Total quality management and educational innovation in primary and secondary education

A systematic literature review with implications for STEM schooling

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/nbhcew94

Keywords:

Total Quality Management, Educational Innovation, Systematic Review, Primary and Secondary Education, STEM Schooling

Abstract

This systematic review examines Total Quality Management (TQM) and educational innovation in primary and secondary education (P&SE). Following PRISMA, 30 Scopus-indexed studies were selected and synthesized through affinity diagramming and thematic analysis. Six interlinked themes emerged: school leadership, stakeholder collaboration, technology adoption, quality assurance, teacher development, and school policy. Quality assurance and school leadership appeared most often; the remaining themes worked as supporting conditions. The review proposes a TQM-Driven Educational Innovation Model and discusses what the findings mean for STEM schooling, where strong quality cultures, inquiry-based teaching, and shared leadership are especially important. The paper offers practical guidance for school leaders and policymakers, with particular attention to the conditions that help STEM-related reforms last over time.

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Additional Files

Published

2026-05-25

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Section

STEM Education (regular)

How to Cite

Theodoropoulou, E., Psomas, E., & Bouranta, N. (2026). Total quality management and educational innovation in primary and secondary education: A systematic literature review with implications for STEM schooling. American Journal of STEM Education, 19, 177-203. https://doi.org/10.32674/nbhcew94