What are the latest e-learning quality assurance standards and how can you stay up-to-date with them?

1 Why e-learning quality matters

E-learning quality is not only about meeting technical requirements and specifications, but also about ensuring that the learning outcomes, content, pedagogy, interaction, accessibility, and evaluation are aligned with the needs and expectations of the target audience. E-learning quality can affect the satisfaction, engagement, retention, and performance of learners, as well as the reputation, credibility, and sustainability of e-learning providers. Therefore, e-learning quality is a key factor for the success and impact of any e-learning initiative.

2 What are e-learning quality assurance standards

E-learning quality assurance standards are criteria, guidelines, or benchmarks that define and measure the quality of e-learning products, processes, or services. These standards can be developed by national or international organizations, professional associations, accreditation bodies, or e-learning providers. Examples of these standards include ISO/IEC 19796, a series of international standards that provide a reference framework and a process for quality management; Quality Matters, a US-based program that offers a rubric and peer review process for quality assurance; E-xcellence, a European initiative that provides a quality label and set of indicators for excellence in higher education; and Open ECBCheck, a global community-driven approach that offers a quality certification and toolkit for capacity building.

3 How to choose e-learning quality assurance standards

When choosing e-learning quality assurance standards, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. You may need to adopt, adapt, or create your own standards depending on your context, goals, and resources. It is important to consider the scope and level of your e-learning project or program, the type and mode of delivery, the purpose and audience of your quality assurance, as well as the availability and compatibility of the standards. For example, you may need different standards for a single course, synchronous or asynchronous delivery, internal or external quality assurance, and if the standards are accessible, affordable, adaptable, and compatible with your e-learning platform.

4 How to apply e-learning quality assurance standards

In order to apply your chosen e-learning quality assurance standards systematically and consistently throughout the e-learning lifecycle, you should first plan your e-learning quality assurance strategy. This includes defining quality objectives, criteria, indicators, methods, tools, roles, and responsibilities. Then, you should implement your quality assurance process by conducting self-assessment, peer review, external audit, or user feedback according to your standards and schedule. After that, evaluate the results by analyzing quality assurance data and identifying strengths and weaknesses. Finally, improve your e-learning quality assurance practice by implementing improvement actions, monitoring progress, and reviewing standards and process.

5 How to stay up-to-date with e-learning quality assurance standards

E-learning quality assurance standards are constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay informed of the latest trends and expectations. To do this, you can follow the news of organizations or associations that develop or endorse your e-learning quality assurance standards, join communities and networks of e-learning quality assurance practitioners, explore research and publications on e-learning quality, and experiment with new tools and techniques. For example, you can subscribe to newsletters, blogs, podcasts, or social media channels; participate in forums, webinars, events, or courses; read journals, books, reports, or case studies; and try out new frameworks, rubrics, checklists, or software that can help you enhance your e-learning quality.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?