Evaluating Student Satisfaction: A Small Private University Perspective in Japan

Abstract

This study investigates undergraduate student satisfaction at a small private university in Japan, focusing on factors like social environment, instructors, facilities, support, academic grit, and student engagement. Given Japan's demographic challenges and the heightened competition in higher education, understanding these factors is crucial for student retention and institutional stability. The study employs a quantitative approach, analyzing data from a sample that mirrors the university's demographic composition. Key findings reveal that instructors, facilities, and support significantly influence student satisfaction, with distinct variations observed when analyzed by gender and academic year. In contrast, grit and engagement were not statistically significant predictors; their roles in the broader educational context warrant further exploration. This study reveals actionable strategies to elevate student satisfaction at a small private Japanese university, addressing institutional, administrative, and instructional dimensions. Recommendations include upgrading facilities and enhancing the social atmosphere to foster a conducive learning environment, focusing on faculty development to improve instructional quality, and tailoring engagement strategies to meet gender-specific and year-specific needs. These measures aim to mitigate challenges like declining enrollment and student attrition by creating a more fulfilling university experience and strengthening the institution's reputation and appeal.