Quality Indicators for Distance Learning: A Literature Review in Learners’ Perceptions of Quality

Abstract

This article identifies the quality themes of distance learning that arose from the learners’ perspective as reflected in the lit-erature. The paper reviews literature through the four themes of 1) Course design, 2) Interaction, 3) Learner support and 4) Technology Use. Key quality indicators in distance learning that appear repeatedly in research on students’ point of view are also examined. It is argued that distance learning quality standards must first be focused on the students’ perspective in order to develop comprehensive and efficient standards for evaluating distance learning. This review serves as a starting point for distance learning providers specifically and accredi-tation organizations generally to better inform current quality practices regarding distance learning environments in higher education.