Application of Total Quality Management on Higher Education Teaching Quality: A Systematic Review Based on PRISMA, and Research Implications (2015-2025)

Abstract

With the increasing emphasis on quality assurance and continuous improvement in higher education, total quality management (TQM) is being widely applied to enhance teaching quality. However, research into the core practices, effects and implementation challenges of TQM remains fragmented. This study conducted a systematic literature review according to the PRISMA framework. A systematic search of Scopus and Web of Science identified 1 058 records, from which 14 eligible studies published between 2015 and 2025 were selected. The included studies were analysed using thematic and inductive analysis. The findings indicate that key TQM dimensions include leadership support, teaching process management, quality measurement and evaluation, continuous improvement, faculty development and stakeholder orientation. TQM generally contributes to improved teaching quality, faculty performance, organisational effectiveness and stakeholder satisfaction. However, implementation is constrained by insufficient leadership support, limited teacher participation, weak quality culture and inconsistent evaluation practices. Overall, TQM can enhance higher education teaching quality when it is systematically integrated with institutional leadership, teaching processes, faculty development and continuous improvement mechanisms. The findings provide practical implications for educators, university administrators and policymakers.