Quality Matters

Title

Quality Matters

Author(s)

Mr Gerry Kregor, Dr John Kertesz

Presentation Type

Pecha Kucha

Keywords

student experience, learning design, peer review, online, blended,

Room

Stanley Burbury Lecture Theatre

Time

15.10-16.00

Abstract

Quality Matters is a US-based program designed to improve the student experience of online and blended learning.  At UTAS we have been engaging with Quality Matters for the past two years and to date over 120 staff members have undertaken training.  Quality Matters Standards have provided the basis of a shared understanding about what we mean by quality in online learning at UTAS and has also provided participants with a common language to discuss online learning design and quality improvement.

Early in 2015 we undertook a small number of trial internal peer reviews and in summer 2015/6 we have launched a regular round of peer reviews.  Participation in QM peer reviews is strongly aligned with the Blended Learning Model as well as Teaching Performance Expectations in areas of digital curriculum, leadership and peer review.

Quality Matters has also created opportunities for further research into areas such as beliefs, behaviour and self-efficacy for teachers in the digital domain.  

Our engagement with the Quality Matters program has proved to be incredibly good value, having had significant impact across UTAS for less than $30,000 over two years.  We are currently canvassing sources of continued funding.