Key Takeaways

  • Quality Matters is an evidence-based, peer-reviewed rubric for evaluating and designing online courses
  • The QM framework originated at Maryland Online in 1998 and has evolved over more than 20 years
  • QM emphasizes learner-centered design, alignment, accessibility, and pedagogical soundness
  • Saylor Academy is adopting QM to enhance credibility, ensure learner success, and enable continuous improvement
  • The QM rubric serves multiple purposes: self-review, quality assurance, professional development, certification, and accreditation

Self-Check Questions

  1. What organization originally developed the Quality Matters rubric, and when?
  2. What does "learner-centered design" mean in the context of QM?
  3. Why is alignment such a central concept in Quality Matters?
  4. List three reasons why Saylor Academy is adopting the QM framework.
  5. What is one difference between self-review and formal QM certification?

▶ Video: Introduction to Quality Matters

Watch: 0:00 – 10:30

Lucinda Stanley introduces the QM program, its origins at Maryland Online, and explains why Saylor Academy is adopting the framework.

Watch on YouTube (starts at 0:00)

Back to 'Unit 1: Introduction to Quality Matters\'