Considerations for quality assurance of e-learning provision

According to the European University Association (EUA) 2014 e-learning study [available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 119.217], 91 per cent of the institutions surveyed have integrated e-learning into their teaching: whether in the form of distance learning, blended learning, problem-based learning, lectures, work-based learning, or simulation. Eighty-two per cent admit to offering online learning courses. In contrast, the quality assurance of such provision has been given far less consideration, namely in the realm of external quality assurance, where the authors suggest there is an apparent shortcoming, citing that only 23 per cent of national QA agencies give special consideration to e-learning. This report presents considerations for quality assurance of e-learning provision by the ENQA Working Group VIII on Quality Assurance and E-learning.

Launched in summer 2016, the ENQA working group on quality assurance and e-learning aims to address the challenges associated with the alternative learning and teaching methods that information and communication technology (ICT) creates by sharing ways in which QA agencies might consider conducting themselves in this area. In particular, the working group has reflected upon how these non-traditional forms of education can be evaluated using traditional methodologies, while also offering higher education institutions (HEIs) points to consider when designing courses that utilise e-learning. Recognising that recommendations for quality assurance and e-learning have already been written, the working group decided to create a new focus: to systematically examine both the applicability and relevance of the standards as defined in the ESG 2015 [available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 128.533], while considering and utilising existing papers and publications. Although each standard proved to be fully applicable to e-learning, some standards seemed to require special guidance on how they can be applied. This document aims to provide such guidance. It results from an intensive discussion process both in the working group and with relevant e-learning stakeholders in Europe.

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