The University of Toledo

Does Quality Matter?

Many factors can affect the quality of an online or blended course. These factors include course design, course delivery, the learning management system, faculty readiness, student readiness, infrastructures, etc. Course design is critical to the quality control process as it affects the course delivery and overall success of online and blended learning programs.

Quality Matters (QM) is a process and a tool to help institutions continuously improve online and blended learning course quality (Shattuck, 2012). The 2011-2013 edition of QM rubric standards for higher education include eight general categories with 41 specific standards addressing different aspects of online course design. Each of the standards is designed based on rigorous research in the field of online and blended learning.  Courses that meet the requirements usually provide students with a smooth start, engaged learning, and a satisfactory learning experience that helps them to achieve the desired learning objectives. 

Instructional designers, who are also certified Quality Matters Peer Reviewers, work with faculty and teaching assistants to apply QM standards in online and blended learning course design.              

QM professional development opportunities are offered periodically throughout the year. Check out this page for the benefits of Quality Matters training from an instructor’s perspective. To learn more, contact:   

Peter You, Ph.D.                
Director of Faculty Support and Special Projects                
Peter.You@utoledo.edu
419-530-4016