Participatory Communication: Challenges in Developing Educational Quality in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

This academic article aimed to present knowledge about participatory communication in higher education institutions with a focus on its challenges in developing educational quality. The content covered definitions, significance, fundamental theories, forms and methods, applications, challenges, and analysis. The key findings from this study revealed that participatory communication in higher education was a two-way interactive communication process that allowed all stakeholders to exchange information, opinions, and perceptions. It was based on Paulo Freire's dialogic education theory, UNESCO's development communication theory, and Habermas's public sphere theory. Participatory communication was important for higher education institutions in building participatory culture, strengthening community relations, developing educational quality, and creating organizational image. Higher education institutions can implement participatory communication through various channels including digital media, face-to-face communication, and print media. Success factors included leadership, personnel development, organizational culture building, and effective monitoring and evaluation systems. However, higher education institutions faced significant challenges in developing participatory communication, including organizational structure, stakeholder diversity, and organizational culture to make participatory communication an important mechanism for educational quality development.