An Assessment Of The Performance Appraisal System Of The University For Development Studies

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the current performance appraisal system used at UDS. Specifically, the study was designed to find out the practice and nature of PAS in the UDS and verify the extent of UDS staff awareness and understanding of the PAS.

The descriptive survey design was used for the study and it involves survey of employees’ views on the issues, situations and processes. The study was conducted in the UDS with a sample size of 340 elements made up of both appraisers and appraisees.   Questionnaires and an interview guide were the instruments used to address the research questions.  The SPSS Predictive Analytical Software (PASW) Version 16 was employed to examine the results. Cross tabulation, frequency and percentages were applied.

The result of the study indicated that respondents are aware that their performance is evaluated, had a clear idea of what specific behaviour, traits or results that are expected of them and that appraisees are not involved in the setting of performance targets in the university.

With regards to the extent of UDS staff awareness and understanding of the PAS, the findings were that majority of the staff have not received training or orientation on how PA is conducted in the university and the level of understanding of the appraisers were higher than that of appraisees.

Keywords: Performance Appraisal System, Appraisers, Appraisees, University, Ghana