The Latest Indicators of the Higher Education System for Evaluating Universities and Research Institutes (with an Emphasis on Ranking and Knowledge Commercialization)

Abstract

In recent years, the issue of academic indicators has become one of the significant topics in the fields of scientometrics, evaluation, and econometrics of higher education. Competitive conditions in both the dimensions of scientific production and the knowledge-based economy are rapidly increasing on a global scale, making knowledge-based activities essential for survival more than ever before. Universities are expected to play a strategic role in the comprehensive economic, social, and cultural development based on knowledge. This requires them to monitor the quality of their performance and present their credibility for public and expert judgment, which is made possible through evaluation. A precise understanding and determination of the efficiency and effectiveness of the higher education system are only possible when its components and sub-systems are meticulously analyzed. Among the tools commonly used to assess the quality and performance of the higher education system, particularly in evaluating scientific production within a knowledge-based economy, are indicators. Indicators articulate the issues and challenges of the educational system through the collection of clear and objective evidence and serve as a basis for holding the educational system accountable. Additionally, indicators can be employed to identify the causes and factors behind the failures of the higher education system. This article aims to examine the latest indicators in the field of higher education, employing a library-based review method and document analysis. It is evident that these indicators have practical applications for studies and research in the field of higher education.