Efficiency Evaluation of Higher Education Faculties through Output- and Input-Oriented DEA Models
Subject Areas : International Journal of Data Envelopment Analysis
1 - Associate Professor of Economics Department, Faculty of Management and Humanities, Chabahar Maritime University
Keywords: Efficiency, Data Envelopment Analysis, Educational Productivity, Research Productivity,
Abstract :
Education holds a fundamental position in today's world and remains one of the most critical pillars of any society. The relationship between the education sector and the competencies of teachers and instructors is both significant and direct—enhancing this connection leads to improved educational standards and more effective teaching methodologies. Efficient and impactful education not only fosters active learning and critical thinking among individuals but also equips them with problem-solving skills, enabling them to address challenges effectively. Moreover, effective education stimulates creative thinking in higher education institutions and universities, consequently improving the overall quality of education within a society. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions, providing them with the ability to apply acquired knowledge practically. This represents the true essence of participation, which is a key component of social capital. This study evaluates the efficiency and comparative performance of three faculties—Management and Humanities, Engineering, and Basic Sciences—across both teaching and research dimensions. Using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) methodology and employing data from 2021 to 2024, the research assesses faculty efficiency. The findings indicate that, under the assumption of constant returns to scale (CRS), the Faculty of Management and Humanities exhibits the highest efficiency, whereas the Faculty of Basic Sciences demonstrates the lowest efficiency. Under the assumption of variable returns to scale (VRS), all faculties—except the Faculty of Basic Sciences—are deemed efficient. The average technical efficiency over the examined period is approximately 74% under CRS and 98% under VRS.
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