Unit 4: QM at Saylor Academy: Saylor's QM Commitment
Completion requirements
4.1 Saylor's Commitment to Quality Matters
Saylor Academy, as a provider of free, open online education, is committed to ensuring that every course it offers meets the highest standards of quality. The Quality Matters framework aligns perfectly with Saylor's mission: to provide accessible, high-quality education to learners worldwide, regardless of their ability to pay. By adopting QM standards, Saylor demonstrates that free education can and should be of the same quality as paid education.
4.2 Why Saylor Adopted Quality Matters
Saylor's decision to integrate QM was driven by several strategic goals:
- Learner Success: Saylor's primary focus is on student learning outcomes. The QM framework is research-based and proven to improve learner success. By applying QM standards, Saylor ensures that courses are designed around what students need to learn, not just what content instructors want to teach.
- Institutional Credibility: QM certification is recognized globally and by accreditors, employers, and educational institutions. When Saylor courses are QM-certified, it enhances the credibility and value of those courses for students and partners.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: QM's emphasis on accessibility ensures that courses are usable by all learners, including those with disabilities. This aligns with Saylor's commitment to removing barriers to education.
- Continuous Improvement: The QM review process provides detailed, structured feedback that guides course improvement. Saylor uses this feedback to iterate and enhance courses over time.
- Scalability: As Saylor grows, a common framework (QM) helps the organization maintain consistent quality across hundreds of courses and diverse disciplines.
- Stakeholder Confidence: For students, employers, transfer partners, and accreditors, QM certification is a signal of quality. It increases confidence in Saylor's courses and graduates.