Quality Matters
Quality Matters (QM) is a faculty-centered peer review process that is designed to certify the quality of online courses. QM is a leader in quality assurance for online education and has received national recognition for its peer-based approach and continuous improvement in online education and student learning. QM does not evaluate online teaching, nor is it an evaluation of the online instructor; it is focused primarily on course design.
The QM Rubric is at the core of Quality Matters. The Rubric, developed from reviews of research literature and best practices in course design, is supported by detailed annotations that explain the application of the Standards and the relationship among them. The eight general QM standards are:
- Course Overview and Introduction
- Learning Objectives (Competencies)
- Assessment and Measurement
- Instructional Materials
- Learning Activities and Learner Interaction
- Course Technology
- Learner Support
- Accessibility and Usability
The QM Rubric is built to apply broadly across online and hybrid courses in all disciplines and levels. More than 1,000 institutions subscribe to QM. A complete list of subscribers in higher education can be found on the QM resources website.
View the Quality Matters Overview Video (Length = 9:17)
Why Use QM?
Research has shown a positive impact on student satisfaction, engagement, and retention in courses designed to meet QM standards. With the implementation of QM, we will be able to ensure adherence to research-based best practices, which increases learner engagement, retention, and satisfaction, and, ultimately, learner achievement.
Getting Started
Schedule a consultation with the Learning Technology team by emailing support@stevens.edu. Our instructional designers can work with you on implementing QM best practices, including:
- Applying the QM Rubric
- Conducting QM course reviews
- Developing new online/hybrid courses
- Improving current online/hybrid courses
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