Study goals
To investigate the perceptions of graduate engineering students at the E-Class Institute regarding the quality of educational services provided, with an emphasis on failure situations and the recovery mechanisms adopted by the institution.
Relevance / originality
Proposes the need to expand SERVQUAL with a sixth dimension, digital usability. It addresses service marketing applied to engineering education and proposes an analytical model that can be applied to other higher education institutions.
Methodology / approach
Qualitative, exploratory approach, based on six semi-structured interviews. Data analysis used content analysis, with categories structured according to the SERVQUAL dimensions, as well as emerging thematic groupings such as student support, platform and structure, and quality of content and service.
Main results
The main failures are concentrated in institutional support, slow problem-solving, lack of standardized service, and lack of empathy among staff. Conversely, aspects related to the virtual platform and teaching resources were positively evaluated.
Theoretical / methodological contributions
The study confirms the validity of the SERVQUAL model for distance learning contexts, but proposes its expansion with a new dimension related to digital usability, given the central role of technology in the student experience.
Social / management contributions
A more structured approach to failure management and recovery of educational services is urgently needed. Implement standardized service procedures with defined deadlines, well-established communication channels, and a team trained in active listening, empathy, and problem-solving.