A Comprehensive System For The Evaluation Of Innovative Online Instruction At A Research University: Foundations, Components, And Effectiveness

Abstract

The delivery of post-secondary coursework via the Internet continues to gain momentum.  As a result, investigations into effective and appropriate methods of evaluating the effectiveness of these courses are required.  In an effort to meet this challenge, this study describes the development and implementation of an evaluation system applied to new online programs at a major research university. A systematic approach to evaluation provided formative feedback on the processes and products of course development using diverse data sources including course documents, interviews and web-based surveys.  Results of both quantitative and qualitative analyses support the integrity of the evaluation system and provide preliminary indications of course effectiveness based on student satisfaction.