Online Course Design Review: Quality e-Learning Practices in Higher Education

Abstract

This article presents the importance of online course revision to improve best practices in distance higher education, increase student success and raise retention rates. A year-long, systematic, unified approach to online course review was conducted by a committee of Humanities professors. The aim of this paper is to share the significant enhancements made to an online course design, using the 7th Edition of Quality Matters Higher Education Rubric to boost student engagement, performance, and satisfaction. This study discusses how each standard was applied to refine an online course. The purpose of the revision was to systematically address the standards as proposed by the QM rubric. Findings revealed areas to strengthen in each of the eight general standards resulting in the actualization of the course design to be more accessible and practical for student use. A few of the specific enhancements because of the revision were the creation of a course content map, clear and predictable design, weekly email reminders, and rubrics. Student feedback confirmed positive outcomes after the successful implementation of best practices using the QM rubric.