ABSTRACT

Online distance education continues to grow at a fast pace, even outpacing the overall growth of U.S. higher education. Demands for quality are coming from all shareholders involved. As if caught by surprise, a patchwork response to quality is often the typical organizational response. The result can be inconsistent and uncoordinated levels of value to those invested in online learning. This often promotes negative images of the educational experience and institution.Comprised of highly regarded experts in the field, this edited volume provides a comprehensive overview of quality assurance, a snapshot of current practices and proven recommendations for raising standards of quality in online education.Topics discussed include:* Improving practices for teaching online* Using educational analytics for quality assurance and improvement* Accessibility: An important dimension of quality assurance* Assuring quality in online course design* Assuring quality in learner support, academic resources, advising and counseling* The role and realities of accreditationThis text clearly answers the call for addressing quality from a broad, deep and coordinated understanding. It addresses the complexities of quality assurance in higher education and offers professionals top-shelf advice and support. *This text is also appropriate for students enrolled in Educational Technology and Higher Education Administration Masters and PhD programs

part One|77 pages

Overview and Implications of Practices and Processes for Assuring Quality

chapter 2|22 pages

Cost, Access, and Quality

Breaking the Iron Triangle Through Disruptive Technology-Based Innovations

chapter 4|14 pages

K–12 Online Learning

Recommendations for Assuring Quality

part Two|84 pages

Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement at the Course Design and Teaching Levels

chapter 6|10 pages

A Process to Improve Course Design

A Key Variable in Course Quality

chapter 10|15 pages

Disability and Accessibility

Proactive Strategies to Improve Quality

part Three|94 pages

Processes for Assuring Quality at Resource and Program Levels

chapter 12|19 pages

Ethics Matters

Assuring Quality at the Academic Program Level

chapter 13|13 pages

Academic Advising

A Link to a Quality Experience for Students

chapter 14|13 pages

Learning Analytics

A Tool for Quality Assurance

chapter 17|18 pages

The Role and Realities of Accreditation

A Practical Guide for Programs and Institutions Preparing for an Accreditation Visit

part Four|10 pages

Final Thoughts