Importance of collaboration with employers towards the rankings of higher education institutions

Abstract

It is impossible for higher education institutions (HEI) to ignore different national and international comparisons, since emergence of global rankings. Involvement in rankings changes and in some aspects improves the performance of higher education institutions. Trying to rise their position in the rankings, HEI are seeking ways, how to improve performance in those areas that are measured by the indicators used for rankings of HEI. The purpose of this study is to search for some possible solutions for more effective research work organization at the universities and correct reflection of achieved results to raise their position in university rankings. Research methods used: analysis of scientific publications on university rankings aspects related to different methodologies and indicators; expert survey on university organisation and used ranking indicators. For expert interviews were invited internationally recognized university management representatives and several administrators at universities in different countries. For different aspect evaluations, there was used evaluation scale 1-10, where 1do not agree and 10 – fully agree. Expert evaluations were analysed by descriptive statistics indicators and cross-tabulations. Main results and findings: rankings have significant role in the development of HEI. It is important to define the accessible rankings position in the strategy of HEI. Higher education institutions must determine such goals and results of performance that favour the higher ranking position. For increase of international recognition HEI have to recognise that as well important aspects are the academic and employer reputation surveys in rankings.