A comparative analysis of strategic plans of forestry faculties in Turkey

Abstract

Strategic planning, with a future-focused approach, contributes to realizing to higher education institutes' functions, such as directing change and being pioneer to society in a systematic and sustainable way. However, it is inevitable for higher education institutes to have different priorities and roles besides their joint functions. Strategic plans are effective tools in terms of explaining these differences and to make them perceived by related stakeholders. Thus a similar approach is valid for forestry faculties which are increasing in numbers and serve diverse functions in our country. In this context, the aims of this study are to evaluate similarities and differences in statements of mission and vision and make a comparative assessment of future-oriented goals, targets and strategies of forestry faculties. According to findings of content analysis there are no significant differences between the statements of mission and vision. Moreover, it has pointed out that the emphasized factors in these statements are not reflected to the goals, targets and strategies in the same proportion. As a result, it is clear that the mission and vision statements of forestry faculties need to be prepared in order to emphasize their unique characteristics and differences. Furthermore, it is essential to determine focused goals, targets and strategies that are the main tools of realizing these statements.