Communication Practices and Engagement Level of University Stakeholders: Basis for Enhancement Program

Abstract

Effective organizational communication is essential in fostering engagement in instruction, research, and extension, particularly within higher education institutions. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the communication practices of Isabela State University using a descriptive–correlational design and mixed-method approach. The study surveyed 380 students, 262 faculty members, and 217 non-teaching personnel utilizing a reliable and validated structured questionnaire to assess communication effectiveness in terms of clarity, conciseness, coherence and consistency and to measure engagement in instruction, research and extension activities. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Kruskal–Wallis test and Kendall’s tau correlation, while qualitative responses from an open-ended item underwent thematic analysis.

Findings revealed that effectiveness of communication practices and engagement levels were rated high across all indicators. No significant differences emerged among stakeholder groups indicating consistency in communication effectiveness. Significant positive correlation was found between communication effectiveness and instruction, research and extension engagement. These results highlight the interconnectedness of communication practices and institutional operations. Qualitative findings further identified aspects for improvement such as standardized protocols, improved coordination, and user-friendly platforms among others which were integrated in the developed enhancement program.

The study concludes that while communication practices are generally effective, identified aspects for improvement are needed to address recurring issues and enhance engagement. Recommendations focus on establishing communication management committee, regular communication satisfaction surveys and implementing the developed enhancement program to support the institutional operations and mandates.