A Case Study of Private University in Bangladesh Using Electronic Monitoring: Some Practical Implications

Abstract

This study explored how a Bangladeshi private university monitors staff performance through electronic monitoring. It further investigated the perceptions of academics on how electronic monitoring affected them. Guided under the panopticon model, a qualitative study was designed and data were obtained using the case study method and others, including a series of in-depth interviews with the academics. The research outcomes revealed that electronic monitoring was perceived as a viable substitute for conventional surveillance methods. Some noteworthy perceived benefits of electronic monitoring include heightened safety measures and the ability to effectively monitor and deter illegal or unethical activities, enhance staff productivity, promote cost-effectiveness, foster a sense of self-discipline, accountability, and responsibility among staff. Nevertheless, the academic staff exhibited reluctance towards the implementation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras within classroom settings to monitor their pedagogical effectiveness. Regarding performance evaluation, most participants underlined the need to use various data sources for the review process. The research has offered significant insights to university administrators, education authorities and policymakers in understanding how to effectively manage electronic monitoring in light of the increasing integration of artificial intelligence tools.