Accreditation and quality assurance in higher education: a comparative study between Spain and Colombia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15665/7wf2sp81Keywords:
Accreditation, Educational quality, Higher education, ANECA, National Acreditation Council (CNA)Abstract
Accreditation is essential for ensuring educational quality and fostering continuous improvement. This study is part of the project titled "Critical Thinking in Law and Social Sciences: An Interdisciplinary Approach," endorsed by Universidad Libre Barranquilla. Its primary goal is to compare the standards and processes of accreditation in higher education in Spain and Colombia, highlighting their similarities, differences, and areas for enhancement. Using a hermeneutic-interpretive framework and a qualitative methodology, the research conducts a comprehensive analysis of legislation, regulations, and official documents. Findings indicate that Spain follows a decentralized system aligned with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), while Colombia adopts a centralized approach. Both countries share common challenges, such as bureaucratization. Nonetheless, it is noted that mutual collaboration could strengthen their quality assurance systems and enhance academic and professional mobility.
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