IIUM Repository

Strategic planning in dental education: a case study adopting the issue-based planning model and SWOT analysis framework

Sim, Galvin Siang Lin and Muhamad Halil, Mohd. Haikal and Che Musa, Muhd Firdaus and Ismail, Ahmad Faisal and Ismail, Azlini and Lestari, Widya and Azman, Syuwari Azhar (2026) Strategic planning in dental education: a case study adopting the issue-based planning model and SWOT analysis framework. European Journal of Dental Education, 30 (3). pp. 1282-1290. ISSN 1396-5883 E-ISSN 1600-0579

[img]
Preview
PDF - Published Version
Download (1MB) | Preview
[img]
Preview
PDF (Scopus) - Supplemental Material
Download (196kB) | Preview
[img]
Preview
PDF (WOS) - Supplemental Material
Download (390kB) | Preview

Abstract

Introduction This study describes a faculty development initiative through implementing the Issue-Based Strategic Planning Model and SWOT Analysis Framework to establish a sustainable strategic direction and strengthen faculty governance. Methods A qualitative case study design was adopted, involving document reviews, stakeholder consultations, and anonymous surveys. The strategic planning process engaged faculty leadership and academic staff using a bidirectional approach, top-down and bottom-up. It involved six key steps: initial preparation, Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis, identification of strategic issues, reassessment of mission and vision, development of action plans, and execution with monitoring. Data sources included document reviews, management meetings, anonymous surveys, and thematic analysis of responses. Results The strategic planning process fostered unified understanding and engagement across departments. Twelve innovative ideas were consolidated into four strategic pillars guiding institutional transformation. The SWOT analysis identified key strengths (e.g., qualified faculty, accredited curriculum), weaknesses (e.g., lack of curriculum mapping, limited research funding), opportunities (e.g., international collaboration, faculty training), and threats (e.g., financial constraints, outdated research infrastructure). Four strategic goals were formulated: enhancing teaching and learning, promoting research, strengthening administration, and expanding clinical and community services. Implementation led to increased research output, coordinated international programs, and improved alignment of departmental Key Performance Indicators with institutional objectives. Conclusion Adopting structured strategic planning models enabled the faculty to align institutional goals with broader educational priorities while reinforcing academic values. This case demonstrates that strategic planning is essential for fostering institutional resilience and continuous improvement in dental education, ensuring long-term relevance, sustainability, and impact.

Item Type: Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords: dental education, faculty, institutional management, leadership, strategic planning
Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
R Medicine > RK Dentistry
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): Kulliyyah of Dentistry
Kulliyyah of Dentistry > Department of Fundamental Dental and Medical Sciences
Kulliyyah of Dentistry > Department of Paediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health
Kulliyyah of Dentistry > Department of Restorative Dentistry
Depositing User: Dr Galvin Sim Siang Lin
Date Deposited: 30 Jul 2026 15:00
Last Update: 30 Jul 2026 15:00
Queue Number: 2026-07-Q4335
URI: http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130292

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item