance of mentoring and professional development at LAU. The results showed that no formal appraisal scheme was implemented at LAU. The majority of the respondents acknowledged that 360-degree appraisal is the most comprehensive appraisal practice. Based on the literature review and the suggestions of interviewed faculty members, a communication model for the performance appraisal scheme was developed to be further tested and adopted by the university, if it yielded satisfactory results. The researcher finally recommended the formal adoption of a performance appraisal process at LAU.