The effectiveness of using participatory evaluation in enhancing institutional performance: A case study from the United Arab Emirates

Ahmed Elhakim^*

• Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, United Kingdom

Introduction: Participatory evaluation has gained attention as a collaborative approach to institutional assessment, promoting shared decision-making and stakeholder engagement. However, its effectiveness within higher education, particularly in the Gulf region, remains underexplored. This study aims to examine how a participatory evaluation process influences institutional performance and stakeholder engagement in a higher education institute in the United Arab Emirates. Methods: A qualitative case study approach was adopted, using document review, an evaluation scale, and semi-structured interviews with 17 stakeholders. This multi-method design enabled triangulation of institutional data and stakeholder perspectives, strengthening the credibility and depth of the findings. The approach was chosen to provide a comprehensive understanding of both measurable institutional changes and the experiences of those involved in the participatory evaluation process. Results and Discussion:The findings indicate strengthened quality assurance systems, enhancements in academic programs, and increased stakeholder engagement. Participants reported a greater sense of empowerment, improved collaboration, and capacity building, though stakeholder diversity was moderate and involvement of non-evaluators partial. Conceptually, the study situates participatory evaluation within institutional quality assurance frameworks, challenging traditional top-down models. Practically, it offers higher education institutions in similar contexts a structured approach to fostering inclusive decision-making and sustainable institutional self-improvement.