📄 Abstract
This study explored the implementation of quality assurance practices in Special Educational Programs (SEPs) in Davao City as the basis for developing a Continuous Improvement Framework. Anchored on Total Quality Management (TQM) Theory, the study examined participants’ experiences regarding governance and leadership, curriculum and instruction, assessment and evaluation, resource management, stakeholder engagement, and learner support services. A qualitative phenomenological research design was employed to capture the lived experiences and perspectives of two school principals, thirteen program heads, and ten teachers representing the Special Program in Sports (SPS), Special Program in the Arts (SPA), Special Program in Journalism (SPJ), Special Program in Foreign Language (SPFL), and the Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Program. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis following Braun, Clarke, and Hayfield’s six-phase framework. The findings revealed seven major themes: (1) Collaborative Leadership Enhances Program Implementation, (2) Learner-Centered and Specialized Instruction Strengthens Educational Quality, (3) Authentic Assessment Facilitates Continuous Improvement, (4) Resource Limitations Challenge Program Quality, (5) Stakeholder Partnerships Promote Program Sustainability, (6) Holistic Learner Support Enhances Educational Outcomes, and (7) Continuous Monitoring and Evidence-Based Planning Drive Sustainable Quality Improvement. The study further identified strengths, implementation gaps, operational challenges, contextual factors, and institutional improvement needs influencing quality assurance implementation. Based on the findings, a Proposed Continuous Improvement Framework was developed. The framework consists of six quality assurance domains, key quality assurance mechanisms, and a continuous improvement cycle involving planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and improvement. The framework provides an evidence-based guide for strengthening educational quality, institutional effectiveness, and program sustainability in Special Educational Programs.
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📚 How to Cite:
Dexter D. Coraje, Roslyn R. Adajar, Celia M. Piala , ASSESSING QUALITY ASSURANCE PRACTICES AS THE BASIS FOR DEVELOPING A CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT FRAMEWORK FOR SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS IN DAVAO CI , Volume 12 , Issue 6, June 2026, EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR) , Pages: 361 - 378 ,