Transformation of Engineering Education Using Quality Circle Approach

Quality circle is a group of people that come together and work voluntarily to solve work-related problems. It has the proven and systematic 12-step methodology that can be applied to solve almost all types of problems. It involves application of several quality circle tools and techniques such as Pareto diagram, cause and effect diagram, why-why analysis, 5W-1H principle, etc. to solve the problems of interest. The present work underlines the concept, methodology and applications of quality circles in engineering education with special reference to its implementation at Rajarambapu Institute of Technology (R.I.T.). The concept of ‘quality circle’ has received wide acceptance in industries due to the systematic problem-solving approach and monetary savings it offers after solving the problem. In case of educational institutes, though the concept has been used all over the world to tackle the problems such as students’ projects, development of laboratory setups, etc., still the use is not widespread when compared to its implementation and outputs in industries. Since 1983, R.I.T. is well known for its continuous experiments and leadership in academic practices, thus striving for excellence in engineering education that is being delivered to its stakeholders. The institute is devising and implementing a number of practices with an objective to empower academics. One of such best practices which is consistently implemented from the last 15 years is ‘quality circles’. The institute has taken sincere efforts and proved over the years with the number of problems that are solved and the appreciation it has received that quality circle is equally good in education, though the benefits are not of monetary nature. In this paper, the process of formation of the groups, types of problems addressed, methodology to solve the problems, awards received and benefits of the activity are presented in sequence. Also, details about the financial assistance provided to quality circle groups and challenges that are faced by award-winning group along with its case study are reported in the paper at the end.